At L-Acoustics, we believe everyone deserves to experience the power of sound. We also think the audio industry should truly reflect our diverse world. That’s why we’re building a more inclusive professional audio community; diverse perspectives simply drive better innovation and create global solutions that resonate with everyone.

This commitment shone brightly at ADC24, the annual Audio Developer Conference. This dynamic event celebrates every facet of audio development, from music apps to embedded systems. ADC empowers attendees to acquire new skills, expand their professional networks, and present groundbreaking research.

At ADC24, we proudly partnered to launch a Diversity Scholarship Program. We understand that financial hurdles often block talented individuals from underrepresented groups from accessing these crucial learning and networking opportunities. Therefore, we sponsored ten scholarships, providing both conference tickets and accommodation, to help open doors for diverse, audio-passionate individuals.

Opening Doors, Amplifying Potential through ADC’s Rich Program

The professional audio world has historically been perceived as lacking diversity, which is why we’re actively working to dismantle that perception. Our ADC24 Diversity Scholarship Program provided financial assistance and created pathways for talented individuals to thrive within the ADC environment. By investing in these scholars, we’re investing in the future of audio development.

Beyond simply offering conference attendance, this initiative provided a platform for scholars to immerse themselves in ADC’s comprehensive program and:

• Learn from industry leaders. Attending keynotes and sessions from experts across digital signal processing, audio synthesis, music technology, game audio, and more.
• Network with peers. Engaging with fellow developers, researchers, and professionals through dedicated social events, virtual venues like Gather.Town and community-driven meetups.
• Advance their skills. Participating in hands-on workshops on topics ranging from practical machine learning and GPU-powered audio to designing audio network endpoints and building audio applications with various programming languages.
• Explore new technologies. Discovering cutting-edge advancements and experimental projects presented throughout the conference.

Beyond the ADC24 Conference: A Commitment to Sustainable Change

Our commitment to diversity and accessibility extends far beyond a single event. It’s woven into the fabric of our company culture and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5 (Gender Equality) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). We believe that cultivating a more diverse and inclusive audio industry, supported by platforms like ADC, can contribute to a more equitable and accessible world.

We recognize that true change requires ongoing effort. That’s why we’re committed to:

• Creating opportunities for individuals from underrepresented groups to enter and thrive in the audio field.
• Actively seeking diverse perspectives in our product development and innovation processes.
• Promoting a culture of inclusivity and respect within our company and the wider industry.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Audio

We invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Imagine an industry where every voice is heard, and innovation flourishes from every background. By championing initiatives like our ADC Diversity Scholarship Program and actively engaging with the audio development community, we can amplify diverse voices and unlock the full, incredible potential of sound, building a truly equitable future for all.

To learn more about our initiatives, check out our CSR page.

The post Amplifying Voices: L-Acoustics Champions Diversity and Accessibility at ADC24  appeared first on L-Acoustics.

A Professional Sound System at Sea?

Why would one need a professional sound system out on the ocean? To better answer this question, one must refer to humans’ relationship with the sea. Humans have always strategically navigated the sea for new world discoveries, military expeditions, and as a primary source of resources. But for millennia, humans have also been captivated by the sea, drawn by a harmonious blend of psychological, sensory, and cultural factors. The ocean’s calming and serene atmosphere, coupled with its vastness and breathtaking beauty, instills awe and wonder in those who encounter it. Many find solace in the sea, a sanctuary from the demands of daily life, where they can fully immerse themselves in the present moment. Moreover, the visual and auditory experiences of the sea make it quite seductive. The mesmerizing hue of blue, the soothing sound of waves, and the invigorating scent of salt water contribute to its irresistible allure. 

The Best Professional Sound System At Sea Sets Sail

These reasons, coupled with the disposable income from a steady rise of very high net-worth individuals, have created a market boom for yachts and superyachts. According to the Yacht Global Market Report 2025 by The Business Research Company, the global luxury yacht market is projected to grow from $9.06 billion in 2024 to $9.48 billion in 2025. That’s a compound annual growth rate of 4.7%, which is quite high for a big-ticket luxury item. These customized yachts are equipped with premium amenities, which is where the professional sound system comes into play. The absence of urban noise pollution enhances the sensory experiences on the water. Sound becomes heightened and more acutely perceived. Considering this, investing in the best professional sound system is a wise decision.

That’s why many yacht owners and charter companies have their vessels outfitted with L-Acoustics professional sound systems. Whether it’s a large celebration or an intimate night of live piano, premium audio systems captivate audiences with immersive soundscapes.

What To Have on Deck: Fixed or Deployable?

Therefore, considering the initial sizable investment made by yacht owners, it makes sense that they want the best professional sound system available. Currently, there are two main approaches to bringing music on deck: fixed and deployable. Fixed audio systems are built into the boat’s interior design or furnishings. These systems typically consist of low-profile speakers nestled in bulkheads or hidden in ceilings. They don’t require manual setups and are discreet. Deployable systems, on the other hand, are more modular and stored until needed. Storage can be an issue as the equipment tends to be substantial. And the manual setup required for every event can be taxing when multiple item segments are involved. 

