Michael Way, the founder of Sound Pressure Labs, has developed an innovative surround sound solution for live performances. The TrueSPL technology is poised to revolutionize the way audiences experience music, offering a unique and immersive audio experience for both musicians and fans alike.
Way’s foray into the audio industry was sparked by a Beck concert he attended almost two decades ago. He was deeply impressed by the musicians’ use of handheld synthesizers to create an intense and immersive live performance. This experience planted the seed for Way’s vision of developing a surround sound system capable of recreating the spherical, surround perspective he encountered at the concert.
Hailing from Arcadia, California, Way’s passion for music and electronics began at a young age. His background as a multi-instrumentalist and his involvement in the college orchestra gave him a distinctive perspective on sound and music. This early exposure to surround sound, combined with his fervor for technology, formed the bedrock for the development of TrueSPL.
After years of experimentation, Way introduced the TrueSPL technology, a 6.1-channel configuration based on .WAV files and MIDI communication protocols. The system is designed to grant musicians individual, discrete control over every speaker in the venue, creating a seamless and immersive audio experience for both performers and the audience.
TrueSPL has been rigorously tested in various settings, from live music performances to theatre productions. The technology has showcased its versatility, finding new applications in remote location work for film and television, sound design for video games, and even as a creative tool for musicians. Its flexibility and adaptability make it a valuable asset for artists and sound engineers alike.
Looking to the future, Way is dedicated to further enhancing TrueSPL’s capabilities. He is currently developing a prototype for automatically tracking performers as they move onstage, enabling real-time distribution of changes to the speakers. He is also exploring new methods for controlling sound capture and distribution, with the ultimate goal of returning control to the artists.
The impact of TrueSPL extends beyond the technology itself. It signifies a shift in the way live music is encountered, placing the power back in the hands of the performers. Way’s commitment to creating a more immersive and interactive live music experience is a testament to his passion for music and innovation.
As TrueSPL continues to evolve, it holds the potential to transform the live music landscape, offering audiences a new way to connect with music and artists. The possibilities are boundless, and one thing is certain – TrueSPL is poised to revolutionize the future of live music as we know it.