Chin Chin

Progear OÜ designed, supplied and installed a brand-new audio system for the sophisticated Estonian wine bar and shop, Chin Chin. A solo project of sommelier Karl-Märten Käesel, the brief was for a premium quality system that was multifunctional and good-looking, which Progear OÜ delivered via a discreet yet powerful audio-visual solution featuring products from Genelec, Barco, Epson, Yamaha and Shure.

The system comprises 10 Genelec 4430 Smart IP loudspeakers which complement the encyclopaedic wine list and accompanying menu of hand-selected gourmet snacks. It also features a Yamaha MTX5-D processor and a Shure BLX24RE/SM58 wireless vocal microphone, as well as an Epson EB-992F projector and a Barco ClickShare CX-30 wireless image transfer device in a separate meeting space.

The Genelec system caters to a wide range of needs at Chin Chin, from curated vinyl weekends and ambient background music, to tasting evenings hosted in the separate area of the bar. This space features two 4430 Smart IP loudspeakers that can be disconnected from the rest of the sound system for events to be carried out uninterrupted, which range from wine tastings to small meetings and more.

The remaining loudspeakers form a distributed audio system across the rest of the bar and seating areas to provide consistent, even coverage throughout the venue. A Yamaha MTX5-D processor controls the entire audio solution and a Shure BLX24RE/SM58 wireless vocal microphone handles all speech requirements.

It also automatically turns off the background music when in use and restores it after the mic is finished with – the same automation was also created for the DJ input via the Yamaha mixing desk, which is also connected to a Dante network. The entire solution was built around the mixing desk, Dante converter and cable rack so that all the necessary components would be together in one place and could be stored neatly out of sight when not in use.

An Epson EB-992F projector and a Barco ClickShare CX-30 wireless image transfer device were installed in the small events space, which allowed for the seamless transfer of sound and images. Easy to set up, the Epson projector offers flawless visibility and multiple device connectivity, and it also requires minimal maintenance, so it can be easily adapted to each tasting event and meeting held at Chin Chin.

There were no major challenges with the installation at Chin Chin. It was a seamless project from start to finish that resulted in a unique and easy-to-use solution for Tallinn’s largest wine bar and store.

The audio system integrates seamlessly with the video solution resulting in a holistic, high-quality, easy-to-use AV solution which elevates the bar’s offering beyond wine. Genelec’s Smart IP loudspeaker series uses a single network cable, via which it receives power, audio and control. This ease of installation and use was essential for the team at Chin Chin. This bar is a glimpse into wine bars of the future, combining expert sommeliers and personal service with user-friendly wine dispensers and a great customer AV experience. Additionally, this notable project marked the very first time that a Genelec Smart IP solution was used in Estonia, so it was particularly special for all involved.