However, the L-Acoustics professional sound system comprises just three components: the Syva, Syva Low, and Syva Sub. Subsequently, L-Acoustics, a brand renowned for supplying speakers at concerts and festivals, has gained significant traction with its Syva system. Old-style audio systems tend to be obtrusive and not visually optimal. Whereas L-Acoustics system enclosures are sleek, discreet, and blend seamlessly into the yacht’s aesthetics to deliver exceptional sound performance.

L-Acoustics Professional Sound Ecosystem is a Sound Choice

So, it’s not surprising that yacht owners who don’t want the burden and cost of manual on-request setups are increasingly opting for fixed audio systems and premium brand, L-Acoustics. L-Acoustics sound systems are the concert system chosen by world-renowned musicians for their tours and festivals worldwide. This same industry-leading premium concert sound can be installed aboard any yacht or superyacht and is highly versatile. From on-board movie nights that become a fully immersive experience to guest DJs, musicians, and artists performing for any size event aboard, L-Acoustics’ concert-grade sound technology is adaptable and enduring.  And when used in concert with other sound solutions within the L-Acoustics ecosystem such Soundvision or L-Acoustics DJ, L-Acoustics professional sound system technology for yachts and superyachts exceeds even the highest of expectations for sound at sea.

Luxury and Life’s Simple Pleasures

Yachting’s popularity takes humans’ sea-faring proclivity and combines it with luxury, freedom, and adventure. Yachting offers unparalleled exploration opportunities and the freedom to create personalized itineraries. This allows people to disconnect from their daily routines and reconnect with nature. The experiential and emotional value of yachting is enhanced by simple pleasures such as the chance to witness new horizons and dine under the stars. Considering the surge in popularity of owning and chartering yachts paired with the unforgettable core life-experiences one has aboard them, it’s only fitting that a high-seas adventure should be replete with the best on-board sensory experience possible. And sound is essential to that experience. 

The post Professional Sound System Solutions Aboard Ship as Yacht Sales Spike appeared first on L-Acoustics.

In this installment of our Women in Pro Audio Series, which celebrates the invaluable contributions of women in the professional audio industry, we had the pleasure of spotlighting Jenny Joo (Zhu Junlin), an accomplished sound engineer making incredible sound in China’s audio landscape. Having once managed sound for her sister’s band, she now oversees complex audio systems and live event tuning in Hangzhou with Rightway Audio Consultants. Get the inside scoop on her experiences, challenges, and unique perspective on thriving in this vast industry of pro sound.

Meet Jenny

Jenny’s journey into professional audio didn’t begin in a formal setting, but rather with early explorations rooted in her native Sichuan. During her college years, she found herself drawn to the sound control room for the school’s art troupe and also took the reins for her sister’s band. While she recalls these initial forays as ‘very interesting,’ she candidly admits her involvement then ‘was not particularly professional.’ The real turning point came after graduation with an unexpected opportunity that steered her towards her true calling. Embracing professional training, what started as a curiosity blossomed into a deep-seated passion. Today, this enthusiasm fuels her work in intricate sound system design and PA tuning at Rightway Audio Consultants (RAC), where she continues to build her career.

Getting Started and Overcoming Hurdles

Jenny’s career truly began to take shape when she joined RAC immediately after graduation. Driven by her passion, Jenny chose to stay in Hangzhou, immersing herself in the steep learning curve ahead. She soon understood that mastering sound engineering meant deepening her knowledge into a wide array of subjects, including basic physics, electroacoustics, music theory, music psychology, and music appreciation, among others. For Jenny, this commitment to continuous learning became her most significant investment. Alongside these professional demands, she faced the personal struggles of a young woman forging her own path away from home and family expectations. Nevertheless, her resolute determination enabled her to overcome these obstacles and firmly establish herself in the field. 

Unique Challenges as a Woman in Pro Audio

For Jenny, a significant challenge at this stage of her career is the delicate balance between her professional life and her family. With a two-year-old son, she faced the demanding reality of returning to work when he was just seven months old. “I travel a lot for my job, and I feel like I’ve missed out on so much of his growing up. However, my child and family love me very much, and I wouldn’t be able to thrive in my field without their wholehearted support. I’m incredibly grateful to them.”

Beyond the personal challenges, Jenny also recognizes the historical gender imbalance within the audio industry. She acknowledges that “the audio industry has long been a male-dominated industry” due to the intensive nature of the work, conceding that “men have an inherent advantage in terms of physical fitness.” However, Jenny firmly believes that “women, through their professional sensitivity and attention to detail, can perform just as well as men.”

Women in Pro Audio: Perspectives and Encouragement

“Physically, women might not have the same innate stamina as men,” Jenny says as she reflects on the fact that there are fewer women than men in this industry. “And the demanding nature of the work can be a bit taxing.” 

