Shanghai concept bar chooses K-Array
Published: ASIA
SHANGHAI: K-Array KK50 Kobras have been installed into a new Shanghai concept bar named El Cóctel, the third such venue to adopt the Italian loudspeaker brand in the Chinese city.
Stylish yet old-world, El Cóctel is a cocktail and wine bar which marries Japanese-style bartending and Spanish tapas. The Iberian theme extends to the décor, with leather, wine-coloured sofas plus dark-wood panelling and soft lighting among the warm colours, together with a state-of-the-art audio system. The latest installation follows the opening of the Chinatown and Melting Pot venues, both of which also boast K-Array systems in their designs.
Despite the attention to quality in all aspects of the bar, it is the carefully selected music that has set El Cóctel apart from other Shanghai nightspots as regular lounge music is provided by DJs from around the globe. The K-Array Kobras are mounted high on the walls around the two lounge areas, with KKS50 subs built into the furnishings. Bar Manager Marty Campaign explained the concept behind the musical direction: ‘We required an audio solution to complement the customer experience we aim to offer, which is a sophisticated, quality-driven lounge. Our playback system must be versatile enough to provide power when needed and also deliver a warm surround sound feel at conversation-friendly volumes during our daily service hours.’
Despite being sleek in appearance and measuring just each 500mm in height, each Kobra contains eight 50mm neodymium transducers, which are capable of producing a maximum SPL of 114dB over a 100-degree horizontal plain. Described by El Cóctel as 'elegant' and 'next generation,' the K-arrays melt into the bar's stylish furnishings.
‘The KK50 speaker design matched well with our interior,’ explained Mr Campaign. ‘We chose an exposed mount which showcases their unique style. The 12-inch and 18-inch subwoofers were easily and discreetly installed to match our furniture layout, hidden within the custom-built waiters station. Every bar owner or music enthusiast in Shanghai will want one of these speaker systems.’