The Altitude range is now complete. From compact media rooms to the world’s most ambitious private cinemas, there is now a Trinnov processor designed to fit. What unites them is uncompromised performance, powered by Trinnov’s exclusive technologies: Optimizer™, WaveForming™, and Remapping™. What separates them is how they integrate into your system. On one hand, the Altitude16 and Altitude32 remain the reference for analog-first systems, where integrators and audiophiles want freedom to use the vast majority of power amplifiers on the market. On the other side, the AltitudeCI introduces a new hardware platform, built for Custom Integration, with Audio over IP (AoIP) at its core and scalability that extends all the way to DCI-grade theaters and theatrical post-production. All models will benefit from Trinnov’s redesigned, streamlined user interface,  a premium, professional workflow consistent across the range. The question is not which sounds better,  they all do. The real question is: which Altitude fits your project?

The Two Families at a Glance

ALTITUDE16/32 – ANALOG-FIRST, AUDIOPHILE-FRIENDLYMore than 95% of power amplifiers still accept analog inputs only. For that reason, the Altitude16 and Altitude32 remain the natural choice for the majority of projects. They provide maximum amplifier freedom and remain the safest fit when networking expertise is limited. Altitude16 provides 16 channels natively and can be expanded to 20 via the +4 option, enabling up to 20 discrete outputs, for example 9.1.6, 11.1.8, or 7.4.6 depending on your bass strategy,  making it a robust analog‑first choice for dedicated theaters. Altitude32 is expandable from 8 to 32 channels via DAC boards. It has become the benchmark for reference theaters worldwide, not only because of its performance but also because of its long-term flexibility: integrators can start smaller and expand the channel count over time.

Which Trinnov Processor is right for your project?

ALTITUDE^CI – AOIP-FIRST, CI-OPTIMIZED

The Altitude^CI represents a new hardware generation, designed for AoIP-first workflows. It is available in precise configurations, scaling in 2-channel increments from 8 up to 32 outputs. This allows integrators to select exactly the right capacity for their project, without unnecessary overhead. For the largest theaters and post-production facilities, 64-channel builds will be available from 2026, extending the same platform into DCI-grade applications.

The Altitude^CI Rear Panel

Connectivity is built around Dante (hardware) and AES67 (software), with additional AES/EBU I/Os and 8 analog outputs for hybrid designs. A compact 2RU chassis, integrated touchscreen, and a three-port Ethernet design make it a natural fit for technical racks and networked environments.

The Altitude^CI shines when paired with power amplifiers equipped with digital inputs, most notably the Amplitude¹⁶ with its optional Dante board, or with AoIP-ready amplifiers from other vendors. It requires more networking expertise to deploy correctly, but in return it delivers exceptional scalability, cleaner wiring, and the most efficient rack usage of any Altitude model.

How to Decide Between Altitude^CI and Altitude^16/32?

INTEGRATION AND SKILLSET

The first decision point is not performance but infrastructure and installer expertise.

• If your project is analog-heavy and your team prefers traditional wiring, the Altitude^16/32 remains the safest and most flexible choice.
• If your project is designed around AoIP and your integrator is confident with networking (Dante Controller, VLANs, QoS, and traffic isolation), the Altitude^CI is the more forward-looking option.

CHANNEL COUNT SPLIT

Channel count is the second major qualifier:

• 8–20 channels → Altitude¹⁶ or Altitude^CI both suitable.
• 20–48 channels → Altitude³² or Altitude^CI both valid choices.
• 48–64 channels → Altitude^CI only (build-to-order, available from 2026).

Altitude³² also serves as an upgradable smaller system: it can start with as few as 8 channels and grow to 32 through additional DAC boards, a path some integrators value for future-proofing.