Shifting focus, she continues, “Then there are family reasons; traditional thinking often suggests that a woman’s best path is to get married and raise children, along with ideas like ‘men work outside, women manage the home.’ These kinds of mindsets have limited women’s development in many areas. However, I want to tell all my fellow women: don’t be afraid and don’t hesitate. Do whatever you want to do. As you start down that path, you’ll find it’s not as difficult as you might think”.

Overcoming Challenges and Memorable Projects

Describing herself as someone with “a strong passion for learning,” Jenny enjoys challenges and the “sense of achievement after conquering challenges.” Throughout her career, she has encountered numerous obstacles, including “careless suppliers, mismatched equipment, long working hours, bad weather, and poor environment.” In these demanding situations, she relies on her “strong perseverance” to manage everything effectively. Jenny emphasizes that she has “never wanted to give up because it’s what I love to do, and I want to show the best.”

One of the most memorable projects she has been involved in is the musical She Niang. “I absolutely loved the musical director. There were over 50 songs, and every single one was beautiful. I rehearsed and put it all together with the cast, and then performed it so many times. Every time, I’d be at the sound console and feel my eyes well up. Music truly has an incredible power to stir people’s emotions. I think that’s why I’m so passionate about my job. In my work, I don’t just experience the hardships; I also feel happiness, joy, and tears.”

Advice for Aspiring Professionals

“Find what interests you, go practice extensively, equip yourself with solid technical theories, take good care of your hearing, and stay enthusiastic and patient.” Jenny shares this sage advice for fellow women looking to build a career in the audio industry: 

She adds: “Be a strong learner and keep asking why. The industry can change really quickly so continuous learning is important. Always keep your head sharp; every decision made during work can affect the results, especially for live shows.”

Reflecting on a particularly intense experience, Jenny recounts the 2024 CAN Festival: “We had a performance right by the sea. Two strong typhoons were approaching back-to-back. Our show wasn’t cancelled, but to deal with the typhoons, we had to repeatedly set up and take down all the speakers. The three-day event was compressed into two days, so time was a real battle. In the end, it all wrapped up smoothly. Over those seven days, I got less than 35 hours of sleep in total, but they are seven days I will vividly remember for the rest of my life.”

Why She’s a Woman in Pro Audio

When asked about what she loves most in her work and her proudest moments, Jenny points to a pivotal experience: the inaugural EDC (Electric Daisy Carnival) in China in 2018. This event was not only a landmark for the country’s music scene – it was a personal milestone for Jenny, as it marked her first time managing the entire Outside Broadcast for the carnival. She vividly recalls the immense satisfaction of working on EDC. “I watched the live broadcast on my phone; it just felt so great, letting more people hear voices from China.”

This drive to connect people through sound naturally extends to her vision for the future of live events, where she hopes to see a more consistent and equitable listening experience for every audience member.

Jenny’s reflection on such a significant moment, coupled with her aspirations for the industry, paints a clear picture of an engineer deeply invested in more than just the technicalities of her job. What makes Jenny so brilliant at what she does is her power to unite and deliver shared joy by connecting people through the best shared sound experiences.

To follow along on her adventure in live sound, Jenny can be found on Instagram at @jennyjoo1123.

Read last month’s Women in Pro Audio interview here.

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The power of an immersive audio experience truly comes alive within art exhibits, where carefully crafted soundscapes weave seamlessly with the visual narratives. Picture yourself moving through a gallery, the auditory elements rising and falling in response to the artwork, completely enveloping your senses. Sound can make you feel immersed in a specific ambiance and bring stories to life. By harmonizing with visual elements, sound enhances the depth and significance of art, transforming static creations into dynamic, multisensory experiences. Whether it’s the soothing hum of a gallery or the impactful score in an installation, sound amplifies the emotional and narrative impact of art, making it more immersive and memorable. This is the beauty of immersive audio. 

Immersive audio is revolutionizing sound design by creating a 3D sound field that places listeners within an auditory experience. Immersive audio transforms how audiences experience live events, corporate spaces, themed environments, hospitality and more. As a leading provider of immersive audio solutions, L-Acoustics’ technologies, such as L-ISA, are redefining the boundaries of what’s possible. 

How Immersive Audio Enhances Art  

Using immersive audio in art exhibits offers numerous benefits that enhance both the visitor experience and the impact of the artwork itself. Unlike stereo systems that rely on two channels, immersive audio uses three dimensions—lateral (x), depth (y), and vertical (z)—to deliver a fully enveloping sound experience.  

An example where L-ISA sound technology is used to transform art from visual to an immersive audio experience is En Amour. En Amour, an immersive and interactive experience, is part of the Rituals series by Adrien M & Claire B. It uses L-ISA Immersive Hyperreal Sound technology to transform visual art into an immersive audio experience. En Amour explores the theme of love and separation through a blend of live performance and visual art. The soundscape, composed by musician Laurent Bardainne and featuring the voice of singer November Ultra, envelops the audience in a captivating experience. The 40-minute journey combines color, light, and sound to create a symbolic metamorphosis that awakens and strengthens our understanding of love. 

