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When Alpexpo recognised that event organisers needed something between Grenoble’s massive arena’s and intimate live venue, —they didn't just renovate. They revolutionised. The result: an ingenious 'box in a box' concept that carves out a state-of-the-art 3389 square meter auditorium within their existing Greater Hall, powered by an L-Acoustics L Series professional sound system.

This architectural feat transforms what was once a traditional exhibition space into a chameleon-like venue that adapts seamlessly between intimate seated concerts for 1,495 and energetic standing shows for 2,100. The real magic happens in the transitions—where comedy shows morph into corporate presentations, where business conventions become live concert halls, and where every configuration delivers an unforgettable sonic experience.

Engineering Versatility

"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 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.

Engineering the Sound Solution

“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 modeled using Soundvision software, giving stakeholders—including venue management, structural engineers, and government consultants—complete confidence in the coverage and performance.

Racing Against Time

Perhaps most remarkably, the entire project—from initial concept to opening night—was completed in just a few months. This rapid execution required unprecedented 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."

A New Chapter Begins

By creating a sophisticated performance space within an existing structure, the Alpexpo team has not only solved their own challenge but provided a blueprint for other venues facing similar constraints. "It's not just a sound system; it's a complete ecosystem that reflects our venue's ability to adapt and excel," concludes Riff. "We've created something truly unique for the Grenoble region—a space that can be whatever our community needs it to be."

For more information on the Alpexpo project, please visit https://alpexpo.com. More information on L-Acoustics can be found at www.l-acoustics.com

About L-Acoustics L-Acoustics has been shaping the future of sound since 1984 through trailblazing innovation. Our European-designed and manufactured solutions deliver premium sound experiences from the most intimate immersive spaces to the largest stages. L-Acoustics is the #1 brand chosen by the world’s largest music festivals and installed in over 13,000 premium venues from music halls, theaters, and sports entertainment to wellness, hospitality, homes and yachts.

Our team of 1,000 employees, including 20% in design, research, and development, conceives the industry’s most award-winning and transformative sound reinforcement technologies, including the modern line source array V-DOSC, L-ISA immersive hyperreal solutions, and the eco-conscious, performance-leading L-Series. These technologies have led to the company being honored with a Decibels d’Or and featured in Fast Company’s most innovative companies.

With major hubs in Paris, Los Angeles, London, and Singapore, and a network of trained service providers present in 80 countries, our technologies power the most demanding live events and memorable sound experiences: from Adele’s Las Vegas residency to the world's largest sports events, from the Zaha Hadid-designed Guangzhou Opera House to the Philharmonie de Paris Concert Hall.