Grand Cube Osaka Conquers Technical Challenges with L-Acoustics Sound Renewal Grand Cube Osaka Conquers Technical Challenges with L-Acoustics Sound Renewal...

Iconic convention centre overcomes architectural constraints to deliver world-class audio across its versatile 2,754-seat Main Hall

OSAKA, Japan – May 2025 — After 25 years as one of Asia’s premier MICE destinations, Osaka International Convention Center, fondly known as the Grand Cube Osaka, has completed its first-ever professional sound system overhaul, installing an L-Acoustics professional sound system designed to revitalize the venue’s competitive edge. The ambitious project seamlessly integrated A Series, K Series, and X Series components into existing architectural spaces, transforming sound quality throughout the 2,754-seat Main Hall without compromising the iconic building’s Metabolist Movement design.

First Complete Audio Renewal Since Opening

“Delivering consistent coverage throughout the Main Hall with our previous mobile speakers had become increasingly challenging,” explains Yasufumi Kametani, Office Manager of the Stage Management Division at Comens Co., Ltd., the Center’s technical service provider. “We needed a complete solution that could support everything from academic conferences to concerts while maintaining exceptional clarity in every seat.”

The facility’s management recognized that upgrading to tour-quality audio would attract more premium events to the venue. “Introducing a modern, tour-level sound system from a world-renowned brand would significantly enhance our appeal to potential clients,” notes Shinichi Furugane, Manager of the Center’s Facilities Management Department.

Soundvision Software Overcomes Architectural Constraints

Turning vision into reality required overcoming significant technical hurdles. The venue’s two proscenium speaker positions presented challenges, as new equipment needed to fit existing architectural openings. Using L-Acoustics Soundvision 3D modelling software, the implementation team from JATO Co.,Ltd., with support from L-Acoustics Certified Provider Distributor Bestec Audio, conducted precise simulations that identified potential obstacles before physical installation began.

“Some auxiliary speakers for the second-floor balcony couldn’t be installed according to our initial design,” reveals Yoshihiro Iwakawa, Sales Manager of JATO. “With Soundvision, we quickly replotted positions, simulated coverage data, and ensured the system would deliver optimal results.”

With the final system design confirmed and its components processed to be shipped, the Center held their annual listening event, Sound Festa. Attended by audio industry professionals, Bestec Audio presented an A15 and KS21 system against a demo line-up from various manufacturers.

“We evaluated various seats throughout both floors during Bestec Audio’s Sound Festa demonstration of a temporary L-Acoustics system. It delivered clear, crisp sound regardless of position,” Furugane confirms. “We were confident and proud that we had made the right decision by choosing L-Acoustics.”

A Modern Upgrade from a 25-Year-old Sound System

The comprehensive solution includes two proscenium configurations, both utilizing L-Acoustics. Above the front of the stage, the first proscenium LCR configuration consists of two L-Acoustics A15i Wide boxes per hang. In contrast, a second proscenium further away from the front of the stage consists of three A15i Wide boxes per hang, all hidden behind an acoustic grill. 

A mobile system of eight L-Acoustics Kara II atop four SB18 subwoofers is placed on each side of the stage, each flanked by an X15 HiQ enclosure for in-fill. Four 5XT coaxial boxes are embedded across the stage lip for front-fill.  

Audience seated on the first floor under the balcony are served by 24 5XT boxes while seats on the second-floor balcony have 12 X8 enclosures mounted in three ceiling positions. Nine X8 boxes installed in the ceiling above the stage serve as fixed monitors, while six X12 provide flexible monitoring options when the hall is sectioned into a Small Hall configuration. A total of nine LA4X and four LA2Xi amplified controllers drive all the components of the entire system. 

Industry Recognition & Future-Focused Investment

The results have impressed even the most discerning audio professionals. “External sound operators have praised the system’s excellent performance without requiring drastic adjustments,” Kametani reveals. “We’ve achieved dependable operational efficiency since all component values are saved within L-Acoustics amplified controllers and accessed via LA Network Manager.”

“We’re all pleased with the delivery and support from Bestec Audio and that the sound of L-Acoustics will be a key characteristic of the Grand Cube for years to come,” Furugane concludes.

Learn more about the Osaka International Convention Center at www.gco.co.jp

Find out more about Comens Co., Ltd.and JATO Co.,Ltd. at www.comens.gr.jp/osaka and www.jato.co.jp respectively

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