Audio technology and music have been fundamental pillars of Prolight + Sound from the very beginning. This year, the leading trade fair for the entertainment technology industry is reaffirming its importance by significantly expanding its ProAudio programme. Guests can look forward to highlights such as a 3000 square metre hub for performance and production, innovative new products, an enriched programme of specialist presentations and the return of renowned exhibitors. Between 19 and 22 March 2024, Frankfurt will present a wide range of professional audio technology to the public. This year’s Prolight + Sound will focus on sound reinforcement for live events and concerts as well as advanced solutions for studio and broadcast applications. Leading companies will be demonstrating their sound reinforcement systems in practical scenarios in the outdoor area. Another component is a rich accompanying programme that deals with a wealth of current and pioneering topics.
Experience audiovisual masterpieces in the Audio Dome
Among the numerous highlights in the ProAudio area of Prolight + Sound 2024, the newly created Immersive Audio Dome in Hall 11 stands out in particular. This will be realised in collaboration with Quickspace and United Brands. United Brands will present Adamson product innovations in the form of an impressive immersive system consisting of numerous loudspeakers and the Fletcher Machine (a processor for multi-channel audio rendering). The dome, which is designed like an igloo on the inside and measures 100 square metres, offers space for around 75 spectators and is equipped with a ceiling that serves as a full-surface projection screen. Futuristic visuals complement the sound experience perfectly, so that both elements together create an all-round immersive experience for guests.
Another new feature is the Audio Bar in Hall 11, where visitors can test out headphones from well-known brands in a cosy atmosphere. Among others, AIAIAI, Beyerdynamic, Audio-Technica, Ollo Audio, Tascam, HEDD, Rode and Pioneer will be represented. Various models from the studio, DJ and wireless sectors will be presented at specially set up sound stations. An additional plus: The relaxed bar atmosphere also invites visitors to linger and talk shop with other trade fair visitors.
New: Four outdoor show stages this year!
Visitors to the outdoor area in front of Hall 11 can expect another novelty this year: a record number of four audio stages. The Live Sound Arena presents optimised stage constructions and sound systems in practical application. Renowned manufacturers such as Harmonic Design, CELTO, HK Audio, KV2 Audio, Voice-Acoustic, Aura Audio and audio zenit will be presenting their impressive systems. RCF and dbTechnologies are also returning as exhibitors and will be showing their latest products, including on their own outdoor demo stage. The area will be completed by a demo street from DAS Audio.
The extraordinary. Demonstration of large PA systems in a festival-like environment is supported by the companies “Kultour” and “Layer”.
The Silent Stage in Hall 11 is the ideal place for visitors who want to take things a little quieter. This is where the company “InEar” will be presenting its advanced solutions for integrated sound technologies. During the trade fair, the Silent Stage will host a 30-minute programme every day in three time slots (12:00, 14:00 and 16:00, on the last day of the trade fair only at 12:00 and 14:00). The live band P.A.C.E. will demonstrate the advantages of a Silent Stage, in particular the reduction of the noise level on stage. This effect is made possible through the use of amp simulations, isolation boxes, drum cages and electronic musical instruments.
The Performance + Production Hub: Experience innovative new products up close!
The expanded Performance + Production Hub in Hall 11, which was created in collaboration with the Sample Music Festival, now claims the title of Europe’s largest event for music production and DJing on an area of 3000 square metres. This concept aims to create an interface between product application, education and entertainment. Visitors can expect a wide range of offers here: from live performances and product demonstrations to visual presentations and specialist workshops with experts from renowned brands. Interested parties will be provided with creative inspiration for the use of new sound technologies. In addition, the programme will be enriched by topics such as live remixing, looping, controllerism, biohacking and the latest software applications and apps, providing a glimpse into the future of digital sound production.
A selection of leading brands will present their latest developments in segments such as mixing consoles and controllers, digital audio workstations, samplers and sequencers, synthesizers, grooveboxes, effects units and mobile DJ accessories. Highlights include the eagerly awaited FGDP controller from Yamaha and the Push 3 controller from Ableton.
Insights into music production and sound experiences with exceptional sound quality
The Music Production Corner is an innovative interface where software tools, midi controllers and beat sequencers merge, blurring the traditional boundaries between studio work and live performance. In addition, specialised education stations offer exciting insights into areas such as field recording, motion sensors and live sound branding, allowing participants to gain in-depth knowledge in these specific fields.
The newly constructed “Live Box”, a 100 square metre space, allows visitors to experience live performances by renowned artists in excellent sound quality. The programme includes performances by artists such as DJ Emanuel Satie, guitarist Yasi Hofer, ARKAI, Denise Frey, Dshanna, Escape Kid, Ray-D, Tim Kroker and many other international greats. In addition, the “Swing Flare Club” offers space for jam sessions during the course of the trade fair, giving even beginners without extensive musical knowledge the opportunity to create music together.
The diverse programme will be enriched by further highlights, including music notation for modular performances in collaboration with SOMA Synths, live demonstrations in the Hub’s broadcast studio and the annual Scratch Battle.

The Performance + Production Hub combines product experience, knowledge transfer and entertainment in a unique way. | Photo: Mathias Kutt
Pure sound expertise: ProAudio College and inspiring keynotes
Tonmeister e.V. (VDT) provides audio professionals and interested newcomers with a wealth of expert knowledge at the “Prolight + Sound College”. Following the great success of the free programme last year, it will be expanded at the upcoming show and made more accessible to an international audience with a new bilingual lecture programme (German and English). The ProAudio Lounge also invites visitors to socialise and network.
The programme focuses on the latest developments in sound reinforcement technology, advances in home studio production and includes exclusive training sessions based on the SQQ7 educational standard syllabus. This was developed by a comprehensive working group under the leadership of the VDT and aims to qualify participants as “certified sound specialists”. Other key topics include future prospects and tips for beginners, the basics of room acoustics, techniques for transmitting synchronised audio/video data, sound check guides and frequency management. All participants will receive a written certificate for the knowledge they have acquired.
In addition, various keynotes will enrich the programme, offering in-depth insights into the world of sound. Michael Kastner, Head of Product at HOLOPLOT, will present the revolutionary X1 Matrix Array audio solution, which is the centrepiece of the Sphere project in Las Vegas. In her presentation “The Power of Sound”, award-winning creative director Genevieve Cleary will explore the enormous potential of audio-sensory technologies to improve the well-being of the audience. Stefan Weil, CCO at Atelier Markgraph, addresses the broad spectrum of applications for music under the title “Music makes the people”. Gregor Tresher and Edgar Dirksen from Cocoon Recordings will provide an insight into their work as producers and the management of a music label.
And best of all: For trade fair visitors with a valid ticket, participation in all lectures, workshops, product demonstrations and the PLS Community Nights (please note: only with prior registration) is free of charge!