K-array has become a go-to brand for AV integrators working in the restaurant scene across Canada’s Quebec region. Distributed locally by DDH Audio, these solutions are prized for their exceptional sound quality, sleek design and flexibility in meeting the diverse needs of modern hospitality venues.

"Restaurants in Montreal and the Quebec region overall place significant emphasis on creating the right atmosphere, and high-quality audio is a key component of that," explains Daniel Huard of DDH Audio. "Music plays a central role in shaping the customer experience, making the integration of good quality sound systems essential."

The restaurant industry in the Quebec region has seen a move towards the popularity of all-in-one nightlife in recent years, with many new restaurants including sit-down dining, bar areas and live entertainment within one space. The concept is that customers can spend an entire evening in one place, avoiding the need to travel between bars, restaurants and clubs. These establishments range from high-end restaurants to more casual dining spots, all catering to the region’s bilingual population. Music is highly valued in this region, not only as background entertainment but as an integral part of both the venue’s identity and the customers’ ‘going out’ experience. "Many restaurants here host DJ nights or other events where music takes centre stage," says Huard. "This shift has driven demand for sound systems that can adapt to various purposes, from ambient background music to DJ performances."

The integration of K-array and KGEAR systems into restaurants typically begins with collaboration between DDH Audio, local integrators and construction companies. "We have extensive experience working with construction teams, handling the entire AV component of the project," notes Huard. "This ensures that the audio systems are planned into the project from the beginning and installed effectively to maximise performance." Due to their unique combination of sleek aesthetics and high performance, K-array and KGEAR products are particularly suited to hospitality environments." Architects and designers are increasingly requesting more than the standard ceiling or pendant loudspeakers," Huard continues. "They want sound solutions that align with the venue’s overall interior design whilst also having enough punch to handle DJ sets."

Models like Kayman and Python offer high performance and are visually unobtrusive, blending into any restaurant or bar interior. Advanced beam steering via Pure Array Technology, exemplified by the ultra-flat Vyper range, ensures sound is directed to where it is needed. This reduces interference and enhances the overall listening experience, ensuring a consistent sound no matter where guests are located in the space. Control is another key benefit. K-array’s Kommander amplifiers allow multiple speakers to be controlled independently, enabling the creation of distinct audio zones tailored to the specific needs of a venue.

For Italian restaurant, Sergiolino, customisation was key. The project involved 26 KGEAR GH4 speakers and five KU210 subwoofers, all finished in a custom pink RAL colour to match the vibrant restaurant interior. The system is powered by two KA68 amplifiers, KA28 providing six controllable audio zones. "The ability to match the speakers to the restaurant’s colour scheme while delivering outstanding sound quality is a major advantage for architects and designers," confirms Huard. The restaurant chain La Belle et la Boeuf incorporates music as a central element of its offerings, with DJ performances three nights a week. Here, two Kayman loudspeakers at the bar plus smaller form-factor GH4 loudspeakers positioned in the corners of the room ensure even coverage throughout the space, including private dining areas.

At New Houston Steakhouse, Kayman loudspeakers and GH4s are supplemented by K-array’s powerful yet compact Thunder-KS3P subwoofer. “The restaurant is ready for everything with this combination,” remarks Huard. The widespread adoption of K-array and KGEAR audio systems among restaurants in Montreal and across Quebec reflects their ability to meet the high demands of the region’s restaurant industry, striking the perfect balance between ease of integration, aesthetics and performance. "K-array’s innovative products allow us to deliver tailored audio solutions that enhance the functionality and atmosphere of the venues we work with," Huard concludes. "This makes the brand a trusted and preferred choice of restaurant owners and systems integrators across the region.”