Immersive Audio is the Next Level of Artistic Experience 

Immersive audio transforms visual art exhibits from one-dimensional into a multisensory experience by using sound in innovative ways. Spatial audio adds depth and movement, guiding visitors through the exhibit and creating a dynamic connection with the space. Sound design enhances the mood and theme of the artwork, aligning auditory elements with the visual narrative to deepen emotional engagement. Interactive audio features respond to visitor movements or actions, fostering a sense of participation and personal connection with the art. Additionally, audio guides provide rich, detailed insights into the artwork and the artist, elevating understanding and appreciation. Together, these elements make the exhibit more engaging and memorable. 

Immersive audio increases engagement and emotional connection by enveloping audiences with carefully crafted soundscapes, drawing visitors in and making the art feel more intimate. This heightened sensory experience leads to an enhanced understanding and appreciation of the art, as sound helps convey context, themes, and emotions that might not be fully captured through visuals alone.

Top featured image by Yankov Wong.

The post Bringing Art to Life with an Immersive Audio Experience   appeared first on L-Acoustics.

For over four decades, L-Acoustics has been striving to connect humans through the best shared sound experiences. And its partnership with immersive audio experience creator Polygon does just that.

Founded in 2017 by Archie Keswick, Nico Elliott, and Adam Nicholas, Polygon is a collective of tech geeks, music lovers, and boundary-pushers who create unique music experiences through cutting-edge immersive sound, lighting, and other multisensory technologies. For their upcoming Polygon Live LDN show, they’ll feature an eclectic range of established and emerging artists, including Arooj Aftab, Cosmo Sheldrake, Gold Panda, Halina Rice, Jon Hopkins, Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith, Kiasmos, Max Cooper, Nitin Sawhney, Photay, Tinariwen, Weval, Yīn Yīn, and others performing in a 360-degree sound system within a hemispherical dome stage. The stage is rigged with an impressive 12.1.4 system, featuring 12 L-Acoustics line array speakers surrounding the audience, a festival-grade sub-wall delivering powerful bass, and four overhead arrays projecting crystal-clear sound from above.

This system boasts five times the number of speakers typically used in a professional sound system for a stage of this size. Additionally, the structure features a vast lattice of lighting that enhances the space, enveloping the audience in a cocoon of spatialized sound and synchronized lighting. The audience is fully engrossed in this spectacle, delivering a truly immersive experience.

The Catalyst that Sparked an Enduring, Fruitful Partnership

What led to the creation of Polygon? Co-founder Adam Nicholas reveals that it was born from a genuine passion for audio and music. Leveraging a connection with L-Acoustics, one of Polygon’s founders introduced the partners to L-ISA sound technology, which became Polygon’s defining focus point and feature. “Before L-ISA, we didn’t have this concept of wrapping audiences in sound and being inside the music,” says Nicholas. 

He emphasizes that Polygon’s mission is to deliver the gold standard of sound. L-Acoustics has been their partner in various aspects, including creative collaboration, artist discovery, R&D, and the sound technology they use. Nicholas notes that Polygon leans into their partnership with L-Acoustics to help answer all the difficult questions, such as how many line array speakers to use, how wide apart they can be, and how to scale their events.

The partnership established in 2018 has been fruitful and enlightening for L-Acoustics as well. David Dohrmann, Global Director of Application Vertical at L-Acoustics, says that, based on highly successful deployments, including Wonderfruit music festival in Thailand, where Polygon has a stage every year, L-Acoustics has invited the Polygon technology team to collaborate with L-ISA experts.

These field tests recently led to the development of the “multi-dome” stage concept, which Polygon will deploy at the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Tennessee this year. This concept achieves sonic integrity, immersion, and scale while maintaining reasonable production budgets. It also provides valuable insights into designing ideal geometries and dimensions for spatialized audience areas. And of course, in addition to the knowledge gained, there’s a lot of pride in being associated with such an impressive artistic endeavor that’s swiftly increasing in popularity.

A Unique Immersive Audio Experience Has Unique Challenges

While the concept of an immersive audio experience is gaining traction, Nicholas acknowledges its unique challenges. The construction of their platforms and other logistical aspects requires meticulous attention. Does the chosen structure design and loudspeaker placement align with Polygon’s values? Will it enhance the artists’ performance? Will it be conducive to pristine live sound? And most importantly, will it pull the audience more deeply into the music as intended?

Furthermore, an immersive audio experience that spans over hours necessitates a diverse range of sounds. The creators of Polygon are acutely aware of the risk of overloading their audience with repetitive sounds, which could lead to desensitization. Their primary objective is to ensure that attendees truly experience the live sound and music, so a variety of sounds and stimulation that foster emotional engagement is crucial. Additionally, planning a marathon sound experience requires careful consideration of the audience’s physical well-being over an extended period. Ultimately, highly enjoyable user journeys are paramount in determining the success of their events.

Nicholas believes another challenge is the notion of getting back to nature. “I think what people want is to slowly move back to something that sounds completely natural. To be in a room but hear the forest; natural sounds are what we’re trying to get back to. What L-ISA allows us to do is to get closer to reconstructing something natural.”

