Iconic venues upgrade with Funktion-One

Funktion-One has upgraded sound systems at four iconic venues – Cielo and Output in New York, Beta in Denver and Berghain in Berlin.

The loudspeaker manufacturer’s latest development is having a positive impact on owners, operators and their clientele. Company founder Tony Andrews revealed: “Funktion-One’s continuous quest for fidelity has led to a breakthrough in cone stabilisation, almost eliminating diaphragm breakup and its associated non-linear acoustic behaviour.”

The upgrade has been applied to a variety of Funktion-One loudspeaker models at the venues in question. Andrews visited each of the venues to personally deliver the improvements: “We were able to carry out these upgrades, which are the subject of a fresh patent application, to some of the high profile US club installations,” he explained. “The sonic result is outstanding and has taken the Funktion-One sound to a new level, particularly in the vocal range.”

This has been warmly received at Berghain. Technical director, Krischan Makswitat, recalled: “After the first club night on the main floor and especially after the 10th anniversary concert, we received ecstatic feedback from FOH technicians, guests and employees.” Berghain also upgraded its monitoring system – bringing in Funktion-One PSM318s to replace the old set-up. Makswitat commented: “These monitors are absolutely convincing in every aspect.”

Beta’s executive director of operations and production Michael McCray commented: “The audio system was the first decision we made – before the venue or name. The music and the sound were the number one priority – it is everything about our personality. We provide an upscale classy interior, with an amazing staff and all of the benefits of a world-class club. But if you ask our guests what element gave them the biggest enjoyment on a given evening, they will talk about the sound and the music first.”

Discussing the resulting performance at Beta, McCray said: “The combination of the upgrades and a very special visit from Tony Andrews to tune the system has resulted in a noticeable difference. The midrange has clearer, more defined detail. Our employees were the first to comment on it, however, the guests are really appreciating the enhancements made last month. It was fortunate that we were able to receive the upgrades, and the visit from Tony himself. This really shows the level of commitment from the company, which ultimately benefits the people coming in and the business itself.”

McCray further explained: “From the very beginning, we were treated with respect and with an individual personal experience. Funktion-One was the first choice for us, and both Funktion-One and [US distributor] Sound Investment were very accommodating in allowing us to work with them on the design, and allowing us to do the installation and tuning.

“The product performance speaks for itself, however, there is always the need for support in the pro audio world. Funktion-One has always been helpful when we need it, but they are also proactive about maintaining their products’ performance in the field. This shows a pride in their work and their clients’ venues. It’s a level of service not commonly found in the pro audio world.”

Matar added: “I thought that our sound systems couldn’t possibly be improved before the upgrade – I was wrong. The clarity of the mids and highs has been taken to an unprecedented level.”

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