Technical Differences That Matter

• Outputs: Altitude^16/32 provide extensive analog outputs; Altitude^CI offers only 8 analog outs but adds AoIP and AES/EBU flexibility.
• HDMI: Altitude^16/32 feature 8 HDMI inputs; Altitude^CI includes 4, typically sufficient in CI environments where video matrices handle switching.
• Sampling Rate: All Altitude processors process at the native sampling rate up to 192kHz depending on channel count. When using AoIP, the limitation comes from the network itself, Dante and AES67 streams are typically restricted to 48kHz. This is not a processor limitation but a network constraint.
• 3D Microphone:
  • Altitude^16/32 use Trinnov’s previous-generation, self-powered 3D microphones with XLR3 or XLR5 connectors, requiring manual upload of the calibration file.
  • Altitude^CI requires Trinnov’s new Ethercon-based 3D microphone, powered directly by the processor, which automatically feeds its compensation file
  • The two microphone generations are not compatible, a detail important for integrators with mixed inventories.

Trinnov’s new Ethercon 3D Measurement Microphone

Project Scenarios

• Media Rooms & Hi-Fi (Stereo to 7.1.4)Both Altitude¹⁶ and Altitude^CI can serve these projects, but in different ways. The Altitude¹⁶ is the natural fit when paired with analog amplifiers. The Altitude^CI, available as an 8-channel configuration, is particularly efficient for smaller systems such as stereo, 5.1, or 7.1, avoiding unused channels while adding AoIP flexibility. It becomes even more compelling when digital-input amplifiers are part of the design.
• Dedicated Theaters (≈16–20 outputs)The Altitude¹⁶ delivers 16 channels natively and up to 20 with the +4 option, supporting layouts such as 9.4.6, 11.2.6, or 11.1.8. Beyond 20 outputs, the choice shifts to the Altitude³² for analog-first projects or the Altitude^CI-16/20 for AoIP-first systems — especially effective when paired with the Amplitude¹⁶.
• Large Private Cinemas (≈22–32 outputs)For theaters requiring higher channel counts such as 13.4.6 or 15.8.9, the Altitude³² remains the strongest option for analog-based projects, while the Altitude^CI-22 to ^CI-32 provides hybrid routing and full AoIP scalability.
• DCI-Grade & Post-Production (up to 64 outputs)At the very top end, only the Altitude^CI is designed to meet these requirements. It offers Dolby server compatibility over AES67 and the scalability needed for screening rooms, large private cinemas, and professional post-production facilities.

Conclusion

All Altitude processors deliver identical Trinnov sound quality, the same exclusive technologies, and the same redesigned user interface. Choosing between them is not a matter of audio performance, it is a matter of infrastructure, amplifier choice, and integrator skillset. Choose Altitude16/32 if you want maximum amplifier freedom, more analog outputs, and the reassurance of traditional wiring. Choose AltitudeCIif your system is AoIP-centric, rack efficiency is a priority, and your integrator has the network expertise to implement it properly. Either way, you are investing in the most advanced AV processor platform available today, built to deliver uncompromised performance for years to come.

AOIP IS MORE THAN A CABLE

In high-end audio, new formats and interfaces are often adopted quickly. Audio over IP (AoIP) is different. Moving audio to the network is not just a matter of replacing analog or AES/EBU cables with Ethernet. It reshapes how systems are designed, deployed, and maintained.

Once audio is transported as network traffic, integrators face challenges that go beyond audio alone: latency management, clock synchronization, traffic isolation, and quality of service all come into play. These are concepts more familiar to IT specialists than to traditional Hi-Fi or home cinema installers. AoIP is therefore not only a technical shift, but a cultural one.

For many integrators, that shift requires support, training, and carefully considered tools. 

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE FIRST

Park Road Post Production in New Zealand – Peter Jackson’s legendary facility, uses Trinnov MC processors with MC Dante.

Trinnov has not been absent from the AoIP conversation. Since 2018, we have supported Dante® in professional markets, where large-scale audio distribution and interoperability are common. That experience taught us how to address clock domains, jitter, and routing in mission-critical environments.

But for residential projects, we chose to wait. Not because we couldn’t implement AoIP, but because we wanted to do it right. At Trinnov, new technologies are introduced only when they enhance performance, reliability, and long-term system value. 

That is why AoIP arrives on our residential platform today, in the form of the Altitude^CI.