Where are Spatial Audio and Polygon Headed?

Nicholas believes that the future holds more Polygon Live events, such as a concert series or experiences where attendees can enjoy exceptional live sound performances from artists. Considering the widespread anticipation for their upcoming London event, Polygon Live LDN, Nicholas is confident the concept will gain popularity. “I think people will really get it and we’ll be seeing more Polygon events in new locations.”

Polygon will also be powering the Infinity Stage at Bonnaroo. This is not only the North American premiere of the Polygon’s immersive 360-degree live sound experience, but also the global launch of Polygon’s new stage design. For the first time, Polygon’s unique 360-degree spatial audio and synchronized lighting rig will run across three hemispherical domes.

“The question now is, how far can you push the concept of spatial audio? Push it to where we deliver the very best, but in a way that also makes good business sense. And Polygon has become the engine to bring music to life through spatial audio in the best possible way,” says Nicholas. “The stages, the different structures we build, and the technology we use are all designed to bring music into a live space in the most enjoyable way possible.” So, regarding the future, Nicholas says, “The goal is clear. It’s delivering the best possible 360-degree spatial audio experience time and time again, over the years ahead.”

The post The Immersive Audio Experience of Polygon Transports Audiences Inside the Music appeared first on L-Acoustics.

Audio engineers in the professional sound industry don’t merely amplify live sound—they create soundscapes and, with the right tools, orchestrate immersive audio experiences. During a live performance, audio engineers meticulously attend to every technical detail, including ensuring sound quality is at its best, that coverage of the system reaches the back of a venue with lucidity, and vocal clarity is optimized. Such diligent attention to the many technical variables is essential for any successful performance. 

Combining Science and Art

Audio engineers are known for being geeks of technical processes, but those skills are complemented by an artistic touch that enables them to produce a feeling resonating with the audience. L-Acoustics live sound technology empowers audio engineers to create exceptionally precise and emotionally resonant soundscapes. With L-Acoustics’ professional sound system tools, engineers not only showcase their technical expertise but also demonstrate their artistic flair, revealing how technical intricacies can be emotionally evocative.

Loudspeakers that Speak More Than Volumes

Among the products in L-Acoustics’ comprehensive sound ecosystem are their highly advanced loudspeakers. They aren’t just powerful; they’re precise. From large-scale outdoor festivals to intimate indoor shows, L-Acoustics loudspeaker systems can aptly address the complexities of any venue and performance. However challenging or involved the acoustics of a particular environment may be, the L-Acoustics loudspeaker series provides exceptional technology and reliability to confidently manage live sound and address any need. The L Series offers a professional sound system with high power density, enabling this long-throw series to fly faster in a lighter and smaller shape. The flagship K Series provides clear power, adjustable coverage, and is designed for long-throw tours, shows, and installations. For medium-throw applications, the A Series is simple, flexible, and purpose-built to scale any business. The beautiful design of the S Series is a powerful, single source of elegance.

Building Community Through Live Sound

Considering every live performance is a high-stakes endeavor where sound quality can either elevate or detract from the experience, sound professionals turn to L-Acoustics for tools that consistently perform flawlessly. For over forty years, L-Acoustics has provided professionals with the industry’s most advanced and highly lauded systems for live sound with the goal of creating the most unforgettable experiences. For L-Acoustics, connecting humans through the best shared sound experiences is paramount because there’s something magical about being among a group of people with a shared interest who are moved by captivating live sound. Whether at a concert, the theater, a sporting event, or a restaurant, the feeling of being part of a special moment in time and belonging to a collective fulfills a fundamental human need. For over forty years, L-Acoustics has ensured those needs are not only met but far exceeded.

The post Optimizing Live Sound with the Right Tools appeared first on L-Acoustics.

Seeking to move beyond the limitations of sound as simple background noise at parties and special events, L-Acoustics delivers captivating immersive audio experiences. Through our advanced L-ISA Hyperreal and L-ISA Immersive technologies, we unlock the power of sound to elevate events into extraordinary, memorable occasions. In today’s experience-driven world, sound is no longer a supporting element; it’s a headliner. Think of it as a sonic microdose – a powerful, hangover-free way to get high on sound. And our L-ISA technology is the key ingredient: the VIP. It unlocks this potential, creating deeper connections between artists and their audiences.

Recently, L-ISA’s ability to transform events and amplify the artist-fan relationship was showcased at two distinctly different yet equally compelling occasions.

Immersive Audio Experiences: Don’t Forget to Invite L-ISA

First, the immersive audio experience of L-ISA Hyperreal brought the party to life at Warner Music’s 2025 BRIT Awards After Party. The atmosphere was alive, with four DJs rotating throughout the night, accompanied by a performance of vivid lyricism from Aziya. Fresh off his BRIT Award win for Producer of the Year, A.G. Cook was among the DJs with his beats powered by a meticulously designed sound system deployed by Delta Live. A Syva and Syva Low spatial surround system, reinforced by KS21 and Syva Subs, provided the core. Tailored Syva setups in the bar and a separate room ensured that the energy remained high throughout the night. The result? A party that pulsed with sound. L-ISA kept guests engaged and the vibrancy of the celebration going strong. Immersive sound is truly a critical ingredient in the recipe of a live performance.

