Canada - K-array has become a go-to brand for AV integrators working in the restaurant scene across Canada’s Québec region.
"Restaurants in Montreal and the Québec region overall place significant emphasis on creating the right atmosphere, and high-quality audio is a key component of that," explains Daniel Huard of DDH Audio. "Music plays a central role in shaping the customer experience, making the integration of good-quality sound systems essential."
The restaurant industry in the Québec region has seen a move towards the popularity of all-in-one nightlife in recent years, with many new restaurants including sit-down dining, bar areas and live entertainment within one space. The concept is that customers can spend an entire evening in one place, avoiding the need to travel between bars, restaurants and clubs.
These establishments range from high-end restaurants to more casual dining spots, all catering to the region’s bilingual population. Music is highly valued in this region, not only as background entertainment but as an integral part of both the venue’s identity and the customers’ ‘going out’ experience. "Many restaurants here host DJ nights or other events where music takes centre stage," says Huard. "This shift has driven demand for sound systems that can adapt to various purposes, from ambient background music to DJ performances."
The integration of K-array and KGear systems into restaurants typically begins with collaboration between DDH Audio, local integrators and construction companies. "We have extensive experience working with construction teams, handling the entire AV component of the project," notes Huard. "This ensures that the audio systems are planned into the project from the beginning and installed effectively to maximise performance."
"Architects and designers are increasingly requesting more than the standard ceiling or pendant loudspeakers," Huard continues. "They want sound solutions that align with the venue’s overall interior design whilst also having enough punch to handle DJ sets."
For Italian restaurant Sergiolino, customisation was key. The project involved 26 KGear GH4 speakers and five KU210 subwoofers, all finished in a custom pink RAL colour to match the vibrant restaurant interior. The system is powered by two KA68 amplifiers, KA 28 providing six controllable audio zones. "The ability to match the speakers to the restaurant’s colour scheme while delivering outstanding sound quality is a major advantage for architects and designers," confirms Huard.
The restaurant chain La Belle et la Boeuf incorporates music as a central element of its offerings, with DJ performances three nights a week. Here, two Kayman loudspeakers at the bar plus smaller form-factor GH4 loudspeakers positioned in the corners of the room ensure even coverage throughout the space, including private dining areas.
At New Houston Steakhouse, Kayman loudspeakers and GH4s are supplemented by K-array’s powerful yet compact Thunder-KS3P subwoofer. “The restaurant is ready for everything with this combination,” remarks Huard.
"K-array’s innovative products allow us to deliver tailored audio solutions that enhance the functionality and atmosphere of the venues we work with," Huard concludes. "This makes the brand a trusted and preferred choice of restaurant owners and systems integrators across the region.”
