Wireless Body-worn Sound System for Dance and Music Performance

The role of spatial design in music has become more prominent in recent years, mostly because of the affordability of powerful software and hardware tools. Although spatial audio tools are widely used nowadays in studios and concert halls, there are only few examples of robust and comfortable wearable sound systems with a suitable acoustic response. A wireless body-worn loudspeaker prototype featuring original costume elements, a hybrid full-range loudspeaker array and an improved acoustic response was designed and implemented. The size, shape and acoustic performance of the prototype was optimised using data gathered from anechoic measurements and interviews with performers and audiences. Future developments of this project will consider the implementation of an extended multi-channel performance platform to explore sonic and spatial relationships created by several wearable devices on stage synchronised with a multi-loudspeaker diffusion system.