The Glow-Up of a Pop-Up: L-ISA

Taking a different hit from the sound vein, L-ISA also played a starring role in creating an intimate and unique connection between Dua Lipa and her fans. At the Radical Optimism Pop-Up Store, visitors were invited to step into Dua Lipa’s colorful musical universe through the magic of L-ISA Immersive Sound technology. As guests explored the space, a three-dimensional soundscape enveloped them, revealing rich layers and subtle nuances in the music. The setup featured 11 L-Acoustics speakers around the walls and four subwoofers beneath the floor. It created a true 360° sound field.

Adding to the immersive experience, guests also got ‘Physical’ and danced in the custom lyric booth. A unique space created in collaboration with the L-Acoustics team. Sound designers used L-ISA to precisely position each element of Dua Lipa’s music throughout the space, ensuring every note landed just right. This immersive approach transformed a simple retail visit into a genuine connection with Dua Lipa’s artistry. L-ISA offers fans a fresh perspective and a deeper appreciation for their favorite artist.

Two Different Spatial Audio Experiences: Hyperreal and Immersive

While both L-ISA Hyperreal and L-ISA Immersive create immersive audio experiences, they achieve this in distinct ways. L-ISA Hyperreal focuses on creating a heightened sense of realism and connection between the audience and the performance. It achieves this by precisely aligning the sound with its visual source on stage. Every sonic element feels natural and life-like. This is often achieved using a multi-dimensional frontal speaker array. In contrast, L-ISA Immersive focuses on creating a comprehensive 3D sonic environment that envelops the listener. Sound extends beyond the confines of a traditional stage. This allows for greater creative freedom in sound design, enabling sound designers to position and move audio elements freely in a 3D space, creating immersive sonic worlds.

The Best Way to Immerse Fans? L-ISA

Whether it’s the high-octane energy of a post-awards celebration or the intimate experience of a fan pop-up, L-ISA elevates the art of sound. It proves itself to be the essential sound component for creating truly unforgettable event experiences. These two distinct examples highlight the versatility and power of L-ISA, thereby strengthening the vital link between artists and their fans. And L-ISA doesn’t just deliver sound; it delivers an experience.

The post L-ISA is the VIP at These Immersive Audio Experiences appeared first on L-Acoustics.

In this month’s Women in Pro Audio series, we had the opportunity to speak with Karen Dhios, a multifaceted professional who is making significant contributions to the music and live sound industries. Providing a platform to showcase women like Karen is crucial. It allows their voices and experiences to be heard, challenging the often-dominant narratives and stereotypes within the field. Sharing their journeys can inspire and empower other women, whether they are considering a career in the industry or are already working in it. Showcasing their contributions and successes helps to create a more inclusive and diverse environment, ultimately driving positive change and growth within the pro audio world.

Meet Karen

Karen Dhios is a music producer and studio engineer, leaving her mark on the industry through collaborations with bands like Tocotronic, Ätna, The Red Flags, Lobsterbomb, and Husten. Her work isn’t confined to the studio, though. Karen is also a live sound pro, helping to deliver incredible audio experiences to audiences at festivals such as Nation of Gondwana, Fusion Festival, Whole, and Feel Festival, and ensuring seamless sound for tours and concerts.

Whether it’s the grandeur of music shows at Theater des Westens or the complex logistics of freelance setups for companies at venues such as Waldbühne and the Staatsoper (during its summer season), Karen handles it all. Beyond her production and live sound work, Karen is actively shaping the next generation of talent as an educator for FLINTA* (Female, Lesbian, Intersex, Non-binary, Trans and Agender) individuals with the collective Soundsysters, empowering them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in music and sound.

Early Inspirations and Career Beginnings

Karen Dhios’s journey begins in Buenos Aires, Argentina, but her path has led her across the globe. She shares that she has “been living abroad for 12 years, with 11 of those years spent in Berlin.” When considering her career in audio, the question of whether it was a childhood dream arises. Karen responds, “In a way, yes, it had been.” She vividly recalls her early fascination: “I studied music during my school years and later pursued sound for film. I’ve always been fascinated by creating feelings, contexts, textures, and crafting visual landscapes with sound. These interests sparked from a very young age.” 

However, Karen’s youthful aspirations encountered a dose of reality. “At the time,” she explains, “the kind of studies and concepts she dreamed about seemed unattainable and difficult to turn into a sustainable career.” This realization prompted a change in direction. “This led her to shift her focus to recording studio techniques,” she says, a decision that proved pivotal, as it “quickly led to her first job as a studio assistant.”

Women in Pro Audio: Overcoming Challenges

Karen’s entry into the pro audio industry began with utilizing available resources and seeking collaborations.

