Willow Creek Elevates Worship Experience with New L-Acoustics L Series Sound System

Willow Creek Community Church, a trailblazer in contemporary worship, has significantly enhanced its audio capabilities by installing an advanced L-Acoustics L Series sound system in its massive 7,200-seat auditorium. The church collaborated with integration partner Clark to implement the Progressive Ultra-Dense Line Source (PULS) technology, setting a new benchmark for sound quality in large-scale worship venues.

This state-of-the-art system replaces a nearly 20-year-old PA system, which had struggled to provide full coverage for the vast auditorium. Fernando Gamas, Willow Creek’s front-of-house engineer, described the previous system as limiting due to its inability to provide clarity and volume without distorting sound. “With the L Series, we’re now able to run at higher volumes—averaging between 90 and 93 dBA, sometimes as high as 95—while maintaining an excellent sonic signature that’s smooth, clear, and engaging,” Gamas noted.

The installation includes left-right hangs of L2 and L2D enclosures, complemented by KS28 subs and LA7.16i amplified controllers. Additionally, over 100 ultra-compact 5XT coaxials and nine A15i delay enclosures provide extensive coverage for the balcony area, while an onstage A10i setup serves as a monitoring system for pastors. This design ensures that both music and spoken word maintain consistent quality across the venue, regardless of seating location.

One standout feature of the L Series is its versatile directivity. The combination of cardioid and supercardioid configurations allows Willow Creek to manage sound on stage effectively, which is especially important given the church’s diverse programming that includes sermons, musical performances, and community events.

Willow Creek’s production director, Dave Cooke, praised the system’s impact, recalling how clear and immersive the sound quality was even in the back rows. “It was everything we were looking for in a sound system,” Cooke remarked.

This audio upgrade not only enhances the worship experience but also sets a new standard for large-scale religious venues across North America. For more insights, you can read the full article on LiveDesign.