Naostage presents immersive sound experience at jazzopen Stuttgart 2025
Naostage presented an innovative spatial audio experience at jazzopen stuttgart 2025 by using their K SYSTEM technology to track performers in real-time on the main stage. This system, integrated with d&b Soundscape, allowed for the precise spatialization of sound objects that moved in sync with the performers themselves.
Having been utilized extensively during the summer at various European festivals, such as the Manchester International Festival in the UK, as well as at festivals in France like Art Rock, Poupet, Solidays, Main Square, Les Vieilles Charrues, and Roi Arthur, the K SYSTEM at jazzopen stuttgart showcased its capabilities in providing an unparalleled spatial audio experience for the audience.
The integration of the K SYSTEM was orchestrated by the Dutch company So-light BV at the request of d&b audiotechnik. So-light’s CTO, Olaf Jenniskens, along with its sister company So-lution, took on the task of deploying and operating the K SYSTEM for real-time stage tracking at the event. This involved ensuring seamless coordination with d&b Soundscape to create a new realm of spatial sound on the main stage.
As the exclusive distributor of Naostage in the Benelux region and a significant partner in Germany for over 18 months, So-light utilized the K SYSTEM to precisely capture the positions of the performers and transmit this data via OSC to the Soundscape engine. The result was an auditory experience where voices and instruments felt like they were emanating directly from the performers’ locations, be it stationary or in motion. This fidelity in audio positioning created an immersive soundscape that enhanced the connection between the artists and the audience, surpassing what traditional stereo mixes could achieve.
The sound system itself was provided by d&b audiotechnik, while So-light/So-lution managed the tracking and integration on-site, with support from Naostage’s Sales Director Alexis Reymond. With performances by renowned artists like Kraftwerk, Kylie Minogue, Joe Bonamassa, RAYE and Jacob Collier, Jean-Michel Jarre, and Lionel Richie, jazzopen stuttgart attracted over 64,000 attendees and solidified the importance of immersive audio in the festival environment.
According to Jenniskens, the exceptional feedback from the audience highlighted the unique value of this audio system, offering festival-goers a realistic soundscape where every movement on stage was reflected instantaneously in the sound space. This stop in Stuttgart was part of the “Naostage on Tour” summer series, which supported eight festivals between June and August, showcasing the robustness and seamless integration of the K SYSTEM across diverse settings and contexts.
Moving forward, So-light anticipates widespread adoption of markerless, real-time tracking technology due to its simplicity in installation and reliable operation. This approach streamlines processes, provides flexibility, and fosters creative freedom, setting a new standard for large-scale live events. Making live performances more engaging and immersive, systems like the K SYSTEM are set to revolutionize the way audiences experience sound at major events.