“I started by doing what I could with the resources available to me and by trying to connect with others open to collaboration. A big struggle for me was being in spaces where I didn’t feel comfortable and couldn’t fully express myself. When I was younger, I often found myself working without compensation, hoping it would eventually lead to something better. Unfortunately, there isn’t a single path to success—everyone’s journey is unique, shaped by their circumstances and background.”

She also faced challenges such as cultural isolation, the lack of role models, and often being the only woman in the room.

“One major challenge was the idea that ‘guys can do it better,’ which often means there’s no room for mistakes. This leads to a lot of frustration and intimidation, where I sometimes felt discouraged to even try because I didn’t see anyone like me succeeding in the field. That lack of figures can make it hard to envision a future in the industry, she continues.

“Additionally, I’ve frequently experienced situations where people would address my male colleagues rather than me, even when I was the one in charge. It’s an ongoing issue in the industry. Women often face that our expertise isn’t immediately recognized because of our gender.”

Addressing the Gender Gap and Looking Ahead

Karen reflects on the systemic issues that contribute to the underrepresentation of women in the pro audio and related technical fields. She believes that “the male-dominated work culture in technical fields is still largely hostile and exclusive to those who don’t identify as men. “The ‘bro culture’ in many workplaces creates a barrier for women, who often feel like they don’t belong and are required to work harder to prove their worth,” she says.

While acknowledging that “there’s slow progress,” Karen emphasizes that “there’s still much more work to be done.” A key concern she raises is the lack of representation. “Unfortunately, there are not enough role models for women, particularly in the tech industry. While there are more women in office jobs like booking, label management, and event organizing, the technical side still lacks diversity. This lack of role models makes it more challenging for women to find mentorship and advance in the field,” she points out.

This lack of representation is compounded by a scarcity of resources, including education and mentorship programs that are specifically tailored to women and other underrepresented groups in tech. Karen shares her own experience, illustrating this gap: “In my case, I’ve been actively searching for a Sound System Engineer (either male or female) willing to mentor me for over a year. I’m still looking.”

Overcoming the Challenges

Despite these challenges, Karen demonstrates a resilient approach. “When faced with challenges,” she explains, “I don’t see them as obstacles but as steps toward new goals.” She describes the internal work of maintaining self-belief. She says, “The challenge is often about recognizing my own worth in the industry, independent of external influences.”

Karen’s experiences highlight the duality of working in the industry. “Sometimes I meet people who recognize my value, allowing me to enjoy my work and just be myself,” she says. “But at other times, I have to play the game, wear a mask, and fit into the ‘dude-work’ dynamics.”

Reflecting on her favorite professional experiences, Karen recalls the Glastonbury Festival in 2014 as one of the most impressive live events she’s been a part of. “It was truly huge and awe-inspiring!”

Karen also highlights her work on productions at Hansa Studios. “It was a dream come true and an incredible opportunity.”

Showing Up

Karen values her friends and network as her most valuable resources for career growth.

“My friends and network have been my most valuable resources. Showing up and talking to people, building relationships, and learning from others have been instrumental in my growth. But the most valuable thing is being open to helping others. When people reach out to me, I make sure to take the time to give back. That creates a strong sense of community.”

Women in Pro Audio: Industry Changes

If she could change one thing about the industry, Karen would increase access to education and mentorship programs specifically designed for minorities, sponsored by major audio companies, the state, or industry associations. “Providing clear pathways for underrepresented groups to enter and succeed in the industry is crucial,” she stresses.

When considering essential skills for success, Karen offers a perspective that shifts the focus from gender-specific traits to systemic change. “I wouldn’t say women need to focus on different skills than anyone else,” she asserts. Instead, she emphasizes, “The industry needs to change, and focusing on bridging the gender gap is vital. There should be more accessible educational programs and mentorships to help with that.”

Keep it Rolling and Find Your Passion

Her advice to other women entering the industry, echoing the best advice she ever received, is to “Keep it rolling.” She encourages newcomers to just get started. The path will unfold, and building a strong, selective network is crucial. “Just keep showing up, even when it’s tough. For anyone starting out, I would say—just get started however you can. The path will unfold as you go, and the most important thing is to build an effective network, but be selective about it.”

Reflecting on the rewarding aspects of working in pro audio, Karen shares what she loves most. “I love interacting with artists and being the medium that helps them achieve their final outcome. I really enjoy the teamwork, especially with people I haven’t worked with before. The curiosity of combining our experiences and values is incredibly inspiring. Most of the time, I bring home loads of inspiration from such interactions.”

Future Aspirations of Sustainability

Looking towards the future, Karen expresses a vision that extends beyond gender equity. “Aside from the gender gap, I hope we see a stronger focus on sustainability in live events,” she states. She points out the environmental impact of the industry: “These events require vast amounts of energy for lighting, sound systems, and more.” While acknowledging positive developments, “As we’re already seeing some events transition to renewable energy sources,” she hopes for continued progress. “I hope this trend continues to grow, helping the industry contribute to a more environmentally friendly entertainment sector.”

