When the doors of Prolight + Sound open in Guangzhou in May, it quickly becomes clear just how significant the trade fair has become for the international audio industry. Amidst large-scale touring systems, wireless microphone solutions, installation audio and networked conference technology, established global market leaders meet ambitious Asian manufacturers who are increasingly making their mark on the international stage. Hardly any other event offers such a comprehensive overview of the technologies, manufacturers and product developments currently shaping the global pro-audio market.
A visit to Guangzhou is particularly worthwhile for visitors from Europe. This is because Prolight + Sound Guangzhou has long been more than just a regional industry gathering for the Asian market. It has developed into an international showcase for audio technology, featuring global premium brands as well as up-and-coming manufacturers from China and the Asia-Pacific region.
This is how the audio section of Prolight + Sound Guangzhou is organised
A glance at the exhibition’s hall layout is enough to show that audio is one of the strongest segments of Prolight + Sound Guangzhou. Hardly any other product sector occupies as much floor space whilst being organised in such a differentiated manner. From classic pro-audio halls and specialised brand name areas to sections dedicated to conference, communication and multimedia solutions, the exhibition concept covers virtually the entire spectrum of professional audio technology.
For visitors, this means short distances between international premium brands, established system providers and innovative manufacturers from the Asian region. At the same time, the thematic division highlights just how much the audio market has now diversified: touring and installation solutions are just as much in focus as corporate audio, conferencing technologies, network-based systems and integrated multimedia applications.
The audio world of Prolight + Sound Guangzhou is spread across several clearly structured halls and themed areas.
Pro Audio Halls: The heart of professional sound reinforcement technology
Anyone looking specifically for classic sound reinforcement technology, amplifier systems and professional audio solutions at Prolight + Sound Guangzhou will find what they are looking for primarily in the Pro Audio Halls. They form the technical backbone of the audio sector and bring together exhibitors specialising in professional sound reinforcement applications for live events, touring, fixed installations and entertainment environments.
For the current edition, the Pro Audio Halls are spread across Halls 1.1, 2.1, 6.1 and 8.1, supplemented by the Parts & Accessories Hall 7.1, where components, accessories and technical add-ons for professional audio systems are showcased. Together, these halls form the core area for all visitors interested in loudspeaker systems, amplifier technologies, signal processing and professional audio peripherals.
In terms of content, this area showcases the classic strength of Prolight + Sound Guangzhou: a wide-ranging selection of touring and installation audio, from portable sound reinforcement solutions to system technology for clubs, venues, theatres and multifunctional event spaces. At the same time, it becomes clear just how rapidly the market is evolving. Alongside traditional PA and loudspeaker systems, network-based signal processing, DSP-supported system control and more compact, flexible audio setups are becoming increasingly important.
The Pro Audio Halls offer more than just static product displays: parts of the area are closely linked to the exhibition’s immersive showcase formats and live demonstrations. This allows visitors to experience audio technology in real-world application scenarios.
Audio Brand Name Halls: Where international brands and integrated audio applications come together
Whilst the Pro Audio Halls represent the classic core of professional sound reinforcement technology, the Audio Brand Name Halls demonstrate just how broad and diverse the audio market has become. Here, the focus is not solely on individual products, but on the interplay between brand presence, system solutions and specific application scenarios.
The Audio Brand Name Halls include Halls 3.1, 4.1, 5.1, 1.2, 2.2, 3.2, 4.2 and 5.2. Together, they form a showcase for many of the trade fair’s most internationally renowned audio brands, whilst also demonstrating the extent to which professional audio technology is now intertwined with related disciplines such as conferencing, AV networks and multimedia integration.
Halls 3.1, 4.1 and 5.1 are particularly dedicated to classic brand-driven audio presentations. Here, visitors will encounter established manufacturers from the fields of sound reinforcement, loudspeaker and amplifier technology, often closely linked to the neighbouring outdoor demonstration areas for line array systems.
In Halls 1.2 and 2.2, the focus shifts towards Communication, Conferencing & Display. Here, the spotlight is on microphone technology, wireless audio systems, conference and communication solutions, as well as voice transmission and AV network technologies.
Halls 3.2, 4.2 and 5.2, in turn, bring together the Multimedia Systems and Solutions sector. Many manufacturers no longer present their solutions in isolation, but as integrated systems for networked event spaces, immersive installations, corporate spaces, entertainment venues and digital experience worlds.
Top international brands in the Audio Brand Name Halls
Visitors walking through the Audio Brand Name Halls at Prolight + Sound Guangzhou will encounter many of the best-known names in the international audio industry. It is particularly evident on the upper floors of the exhibition that Guangzhou has now gained significant relevance for global premium brands. Numerous manufacturers are making targeted use of the event to expand their presence in the Asian market, showcase new products and position themselves within the direct competitive environment.
