France - When Alpexpo recognised that event organisers needed something between Grenoble’s massive arena and intimate live venue, they devised a 'box in a box' concept that carves out a 3,389sq.m auditorium within their existing Greater Hall, powered by an L-Acoustics L Series professional sound system.
This transforms what was once a traditional exhibition space into a venue that adapts seamlessly between intimate seated concerts for 1,495 and energetic standing shows for 2,100.
"Our challenge was creating an adaptable system that could be everything to everyone – pristine audio whether hosting a morning keynote or an evening concert – and the transformation had to be instant," recalls Antoine Maurel, sales & installation manager at L-Acoustics certified partner M+ Equipment, part of M Group. "They wanted to build a complete auditorium inside their existing hall.”
The challenge went beyond mere logistics. For over five decades, Alpexpo – a venue with Olympic heritage dating to 1968 – has served as the Alps region's premier event destination. But due to evolving audience expectations and a growing demand for venues that could handle everything from stand-up comedy to hybrid and immersive multimedia experiences, the traditional approach no longer sufficed.
“With the existing attachment points, we needed to have a lightweight and efficient system adapted to the type of events, hence the L2,” Maurel adds.
The answer came through the exceptional weight-to-power ratio of the L Series meaning the team could deploy a full concert-grade line array system: two L2D arrays as the main system, complemented by three flown KS21 subwoofers per side in cardioid configuration for controlled low-frequency management. A centre cluster featuring A10 Wide and A10 Focus speakers ensures perfect coverage for the first audience rows.
"The L Series gave us something we couldn't achieve before," Antoine Maurel explains. "Through advanced DSP processing, we can completely transform the acoustic environment. No manual intervention, no compromise on quality – just instant adaptation to whatever the event demands."
The installation includes sophisticated monitoring solutions with permanently hung A10 speakers and mobile X8 units, plus six additional X8 speakers for stage lip coverage when needed. Every element was meticulously modelled using Soundvision software, giving stakeholders – including venue management, structural engineers, and government consultants – complete confidence in the coverage and performance.
The entire project – from initial concept to opening night – was completed in just a few months. This rapid execution required coordination between all parties, with M+ Equipment working alongside Alpexpo's team to ensure every deadline was met without compromising quality.
"L-Acoustics systems are installed throughout our region, and their reputation for excellence made them our natural choice," notes Jérôme Riff, managing director of Alpexpo. "But what truly impressed us was how this solution goes beyond sound. It's enabled us to reimagine what our venue can be – from hosting agricultural conferences in the morning to world-class performances that evening, creating memorable experiences. This flexibility doesn't just serve our business needs; it enriches our entire community's cultural life."
