On May 13, Sphere Entertainment announced that it has acquired all of the remaining shares it did not previously own of HOLOPLOT GmbH, a global 3D audio company. According to the announcement Sphere Entertainment made its first investment into HOLOPLOT in 2018 when the two companies partnered to develop Sphere Immersive Sound, powered by HOLOPLOT—the defining system behind the live audio experience when Sphere opened in Las Vegas in September 2023.
Described as the “world’s largest, fully integrated concert-grade audio system,” Sphere Immersive Sound provides a brand-new palette for listening experiences at Sphere in Las Vegas. Sphere Immersive Sound was introduced in 2022 at the Beacon Theatre in New York, which is operated by Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. and part of the MSG Family of Companies along with Sphere Entertainment. I admit I was skeptical when I first heard the rumors of how it would operate (inaccurate rumors I now know)
Berlin-based HOLOPLOT developed the proprietary audio technology, to transform how audio is delivered. The company says by enabling precise and digital control of sound propagation and localization, the resulting audio is highly targeted, consistent, and immersive. But how? That secret sauce has not been divulged, unsurprisingly.
However, the results speak for themselves; so far U2 and Phish have been in the driver’s seat of that audio racecar to spectacular (and very different) results. It is mind-boggling to imagine what artists will invent for this platform. With the HOLOPLOT acquisition, Sphere execs expect tighter integration and more room for innovation as this technology gets into the hands of artists.
In a joint statement on behalf of Sphere Entertainment, David Dibble, CEO, MSG Ventures and Paul Westbury, EVP, Development and Construction, said: “HOLOPLOT is at the forefront of audio innovation, and their custom-designed technology has already transformed what is possible for concert-grade sound. This acquisition reflects our Company’s commitment to staying on the cutting-edge of immersive experiences as we explore growth opportunities for both Sphere and HOLOPLOT.
“We have worked alongside the Sphere team for many years in developing our technology, and together we have forever changed the live sound experience,” said Roman Sick, CEO and Co-Founder of HOLOPLOT. “As a result of this transaction, HOLOPLOT can accelerate its mission to bring its technologies to more applications and markets and continue to push audio innovation to new bounds.”
The transaction has closed. HOLOPLOT will remain based in Berlin and operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Sphere Entertainment as it continues to grow its business and serve its customers and clients.
