Andrea Bocelli’s recent UK tour marked a breakthrough in live classical sound production, thanks to the integration of L-Acoustics’ L Series loudspeakers and L-ISA spatial audio technology. Delivered by Britannia Row Productions, a Clair Global Company, this pioneering setup achieved faster load-in times than traditional stereo systems while offering audiences a remarkable sense of intimacy and sonic detail culminating in a spectacular performance at London’s O2 Arena.

Breaking the Speed Barrier in Classical Production

The production team, led by Front of House engineer Davide Lombardi, achieved something previously thought impossible: a full 7.1 spatial audio configuration deployed more quickly than a conventional stereo line array. Provided by L-Acoustics Certified Provider Brit Row, the new L Series system proved both efficient and transformative.

“It was actually faster to load in the L Series system than a standard setup,” said Lombardi. “But more importantly, it allowed us to create the kind of immersive experience you just can’t achieve with traditional stereo.”

With over 120 performers onstage, including a 69-piece orchestra, 60-voice choir, and rotating special guests, the production required exceptional clarity and control. Using L-ISA’s object-based mixing and precise localisation, Lombardi was able to maintain separation and balance even in the complex sonic environment of arena- scale venues.

From Poland to the O2: Building on Success

The decision to use L-ISA followed a successful deployment in Poland, where Systems Engineer Jerzy Kubiak helped implement the platform for Bocelli’s performances, which was supplied by Fotis Sound. That experience proved transformative for the entire creative team, demonstrating the full potential of spatial audio technology for classical performances in challenging venues.

During rehearsals in Dublin, Bocelli himself ventured into the audience area. “He said, ‘I wish I could hear what they’re hearing on stage. ‘ That moment validated everything we were trying to achieve.”

The Technical Edge: Precision Meets Efficiency

For the O2 Arena, Brit Row deployed a comprehensive L-ISA configuration featuring nearly 100 speakers and 40 amplified controllers in a 7.1 spatial configuration, designed by Systems Engineer Alessandro Cestaro. The setup included:

• Scene System: Five main hangs of L2 and L2D loudspeakers
• Extension Hangs: Two additional L2/L2D per side
• Subwoofers: Centrally flown KS28s, with KS21s ground-stacked in cardioid for front and side fill
• Front Fill: Compact X8 speakers
• Side Fill: A10 Wide and Focus loudspeakers paired with KS21s for the 270° seating areas
• Amplification: LA7.16 and LA12X controllers across the system

The cardioid design of the L2 series was key in controlling high frequencies and reducing stage bleed—particularly valuable for classical performances where stage monitoring and front-of-house clarity must both be preserved

Redefining the Classical Concert Experience

The L-ISA configuration’s success lies in its sophisticated object-based mixing capabilities, controlled through the L-ISA Processor and Controller software. This allowed precise dynamic control across the entire 100-speaker system without compromising the natural acoustic character of the performers.

“My goal is always transparency,” Lombardi explained. “I want audiences to forget they’re in a 20,000-seat arena and feel they’re in an intimate theatre, actively participating rather than passively observing.”

Setting New Standards

The success of Bocelli’s UK tour represents significant advances for classical performances in large venues. By proving that sophisticated spatial audio systems can deploy faster than traditional setups while delivering superior artistic results, the tour has set a new standard for what’s possible in arena-scale classical performances.

“What makes Bocelli truly extraordinary is his incredible attention to detail combined with genuine humility,” Lombardi reflects. “When someone with his ears turns to you and says, ‘This is how music should sound,’ you know you’ve done something right.”

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