Audio Video News

You are no doubt familiar with the Sonos Wireless Home Audio system, as we’ve written up many reviews of their products in the magazine. What you might not know is that they have a facility in Los Angeles called the Sonos Studio, which opened in June 2012.

Yes, it is a space where they can demonstrate their products but it is not a retail store nor are Sonos products always the prime focus. The space is an acoustically-tuned listening gallery with exhibits that explore the blending of music, art and technology. They offer a variety of photography exhibitions, intimate concerts, listening parties, film screenings, lectures, and workshops.

Renowned recording artists have used the Sonos Studio for CD releases such as Alanis Morissette and Moby. Both Beck and Deadmau5 have attended sessions and exhibits here, too.

Recently I attended a lecture where Rania Alomar of RA-DA architects explained some details on the making of the Sonos space. For instance, the canted walls on the long edge of the space are designed acoustically to prevent sound reverberations, and also double as galley walls for exhibiting artwork. Acoustical tiles on the ceiling are their own art piece with red and black tiles creating patterns. Check out this video about Sonos Studio.

In the back of the space is a bar, where drinks (gratis) are served and next to that is the Lounge where you can listen to a full blown Sonos system in the comfort of a living room setting.

Exhibits are rarely static, always incorporating, at least, two distinct art forms such as the exhibit that just ended, which was a musical journey to Jamaica, Brazil, South Africa, and New York City. Hosts Diplo, an LA-based DJ, and photographer/filmmaker Shane McCauley allowed visitors to pick songs from Diplo’s favorite music blogs and each song activated a stream of photos and video that documented the international music scene.

Coming up on Nov. 13, 2013 and continuing through the end of the year is “PLAY—A Visual Music Experience.” The exhibit will combine art and technology to demonstrate how Sonos fills the home with music. The audio-visual experience uses music and color in four stylized rooms of a house. As the playlist evolves, new colors wash across the different rooms. Through audio analysis and projection mapping, a white home is turned into an immersive music colorscape. Pick a room, play a track and see the sound translated into vibrant animations. The installation was created by noted Brooklyn technology artist Aramique.

If you want to RSVP for this exhibit or just get on the mailing list for future exhibitions visit Sonos-Studio.com.

Sonos Studio
145 N. La Brea, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Open Wednesday through Sunday, 12:00-6:00 p.m.