Situated in the heart of Leeds city centre, Bibis Italianissimo is one of the city's best-known Italian restaurants and live entertainment venues. Famous for its distinctive Art Deco interior, dining experience and regular live performances, the venue requires sound and lighting systems capable of adapting to a wide variety of events.
Audioserv was approached to redesign and install the venue's professional sound system, alongside a comprehensive upgrade of its stage and entertainment lighting.
The project presented some interesting technical challenges. The new systems needed to deliver the performance required for live bands, DJs and entertainment, while remaining sympathetic to the restaurant's elegant surroundings and providing a comfortable experience for customers enjoying their meals.
Working with leading manufacturers including d&b audiotechnik, BeamZ Professional, Symetrix, Allen & Heath and Avolites, we developed a solution that combined professional performance with the flexibility needed for a busy restaurant and entertainment venue.
Professional Sound System Installation
Designing a Sound System for Dining and Live Entertainment
Bibis had been a long-standing user of d&b audiotechnik loudspeakers, so continuing with the manufacturer was a natural choice when redesigning the venue's audio system.
However, designing a sound system for a restaurant that also operates as a live music venue presents a different set of challenges from a conventional nightclub or dedicated concert venue.
During restaurant service, the system needs to provide clear, balanced audio at comfortable listening levels. When live entertainment begins, it must also be capable of delivering the output, intelligibility and musical detail expected from a professional performance system.
One of our main objectives was to achieve consistent sound coverage throughout the dining area, avoiding situations where customers seated close to the stage experience significantly higher levels than those further away.
The room itself made this particularly challenging.
Overcoming the Venue's Acoustic Challenges
Bibis features a large number of reflective surfaces, with relatively little acoustic absorption throughout the main dining area.
These characteristics can make sound system design particularly demanding, especially when trying to maintain speech intelligibility and musical clarity across a large space.
Another important consideration was the stage design.
The front of the stage incorporates a distinctive semi-circular glass balustrade, with dining tables positioned immediately alongside it.
Previously, the venue's subwoofers had been positioned on either side of the stage, close to the glass and its supporting metal framework.
Although this arrangement allowed low-frequency energy to reach the audience, it created a noticeable difference in bass levels depending on where customers were seated.
Guests close to the subwoofers could experience excessive bass, while those further into the restaurant received considerably less.
Our challenge was to create a more consistent low-frequency response without compromising the appearance of the stage or obstructing sightlines.
A Flown d&b Audiotechnik Subwoofer System
The most practical solution was to move the subwoofers away from floor level and suspend them above the front of the stage.
However, the relatively low ceiling height meant that the size and positioning of the loudspeakers needed careful consideration.
Large subwoofer enclosures could obstruct views of the stage, while smaller alternatives needed to provide sufficient output for the venue's live entertainment programme.
Working closely with the applications team at d&b audiotechnik GB, we developed a system using five d&b B8 subwoofers.
Using d&b's ArrayCalc prediction software, we modelled the proposed arrangement to evaluate the expected low-frequency performance and coverage.
The final design incorporated five B8 subwoofers flown above the stage, delivering the required bass performance while keeping the installation visually discreet.
This arrangement also helped address the previous problem of excessive bass levels immediately alongside the stage.
Rather than concentrating low-frequency energy around the nearest tables, the new system was designed to provide a more balanced listening experience across the main dining area.
Even Sound Coverage Throughout the Restaurant
For the main mid-high system, we installed three d&b 10S loudspeakers, positioned between the flown B8 subwoofers.
Careful physical positioning, combined with digital processing and time alignment, allowed us to optimise coverage throughout the principal dining area.
But the sound system couldn't stop there.
Bibis has additional customer seating extending beyond the main stage area and into the bar, requiring a supplementary loudspeaker system to maintain clarity and consistent audio levels.
To achieve this, we installed three d&b 8S loudspeakers as delay speakers.
Each loudspeaker was individually time-aligned to the main system, helping the sound arriving from the different loudspeaker positions work together rather than creating distracting echoes or inconsistencies.
The objective was to maintain the perception that the sound originated naturally from the stage, even for guests seated further away.
At the extreme rear of the restaurant, where customers often gather for drinks before being seated, we retained and repositioned a pair of the venue's existing d&b E3 loudspeakers.
These provide additional clarity without introducing unnecessary volume into an area where customers are predominantly socialising.
The result is a carefully designed, multi-zone sound system that caters for the different ways people use the venue throughout the day and evening.
A Separate Sound System for DJs and the Dancefloor
An additional requirement was the ability to transform the stage area into a dancefloor during DJ performances.
