Keys Nightclub, Los Angeles California, USA

Context

The Team

Keys Nightclub Strikes the Right Chord with a New L-Acoustics Professional Sound System

The Sunset Strip in West Hollywood boasts a rich history steeped in music, and the newly opened Keys venue is the latest chapter in that storied tale. Debuted by The h.wood Group in August, Keys is located in a space with a storied past, formerly known as Gazzarri’s Hollywood a Go Go nightclub, where famous bands like The Doors and Van Halen once graced the stage. Today, Keys aims to capture the glamour and vibrant energy of Los Angeles’ nightlife as a multi-level music venue. Recognizing the importance of sound in this legendary location, Keys chose Clair Global’s Eighth Day Sound integration team to install a state-of-the-art L-Acoustics professional sound system.

The Challenge

Keys presented a complex set of audio challenges stemming from its architectural design. The venue is a multi-level space with distinct room geometries across its three stories, each requiring tailored audio solutions. According to system designer Demetrius Moore, the primary challenge was to create a versatile professional sound system that could deliver high-quality audio for both EDM/dance music and live performances. This meant the system needed to provide impactful sound for dance club experiences while also offering the fidelity and clarity necessary for live music events. Furthermore, the system had to be flexible enough to function as a unified setup across all levels or as independent systems for each floor, accommodating different event needs and spatial configurations. The varying acoustic environments within the venue, including the main floor with opera box-style balcony fixtures, added to the complexity of achieving consistent and optimal sound coverage.

The Solution

To address these challenges, Clair Global’s Eighth Day Sound integration team designed and installed a comprehensive L-Acoustics A Series professional sound system, carefully customized for each area of the venue. On the main floor, the system features three A15i loudspeakers per side to provide powerful and clear main coverage. To deliver the impactful low-end crucial for dance music, eight ground-stacked SB18 IIi subwoofers were integrated into the face of the DJ stage, configured in four stacks of two high. Coaxial X8 loudspeakers were strategically installed as delays to ensure even coverage throughout the space, while smaller 5XT speakers were used as fills to address specific areas such as the balcony, creating a 360-degree surround sound effect. The second level was equipped with a system comprising twelve X8 loudspeakers, split into a left-right configuration, and paired with both SB18 IIi and SB15m subwoofers to cater to its specific acoustic needs. L-Acoustics LA12X amplified controllers were used to power the A15i loudspeakers, ensuring efficient and precise control of the system. This combination of L-Acoustics components and configurations allowed for both independent operation of each level and the ability to combine them into a single, cohesive system.

The Result

The installation of the L-Acoustics professional sound system has significantly enhanced the audio experience at Keys. The system’s versatility allows the venue to seamlessly transition between live music performances and high-energy dance events. According to Demetrius Moore, the new system delivers “fantastic” sound for both live and recorded music. The sound system not only meets the technical needs of the space but also pays homage to the venue’s rich musical history. The improved audio quality has impressed patrons and elevated Keys’ status in West Hollywood’s competitive nightlife scene.

Project photos