A new restaurant in the US Super Mex chain set out to raise the bar for the brand’s 22-strong portfolio. To this end, integrator Hosted Connections partnered with Optimal Audio on a complete commercial audio ecosystem that is both versatile and simple for all staff to control.
With a statement bar, elevated interiors and a dedicated events hall, the brief was to make the venue sound as good as it looked. ‘The beautiful sound as well as the simplicity of Optimal Audio – in addition to the unfailing support we received from Jeff [Miranda, Optimal Audio technical expert and US Sales Manager] at every step of the way – made the transition into audio possible for us and now we have a new A/V arm to provide for our customers’ audiovisual needs,’ says Super Mex founder Hourash Rezaei.
Hosted Connections worked with the venue to devise a blueprint using the Optimal Audio ecosystem, with the space divided into multiple zones each tailored to serve a unique function. Control is handled via WebApp, giving staff ready access to adjust levels and switch modes, whether for subtle background sound during dining or a high-impact DJ set.
The bar is the heart of the venue. Here, 11 Cuboid 8 loudspeakers with low frequency support from four Sub 10s deliver full-bodied coverage, while a further two Cuboid 15s add punch for DJ sets. ‘The owner wanted it loud – really loud,’ Miranda says. ‘So we dialled it up with Cuboid 8s and reinforced with Sub 10s. When the DJ fires up, the whole place comes alive.’
The dining area features five Cuboid 5s and two Sub 10s to offer an inviting sound environment. With two additional Cuboid 15s on standby, the space also scales for live sets.
In the events hall, 14 UP6 ceiling loudspeakers and four Sub 10s provide smooth coverage for day-to-day use. For larger functions, a standalone system of two Cuboid 15s and two Sub 15s delivers the clarity and energy demanded by live entertainment. ‘The hall system has two layers,’ Miranda explains. ‘Background music via the UP6s, and a full-throttle DJ system when needed. They’re independent but integrated, so it’s super flexible.’
Every zone runs on SmartAmp amplification with control handled by WebApp downloaded onto a venue-dedicated iPad and iPhone, with manager settings locked with PIN access only.
The Super Mex installation was one of the first carried out by Hosted Connections: ‘It looked complicated on paper, but it turned out to be surprisingly straightforward,’ Rezaei says. ‘The system is powerful, but it’s not intimidating. Even our team who come from a networking background found it intuitive.
‘Super Mex was the first client to really go big with us on audio,’ he adds. ‘They gave us the chance to prove we could deliver a high-end system. And thanks to Jeff and Optimal Audio, we did exactly that.’