Engineering a Reliable Foundation

INTEGRATED BY DESIGN WITH NATIVE DANTE AND AES67

In the Altitude^CI, AoIP is part of the core architecture from the ground up. This approach makes it possible to address one of the most complex challenges in modern AV: multiple unsynchronized clock domains. HDMI brings one clock, AoIP brings another. Without proper management, those streams can drift, causing jitter or instability.

To resolve this, Trinnov developed its own software-domain Asynchronous Sample Rate Converter (ASRC) for Ravenna/AES67. This in-house work took years to complete, and it ensures real-time reconciliation of independent clocks without compromising transparency. We chose the software approach because we wanted every Altitude^CI to support both Ravenna/AES67 and Dante natively. That way, integrators know their needs are covered from the start, without having to make protocol choices upfront or invest in additional hardware they might not need.

The AltitudeCI’s Three-Port Network Artchitecture

ASRC itself is common in AoIP, but Trinnov’s custom software implementation is what sets the Altitude^CI apart, delivering both stability and flexibility while maintaining our long-standing standards for signal integrity.

THREE-PORT NETWORK ARCHITECTURE

Another part of this foundation is the Altitude^CI’s three-port Ethernet design. The processor includes one RJ45 port and two SFP cages, which support either copper or fiber connections. By default, Port 1 is isolated from Ports 2 and 3. This means control traffic and AoIP audio can live on separate networks, a best practice that reduces congestion and prevents interference.

At the same time, all three ports are fully configurable. They can be assigned to different roles, combined for redundancy, or adapted to fit unique topologies. This flexibility ensures the Altitude^CI can integrate smoothly into anything from a single-room theater to a complex yacht installation, it also makes the Altitude^CI well-suited for high-security environments.

Making AoIP Practical for Integrators

DIRECTLINK AS A SHORTCUT

With the DirectLink approach, one can link the Altitude^CI directly to the Amplitude¹⁶ with a single Ethernet cable.

In some projects, the challenge with AoIP is not the protocol itself but the risk of congestion when audio traffic shares space with heavy network activity. DirectLink addresses this by creating a dedicated path between the Altitude^CI and an Amplitude¹⁶ equipped with the Dante input board. By isolating AoIP traffic from the client’s main network, it ensures audio runs smoothly while keeping setup straightforward and repeatable.

DirectLink is not a new technology, but a method made possible by the Altitude^CI’s flexible three-port network architecture. Because each port can be configured independently, integrators can separate control, internet, and AoIP traffic in a way that fits the project.

It is important to see DirectLink for what it is: a practical shortcut. It makes integration easier and more predictable, but it does not replace best practices. Long-term reliability still comes from understanding how to design proper AoIP networks, which is why Trinnov continues to invest in training and education to empower integrators with that knowledge.

REAL-WORLD ADVANTAGES

With AoIP implemented at the core of Altitude^CI, integrators gain practical benefits that translate directly into better projects:

• Scalability: from 8 to 32 channels today, with 64-channel builds available from 2026.
• Output flexibility: hybrid routing with analog, AES/EBU, and Dante/AES67 outputs.
• Cleaner racks: fewer converters and less cabling bulk.
• Space efficiency: easier deployment in tight environments, such as yachts or compact rack rooms.
• Compatibility: Dante preferred for outputs, AES67 for inputs, particularly when integrating with devices like the Dolby CP950 or IMS3000 cinema servers.
• Consistent quality: the Altitude^CI and Amplitude¹⁶ share the same DAC architecture, so whether conversion happens at the processor or the amplifier, sound quality remains seamless and transparent.

SOFTWARE-FIRST, PAY ONLY FOR WHAT YOU NEED

AoIP does more than simplify cabling or enable higher channel counts. It also unlocks a new value model for integrators and end-users.

Because the Altitude^CI is built on a software-based architecture , outputs are licensed in 2-channel increments. Whether you start with 8, 12, or 20 channels, you pay only for what the project requires today. When it’s time to expand, additional channels can be unlocked via software, with no need for new hardware, expansion boards, or unnecessary upfront costs.

This flexibility reflects Trinnov’s software-first approach: we invest in developing our own solutions and routing architecture so integrators gain precise scalability without compromise. The result is a processor that adapts to the system, not the other way around, redefining what an AV processor can deliver in terms of both performance and long-term value.

