THAILAND: AETHER, the rooftop bar on the 44th floor of Dusit Central Park in Bangkok, has integrated an Adamson Systems Engineering audio system into its architectural design, creating a sound reinforcement solution that forms part of the venue’s visual identity while delivering consistent coverage across its premium dining and entertainment spaces. Offering 360-degree views across Bangkok, including the Chao Phraya River, Lumphini Park and the city skyline, AETHER was conceived as a destination where architecture, hospitality and entertainment would work as a unified experience, with the audio system considered from the earliest stages of the project.

Adamson’s official distribution partner in Thailand, Sonos Libra was responsible for the complete audio system design and worked closely with the venue’s architects and project designers throughout the concept development process. One of the principal challenges was integrating the Adamson loudspeakers into two large sculptural structures designed in the shape of speakers, which have become prominent architectural features within the venue. The challenge was to preserve the visual intent of these structures while ensuring that loudspeaker positioning and acoustic performance were not compromised.

Detailed acoustic simulations were undertaken ahead of installation to assess loudspeaker placement, coverage angles and overall system performance. This process was complemented by close collaboration between Sonos Libra and the architectural team to ensure that materials and structural elements satisfied both the visual and acoustic requirements of the project.

Adamson IS Series loudspeakers were integrated into the two signature speaker-shaped structures, creating a distinctive architectural feature while providing professional audio performance across the venue. For the surrounding areas, AETHER deployed weatherized models from the Adamson IS Series, designed for outdoor applications and changing environmental conditions. The system comprises Adamson IS10P-W, Adamson IS219P-W, Adamson IS7C-W and Adamson IS5C-W loudspeakers, all specified in weatherized configurations for the venue’s outdoor environment.

At the core of the system is an Allen&Heath AHM-16 Audio Matrix Processor, providing audio routing and management across the venue’s multiple zones. Equipped with an Allen&Heath Dante Audio Networking Card, the processor connects the system through a Dante Audio Network, providing the flexibility to accommodate future expansion, additional devices and evolving system requirements. Amplification is handled by Adamson XG4 Amplifiers and Adamson XG2 Amplifiers.

“At AETHER, the audio system was more than just a technical component—it became part of the architectural design itself. From acoustic simulations and material selection to loudspeaker positioning and structural integration, we worked alongside the design team from the earliest stages to ensure the venue’s bold architectural vision could be realized without compromising the level of audio performance we set out to achieve” said Phoom, Sound Engineer, Sonos Libra.

Following commissioning, the completed system delivered audio coverage and performance closely aligned with the original simulation results. Beyond its acoustic performance, the installation has also been positively received for the way the loudspeaker system has been incorporated into AETHER’s architectural concept, turning what could have been a conventional technical installation into one of the venue’s defining visual elements.