L-Acoustics gains EN 54 certification for integrated voice alarm and performance audio
Background and context
In many large venues, particularly sports facilities, two separate audio systems are typically installed: one for programme audio and announcer use, and another dedicated to emergency voice alarm. This duplication adds cost and complexity for operators and integrators, with parallel loudspeaker runs, electronics, and maintenance regimes.
European standard EN 54 defines performance and reliability requirements for fire detection and alarm systems, including voice alarm loudspeakers (EN 54-24) and control equipment (EN 54-16). For audio manufacturers, achieving these certifications is essential if their products are to be used as part of a compliant life safety system.
L-Acoustics, best known for its concert and touring loudspeaker systems, has now extended its installed sound portfolio to meet these regulatory demands, positioning its products for dual use in both entertainment and emergency communication roles.
Key announcement
The France-based manufacturer has confirmed EN 54 certification for a selection of its loudspeakers, amplified controllers, and network devices. The approval covers EN 54-24 for loudspeakers used in voice alarm applications and EN 54-16 for voice alarm control and indicating equipment.
On the loudspeaker side, the certified range includes Kara IIi line source cabinets for larger spaces such as arenas and major concourses, Ai Series constant curvature models for mid-sized environments like auditoria, atria and sports halls, and Xi Series coaxial loudspeakers for smaller areas including meeting rooms, hospitality zones and back-of-house locations.
Certification under EN 54-16 applies to several LA Series amplified controllers, including the LA7.16i, LA1.16i, LA4X and LA2Xi. These units can provide amplification, DSP, monitoring and fault reporting within systems that also deliver day-to-day performance audio.
The LC16D network audio converter and LS10 Milan-AVB switch are also certified when deployed as part of the PAVA Facilities VACIE rack configuration, creating a defined path for networked audio distribution in compliant installations.
Industry impact
For consultants, system designers and integrators working on multi-purpose venues, the development offers a route to consolidating separate entertainment and evacuation systems into a single, unified audio platform. This may simplify system design, commissioning, and ongoing service, as well as reduce hardware duplication in stadiums, arenas, convention centres, universities and corporate campuses.
High-profile installations already using L-Acoustics systems for performance audio, such as Allianz Stadium in Sydney, Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, Cheltenham Racecourse in the UK and various US collegiate arenas, illustrate the type of venue where both high intelligibility and regulatory compliance are critical. With EN 54 certification in place, similar projects can now plan for integrated voice alarm capability using the same ecosystem that handles match-day entertainment, presentations and live events.
According to the company, customer demand has been driven in part by the audible difference between traditional voice alarm systems and modern performance PA solutions, particularly in challenging acoustic environments with high ambient noise and complex geometry.
Why this matters
From an event technology standpoint, the move reflects a broader trend in installed AV: converging life safety and performance requirements into fewer, more capable systems. Venue operators are under pressure to deliver immersive fan and audience experiences while also meeting stringent safety regulations and demonstrating system reliability.
By certifying elements of its existing ecosystem to EN 54, L-Acoustics is attempting to bridge that gap, allowing one set of loudspeakers and electronics to manage routine content and emergency messaging. For system designers, this may mean fewer compromises between sound quality and compliance, and clearer upgrade paths when venues look to modernise legacy voice alarm infrastructure.
More detail on the certified products and recommended system configurations is available via the L-Acoustics EN 54 solutions page at http://www.l-acoustics.com/applications/en-54-solutions.
