Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, a world-renowned performance venue in Reykjavik, Iceland, has recently upgraded its audio systems with state-of-the-art live sound solutions from US manufacturer Avid to meet the demands of international tours, large-scale symphony concerts and immersive audio experiences. With the integration of several Avid VENUE S6L systems, the renowned Icelandic concert hall is consolidating its position as a leader in technical innovation and rider compliance for global productions.

A modern setup for a wide range of requirements

The audio overhaul included the installation of three VENUE S6L-32D consoles, coupled with E6L-192 engines, as well as several Stage 64 and Stage 32 stage racks. The systems are now used for front-of-house (FOH), monitor mixing and broadcast applications in various halls of the Harpa, including the impressive main hall “Eldborg”. It is particularly noteworthy that the Icelandic National Radio uses one of these consoles for the weekly broadcast of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra's performances.

The investment in Avid live sound solutions replaced the venue's previous solution and marked a significant leap forward in terms of scalability and technical capabilities. “We were looking for a solution that could handle the complexity of large orchestral productions combined with pop and rock bands,” explains Andri Gudmundsson, head of events and technical management at Harpa. “The VENUE S6L's unrivaled flexibility and robust routing capabilities were key factors."

Seamless integration and intuitive workflows

The VENUE S6L systems provide unparalleled functionality to meet Harpa's diverse production needs. These include:

• Snapshot automation and Events: Enables seamless transitions and efficient management of complex performances.
• Comprehensive plug-in integration: Provides sound designers with access to powerful tools for creative sound design.
• Scalable routing options: Supports large-scale productions with complex setups, including immersive audio and advanced matrix mixing.
• Scalability: Compatibility with protocols such as Waves, MADI and MILAN ensures future-proof flexibility.

Gudmundsson emphasizes the positive response from Harpa's in-house sound engineers: “The expandability and networking of the systems have transformed our workflow, and our team is very happy to use the consoles and their features.”

A step into the future

The modernization project at Harpa Concert Hall and Congress Center was completed in mid-2024 with partners Thomann GmbH and Atendi ehf. The team from S.E.A. Vertrieb & Consulting GmbH ensured a smooth transition to the new systems by providing advice on system configuration and conducting in-house operator trainings in Reykjavik over several days.

The advanced features of the VENUE S6L have significantly optimized the audio production capabilities of the event center. From aux mixes to immersive soundscapes, Avid's live sound systems enhance the ability to accurately and reliably host various types of events. “With the new equipment, Harpa is positioning itself as a world-class venue for global tours,” states Gudmundsson. “VENUE S6L is a modern, competitive system that meets the highest technical standards.”

On completion of the project, Dominik Hähnel, Head of Live Department at S.E.A., comments: “The philosophy of Harpa is perfectly aligned with our approach and the technological possibilities of the VENUE S6L family. Harpa – especially the main hall, Eldborg – is an architecturally and acoustically impressive building. I am delighted that the S6L systems will now be an integral part of many productions at Harpa.”

Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre's investment in its audio upgrade is in line with its philosophy of providing exceptional audio experiences. With the VENUE S6L, the venue is well equipped to meet the evolving needs of modern productions while maintaining its reputation for technical excellence.

Equipment list:

• Mixing consoles: 3x VENUE S6L-32D
• Engines: 3x E6L-192 with MADI-192, WSG-HD and HDX-192 expansion options
• Stage Racks: 4x Stage 64, 2x Stage 32, 2x Local 16

Read the full interview with Andri Gudmundsson on our blog.

Get an overview of the Avid VENUE S6L systems here.