L-Acoustics launches LiDAR-based venue capture service for Soundvision design
Background and context
Accurate venue geometry has become a critical starting point for loudspeaker system design, particularly in permanent installations and complex refurbishments. However, many audio teams still rely on architectural drawings that may be outdated, incomplete, or inconsistent with the final construction.
Changes over time – such as renovations, new technical infrastructure, or small on-site modifications – can further widen the gap between documented plans and the actual space. This mismatch can lead to unexpected coverage behavior, rigging challenges, and last-minute redesigns during installation.
To address this, French loudspeaker manufacturer L-Acoustics has introduced a service aimed at creating verified digital models of venues as they are physically built, rather than as they were originally designed.
Key announcement
L-Acoustics has unveiled Digital Construction, a LiDAR-based venue capture service that produces an as-built 3D model ready for use in the company’s Soundvision acoustic simulation software.
The service involves an on-site scan conducted by an L-Acoustics Application Engineer using handheld LiDAR across key audience and performance areas, including stages, balconies, and connecting spaces. According to the company, this approach provides higher resolution and greater coverage than manual measurements or basic point-to-point laser tools, and is intended for the scale of professional venues where consumer-grade short-range scanners are not sufficient.
Digital Construction produces two main outputs: a detailed point cloud of the entire venue, and a simplified geometric model optimized for Soundvision. The process follows a standardized workflow with checks at each stage, designed to keep results consistent from small clubs to arenas and stadiums. Processing time is adjusted based on the size and architectural complexity of the venue, with timelines agreed in advance with the client.
The service is positioned to complement existing Soundvision tools and the company’s architectural drafting offering, giving L-Acoustics Certified Providers, AV consultants, and venue operators a verified geometric reference for design work.
Industry impact
By building system designs on measured geometry rather than legacy drawings, integrators and consultants may be able to reduce the risk of design changes during installation. This is particularly relevant for older buildings, heritage venues, or sites with limited documentation, where structural surprises such as concealed beams, modified roof structures, or altered seating layouts can significantly affect loudspeaker placement and rigging.
L-Acoustics presents Digital Construction as part of its broader workflow from design and prediction through to deployment and calibration. The company also highlights its Autofilter algorithm in Soundvision, noting that any inaccuracies in the underlying venue model can influence predictive results, including tonal balance and level distribution across the audience area.
Digital Construction is being shown publicly at InfoComm 2026 in Las Vegas, with availability aligned to the start of the show. The service is integrated into the L-Acoustics ecosystem, alongside tools and services already used by its global partner network.
Why this matters
For system designers and venue owners, the move towards reliable as-built data reflects a broader shift in the AV and live events sector toward data-driven design and lifecycle planning.
- Reduced installation risk: Using measured geometry may help minimize on-site redesigns, unexpected rigging issues, and deviations from predicted coverage.
- Long-term asset value: Once captured, a venue’s digital model can support future upgrades, technology refreshes, and clearer communication between stakeholders on subsequent projects.
- Standardized workflows: A consistent scanning and modeling process can make it easier for global design teams to collaborate using a shared, verified representation of the venue.
L-Acoustics positions itself as the only loudspeaker manufacturer currently offering full-venue LiDAR capture as part of its own design workflow. Whether other manufacturers and independent service providers follow with similar integrated offerings will be worth watching for consultants and integrators who manage multi-brand projects.
Further details on Digital Construction, including workflow and service scope, are available via the manufacturer’s website at https://www.l-acoustics.com/our-service/digital-construction/.