Ready for Today, Built for Tomorrow

HYBRID FREEDOM

AoIP is not replacing analog. It is expanding what is possible. The Altitude^CI supports hybrid topologies where analog, AES/EBU, and AoIP outputs coexist.

Every speaker or subwoofer output can be routed to any output, regardless of its type, ensuring consistency while leaving integrators free to choose the most appropriate path.

This flexibility makes it easier to design transitional systems that combine legacy hardware with future-ready infrastructure.

WHY NOW MATTERS

For Trinnov, the timing of AoIP adoption was not about being first to market. It was about being ready. AoIP, done properly, requires more than protocol compliance. It requires engineering at the platform level, a vision for long-term scalability, and the responsibility to empower integrators who must deliver reliable systems to their clients.

That is why AoIP enters Trinnov’s residential portfolio now, not as an experiment, but as a mature solution embedded in the Altitude^CI. It is ready for today’s projects and built to grow into tomorrow’s.

Takeaway

Audio over IP marks a turning point in residential AV. It introduces efficiency, scalability, and new design freedoms, but it also demands careful engineering and new expertise. Trinnov’s deliberate timing ensures that AoIP can be embraced by everyone without compromise.

By building AoIP directly into the Altitude^CI, supporting both Dante and AES67, and providing methods like DirectLink alongside education and training, we give integrators the tools they need to succeed in this new era.

AoIP isn’t just here. It’s ready.

With dual-native AES67 and Dante support; 8 to 32-channels; and exclusive Trinnov technology, AltitudeCI has the flexibility for any premium audio application

Paris, France, and East Hampton, Connecticut, USA – August 26, 2025 – Trinnov Audio today announces the release of Altitude^CI, a fully networked, Audio-over-IP (AoIP) processor designed specifically for the custom integration (CI) market. Scalable, flexible, and compact, Altitude^CI delivers premium immersive audio for projects ranging from high-end media rooms to DCI-grade private cinemas.

“Altitude^CI makes Trinnov performance available to more projects than ever before,” said Arnaud Laborie, Trinnov Audio Co-Founder and CEO. “This is the one platform integrators can rely on for every immersive audio project, regardless of scale, infrastructure, or performance demands.”

Altitude^CI is the first processor in its class to offer native support for both Dante® and Ravenna®/AES67, offering seamless compatibility across consumer and professional audio infrastructures. This “best of both worlds” architecture enables direct integration with Dolby Atmos® and DCI servers via AES67, while managing output through Dante without the need for external converters.

Altitude^CI brings Trinnov’s renowned performance within reach for a wider range of premium installations than ever before: it introduces a modular licensing model that allows integrators to specify channel count in 2-channel increments. Altitude^CI is available in configurations from 8 to 32 channels,  with a custom 64-channel version arriving in 2026. Upgrades can be activated remotely via Trinnov’s extranet, maximizing long-term flexibility.

Exclusive Acoustics Technology

Altitude^CI includes Trinnov’s full suite of proprietary active acoustics technologies, including:

• Optimizer™: 3D room and speaker correction system that precisely calibrates phase, EQ, level, and delay.
• WaveForming™: Trinnov’s groundbreaking low-frequency optimization tool that actively eliminates room modes for impactful bass and unprecedented seat-to-seat consistency.
• Remapping™: Ensures accurate immersive format rendering, even in acoustically or architecturally compromised rooms.

These technologies are delivered via Trinnov’s exclusive software-based platform with 64-bit floating-point processing: powerful architecture that enables exceptional audio fidelity and future-ready expansion potential.

Rack-Efficient Design and Simplified Setup

Altitude^CI is built with installers in mind. The streamlined 2RU chassis includes eight analog outputs, ideal for active subwoofer, or WaveForming™ applications or 7.1 systems. HDMI support (4 in, 2 out) ensures compatibility with matrix-based video systems. Altitude^CI also has three independently configurable Ethernet ports, including two with SFP cages, supporting robust network architectures with separated or redundant control, audio, and service traffic.