To achieve this, we installed a dedicated sound system along the rear wall of the stage.
The system uses flown d&b 10s loudspeakers for the mid-high frequencies, complemented by 12s subwoofers to provide the low-frequency output required for dance music.
What makes this installation particularly interesting is how the two systems interact.
During normal restaurant service and live performances, the main stage system operates as the primary audio reference, with the remaining loudspeakers time-aligned accordingly.
However, when the DJ system is in use, the audio processing changes to accommodate the different sound source.
The main and delay systems are time-aligned to the DJ loudspeakers, ensuring that the audio remains coherent throughout the venue.
For other audio sources, the dedicated DJ system remains inactive.
This arrangement gives Bibis the flexibility to operate as a restaurant, live music venue or dancefloor without compromising the audio experience in each configuration.
Professional Audio Processing and Venue Control
Symetrix Audio Processing and Zone Management
An installation of this complexity requires an audio control system that is powerful behind the scenes but straightforward for venue staff to operate.
We installed a Symetrix Prism audio processor to manage the system's routing, processing and day-to-day control.
This provides the venue with convenient access to essential functions, including source selection, microphone control and independent volume adjustment across different zones.
For example, background music can be managed separately in different areas of the building, while corporate functions can benefit from straightforward microphone operation without requiring a dedicated sound engineer.
The processing system also plays an important role in managing the different loudspeaker configurations and their associated time alignment.
Allen & Heath Digital Mixing for Live Performances
For live entertainment, we supplied and installed an Allen & Heath SQ-series digital mixing system, together with an AR2412 digital stagebox.
This provides the venue with a flexible collection of audio inputs and outputs, suitable for the wide variety of live acts and performances hosted at Bibis.
One of the main advantages of this arrangement is the freedom it gives the sound engineer.
Shows can be mixed from the designated technical area, or the engineer can move around the venue and make adjustments using a compatible mobile device.
Being able to listen and mix from different audience positions is particularly useful in a venue where acoustics and seating arrangements vary considerably.
The completed installation provides Bibis with a professional audio system that is flexible enough for everyday restaurant operation, corporate functions, live bands and DJ performances.
Professional Stage and Entertainment Lighting Installation
Alongside the audio installation, Bibis also wanted to modernise its existing stage and entertainment lighting.
The brief was to create a versatile lighting system that could complement the restaurant's distinctive interior while delivering exciting visual effects during live performances.
Unlike a conventional music venue, the lighting needed to operate across several very different environments.
During dinner service, the atmosphere should remain warm and welcoming. For acoustic performers, subtle stage lighting may be appropriate, while larger live acts and DJ events require a much more energetic lighting design.
Our solution combined modern LED stage lighting, compact moving heads, effect fixtures and a professional Avolites lighting control system.
Warm Stage Lighting with BeamZ Professional LED PAR Cans
To provide the primary stage illumination, we installed eight BeamZ Professional BAC332 LED PAR cans across the front of the stage.
Each fixture has a maximum output of 120 watts and incorporates red, green, blue, amber, lime and cyan LEDs.
The inclusion of amber, lime and cyan is particularly useful in an environment such as Bibis.
While conventional RGB lighting can produce a wide variety of colours, achieving attractive, natural-looking warm whites can be more challenging.
The additional LED colours allow the BAC332 fixtures to create warm white tones that closely resemble the appearance of traditional tungsten lighting.
This was an important consideration for the restaurant, where the lighting needed to complement the existing décor rather than introducing an overly harsh or clinical appearance.
The eight fixtures provide ample illumination across the large stage area, with the flexibility to change colours and intensity depending on the performance.
Whether illuminating a solo acoustic artist, a live band or a cabaret show, the lighting can be adapted to suit the occasion.
Moving Head Lighting for Live Shows and Atmospheric Effects
While the LED PAR cans provided the main stage lighting, Bibis also wanted to introduce lighting effects that could extend beyond the performance area and engage the audience.
However, these effects needed to remain suitable for a restaurant environment.
We selected six BeamZ Professional IGNITE 180B LED moving heads.
Despite their compact size, these fixtures provide impressive light output, a wide selection of colours and a range of built-in gobos, including three interchangeable designs.
The moving heads give the venue considerable flexibility.
During an energetic performance, they can produce dramatic beams, movement and colourful effects across the room.
For acoustic acts or quieter dining periods, the same fixtures can be used more subtly to introduce colour, texture and atmosphere without overwhelming customers.
This ability to switch between energetic entertainment lighting and understated atmospheric effects was central to the design.