Follow Karen on Instagram: @karendhios.

Read last month’s Women in Pro Audio interview here.

The post Women in Pro Audio: Karen Dhios appeared first on L-Acoustics.

Creating a live sound experience that captivates and engages the audience requires a level of sophistication that extends beyond simply being loud. It’s about achieving predictable excellence, regardless of the venue. Accomplishing this goal requires a deep understanding of acoustics and mastering tools and techniques that ensure your mix translates seamlessly from one show to the next.

Predictable System Design: Consistent Mixes with Soundvision

Advanced acoustic modeling software is crucial, and L-Acoustics’ Soundvision plays a pivotal role. What truly sets systems apart is their ability to consistently deliver high-quality live sound, day after day. Soundvision’s precise 3D modeling allows for accurate prediction of sound behavior in any venue. When that precise prediction is coupled with L-Acoustics’ auto tools, such as “Autosplay” and “Autofilter,” the variability inherent in live sound system design is significantly reduced. These tools automate complex calculations for array configurations and delay times, ensuring a predictable sonic baseline, even in challenging venues. This means as a mixer, you’re not at the mercy of wildly varying system deployments. Instead, you can focus on crafting your mix, knowing it will sound good and the system will provide a reliable and consistent starting point for your live sound production.  

Workflow and Mixing: Optimal Live Sound with LA Network Manager and M1

With a predictable system foundation, you can focus on the art of mixing. L-Acoustics’ LA Network Manager and M1 measurement software are essential in maintaining this consistency. The LA Network Manager enables real-time control and monitoring of the entire system, while M1 offers comprehensive measurement and calibration tools. Nuanced mixing techniques become even more effective when applied to a consistent sonic foundation. Ultimately, this means that an L-Acoustics system empowers you as a mixer to leverage advanced processing, such as side-chained dynamic EQs, harmonic saturation, or spatial reverbs, knowing that your work will translate accurately across different L-Acoustics setups. This consistency minimizes setup time and allows fine-tuning based on the venue’s unique characteristics rather than battling fundamental system inconsistencies.  

Addressing Challenges of Complex Live Sound Environments

Venues with complex acoustics and outdoor environments pose unique challenges to producing a consistent live sound. However, the predictable nature of L-Acoustics systems, facilitated by tools like Soundvision and M1, provides a significant advantage. With the help of automated tools for initial setup and calibration, engineers can quickly address the inconsistencies that arise from deploying systems in new spaces. This allows for swift problem-solving and ensures consistent sound quality, even in demanding situations. For example, consider optimizing sound for a large-scale outdoor performance. The challenges posed by outdoor temperature and humidity shifts throughout the day are mitigated by incredibly simple controls in Network Manager, which ensure the system’s inherent predictability, enabling precise sonic sculpting and consistent coverage across a broad audience.  

The L-Acoustics Advantage: Consistent Exceptional Live Sound

L-Acoustics’ automated tools in Soundvision and M1 offer a level of consistency unmatched in the industry. This consistency empowers front-of-house engineers to focus on their craft, knowing their mixes will translate reliably across different L-Acoustics systems. By minimizing variability, L-Acoustics enables faster setup times, more predictable results, and, ultimately, a superior audience experience. This consistency enables you to create a great show with one L-Acoustics system and know it will translate exceptionally well to other L-Acoustics systems.  

The post Live Sound Consistency: The Sound Engineer’s Edge appeared first on L-Acoustics.

At L-Acoustics, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a core value that has driven our innovation in live sound for the past 40 years. We believe in harmony, where the wonder of live sound elevates our spirits while our actions honor the Earth and the community we share. 

Eco-Design and Responsible Manufacturing 

Our path has been one of continuous innovation in eco-design and responsible manufacturing. Starting in 1992 with our initial steps to reduce environmental impact and expanding in 1999 with our recycling initiatives, we’ve consistently pushed the boundaries of sustainability. This evolution is exemplified by our current use of locally sourced certified wood. 

Positive Social Impact in Live Sound

L-Acoustics fosters a positive social footprint, extending our sustainability efforts beyond environmental impact. This commitment manifests in our programs. We promote equal opportunities, workforce education, and support for aspiring audio professionals through grants and initiatives. Moreover, we’ve established a profit-sharing program, ensuring all employees share in our collective success. 

Embracing the Circular Economy 

Embracing the circular economy is a key pillar of our strategy. In 2021, we reached a significant milestone by incorporating over 42% recycled components into our products, and we are committed to growing that number. To support product longevity, we provide repair kits and are actively establishing new benchmarks for product repairability. 

Looking Ahead at Live Sound 

We’re energized by the possibilities ahead as we drive the evolution of sustainable live sound. By forging strong partnerships and leading industry-wide change, we can create a future where live events resonate with both brilliance and sustainability. We welcome you to join us on this journey of innovation and inspiration. 

The post L-Acoustics: 40 Years of Sustainable Live Sound Innovation appeared first on L-Acoustics.