AES Installs HK Audio Systems

Audio Engineering Services (AES) has equipped the newly opened Abbeydale Ballroom with a multi-zone HK Audio system, supporting both background music and live performance areas.

Housed in the basement of the historic Abbeydale Picture House, the Abbeydale Ballroom blends 1920s heritage with modern nightlife, including a pool lounge, cocktail bar, and live music space. The venue's varied functions required a flexible, high-quality audio system that staff could easily control to set the right ambience throughout the day.

Created by Sheffield nightlife group True North, the project saw AES design and install a zoned audio solution, selecting HK Audio loudspeakers for both the multi-room background music and the live performance stage.

Andy Fisher said: "HK Audio are my go-to audio brand for both installation and the live event side of our business. They offer genuinely high-quality audio from well-crafted, very robust and reliable units, which can stand up to the relentless workload in a venue such as Abbeydale. We knew the HK Linear 5 would be perfect for the stage area, and we were very impressed with the performance of the FINEO speakers. This was the second time we'd used them on an install and they didn’t disappoint - they sound just like an HK system should!"

The installation included HK FINEO loudspeakers for background music and TV zones, configured as follows:

• Bar: 4 × HK FINEO 12 units with 2 × HK 1500A subs

• Pool room: 4 × FINEO 10 units with 2 × PR:O 210 subs

• Darts room: 2 × FINEO 8 units

• Live music stage: 2 × HK Linea 5 MK2 112 112FA active full-range speakers

The system is powered by 2 × Lab Gruppen IPX1200 and 1 × Lab Gruppen IPX2400, with control via an Atmosphere AZM8 8-zone processor, a master zone wall controller, and remote Bluetooth input.

Reflecting on the installation, Fisher added: "The client is extremely happy with the new system which gives the staff at the Abbeydale Ballroom all the flexibility and control they require, whilst delivering fantastic audio quality for their customers. The main elements of the system were all sourced from POLAR, and we worked closely with Stuart Russell who ensured that all the elements were delivered in a timely fashion, and was available to offer advice where required.W

The Abbeydale Ballroom has opened to strong reviews, with the HK Audio system helping create a versatile sound environment across its multiple entertainment zones.

hkaudio.com