In the popular Schinkenstraße nightlife district of Palma, the Bierkönig beer garden and live venue features live performances and DJ sets featuring everything from German pop to Schlager music. Renovation of its Neuer Bereich main hall has been renovated by RheinlandAkustik and L-Acoustics Certified Partner Babbel & Haeger.
The 2,000-capacity 5,000sq-m venue has replaced a sound system whose capabilities had been outgrown with one that delivers significantly improved audio, while managing sound spill to neighbouring properties. The renovation faced acoustic challenges and constraints that required innovative solutions. Limited ceiling height made traditional central array deployment impossible, while the venue’s complex architecture – featuring a balcony, multiple columns, and varying ceiling heights – demanded surgical precision in loudspeaker placement.
‘This wasn’t a project where you could apply standard approaches,’ says Nico Decker, Event Technology Specialist at RheinlandAkustik. ‘The client’s vision was clear: even coverage throughout the entire audience area with maximum indoor sound pressure while protecting neighbouring residents from noise spillage. Achieving that balance required innovative thinking.’
‘The architectural constraints at Bierkönig presented complex challenges,’ adds Babbel & Haeger Event Technology Specialist, Markus Drols. ‘Every column, every ceiling variation, every sightline had to be carefully considered. The decentralised approach wasn’t just a design choice – it was the only way to achieve the coverage uniformity and sound quality this legendary venue deserved.’
Beyond architectural constraints, the venue presented operational challenges. Guests experience performances from dramatically different listening positions, some standing on the main floor, others elevated on bar stools throughout the space. Meanwhile, Bierkönig’s seaside location subjects equipment to significant climatic fluctuations.
RheinlandAkustik’s design team turned to L-Acoustics Soundvision software to navigate the complex acoustic. The modelling capabilities proved essential for optimising coverage patterns around obstacles and ensuring consistent sound distribution across varying audience heights and architectural features.
‘Soundvision was absolutely instrumental,’ agrees Tim Goldhahn from RheinlandAkustik. ‘Combined with the L-Acoustics Cable Length Acceptance tool, it allowed us to map out every coverage challenge and optimise system placement for seamless integration. Without that level of precision planning, this project wouldn’t have achieved its objectives.’
Centred on L-Acoustics A Series loudspeakers, chosen for their Panflex directivity control, the team to devise a decentralised speaker configuration that overcame ceiling height restrictions while maintaining optimal performance throughout the venue.
‘Managing a project of this complexity requires seamless coordination between all stakeholders,’ explains Babbel & Haeger Project Manager, Tobias Hemmersbach. ‘From the initial site surveys through final commissioning, every detail had to be meticulously planned. The six-month renovation timeline demanded precision execution, and the L-Acoustics ecosystem provided the reliability and flexibility we needed to deliver on schedule while maintaining the highest quality standards.’
The final installation comprises four main PA lines provide comprehensive coverage: Lines 1 and 2 feature LR hangs of two A15i Wide with central hangs of two A10i Wide; Line 3 deploys LR hangs combining one A15i Focus and one A15i Wide unit, complemented by A10i Wide central and outside right hangs; Line 4 mirrors the configuration of Lines 1 and 2 with LR hangs of two A15i Wide plus central hangs of two A10i Wide.
Monitoring is handled through four rear-ceiling-flown X8i units for FOH, four floor-mounted X12 boxes serving the main stage, and two X8 boxes for the main DJ booth while three X8i boxes provide front-of-house-fill. Low-frequency reinforcement comes from six KS21i subwoofers, with two configured in cardioid mode for directional control, plus centrally flown delay subs comprising four KS21i in cardioid configuration. The outdoor terrace receives coverage via six X8i loudspeakers, while VIP areas are served by dedicated LR X8 hangs.
The system is managed by LA7.16i amplified controllers, with an LC16D format converter handling signal distribution from the venue’s matrix mixer, converting Madi to Milan-AVB for seamless network integration. Signal distribution utilises Milan-AVB networking, chosen for its reliability and straightforward implementation across the L-Acoustics ecosystem. The system calibration was conducted by L-Acoustics, providing expert support to ensure optimal performance.
Since reopening, the new sound system has transformed the venue’s operational capabilities. The technical team, already familiar with L-Acoustics systems, adapted quickly to the new installation. RheinlandAkustik provided a custom matrix control system with an app interface, simplifying daily operations for venue staff managing multiple audio sources across different areas.
‘The difference has been remarkable,’ reports a Bierkönig representative. ‘Artists consistently praise the system’s even coverage and neutral, well-defined sound profile. More significantly, we can now accommodate a much wider variety of performers, making our programming more attractive while eliminating the need for visiting acts to rent additional PA equipment. This has streamlined production workflows and reduced costs considerably.’
Network-based signal distribution via Milan-AVB provides scalability for the future, as Goldhahn says: ‘Should renovations or zone expansions be planned, the system architecture facilitates straightforward integration of new areas, positioning Bierkönig for further evolution while maintaining its cultural significance’
‘The A Series flexibility, particularly the adjustable directivity enabled by Panflex technology, proved absolutely essential,’ concludes Decker. ‘We achieved precisely what the client envisioned – even sound distribution that enhances every performance while respecting the surrounding community. The collaboration with Babbel & Haeger and L-Acoustics, combined with thorough Soundvision planning, were critical success factors.’
More: www.l-acoustics.com