Where are you originally from, and where do you currently reside?
I’m originally from Berlin, Germany, and [having attended university in the UK] returned here in 2019.
How did you get started in the AV industry?
My journey began even before earning my bachelor’s degree in Audio Technology at Salford University, Greater Manchester, UK (graduated in 2007). I started out freelancing as an audio engineer in radio broadcasting and theatre in Halle and Berlin, Germany. After completing my master’s degree focused on virtual acoustics at the Technical University of Berlin (graduated in 2011), I joined IOSONO GmbH as a system engineer. This role enabled me to build expertise in spatial audio systems and work directly with IOSONO software and loudspeaker-based systems.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Any favourite sports or hobbies?
As a father of two boys (ages 4 and 6), most of my free time is dedicated to family. I also play basketball and like to keep up with my drumming.
How do you think the AV industry has evolved post-Covid, and what are the key challenges for industry AV consultants and planners today?
The industry has bounced back well, and for us, there has been a notable shift toward immersive experiential projects rather than live events.
What are your thoughts on the future of the industry, and what potential challenges or pinch points do you foresee?
The immersive technology sector is expanding rapidly, but a consistent definition of what constitutes an immersive system or experience is still evolving. Many concepts are marketed as “immersive,” yet the technical implementation can often lack depth. Competition is intensifying as new products enter the market, mostly from loudspeaker manufacturers who position “me too” solutions designed for basic panning in loudspeaker setups, meeting the general requirements for an “immersive system”.
How’s business going at Encircled? What should AV consultants and planners know?
Business at Encircled remains stable, backed by our 15-plus years of experience and successful installations. We’re noticing an increase in awareness and demand for immersive systems, partly driven by new alternative products. Our portfolio of specialised systems, featuring advanced IOSONO rendering combined with our expertise in system planning, uniquely positions us to attract partners and clients looking for high-quality immersive solutions.
Any exciting news you’d like to share – upcoming projects, developments, or plans for 2025 and beyond?
This year, through our long-term partner Full Dimensions, we equipped several concert halls in China with our virtual acoustics configuration and extensive speaker systems, and we anticipate more projects of this nature in the coming years. We also delivered solutions for flying theatres in Vancouver and Chicago and are planning additional projects with major players in the themed entertainment market next year.
