Embracing the vibrant spirit of traditional Chinese culture, the annual CCTV Spring Festival Gala has illuminated hearts and homes since 1983, ushering in the Lunar New Year with a symphony of celebration. This year, the China Media Group broadcast the Spring Festival live from the illustrious Studio Hall 1 of China Central Television (CCTV). Attendees and performers revelled in the crystal-clear, powerful sound of the newly installed L-Acoustics K2 professional audio system, creating an unforgettable experience that captivated 331 million viewers worldwide.

In the broadcast studio inside CCTV’s 51-storey headquarters in Beijing’s Central Business District, this year’s Spring Festival welcomed in the new year with traditional Chinese music and dance performances against a dragon-themed set design. The programme also featured an excerpt from the Notre Dame de Paris musical, marking the 60th Anniversary of China’s diplomatic relations with France. To ensure optimal sound for the live audience, studio management upgraded their existing Kudo system to an L-Acoustics K2 professional sound system.

Led by Shi Shang, Rightway Audio Consultants (RAC) used Soundvision 3D modelling software to design and deliver precise coverage in the multi-functional Hall 1. “The upgrade to K2 promised higher SPL than the previous system. Another advantage of K2 is the Panflex technology which will allow more accurate coverage while avoiding acoustic reflections,” said Shang.

The L/R system consisted of five L-Acoustics K2 topped by one KS28 subwoofer per side. VIP box seats received coverage from 10 5XT coaxial boxes, driven by two LA4X amplified controllers. Performers on stage received monitoring from four flown Kiva II while two X15 HiQ positioned on each stage wing provided monitoring in backstage waiting areas. One 12XT was positioned for the host monitoring, and one X15 HiQ for the programme director. The entire system was driven by four LA8 and seven LA12X amplified controllers.

Facing a tight broadcast schedule, system engineer Xuanyuan Shisong relied on the L-Acoustics ecosystem for swift, precise design, install and calibration. The L-Acoustics P1 processor and M1 measurement tools expedited on-site system tuning, with acoustic data saved directly into the M1 module, enabling offline adjustments without needing to re-measure. “The L-Acoustics P1 and M1 excel in calculating simulated results and system testing. With accurate data, optimization was a breeze,” explained Xuanyuan.

“The rapid calibration allowed the production team to focus more on the artistic aspects, ensuring the best experience for the studio audience, and viewers on TV and online,” he concluded.

L-Acoustics