Transforming Berlin's sonic landscape: Exploring the impact of spatial audio technology in the city
In the realm of musical entertainment, the usual setup tends to be predictable - speakers, listeners, and a linear sound experience. But that's purely conventional, as sound propagates in all directions. Acknowledging this, audio companies have ventured into creating spatial stereo systems, revolutionizing the way we experience music.
Berlin, a city brimming with innovation, is leading this revolution. From dancefloors to art galleries, numerous venues and installations throughout the city are integrating 360-degree surround sound systems or at least multi-directional speakers. The renowned Berghain is a testament to this transformation.
Beyond strategically placing speakers, however, artists can now manipulate what is played and where. This artistry embodies a new era of immersive experiences, with MONOM as one of the trailblazers. Settled in the Funkhaus, MONOM's live venue houses their original '4DSOUND' system, a spatial audio system featuring a technical multi-channel speaker setup, creating what's called "sound holograms," which move and flow throughout the room for a uniquely personalized experience.
MONOM's expertise has extended to the stylish Flussbad campus, just a stone's throw away. The hotel and performance center boasts its own custom 360-degree spatial sound system in the Reethaus. offerings include listening parties, concerts, and concertos in a sophisticated, futuristic auditorium.
MONOM isn't alone in the spatial audio landscape of Funkhaus - it's home to spæs, a spatial audio lab for artists. This collaborative work environment and studio assist creators in crafting immersive spatial programs, technology, or compositions. spæs welcomes residencies and coaching and even hosted intimate performances at the start of 2024.
Berlin's musical landscape isn't limited to these highlights - Ballsaal Studios, Neumann Berlin, and DirectOut at Studio Berlin are other notable entities involved in audio technologies. While not exclusively focusing on spatial audio, these companies contribute to professional-grade audio environments.
Local audio production communities and networking platforms can offer valuable insights into additional studios or manufacturers focusing on spatial audio in Berlin. It's an exciting time for music enthusiasts and Berlin alike, as these advancements are paving the way for deeper, more creative audio performances.
[1] Ballsaal Studios: https://ballsaal.de/[2] Antelope Audio collaboration: https://antelopeaudio.com/en-us/ballsaal-studios/[3] Neumann Berlin: https://www.neumann.com/de-de/company[4] DirectOut at Studio Berlin: https://www.directout.de/[5] Audio production communities: https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/Berlin-Ableton-Live/, https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/Logic-Pro-X-Berlin/, https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/Cubase-Berlin/
- The evolution of Berlin's musical landscape extends beyond the spatial audio realm, with Ballsaal Studios, known for their collaboration with Antelope Audio, contributing to professional-grade audio environments.
- As the demand for immersive audio experiences grows, technology companies like spæs, a spatial audio lab for artists based in Funkhaus, provide creative spaces and resources for artists to develop spatial programs, technology, or compositions, fostering innovation in both entertainment and sports.
