Holoplot’s unique and patented technology represents a quantum leap in audio reproduction, allowing sound control with ultra-high precision over large distances. It uses wavefield synthesis (or wave field synthesis - WFS) technology, a spatial audio rendering technique that places virtual sound sources in real space and virtualizes complete acoustic environments. Holoplot perfected the approach with compact modular speaker arrays that enable sound designers to recreate audio objects authentically, as if the original object would stand in front of the listener, and move them in real-time throughout space, even when only targeting the ear of an individual.
Holoplot’s new X1 product line includes the X1 Modul 96 (MD96) full-range and the X1 Modul 80-S (MD80-S) loudspeaker + subwoffer, all using very advanced multi-driver array configurations, specifically built for high performance immersive sound reinforcement applications. Together, these modules form X1 Matrix Arrays, which can be configured in a left & right setup for standard stage performance sound reinforcement in auditoriums and concert halls. In that situation, each array could consist of eight MD96 and eight MD80-S modules in a checkerboard configuration to optimize the electronically steerable frequency bandwidth, homogeneity of coverage, spectral uniformity and sub-frequency integration.
With Holoplot’s audio-beamforming technology, each array is able to generate one or multiple sound beams that can be steered vertically and horizontally in space as well as shaped to the geometries of the targeted audience areas. Thus, they project sound exclusively to where it is desired, while avoiding unwanted reflections and audible echoes. In addition, Holoplot Beam Optimization Algorithms ensure spectral uniformity, so the whole audience hears with the same broadband sound pressure level and with almost no SPL drop despite the long distances from the X1 Matrix Arrays to the back rows.
The Holoplot modules can also be deployed as one large, centralized X1 Matrix Array rigged above the stage - typically consisting of 16 x MD96 in a 2x8 configuration. This array allows steering sound beams three-dimensionally and shape them to the desired geometry of the audience area, easily rejecting the stage. Holoplot Beam Optimization Algorithms ensure spectral uniformity across the venue, or one single array can also generate multiple sound beams to create several different audience areas at the same time – each with its own content, equalization, level, shape, and position. By exactly targeting the audience area and avoiding the radiation of energy to the room boundaries or other surfaces, the direct-to-reverberant sound energy ratio can be effectively maximized which leads to a high speech intelligibility. This capability is also helpful for avoiding energy radiation towards the stage, which is a key design criterion to reject
feedback.
For immersive audio experiences, Holoplot can be deployed as a surround and an environmental layer of Matrix Arrays. 14 distributed modules are able to provide homogenous spectral coverage across 95% of the audience area, and also allow for clear localization of audio, even across moving trajectories. This can also be achieved with a central matrix array, where multiple sound sources can be simulated, and sound can appear to emanate from desired virtual starting points – so-called Virtual Point Sources. Holopot has also developed a tool that predicts subjective perception during the system design phase: the ‘Average Direction Error’. This software tool evaluates the difference between the correct and perceived localization of a virtual source averaged over all simulated source positions. The high spatial resolution of this Holoplot system setup ensures a perfect synchronicity of the audio objects with multiple, moving visuals.
Audio Virtualization
Since its launch in 2011, Holoplot has consistently pushed the boundaries of loudspeaker technology using audio beamforming and wavefield synthesis to steer sound beams (vertically and horizontally) directly to a precise location. More than just a loudspeaker, the X1 is a fully integrated, German-engineered system which combines sophisticated software and signal processing capabilities.
The company’s patented technology represents a quantum leap in audio reproduction, allowing sound control with ultra-high precision over large distances, both optimizing the listening experience for every audience member, and eliminating spillovers and external noise pollution. Using its proprietary 3D beamforming technology, Holoplot products are also able to manipulate sounds in a similar form to light, enabling total freedom to adjust the direction and size of the soundfield, creating multiple audio zones and playing different content at the same time, all from the same loudspeaker array.
Holoplot’s wavefield synthesis technology (Read more about WFS here) enables sound designers to recreate audio objects, placed in a precise spatial location, standing in front of a listener, and moving in real-time throughout space, even when only targeting the ear of an individual member of the audience. With this integrated wavefield synthesis approach, sound objects are no longer limited by the position of the speaker, but able to generate sound within a tridimensional space, delivering an incredibly tangible experience.
As experienced by anyone who attended an Holoplot demonstration for the last few years, this technology is one-of-a-kind and represents an entirely new way engaging audiences using audio in entire new ways. The obstacle to this approach was the need to implement a system’s approach, preferably using a standard modular solution that becomes practical for both temporary and permanent installations in any auditorium or space.
The Holoplot X1 modular range responds to those requirements, allowing a new level of sound directivity control for the most demanding applications in terms of audio quality and sound pressure level, such as performing arts venues, arenas, immersive spaces and conference or event halls. Whether it’s used for uniform coverage of the whole audience - front to end - or to deliver multiple highly intelligible multi-language presentations during conferences, or to generate a fully immersive theme park installation with customized soundfields that follow the visitors, the modular array designs are able to support all demands.
One of the most unique features using Holoplot X1 systems is the ability to play multiple sound sources at the same time. In the multi-language example mentioned, conference attendees could hear a presentation in their respective languages based on their position in the room. This also allows perfectly mapped sound beamed to theme park visitors, creating immersive music envelopment in specific areas, or a way to follow a personal adventure with their favorite character.
The X1 design is unique in its approach to maximize the possibilities of spatial audio and virtualization with the best possible audio quality at high sound pressure levels. The modules (loudspeakers) have up to 96 individually amplified drivers including 80 silk dome tweeters per cabinet. Inside each X1 module is a complete smart system based on highly advanced software, combined with networked processing and cloud connectivity. This makes the Holoplot X1 a unique proposition also in terms of system planning, operation and maintenance, when managed using the software applications provided. The connected design also allows X1 systems to stay up-to-date and even improve further after installation and during lifetime.
All X1 MD96 and X1 MD80-S modules are being manufactured in Berlin and Holoplot is welcoming project inquiries, with prices delivered upon request.
“The X1 Matrix Array is a paradigm shift in the audio industry. It enables re-thinking and letting go of old patterns, thereby opening the door to a completely new world of possibilities and creating unprecedented audio experiences. With X1 we are deliberately targeting the most ambitious and most demanding segments of the market, those with high SPL and equally high audio quality standards. Our new audio modules, the MD96 and MD80-S, are two radically new product concepts and represent a best-in-class approach for those who are seeking next-level audio performance,” states Roman Sick, CEO Holoplot.
www.holoplot.com