System setup has been streamlined as well: The newly redesigned Altitude user interface features a guided calibration workflow, making Trinnov’s powerful tuning tools more user-friendly while preserving expert-level control. 

Power Couple: Altitude^CI and Amplitude¹⁶ with Dante

To complete the AoIP ecosystem, Trinnov now offers an optional Dante input board for the award-winning Amplitude¹⁶ multichannel amplifier. This addition enables end-to-end AoIP signal flow—from processor to amplifier.

The input board uses the same high-performance DACs architecture as the Altitude line, preserving signal integrity and achieving exceptional dynamic range. The Amplitude¹⁶ features an inherently quiet design, unequalled by commercial AoIP amplifiers but essential for high-performance audio applications. Together, Altitude^CI and Amplitude¹⁶ form a fully digital, networked signal chain in just 5RU, delivering audiophile-grade performance with maximum rack efficiency.

Discover the Altitude^CI at CEDIA Expo 

Trinnov will debut the Altitude^CI at CEDIA Expo 2025 in Denver, Colorado, September 4–6. Attendees are invited to experience the Altitude^CI at the Trinnov High Performance Audio room (HPA208), with live demos, full system tours, and one-on-one partner consultations.

Trinnov will also offer a free training session on Altitude^CI on September 3 at 2:00 PM MT. Seating is limited to 50 participants; attendees can reserve a spot by registering on Trinnov’s dedicated CEDIA webpage.

Altitude^CI will ship in Q4 2025. 

A New Altitude Experience Ahead: Upcoming Major Software Update   We are thrilled to announce a landmark software update for the Altitude audio processor line. Featuring a brand-new user interface and Trinnov’s latest updated implementations of Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and Auro-3D, this release will bring a renewed user experience to all Altitude owners    Read more

Cinema Solutions – Buy Trinnov Once And Never Look Back!

Trinnov went to Sweden to visit our dealer Cinema Solutions, an experienced integrator. 

Jacob Sernefell, founder of Cinema Solutions, has 20 years of experience in the AV industry. His passion for home cinema design pushed him to start the company four years ago, and now provides top-notch AV experience to his clients.

We interviewed him in this 11.8.10 home theater, featuring a Procella speaker system and a Trinnov Altitude32 processor. For Jacob, investing in a Trinnov is a wise long-term investment, preventing customers from switching from processor to processor every couple of years.

Please introduce yourself

I’ve been working in this industry for 20 plus years, doing many cinemas but also smart homes, lighting, curtains etc…but my passion really lies in home cinemas. Four years back, I started my own company called Cinema Solutions to try to make the best home theaters for my customers. The aim is for them to have a luxury place to enjoy with the whole family, relax and just have a good time. 

What was the client’s intent?

This particular client was having some demonstrations where he felt like he wanted to be in the middle of the action. He wanted an immersive experience. To accomplish that, we need, of course, ear level sound, low-frequency sound from subwoofers and some overheads, to get a nice sound bubble.

To make that work with all the spatialization going on and the sound moving in the room (for example, a thunder coming in and leaving in the back and stuff like that), requires a really high-quality processor. So that’s why we went with the Procella speakers here. We have 11 ear channel speakers, eight subwoofers and 10 overhead speakers for Atmos, DTS:X and also some Auro integration.

With this setup, can you use different formats?

We can. We don’t have everything in the exact places where it’s supposed to be. For all the formats, we made a hybrid layout where it suits most use cases of our client. For instance, when we’re watching a concert, we always use the Auro3D. It gives that little bit of extra.

You feel like you’re really there and you’re truly enjoying it. To make that work, in the entire world, there are very few companies who can pull that off in terms of processing. And that’s one reason why we work with Trinnov. It’s so powerful in the processing, and it works with different formats. That’s really unusual in the industry. So Trinnov is really giving us the opportunity to make that happen here.

What sets Trinnov apart from other brands?

With Trinnov you get a very nice calibration system and the optimization gives us the possibility to adjust time, phase and delays. This is because the speakers are in different places, and you don’t sit in the same place all the time. We constantly try to think of it as a really impressive big toolbox.

