O2 Academy Brixton

The transformative renovation of O2 Academy Brixton sets a new standard for live music venues. It combines state-of-the-art audio and lighting technology to enhance artist, crew and audience experiences.

The project’s centrepiece is the installation of an L-Acoustics K1 Audio System, custom-engineered to complement the unique architectural features of O2 Academy Brixton’s unique auditorium.

The audio upgrade introduces a comprehensive suite of features designed to deliver an unparalleled sound experience throughout the venue. L-Acoustics K1-SB and K1 line-array elements form the system’s core, providing expansive coverage for the balcony areas. A10i Wide under-balcony rows ensure crystal-clear audio reaches every corner for the rear stalls and side walkways.

The world-class monitor system incorporates L-Acoustics X15HiQ wedges, SB18 subwoofers, and KS28 and A15-wide units, offering performers on stage exceptional sound quality. To maintain consistent coverage across the entire auditorium, strategically placed distributed systems have been implemented, ensuring every attendee experiences the same high-quality audio, regardless of location.

The audio control system features two DiGiCo Quantum 225 Mixing Consoles with Waves and HMA Optics upgrades alongside two SD-Racks. This advanced setup provides comprehensive control for both front-of-house and monitor applications, allowing for precise sound mixing to maximise the venue’s newly installed loudspeaker system.

Complementing the audio upgrade, a state-of-the-art lighting system now provides maximum flexibility and visual impact. The new “three-truss system” incorporates energy-efficient LED light sources rigged to the Tyler GT Plus Pre-Rig Truss, featuring Martin MAC Ultra Performance lights, GLP JDC1 strobes, and Chauvet Strike Array 4s; all controlled via grandMA3 Light and Avolites Tiger Touch II consoles. Data distribution is handled by Luminex Gigacore network switches and LumiNode 12 nodes for DMX data are seamlessly delivered to each truss. This versatile setup allows easy customisation for both in-house productions and touring artists’ specific requirements.

The newly designed lighting rig is built with adaptability in mind, offering maximum flexibility to meet the needs of any performance. It can be easily supplemented, partially modified, or even entirely removed to accommodate larger, custom designs, ensuring the venue can cater for everything from intimate gigs to elaborate productions.

Key to its design is the inclusion of all essential show elements that visiting artists and production teams expect, such as spot, wash, flood/strobe, and blinder capabilities. This comprehensive setup provides lighting designers with a full range of options while seamlessly allowing for the integration of custom lighting elements.

The system’s flexibility not only enhances creative possibilities but also streamlines the setup process for touring productions, making it easier to adapt and customise each unique performance.

The unique architectural features of O2 Academy Brixton presented significant challenges during the installation process. With its sloping auditorium, wide balconies, vast curved ceiling, iconic stage arch, and Art Deco interior, the team at Adlib meticulously designed and optimised the entire setup using advanced Soundvision 3D software modelling, ensuring precise acoustic performance tailored to the venue’s distinctive character.

This careful attention to Brixton’s celebrated atmosphere has elevated the space to new heights. The new installation emphasizes these architectural features while creating a world-class sound experience that rivals any venue globally. By integrating the L-Acoustics loudspeaker system with DiGiCo Quantum consoles, the venue now provides visiting engineers with the sophisticated tools they need to deliver exceptional sound across all performance types.

This project ensures the venue remains a premier global destination for live entertainment:

• Best in Class Audio Technology: Installation of the L-Acoustics K1 Audio System and DiGiCo Quantum 225 Mixing Consoles for unparalleled sound quality.

• Crystal-Clear Audio: Strategic loudspeaker placement and 3D sound modelling optimise acoustics, ensuring every attendee enjoys crystal-clear audio.

• Three-truss Lighting Rig: Energy-efficient LED lighting with a choice of spot, wash, flood/strobe and blinder fixtures meet the demands of diverse productions.

• Artist & Crew Benefits: In-house systems reduce load-in times, streamline logistics, and improve performance conditions.

• Cultural Impact: Secures O2 Academy Brixton’s status as a must-play venue, reinforcing London’s global music reputation.