Additional Impact with LED Blinder and Strobe Fixtures
To introduce another layer of visual impact, we installed two BeamZ Professional BS1200 blinder and strobe panels.
These fixtures provide powerful effects that can be used at carefully selected moments during live performances.
Rather than operating continuously, they are intended to provide occasional visual accents, adding energy to musical highlights and creating a greater sense of excitement during appropriate performances.
Together with the LED PAR cans and moving heads, they complete a versatile stage lighting package capable of supporting a wide range of entertainment.
Avolites Lighting Control and Programming
Professional Lighting Control with Avolites Titan Mobile
To manage the new lighting installation, we supplied an Avolites Titan Mobile 3 lighting control system.
The console provides four physical DMX universes, offering more than enough control capacity for the fixtures installed at Bibis.
Avolites is widely used in professional entertainment lighting, providing powerful control and programming features for everything from small venues to large productions.
For Bibis, the main requirement was to combine this professional functionality with an operating system that venue staff could use confidently.
We programmed a selection of lighting looks suitable for different types of performances and events.
This allows staff to quickly access appropriate lighting settings without having to build each look from scratch.
We also provided on-site training, helping the venue's team understand the system and make the most of its capabilities.
Integrating the Restaurant's Existing Lighting
One of the most valuable aspects of the project was the integration of the restaurant's existing architectural lighting into the new Avolites control system.
Bibis was keen to explore whether its existing room lighting could be operated from the same console used for stage and entertainment lighting.
Fortunately, the venue's existing lighting was already connected through dimmer packs.
After investigating the existing wiring and control arrangements, we were able to integrate these lighting circuits into the Avolites system.
This meant that the restaurant's standard lighting could now be controlled alongside the newly installed entertainment fixtures.
Instead of operating separate systems, staff gained the ability to manage lighting across different areas of the restaurant from one central location.
This represented a significant improvement in operational flexibility.
Lighting levels and atmosphere could be adjusted to suit the time of day, the type of event or the entertainment taking place.
For example, the restaurant could move from a comfortable dining atmosphere into a live performance setting, with both the room lighting and stage lighting coordinated through the same control system.
It also demonstrated how existing venue infrastructure can sometimes be incorporated into a modern installation rather than being unnecessarily replaced.
A Complete Sound and Lighting Solution for Bibis Leeds
The Bibis project is a good example of how professional sound and lighting systems can be designed around the individual requirements of a venue.
From acoustic modelling and loudspeaker positioning to audio processing, lighting design and control integration, every element needed to work together.
The completed installation provides Bibis with:
- A professionally designed d&b audiotechnik sound system with carefully managed coverage throughout the restaurant.
- Flown subwoofers designed to improve low-frequency consistency while preserving stage sightlines.
- Individually time-aligned loudspeakers serving the dining area, bar and rear seating areas.
- A dedicated DJ sound system with appropriate processing for different operating modes.
- Symetrix audio processing for source selection, zone control and day-to-day operation.
- Allen & Heath digital mixing facilities for live entertainment.
- Professional LED stage lighting with warm white capabilities.
- Moving head and effects lighting for live shows, DJs and atmospheric illumination.
- Avolites lighting control incorporating both the new entertainment fixtures and existing restaurant lighting.
- Custom lighting programming and on-site staff training.
Most importantly, the systems have been designed to accommodate the different demands placed on the venue.
A restaurant, cocktail bar and live entertainment space all require different approaches to sound and lighting. Bringing these together into one integrated installation was central to the success of the project.
Commercial Sound and Lighting Installation in Leeds and Yorkshire
At Audioserv, we design and install professional sound and lighting systems for restaurants, bars, nightclubs, live music venues, hotels and other commercial premises.
Our work covers everything from straightforward background music installations through to complex, multi-zone audio systems and fully integrated entertainment lighting.
Projects such as Bibis demonstrate the importance of understanding how a venue operates before selecting equipment.
Good sound system design isn't simply about installing powerful loudspeakers. It involves considering acoustics, audience coverage, sightlines, the positioning of equipment and the requirements of the people who will use the system every day.
The same principles apply to lighting, where the right combination of fixture selection, positioning and control can completely transform how a venue looks and feels.
Based in Leeds, Audioserv provides professional audio and lighting installation services throughout Yorkshire and across the UK.
If you're planning a new venue, refurbishing an existing space or looking to improve your current sound and lighting systems, we'd be happy to discuss your requirements.
Find out more about our Professional Audio and Lighting Installation Services, explore our Installation Project Gallery, or contact Audioserv to discuss your project.
