Capitale New York occupies the former Bowery Savings Bank, built in 1895 and widely regarded as one of Manhattan’s most striking Beaux-Arts interiors. Featuring Venetian glass, marble mosaic floors, Corinthian columns, carved limestone, and a soaring 65-foot ceiling, the venue is a premier destination for luxury events in New York City, including high-profile fundraisers, glamorous weddings, and exclusive corporate gatherings.
Preserving Historic Architecture While Upgrading Audio Performance
When hospitality operator Ilya Zavolunov acquired the property, the objective was clear: preserve the architectural grandeur while upgrading the venue’s technical infrastructure, particularly its professional audio system. Audio performance in the main hall had long been a challenge. The large-scale ballroom, combined with highly reflective surfaces and diverse event formats, required a solution capable of delivering controlled sound coverage, high intelligibility, and flexibility across multiple event configurations—all without compromising the historic character of the space.
Audio Design Challenges in a Large Event Venue
Capitale’s 15,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom accommodates up to 700 seated guests or 1,500 standing, complemented by two 2,000-square-foot private suites on the second floor. The new system needed to ensure even audio distribution across multiple zones, supporting everything from speeches and live performances to DJ sets and corporate productions.
K-array Audio System Installation by DRVCS AV
The system was designed and integrated by DRVCS AV, led by Davel Rodriguez, using a range of K-array professional audio solutions tailored to the venue’s architectural and operational requirements. At the core of the installation is the K-array Mugello-KH3 line array system, paired with Mugello-KS5 subwoofers, delivering high output, exceptional intelligibility, and precise control. While the system is not designed to be completely hidden, its slim form factor allows it to integrate cleanly within the ballroom, suspended from the truss structure without detracting from the ornate ceiling and historic detailing.
In the VIP areas located to the left and right of the main vault, K-array Dragon-KXT18P tri-axial speakers provide a more immersive, high-end sound experience, creating a refined club-style atmosphere within the larger event space.
Secondary areas, including mezzanine levels, lounges, and private rooms, are equipped with K-array Kayman-KY102W line array speakers combined with Thunder KS3P subwoofers, ensuring consistent audio coverage throughout all zones of the venue. The entire system is powered by K-array Kommander-KA208 amplifiers, offering centralized control, reliability, and the flexibility required for complex event production.
Even Coverage and Scalable Performance for Any Event Format
The upgraded audio system enables Capitale to host a wide range of events, from fashion shows and gala dinners to high-energy nightlife programming, while maintaining clarity and balance throughout the space. Sound coverage is now evenly distributed across both seated and standing areas, eliminating previous inconsistencies. The Mugello line arrays deliver powerful output without overwhelming the room, maintaining intelligibility even at higher sound pressure levels. At the same time, the system’s controlled visual footprint ensures that all technical elements remain respectful of the venue’s historic architecture.
A Modern Audio Solution for a Landmark NYC Venue
With a streamlined and flexible system in place, Capitale’s technical team can easily adapt to different event requirements, managing multiple zones and sound profiles from a centralized platform. This installation demonstrates how a historic New York event venue can successfully integrate a modern, high-performance audio system without compromising its identity—enhancing functionality while preserving the timeless character that defines Capitale.