Outline
The Crystal Bar carries through the Dorchester’s themes of luxury, quality and high service standards to late night opening. Opening from the refined calm of the promenade, it offers relaxed drinks and discrete corporate or VIP entertainment. Following successful commissions, CGA Integration was chosen to provide an audio system reflecting the Dorchester signature values through high quality, attention to detail and intuitive operation.
Challenges
The Crystal Bar is a compact, opulent venue finished to a high degree of craftsmanship. The installation had to fit with the design brief, be invisible and yet provide a dynamic audio range and usage flexibility for many different occasions. Interfacing with the hotel fire alarm and procedures was also essential.
Function Brief
Consultation with the Dorchester identified an extremely varied scope for events and entertainment. Routine opening required background music, while anticipated demand for special events ranged from live sporting and news events, film and product launches, DJ nights, private parties and karaoke. Live duos or bands should be able to play on the house PA or their own PA and the bar offered several options for positioning to create a unique feel for all events.
Video
Video distribution architecture has also been included to widen opportunities and entertainment. A feed from the hotel system supplies live TV, but potential to add custom video or entertainment via direct input was included.
Technical
CGA Integration used Peavey X frame processing and wall mounted X- controls to create three zones in the bar, including optionally secluded VIP area, allowing flexibility, sound quality control and customisation. Inputs from DJ console, two radio microphones, live band and customised music solution, create a mix of opportunities for normal operation or high profile unique occasions. Band & sound engineer positions can be varied around the bar. Even, balanced audio is delivered from a carefully specified mix of EV S40 wall speakers and Evid c4.2 ceiling speakers, warmed by Evid 10.1 bass bins and Martin Audio. Mid and HF audio is driven by Cloud multichannel amps with EVQ series on the bass. Mid and HF audio is driven by Cloud multichannel amps with EV Q series on the bass.
