L-Acoustics has completed its first Americas installation of L-Acoustics DJ, a system is designed to transform traditional stereo DJ setups into fully immersive spatial audio experiences, at The Breakbeat, a new multipurpose arts and performance venue in Chico, California.
L-Acoustics DJ, which began shipping in early 2026, uses proprietary Source Separate technology to apply low-latency machine learning to split stereo tracks into discrete stems in real time, allowing DJs to position and move audio elements through the space during performance without altering their existing workflow.
Denver-based integrator Brown Note Productions, an L-Acoustics Certified Provider, worked with the L-Acoustics Applications team to integrate the system into a full 12.1.4 surround configuration, combining an L-Acoustics DJ hardware controller and iPad app with an L-ISA Processor II. The speaker complement comprises 12 L-Acoustics X8i loudspeakers as surrounds, four X6i overheads above the audience area, and three Syva Sub in a horizontal array behind the stage. Amplification is provided by LA7.16i amplified controllers for the surrounds and subwoofers, and LA2Xi for the overheads. The system is driven by Brown Note-supplied Pioneer DJ decks and mixer.
Matt Bauer, account manager at Brown Note Productions, said: “I heard L-Acoustics DJ for the first time last summer and knew it was going to be a hit. As far as putting these new technologies and products all together and customising them for the space, we partnered with the L-Acoustics Application team to develop a perfect-fit solution. The end result was better than anyone expected.”
The installation extends beyond DJ performance. The venue also runs a full L-ISA Immersive Hyperreal Sound system, meaning live artists perform in immersive audio as well. Early programming has included folk and Americana acts alongside DJ performances, with founder Azariah Reynolds describing the system’s 12.1.4 configuration as creating “a visual spectrum to where no matter which way you turn, no matter which way you’re facing, you get a perfect sound image.”
Reynolds added: “The Breakbeat gives a fully immersive feeling of you being inside the sound. Watching people adjust to that’s pretty interesting.”
The Breakbeat occupies a converted former retail unit in downtown Chico. Brown Note Productions is based in Denver, Colorado.
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