Summary
In this episode of the Immersive Audio Podcast, Monica Bolles is joined by composer and audio researcher Eric Lyon and Immersive Audio Engineer at Virginia Tech, Tanner Upthegrove, from Virginia, US. We dicuss the growing field of high-density loudspeaker arrays, using the Cube at Virginia Tech as a fascinating example of how large-scale spatial audio can be used for performance, research and immersive sound experiences.
Eric Lyon is a composer and audio researcher focused on high-density loudspeaker arrays, dynamic timbres, virtual drum machines, and performer-computer interactions. His audio signal processing software includes “FFTease” and “LyonPotpourri.” He has authored two computer music books, “Designing Audio Objects for Max/MSP and Pd,” a guidebook for writing audio DSP code for live performance, and “Automated Sound Design,” a book that presents technical processes for implementing oracular synthesis and processing of sound across a wide domain of audio applications. In 2015-16, Lyon architected both the Spatial Music Workshop and Cube Fest at Virginia Tech to support the work of other artists working with high-density loudspeaker arrays. In 2025, he co-created the Spatial Audio Tidepool with Tanner Upthegrove to provide technical instruction for creative uses of high-density loudspeaker arrays. Lyon’s compositional work has been recognised with a ZKM Giga-Hertz prize, MUSLAB award, the League ISCM World Music Days competition, and a Guggenheim Fellowship. Lyon is Professor of Practice in the School of Performing Arts at Virginia Tech and is a Faculty Fellow at the Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology.
Tanner Upthegrove, MFA in Spatial Audio and Technical Direction, thrives at the intersection of arts and technology as Immersive Audio Engineer for Virginia Tech’s Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology. Tanner designs audiovisual systems with a focus on immersive experiences. Tanner designs sound for multichannel audio systems. Tanner has presented spatial audio at the Audio Engineering Society, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the International Congress on Sound and Vibration and Moogfest. Tanner is published by the AES, the IEEE, and the Computer Music Journal. Tanner has collaborated with Sound Artist Stephen Vitiello and Trey Spruance of Secret Chiefs 3.
Show Notes
Listen to Podcast
Immersive Audio Podcast Masterclass
How to access the content from our Immersive Audio Podcast Masterclass series? Head out to our Patreon. The sessions are designed to enhance your practical learning experience and are delivered by world-class experts. The livestream contains video demonstrations and spatial audio playback with live Q&A. Keep up to date with our upcoming events, announcements and industry news by subscribing to our newsletter.
Survey
We want to hear from you! We really value our community and would appreciate it if you would take our very quick survey and help us make the Immersive Audio Podcast even better: surveymonkey.co.uk/r/3Y9B2MJ Thank you!
Credits
This episode was produced by Oliver Kadel and Emma Rees and included music by Rhythm Scott.