Amazon State

Venue Overview

Amazon State is a multi-level hospitality and entertainment venue located in Hawthorn, which commenced operations in 2023. The venue seamlessly integrates dining and nightlife across several distinct zones, supported by a sophisticated and scalable audio system. Designed to accommodate a diverse array of applications—from ambient background music during dining service to high-output DJ performances—the system utilises loudspeakers from Quest Engineering and digital signal processing from NST Audio.

Audio System Objectives

Zoned Audio Control

  • Provide independent audio control across all designated venue zones.
  • Minimise acoustic spill between zones to preserve the intended audio experience in each area.

Versatile Audio Performance

  • Support a broad range of use cases including ambient dining, live performances, and DJ sets.
  • Deliver both low-level background audio and high-SPL sound reinforcement with clarity and control.

High-Fidelity Sound Reproduction

  • Ensure accurate and intelligible sound reproduction throughout the venue, across all volume levels.

User-Friendly Operation

  • Design a control system that enables intuitive operation by non-technical staff.
  • Provide reliable and straightforward zone and volume management.

System Architecture

The venue’s audio infrastructure is built upon a multi-zone architecture to provide consistent, high-quality coverage while preserving sonic isolation between areas. System processing and control are managed by NST Audio VMX Series DSPs, with wall-mounted VR1 controllers installed for operational convenience.

Digital Signal Processing (Site-Wide)

  • 2 × NST VMX88 – 8×8 DSP Matrix Processors for flexible input routing, zone assignment, and system processing.
  • 4 × NST VR1 – Networked wall-mounted controllers providing preset recall and local volume control per zone.

Amplification (Site-Wide)

  • 6 × Quest QA4004 – Dual-channel power amplifiers, 2 × 2000 W @ 4Ω.
  • 2 × Quest QX300A – Compact single-channel amplifier, 1 × 300 W @ 4Ω.

Zone Configuration

Zone A: Basement

  • Configuration: Stereo
  • Loudspeakers: 4 × Quest HPI8i Point Source Loudspeakers
  • Subwoofer: 1 × Quest HPI12S Subwoofer
  • Amplification Mode: Low-impedance operation

Zone B: Ground Floor

  • Configuration: Stereo
  • Loudspeakers: 4 × Quest HPI8i Point Source Loudspeakers
  • Subwoofer: 1 × Quest HPI12S Subwoofer
  • Amplification Mode: Low-impedance operation

Zone C: Toilets (Basement & Ground Floor)

  • Configuration: Mono
  • Loudspeakers: 5 × Quest MX6C In-Ceiling Speakers
  • Amplification Mode: 100 V line operation

Zone D: First Floor

  • Configuration: Stereo
  • Loudspeakers: 4 × Quest HPI8i Point Source Loudspeakers
  • Subwoofer: 1 × Quest HPI12S Subwoofer
  • Amplification Mode: Low-impedance operation

Zone E: Second Floor

  • Configuration: Stereo
  • Loudspeakers: 4 × Quest HPI8i Point Source Loudspeakers
  • Subwoofer: 1 × Quest HPI12S Subwoofer
  • Amplification Mode: Low-impedance operation

Zone F: Toilets (First & Second Floor)

  • Configuration: Mono
  • Loudspeakers: 5 × Quest MX6C In-Ceiling Speakers
  • Amplification Mode: 100 V line operation