Go to content
© Palacio Euskalduna Jauregia Bilbao
When the Euskalduna Palace raises its curtain, almost no two days are ever the same. Theater, opera, concerts, corporate conferences, large-scale productions… each production comes with its own schedule, equipment, and requirements. In a venue like this, a failure in the control network or a scheduling bottleneck isn't just a nuisance. It's a serious problem.
The technical challenge was clear: The Palace didn't simply need new bedside tablesI needed a control architecture capable of handling a high volume of parameters, giving operators freedom to work between rooms and, above all, protecting the live broadcast with real backup systems.
To meet this requirement, Stonex has designed and integrated a control structure based on the ecosystem ETCA project where the value lies not only in the console, but in how control, network, regulation and backup work together to sustain the show when the pressure rises.
Control architecture and operational continuity
The heart of the new system on the main stage is a ETC Gio @5, Chosen for its ability to manage high-density productions with agility and working margin.
But in a stage infrastructure of this level, the main control can never go alone. That's why Stonex has deployed a backup system based on ETCnomad and Programming Wingensuring uninterrupted operation. If the main line experiences an issue, the system has a backup path ready. No improvisation. No leaving the show hanging.
This same logic of security and backup has been replicated in Hall B, unifying the workflow for the Palace's technical team. Less friction between spaces. More control over daily operations.
The lighting technicians' workflow has also been decentralized. With ETCpad, technicians can adjust positions, correct levels, and update programming from the stage, the auditorium, or wherever the action is actually happening. Fewer trips to the control room. Faster rehearsals, setups, and last-minute adjustments.
Full integration: from the network to regulation
To ensure this new control capability works without bottlenecks, Stonex has intervened in the backbone of the signal distribution.
The integration of ETC Response Mk2 4-Port Gateway nodes streamlines and strengthens communication across the entire control network. Because a good console is of little use if the signal doesn't travel with stability, margin, and a clear underlying architecture.
The modernization also extends to the power infrastructure, with the dimmer cabinets being upgraded to the ETC Sensor3 standard. This aligns electrical regulation and the data network within the same technical framework.
This system is complemented by an ETC Ion Xe 20 as a mobile console and a motorized Fader Wing to expand shortcuts when production demands it. More flexibility for the team. More responsiveness for the room.
Beyond the product: the Stonex integration guarantee
In a critical cultural infrastructure, simply selling equipment is not enough. And, if poorly planned, it can even complicate matters further.
A control network of this scale demands technical expertise, system design, fine-tuned integration, and local support capable of responding when the live performance demands it. That's the difference between installing hardware and building a reliable stage infrastructure.
With this deployment, the Euskalduna Palace not only incorporates ETC consoles. It gains operational margin, flexibility between rooms, and a control architecture prepared to work comfortably in demanding productions.
A solution designed, implemented, and supported by Stonex with a very clear idea: we don't just move boxes. We design the engineering that sustains the show.
Stonex, official distributor of ETC in Spain
Do you want to know everything ETC lighting fixtures or control panels can do for you?
At Stonex, as the exclusive distributor in Spain, we make it easy for you: we talk to you, study your project, and prepare a customized quote so you get exactly the equipment you need, without any fuss or complications.
