CLIENT
ARS Electronica
LOCATION
Vitznau, Switzerland
YEAR
2023
PROJECT TYPE
Performance venue – immersive AV systems & show control
Scope
Audio and video systems design, immersive sound and projection, show control integration
Services Provided
- →Immersive loudspeaker system design
- →Projection and video system design
- →Show control system engineering
- →Technical modelling and simulation
- →Onsite coordination and programming support
The Brief
In early 2023, we were engaged by ARS Electronica to help deliver a fully immersive multimedia studio at DAS MORGEN in Vitznau, Switzerland, a cutting-edge venue designed to inspire and educate guests through sound, vision, and technology.
Our task was to design and deliver the audio, video and control systems for a space that would host interactive presentations from the acclaimed Deep Space program by ARS Electronica. This meant creating an environment capable of both playback and real-time content creation, all while preserving the immersive intent of the venue.
The Challenge
This wasn’t a standard AV fit-out. The venue required a 16.1.3 immersive sound system, a 10-projector, 8K projection surface, and a control system smart enough to manage it all seamlessly.
The Deep Space content features high-resolution, interactive media displayed across massive surfaces, including a wall and floor canvas over 10,000 pixels high. Matching the technical ambition of this content required precise projection mapping, audio localisation, and synchronised control of multiple systems.
And, of course, it all had to be flexible: able to switch between immersive media playback, musical performance, lectures, and even formal dinners.
Our Approach
From the outset, we worked collaboratively with ARS Electronica and the architectural team, running 3D simulations to model projection alignment, pixel density, and sound localisation. This helped guide not only the technical design, but also architectural decisions about the space itself.
We broke the system down into four core areas, video projection, immersive audio, control and show operation, and system flexibility, and developed an integrated design that delivered on each.
Technical Highlights:
Audio Design
Immersive Loudspeaker System (16.1.3)
We developed a 19-channel audio layout featuring L-Acoustics Syva, 5XT, X8, Kiva II, and Syva Low loudspeakers. The configuration supports stereo content, 3D spatial audio and immersive soundscapes. Notably, Kiva II elements are mounted to reflect sound off the projection surface, maximising localisation without interrupting visuals.
L-ISA Spatial Processing
The heart of the immersive audio system is an L-ISA Processor II, supporting two modes:
- Playback Mode: Printed content routed directly to the 19 channels.
- Creation Mode: 96 inputs from DAW via L-ISA Studio, enabling offsite content creation and onsite spatial mixing.
Upmix with Trinnov Altitude32
For legacy stereo and 5.1 content, we deployed a Trinnov Altitude32 processor running Auro-3D upmixing, tailored to our speaker map to ensure continuity in spatial presentation across all content types.
Show Control Design
Audio Control System
A DiGiCo 4REA4 mix engine handles all signal routing, with DANTE and MADI for flexibility. Snapshots triggered by OSC automate configuration changes for different show modes. Control groups were configured for wireless mics, QLab, Deep Space content, and the Trinnov return.
AV & Infrastructure Design
Hero Wall & Floor Projection
The centrepiece of the Deep Space experience, the main projection canvas spans 7680 x 10,413 pixels across a seamless surface. This is achieved using 10 edge-blended 4K projectors, all running at 60fps for smooth, high-resolution visuals. We conducted a full 3D projection study to ensure clarity, minimise shadowing, and optimise image coverage across the venue.
Parkett Wall Projection
To further immerse the audience, we designed an additional 15,360 x 1420-pixel projection system across the venue’s Parkett wall. Using architectural drawings, we modelled lensing, throw distances and rigging options in 3D to validate the image envelope and maintain sightlines.
Video Control System
We integrated TV One CORIOMaster processors for real-time signal management, linked to four powerful media servers running custom software by ARS Electronica to deliver the Deep Space interactive content.
The Results
The DAS MORGEN immersive studio now stands as a benchmark for what’s possible when cutting-edge AV design meets architectural and artistic ambition.
Guests are immersed in 8K visuals, 3D spatial sound, and interactive storytelling, all managed by a system that’s as flexible as it is powerful. Whether it’s a programmed Deep Space experience, a musical ensemble, or a keynote presentation, the system adapts seamlessly.
Our work helped ARS Electronica bring their vision to life, a space where immersive technology becomes a platform for ideas, connection, and wonder.
Acknowledgements
Our Client
A huge thanks to Chris, Micky and Michaela from ARS Electronica for inviting us into the project and for keeping the whole team focused throughout the construction phase.
Our Team
The Audio and video systems were designed by Scott Willsallen and Joe Callister respectively. Joe also designed the show control system and managed the project. Joe and Scott were supported by Luis and Ethan throughout the design phase.
Our Supplier
Thanks to our systems integrator Auviso for their great work. Thanks for L-Acoustics, DiGiCo and TV One for helping with supply in a difficult timeframe.
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