Among the most prominent international brands in the field of professional microphone, wireless and conference technology is Audio-Technica, which is represented in Hall 2.2 at Stand C28. The Japanese manufacturer is one of the world’s most established names in the field of professional microphone technology and wireless audio systems. With its focus on live sound, broadcast, conferencing and installation applications, Audio-Technica exemplifies the increasing convergence of traditional audio technology and modern AV communication, which is particularly evident in the exhibition’s Communication Halls.
Also located in the same hall cluster, Sennheiser will be exhibiting in Hall 2.2, Stand B16. The long-established German company is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of wireless microphone and audio technology and is particularly well-positioned in the fields of live production, broadcast and business communication. Its presence in Guangzhou underscores just how relevant the Asian market has now become, even for established European premium suppliers.
Also represented in Hall 2.2 is Shure at Stand C16. The US manufacturer has been one of the global market leaders in the field of microphones, in-ear monitoring and conferencing technology for decades. Together with Audio-Technica and Sennheiser, Shure thus forms one of the strongest wireless and microphone clusters at the entire trade fair.
Another key player in this segment is MIPRO, which is exhibiting in Hall 2.2 at Stand B22. In recent years, the Taiwanese manufacturer has established itself internationally, particularly with wireless audio systems, portable PA solutions and in-ear technology, and is regarded as one of the most exciting Asian challengers in the wireless segment.
Several specialist suppliers are also represented in the conference and communications solutions sector. Taiden is showcasing its systems for professional conference and interpreting technology in Hall 2.2, Stand C02. Also active in this segment is Gonsin in Hall 2.2, Stand C08, whilst ZhongHui presents further communication and conference solutions in Hall 2.2, Stand B55. Together, these manufacturers demonstrate just how strongly Guangzhou is positioned in the fields of business communication and government AV.
Premium sound reinforcement and touring audio in the Multimedia Systems and Solutions Halls
The Multimedia Systems and Solutions Halls are home to a large proportion of international touring, installation and system audio suppliers. Here, it is particularly evident just how much professional audio technology is now understood as part of holistic AV and media solutions.
Among the most prominent premium brands is d&b audiotechnik, located in Hall 4.2 at Stand B08. The German company is one of the world’s technological pioneers in the field of high-end sound reinforcement and is a benchmark brand, particularly in touring, theatre, performing arts and high-quality fixed installations. The fact that d&b is present in Guangzhou underscores the trade fair’s premium status within the international audio sector.
Right next door, DAS Audio is showcasing its latest sound reinforcement and touring solutions in Hall 4.2, Stand C56. The Spanish manufacturer has established itself worldwide with high-performance loudspeaker and touring systems, and its portfolio caters to both live events and the installation market.
Also represented in Hall 4.2 is SAE Audio at Stand C62. The company is presenting professional amplifier and loudspeaker systems, complementing the hall’s range of touring and system audio solutions.
Hall 5.2 brings together a particularly strong international audio line-up. Bose Professional is showcasing its solutions for installation audio, corporate spaces and commercial sound reinforcement at Stand C08. In recent years, Bose Professional has increasingly positioned itself as a provider of professional system solutions beyond the consumer market.
Electro Voice Dynacord (Shanghai) Electronic Systems Co., Ltd. is another market heavyweight represented at Stand C02 in Hall 5.2. The combination of Electro-Voice and Dynacord brings together loudspeaker, amplifier and DSP expertise under one roof and ranks among the most important international brands in the sound reinforcement segment.
Also in Hall 5.2, HK Audio will be exhibiting at Stand C66. The German manufacturer is particularly well known for flexible touring and installation systems and enjoys a strong international reputation in the mid-to-high-end sound reinforcement segment.
Harman International, at Stand D02 in Hall 5.2, is also one of the world’s largest audio groups. Through brands such as JBL Professional, AKG, Soundcraft and Crown, Harman covers virtually the entire professional audio chain – from loudspeakers and mixing consoles to signal management and amplification.
Powersoft is also making a significant impact at Hall 5.2, Stand A16. The Italian manufacturer is one of the leading technology providers of professional amplifier and DSP platforms and is a key brand, particularly in the OEM and integration sectors.
Asian brands and regional champions continue to raise their profile
Alongside the globally established brands, Guangzhou also demonstrates how strongly Asian audio companies are advancing technologically and gaining international visibility.
A particularly prominent example is Audiocenter, represented in Hall 5.2 at Stand A02. The company is now one of the most internationally visible Chinese audio brands and is continuously expanding its presence in the touring and installation segments.
Fidek, located in Hall 3.1, Stand D02, is another established Chinese manufacturer with a broad portfolio, particularly in the field of amplifier and PA technology.
LingJie is presenting its solutions in Hall 3.2 and additionally in the Outdoor Line Array Area 4.0, which underlines the company’s ambitions in the professional touring audio segment.
Soundking is also one of the major Chinese names in the industry and is showcasing its broad portfolio, ranging from audio technology to event equipment, in Hall 5.2 at Stand A52.
