L-Acoustics announces Source Intelligence for vocal isolation in live environments

L-Acoustics has announced Source Intelligence, which is designed to isolate vocals and minimise bleed during live performances. Using machine learning, sound sources such as instruments, crowd noise or feedback from monitors can be filtered out while maintaining the singer’s voice. The function removes up to 40 dB of extraneous signal, which in turn reduces the risk of feedback.

The machine learning algorithm accomplishes this by continuously identifying the voice as different sources of audio enter the vocal microphone, removing what is not consistent with the constant tone and range of the singer.

“For decades, engineers have been solving the PA bleed and feedback problem with compromises like notch filters that color the sound, expanders that can be unpredictable, or staging layouts that pull performers away from the audience,” explains Ryan John, Director of Product Management, Software at L-Acoustics. “Source Intelligence removes that trade-off entirely. The machine is continuously listening and continuously working, so the engineer can focus on the mix instead of fighting feedback, and the performer can own the whole stage.”

This isolation essentially allows for studio-level intricacy during performances. Functions such as EQ and reverb will not be interrupted by other instruments or noise sources, allowing the live engineer to dial in the vocal based on their unique delivery and the current environment. With vocals a key aspect of pretty much every type of live performance, engineers throughout the industry have already lauded Source Intelligence:

“Source Intelligence gives me a vocal sound like no other. It’s basically studio-quality vocals now, which changes the game completely,” says Joey Diehl, FOH engineer for Benson Boone.

“I’m very impressed with how much headroom it gives me. I was able to get crisp, clean vocals in any scenario — including very loud stage environments and actors in front of the PA,” says Cody Spencer, Tony Award-winning sound designer who used it on the Broadway production Dog Day Afternoon.

Source Intelligence is currently only available within the L-Acoustics L-ISA Processor II. Once installed, it integrates seamlessly into the L-Acoustics workflow.

For more information, head to L-Acoustics.

Harry Levin is a freelance journalist with credits in SPIN, Billboard, MusicTech, Grammy.com, Los Angeles Magazine, and more. His musical journey began 20 years ago with a Led Zeppelin CD. He played jazz trombone through college, produced large-scale electronic music events, and now spends his professional time writing and editing.