With the Trinnov system, you have all the tools you need. That doesn’t mean that you should use them heavily, but some of them should just be there, just in case. And some of them you need to tweak a little bit. We constantly try to make the best possible room before. So we have good acoustics, to have a good clean sheet for sound to be very nicely reproduced. And then we use the optimization to do that little bit of extra tweak for the client.

There’s also built-in flexibility that allows us to do so much! We can choose how much it should do, how little it should do, where it should do it, if not to do it in some part of the frequency range… That’s really, really outstanding.

How would you describe your experience working with Trinnov?

As an integrator, you come up with loads of different problems that you need to solve on the fly. And all of those concerns haven’t reached a support team in another country yet. It could be just an upgrade for an HDMI card. It could be Apple TV, a new software upgrade or something that went wrong, and it went wrong in that system. And then it’s very good to have a great support team, which also includes sales team, because the sales hear about this more frequently as they are around visiting many different cinemas.

I can’t find it in any other company than Trinnov, so it’s a blessing working that way. And then in Sweden, we’re also fortunate enough to have a great distributor for Trinnov. They’re helping out a lot, not just with the technical stuff, but also with logistics and planning, how to get stuff in time and all of that. We’re very fortunate here to have that. 

”Buy quality the first time and you will be much happier.”

In your opinion, should other integrators consider using Trinnov?

It’s a matter of what do you want out of your home theater. For me, it’s all about the experience. I want to have a great experience when I’m sitting there, and you can’t get a great experience if you’re not using the right solution. Trinnov is making the best sound processing we have ever heard. So that’s why we like using it.

Also, one interesting thing is that in smaller rooms, which we have quite a lot in Sweden. It becomes even more important how the processing is done because you can’t get away with big spaces and the sound traveling some space. It needs to be very precise, and that is a perfect reason why you should invest in a Trinnov in the first place.

The other thing is that it’s lasting so long. It was released eight years ago, there’s still nothing on the market that surpasses it. If you want to go another way, go ahead. You might be happy, but you will need to change your receiver or your processor in a couple of years, and then in a couple of years again. And in a couple of years again. So I have clients who’ve been on this journey over these eight years who have switched processors four times, and it’s not going to be cheaper. So buy quality the first time and you will be much happier.

A year after the introduction of WaveForming and its unique way of controlling wave propagation. Pressurization adds to the range of active acoustic technologies from Trinnov, making available, for the first time, a dedicated technology to address each of the different acoustic behaviors in home cinema rooms.

Read more

Multiple partners are revisiting their showroom systems to enable demonstration of WaveForming.

Paris, France and East Hampton, Connecticut, USA– May 31, 2023 – Trinnov Audio, designer and manufacturer of reference audio processors for home theaters, high-end hi-fi, professional audio and commercial cinemas, is pleased to announce that following the successful first public demonstration of WaveForming, its revolutionary new technology at the 2023 ISE show in Barcelona, multiple partners are incorporating the technology in their respective demonstration systems on a global basis. Trinnov’s R&D team also reports significant progress on multiple fronts.

INDUSTRY ADOPTION PROGRESS

Trinnov’s new WaveForming^TM technolgy has the promise of significantly advancing how frequency reproduction, with the potential of profoundly transforming home theater design guidelines. With the cooperation of industry partners, Trinnov’s intent is to elevate home theater performance through a design-driven approach to implementation of this scientifically uncompromised technology.

Whilst at ISE, in addition to the open demonstrations, Trinnov made exclusive presentations to key partners. As a result, over a dozen showrooms are being reconfigured to accommodate the placement of loudspeakers necessary for the technology, with dozens more interested. These projects span the globe and include showrooms of speaker manufacturers, distributors and dealers.

We are pleased to report that the response to our presentation at ISE was instant and highly positive. During the show and immediately afterward we were contacted by multiple partners indicating their interest in upgrading their showroom environments to enhance their product presentations by incorportaing Trinnov WaveForming^TM, with a number already under construction, some of which have already completed the required modifications. To our surprise, the WaveForming^TM demonstration also caught a lot of intrerest in the pro audio industry.” Arnaud Laborie, Trinnov Audio co-founder and CEO

FIRST DEMONSTRATION AFTER ISE

Krix jumped on the opportunity and has already showcased WaveForming^TM in a 5.8.4 channel configuration with an Altitude¹⁶ using the +4 channel upgrade. The screen channels are Magaphonix Flats, the surround channels are Phonix, and the height speakers are IC-52’s. They used new subwoofer designs that are currently in the prototype stage. The six seat, two row theater has a 130-inch screen and is 5.8 by 4.4. by 3.2 meters high.

