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Areal Upmix Engine

Real-Time Stereo to Immersive Audio for Professional Sound Applications


The Areal Upmix Engine is a professional real-time upmixer that converts stereo audio into immersive multichannel sound with precision and clarity. Powered by Areal’s RISE algorithm, it redistributes audio across multiple channels without altering the original mix, delivering natural spatial imaging without artefacts, reverb or phase issues.

Designed for live sound, broadcast and installed audio environments, the Upmix Engine enables engineers to create immersive audio experiences from any stereo source, without the need for stems, object-based workflows or complex system changes.




Stereo to Immersive, Simplified

Expand any stereo source into accurate spatial audio, without changing your workflow.

As immersive formats become standard across live sound, broadcast and installation environments, most content is still delivered in stereo. The Areal Upmix Engine bridges this gap by converting stereo into multichannel audio in real time, supporting formats such as 5.1, 7.1 and 7.1.4.

Using advanced upmixing technology, it preserves the integrity of the original mix while redistributing audio across the sound field to create a natural, detailed spatial experience. With low latency processing and seamless integration into professional audio systems, it enables consistent immersive sound without additional production complexity.

UPMIXING EXPLAINED

KEY FEATURES



RISE Upmixing

Realtime Immersive Stereo Expansion

RISE transforms any stereo signal into an immersive experience in real time, without altering the original mix. It intelligently redistributes spectral elements across multiple channels, delivering a spatial image that surrounds the listener. No stems, no reverb, just pure stereo, expanded into an immersive environment.


LF Warp

Low Frequency imaging redefined

LF Warp reshapes the low-frequency field to create a more enveloping and physical bass experience. Much like sub arcing in large venues, it distributes low-end energy across multiple speakers for improved impact, consistency, and depth, without introducing delay or phase issues.


FocusField

Precision or presence… you choose

FocusField lets you steer the immersive image toward a central listening zone or spread it evenly across the room. Whether you’re mixing for a sweet spot or filling a wide audience area, the system adapts the spatial focus to match the intent of your playback environment.


Flexible I/O

Plug in, route, play

Upmix Engine integrates seamlessly into any workflow with support for Dante, MADI, AES, and analog I/O. Whether you’re working in a broadcast studio, a live venue, or a post-production suite, flexible input and output options ensure fast, frictionless integration into your existing setup.


Multi-Format Support

Any layout. Any space.

From standard formats like 5.1, 7.1, and 7.1.4 to custom speaker arrays in live venues, Upmix Engine adapts to your speaker layout. Whether it’s a cinema setup, audio post-production, or a frontal live system, it delivers consistent imaging across any format or configuration.


Remote Control

Full access, anywhere

A built-in web interface gives you full control of the Upmix Engine from any connected device. Configure routing, speaker layouts, presets, and processing parameters with ease, no proprietary software required. It’s immersive audio, managed your way.

APPLICATIONS

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Live Sound and Touring

Deliver immersive audio from stereo sources in real time, without adding complexity to the workflow. Ideal for front-of-house and system engineers looking to create wider, more engaging soundscapes with low latency and full control.
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Venues and Fixed Installations

Upgrade existing sound systems to immersive formats without changing content or infrastructure. Suitable for theatres, music venues, museums and experience spaces using multichannel speaker layouts.
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Broadcast and Live Production

Convert stereo feeds into immersive audio for modern broadcast formats. Maintain clarity and consistency across multichannel delivery while avoiding artefacts or phase issues.
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Corporate and Experiential Events

Enhance presentations, brand activations and live events with immersive sound. Transform standard stereo playback into a more dynamic and engaging audience experience.
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Hospitality and Retail Environments

Create immersive background audio that enhances atmosphere and customer experience. Ideal for hotels, showrooms and retail spaces looking to differentiate through sound.
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Theme Parks and Immersive Attractions

Power spatial audio experiences in themed environments and attractions. Expand stereo content into detailed soundscapes that increase realism and audience engagement.

Let’s Talk Immersive Audio

Bring immersive audio to your workflow

Whether you're working in live sound, broadcast or installation, the Areal Upmix Engine makes it easy to expand stereo into immersive audio with precision and control.

Every system is different. Speak to our team to find out how the Upmix Engine can integrate into your setup and help you deliver consistent, high-quality spatial sound.

Talk to Us About Upmix Engine

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION


Audio Performance

  • Upmixing cores: 2 (configurable as Quad, Hexa, Octa or Spatial, Di, or Quad)
  • Sample Rate: 48 / 96 kHz (selectable)
  • Bit Depth: 24-bit
  • Latency (DSP core): < 9 ms (Analog in to Analog out)
  • Dynamic Range: > 118 dB (To be confirmed)
  • THD+N: < 0.002% @ 1 kHz (To be confirmed)
  • Channel Processing: 4 in / up to 12 out

Inputs (Selectable Routing Matrix)

  • Analog Balanced: 4 Channels (D-SUB)
  • AES3: 4 Channels (2 x XLR)
  • Dante™ (AES67 compatible): 4 Channels (EtherCON Redundant)
  • AVB (Milan certification pending): 4 Channels (EtherCON Redundant Shared with Dante)
  • MADI (optical or coaxial): 4 channels (BNC)
  • Word Clock: 1 (BNC Shared with Madi, selectable)

Outputs (Assignable Routing Matrix)

  • Analog Balanced: Up to 12 Channels (D-SUB)
  • AES3: Up to 12 Channels (6 x XLR)
  • Dante™: Up to 12 Channels (EtherCON Redundant)
  • AVB (Milan certification pending): Up to 12 Channels (EtherCON Redundant Shared with Dante)
  • MADI: Up to 12 Channels (BNC)
  • Word Clock: 1 (BNC Shared with Madi, selectable)

Processing & Control

  • Rise Upmix Algorithm: Realtime Immersive Stereo Expansion
  • Presets: 10 Default, 10 user-definable
  • Output Processing: Full matrix with per-channel delay, gain, polarity & parametric EQ
  • Remote Control: Web UI and OSC via Ethernet
  • Front Panel: TouchScreen + rotary encoder
  • Status LEDs: PSU 1, PSU2

Clocking & Sync

  • Word Clock In/Out (BNC)
  • AES/Dante/AVB/MADI sync
  • Internal / External (selectable)

Power & Mechanical

  • Power Supply: Dual redundant internal PSU (100–240 VAC)
  • Power Consumption: < 28 W per PSU
  • Mounting: 19” 1RU (standard)
  • Dimensions (W × D × H): 482 × 220 × 44 mm
  • Weight: ~3.5 kg (7.72 lbs)
  • Operating Temp: 0–45°C, fan-cooled