The new system, L-Acoustics DJ, offers immersive audio control without altering familiar DJ workflows
Audio company L-Acoustics has introduced a new solution designed to bring spatial audio to DJ performances, aiming to make immersive sound experiences more accessible. L-Acoustics DJ enables real-time conversion of any stereo content into multi-dimensional sound using live stem separation and spatial processing tools.
Crucially, the technology integrates seamlessly into standard DJ workflows, requiring only a companion app to operate. With many venues seeking to stand out through upgraded audio-visual experiences, the timing of this release positions L-Acoustics DJ as a well-aligned solution for a changing live music landscape.
Live Stem Separation and Spatial Processing
At the core of the system is Source Separate, a proprietary low-latency algorithm that isolates musical elements from any stereo track into discrete stems. These are then routed through a spatial mix engine capable of positioning sounds throughout a venue at the click of a button. As of launch, you can choose drums, bass, vocals and ‘other’ only.
The system is compatible with analog and digital setups, and can be managed by the DJ but it can be used in collaboration with a spatial audio engineer too.
According to L-Acoustics Director of Product Management, Scott Sugden, the aim is to help artists create performances that “engage all senses” by offering more creative flexibility through spatialisation.
Practical Integration for Artists and Venues
The system includes several L-Acoustics components such as loudspeakers, processing hardware, and software like L-ISA Controller and LA Network Manager. It is designed for plug-and-play integration with existing setups, minimizing the technical learning curve.
Artist Max Cooper, who performed using the system at the launch event, noted that he could work with spatial audio immediately without requiring custom preparations. “Now I can have an expanded canvas for DJ sets as well as live sets,” he said, highlighting the flexibility the system offers in real-world performance scenarios.
For venues, L-Acoustics DJ presents a pathway to update sound systems with immersive capabilities while keeping operational complexity low. Hugo Heathcote, a consultant at L-Acoustics, emphasized that the system enhances existing environments without requiring major changes to how DJs perform.
Reflecting a Broader Shift in Club Audio?
The rollout of L-Acoustics DJ aligns with broader trends in electronic music, where spatial audio is beginning to gain traction beyond high-end installations and bespoke performances. Recent installations at venues such as The Other Side in Amsterdam suggest a growing interest in immersive sound systems. Use cases for a set can be on a breakdown, or a drop or even on a transition. We were able to trial it, briefly, last week at the L-Acoustics keynote and it works similar to a sampler built into your DJ controller.
With a projected shipping date in fall 2025, the release positions at the front of manufacturers attempting to bring real-time, spatialised DJ performance to the mainstream.
More information is available via the company’s website. Find L-Acoustics on Instagram.
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