Crybaby, a new 400-capacity multi-use music venue that takes its name as an homage to director John Waters and his 1990 film of the same name, is equipped with a sound reinforcement system that handles both electronic/DJ acts and live bands that is headed by d&b audiotechnik xS-Series loudspeakers and supporting components.
”The club hosts an extremely wide variety of musical genres each week, and we needed a rider friendly PA solution that could accommodate them all,” states Don Lynch, owner of integration firm Commercial Audio Video Solutions of San Francisco, which handled the project. “It was clear from the start that the d&b xS-Series ticked all the boxes.”
Dual 24S-D loudspeakers were chosen as stereo mains for the dance floor due to their high output and pattern control, joined by Bi6-SUB subwoofers on custom isolation mounts installed under the stage. The mains and sub array are driven to full output by a single 40D installation amplifier. In addition, the narrow, long main room is reinforced with a single 10S-D on delay while a 10S serves as the mezzanine, also on delay. Both are driven by a 30D amplifier. Further coverage to the bar zone and second mezzanine are supplied by a 10S and three 8S loudspeakers, also powered by 30D and 10D amplifiers.
“Sonic quality of the d&b systems was first and foremost, specifically the need to physically compel our audiences both on the electronic/DJ side, but also host a wide variety of live shows and bands,” says Jesse Tittsworth, owner/operating partner, Crybaby. “Not a lot of systems can properly cater to both sides, while also being so rider and tech friendly. What’s the point of buying a fast car, just to skimp on tires? To that note and though it was a painstaking process, a hard-working crew helped hand build our sound panels, especially important with high ceilings. Our sound techs addressed as many rattles as they could.
:Most importantly, Don Lynch designed the system exactly as required and helped to facilitate the configurations our room would need for its various nights. The d&b show files and software have made this a breeze. Sound systems have gotten so smart these days; I particularly appreciate the amp-to-cone communication and configuration options.”
For the stage monitor system, Four d&b M4 wedges and two B6-SUBs for stage monitoring can be utilized in multiple configurations, such as stereo DJ monitors and four monitor mixes. The M4s are powered by a 40D amplifier while the B6-SUBs are driven by a 30D amplifier.
Tittsworth, who’s toured intentionally and has long been a DJ/producer, notes, “In decades of gigs I’ve noticed sound is so easy to mess up, and small details are integral to properly connecting the artist to the audience. When done right, the listener is physically compelled by sound, but sometimes might not even notice… no ear fatigue, no ringing, no screaming over each other, just a sonically pleasing environment that you can’t wait to get back to, especially post-pandemic. It’s a goal of mine that every venue I’m a part of gives you that feeling where you’re pleasantly rattled in the chest by deep bass (but not the building) while still being able to carry on a conversation and make out a balanced track. Having opened U Street Music Hall, I had a sonic reputation to maintain as well; very tight bass release, clear tops/mids, speakers that aren’t being overworked, and a treated room are essential.”
He adds that build-outs are tough, involving elements that include construction, permits, inspections, various electrical/plumbing/HVAC systems and more. “It’s a lot to synchronize, and each also carries A/V considerations. For example, we lined our air conditioning ducts to acoustically minimize the delay and reverbs that would otherwise spill throughout the venue. Similarly, our subs are on isolation platforms to reduce low end from bleeding into where it shouldn’t which is especially helpful in the middle of Oakland. We made sure that our bar and both sides of our mezzanine are covered with more than adequate fill speakers. Don Lynch and d&b were there every step of the way with options, suggestions, implementation, and designs in hand to match us with the appropriate hardware for our dynamic needs.”