BIK in Hall 13.2, Stand D28 is another long-established Asian manufacturer that continues to play a key role in the regional audio market.
Go to the exhibitor search for Prolight + Sound Guangzhou.
Outdoor Line Array Areas: Where loudspeaker systems must prove themselves under real-world conditions
A special feature of Prolight + Sound Guangzhou are the extensive Outdoor Line Array Areas, which add a crucial practical dimension to the audio sector. Whilst many trade fairs present loudspeaker systems exclusively in a static manner at the stand, Guangzhou enables manufacturers to demonstrate their systems live under realistic conditions. This gives trade visitors an immediate impression of the performance, dispersion characteristics and sound quality of the respective systems – a clear added value, particularly in the touring and installation sectors.
The outdoor demo areas are spread across several zones and are among the most exciting stops on the entire audio tour for many visitors. Here, it is not just a matter of demonstrating what is technically possible; the systems must prove themselves in direct comparison.
Hall 2.0 Outdoor Line Array
In the Outdoor Line Array Area 2.0, several manufacturers will be presenting their large-format sound reinforcement systems for touring and event applications. These include, amongst others:
- Guangzhou Binyue International Trading Co Ltd
- FDB Audio Manufacture Co Ltd
- Guangdong ZSOUND Pro Audio Technology Co Ltd
- Zms Audio Co Ltd
- Guangzhou Yunqiang Electronics Co Ltd
- MODE AUDIO CREATION INC
- Jazzpro Audio
- Guangzhou HongPai Audio Co Ltd
- Guangzhou Maiting Audio Equipment Co Ltd
It is precisely in this area that the sheer density of Chinese manufacturers in the touring audio segment becomes apparent. Many of the companies use outdoor demos specifically to position themselves in direct comparison with international competitors and to demonstrate their technological development.
Hall 4.0 Outdoor Line Array
The Outdoor Line Array Area 4.0 also brings together a number of key manufacturers from the professional sound reinforcement market. Represented here are:
- Guangzhou Concord Sound Industrial Co Ltd
- Foshan YME Technologies Co Ltd
- Foshan Lingjie Pro Audio Co Ltd
- Hz Audio (Guangzhou) Co Ltd
- Shenzhen iBO Audio & Visual Technology Co Ltd
- Jiangmen Boway Sound Equipment Co Ltd
Hall 10.0 Outdoor Line Array
The outdoor offering is complemented by the Line Array Area 10.0, where other manufacturers will be demonstrating their systems live:
- DB Sourceaudio Manufacturer Co Ltd
- Ningbo Rixing Electronics Co Ltd
Why outdoor demos are so relevant for audio professionals
In the Outdoor Line Array Areas, sound reinforcement systems are demonstrated under realistic conditions. Here at Prolight + Sound in Frankfurt. | Photo: Mathias Kutt
In the professional sound reinforcement market in particular, a glance at data sheets or product casings is rarely sufficient to evaluate systems properly. Factors such as sound character, throw distance, headroom, phase behaviour or the interaction between tops and subwoofers can only be truly assessed in real-world use.
The Outdoor Line Array Areas at Prolight + Sound Guangzhou provide a setting for this that few international trade fairs offer in this form. For system integrators, rental companies, venue operators and touring professionals, they are therefore far more than just a show space – they are a practical testing ground for real-world investment decisions.
At the same time, the demo areas highlight just how far Chinese manufacturers in particular have come in the professional touring audio sector. Many companies are making targeted use of the live demonstrations to proactively position their systems in direct comparison with established international brands.
Why Guangzhou is gaining importance for audio professionals worldwide
Prolight + Sound Guangzhou impressively demonstrates why it is increasingly worthwhile for international industry players to turn their attention to the Asian audio market. Hardly any other trade fair brings together so many different facets of professional audio technology in one place: from classic sound reinforcement technology and wireless microphone and conference systems to integrated multimedia solutions and large-scale outdoor demos for touring systems.
One thing in particular becomes clear: Guangzhou is no longer merely a regional industry hub for Asia. The trade fair has evolved into a platform where global premium brands, established system providers and up-and-coming Asian manufacturers meet on equal terms. International market leaders make use of the event just as naturally as ambitious Chinese companies seeking to demonstrate their technological development and international competitiveness.
It is precisely this mix that makes the audio sector so appealing. Visitors not only gain an overview of established market leaders, but also discover new manufacturers, technological trends and competitors that could become increasingly significant in the coming years, even outside Asia.
Anyone wishing to understand how the global audio market is developing, which technologies manufacturers are currently prioritising and how rapidly Asian suppliers are catching up in the professional audio segment will find Prolight + Sound Guangzhou to be one of the most exciting platforms worldwide. Or to put it another way: anyone who wants to know where professional audio is heading should keep Guangzhou on their radar.
Main image: 4iMEDIA GmbH / ChatGP
