The L-Acoustics DJ system was touted as a significant expansion for the company's portfolio of live performance solutions, allowing a traditional stereo DJ setup to be transformed into a fully immersive spatial audio experience. Although high-quality, AI-based audio source separation is now becoming widely available, the L-Acoustics solution not only processes the stereo mix in real-time, but also converts the resulting separate tracks into separate channels for live, dynamic, three-dimensional soundscapes. And all without disrupting established workflows or requiring complex technical interventions.
As L-Acoustics has successfully been converting many live sound and audio installation companies to its L-ISA immersive audio approach, the DJ and electronic music market has not really benefited from those enhanced experiences. As audiences embrace increasingly sophisticated entertainment experiences, the potential of audio immersion in electronic music venues has remained largely untapped, with most clubs and festivals still utilizing conventional stereo or quad configurations.
L-Acoustics believes that its new DJ solution unlocks enormous potential by making spatial audio accessible, intuitive, and immediately playable for DJs of all technical backgrounds.
"Today's audiences seek deeper, more enveloping entertainment experiences that engage all senses," says Scott Sugden, Director of Product Management, Solutions at L-Acoustics. "Our Immersive DJ Solution opens entirely new creative possibilities, allowing artists to craft three-dimensional sonic environments that transform how audiences physically and emotionally connect with their music."
At the heart of the system is a proprietary low-latency Source Separation implementation that uses machine learning to accurately separate stereo music into multiple discrete "stems", live. Unlike other multichannel separators on the market, the L-Acoustics solution routes directly the generated new channels into a spatial mix engine, enabling immediate positioning and movement throughout the venue.
The system combines existing L-Acoustics loudspeakers and amplified controllers, with the L-ISA Processor II, and P1 networked audio processor, plus purpose-built software featuring an updated L-ISA Controller with L-Acoustics DJ App, LA Network Manager, and Soundvision. To accelerate adoption, this solution is supported by L-Acoustics professionals who provide design assistance and on-site system calibration to ensure optimal performance.
The system integrates effortlessly with both digital and analog DJ setups, requiring no changes to existing gear or techniques. DJs can control the immersive experience themselves or work with a dedicated spatial audio engineer, offering maximum creative flexibility.
According to the French company, what truly sets this technology apart is the intuitive user interface that allows DJs to create dynamic "object" movement, depth, and dimension without requiring extensive technical knowledge. Artists can position beats, basslines, melodies, and vocals throughout the physical space.
Max Cooper, shown here at Polygon Live London featuring an L-Acoustics L-ISA immersive audio installation.
"Working with L-Acoustics DJ opens a whole new dimension to my performances," says Max Cooper, who performed at the London event using the new solution. "What I appreciate most is how it fits right into my existing setup, and immediately I can place drums, melodies, and vocals throughout the entire space in real time without needing advance preparation. Now I can have an expanded canvas for DJ sets as well as live sets, so I can create enveloping moments where the audience is completely surrounded by different elements of the track.
"I’ve been exploring spatial audio in my work for years, but this is the first tool I’ve used that provides a DJ format solution without any complex set-up or steep learning curve. Anyone can jump right in with the simple controls, so it has a wide applicability for venues and performers to get involved with the spatial audio evolution," he adds.
L-Acoustics also expects this fully integrated L-ISA solution to accelerate adoption in the club and live DJ events market, helping producers and venue owners differentiate their experiences. L-Acoustics DJ will start shipping in fall 2025.
More information about L-Acoustics DJ can be found here.
www.l-acoustics.com