We were really excited and keen to implement Trinnov’s new WaveForming^TM technology into one of our demonstration rooms, just in time for our dealer training in May. The seat-to-seat consistency and dynamic realism it brings are a huge benefit to every viewer in the audience. The results are spectacular and as a result, the response from our dealers is beyond expectation!” Michael Cox, Marketing Manager at Krix Loudspeakers.

f you can impress professionals who calibrate and design home cinema’s for a living, then you are on to something. I know I am speaking for everyone who attended the Trinnov advanced training that what we experienced on our final day was a revelation. Watching movie scenes that we have seen 100’s of times left us with shivers and opened mouths. The tactile feel from the subwoofer array transcended our belief and understanding. Frequencies that traveled right through my body created sensations I have never felt. Not just the sheer impact, what we experienced was balanced over multiple rows of listening and subtle frequencies that only enhanced the overall cinematic soundscape. I can’t wait for the opportunity to show our clients what is possible with WaveForming^TM.” Mick Stillone, Director of Sydney HiFi Mona Vale.

AND OTHERS IMMINENT

Trinnov and Divatech solutions are already combining beautifully to deliver unparallelled sound quality. This is not only us talking, but also our best resellers. Trinnov’s demonstration at ISE was really impressive: it is a huge step forward. Our MACH systems are acoustic walls, and can inherently accommodate this new technology with minimal adjustment, making Trinnov/Divatech a match made in heaven. We can’t wait to update our processor and experience WaveForming^TM in our repurposed Showroom.” said Guillaume Dognin, CEO at Divatech.

A Divatech MACH 5 was used in Numéro Deux, a CEDIA Award winning home cinema project in 2021 by Frech integrator Dark Side of the Room. Divatech’s MACH walls consist of speaker and subwoofer (2x 10 inches woofers) modules that can easily be rearranged to accommodate the requirement of WaveForming^TM. The first demonstrations are planned in a couple of weeks at the time of writing.

Immediately after experiencing Trinnov’s demonstration at the ISE show in Barcelona, we made a commitment to integrate this technology into our European demonstration theater outside Amsterdam. We have enjoyed a long working relationship with Trinnov Audio and eagerly anticipate being able to showcase for our customers and the European market the major improvement this breakthrough technology in our reference theater environment.” Anders Uggelberg, founding partner of Procella Audio

Procella Audio’s reference theater is located at its Amsterdam offices. The theater, which was used by Procella and Trinnov at previous ISE shows, seats 15 and incorporates a 15.3.10 channel Dolby Atmos immersive audio system. The theater room is being remodeled to incorporate the newly introduced Procella P18Si single 18 inch subwoofers, which will be installed in the front and rear walls.

Last but not least, Trinnov already started preparing for CEDIA Expo where the public should expect a demonstration to be remembered.

SCIENTIFIC PROGRESS

At its first public presentation at ISE, Trinnov successfully demonstrated the dramatic improvement that WaveForming^TM can bring in an uncompromised environment. As a statement, this shows Trinnov’s ambition and determination to make available a solution with an unparalleled level of performance.

As Trinnov’s R&D progresses with more field tests, its team of engineers will compile data from each installation to enable the drafting and publication of clear installation guidelines. The guidelines are expected to become available later this summer. Whilst the recommendations for the ideal configurations are well defined, testing will provide validation for less demanding speaker layouts that will enable implementation in a wide variety of rooms and speaker layouts.

Trinnov WaveForming^TM is part of an ongoing research and development project that began over six years ago and is likely to keep the Trinnov team busy over the next decade. At this early date, along with limited public exposure, few may be able to filly appreciate its potential. In the following phase of development, the research team will pursue a more comprehensive approach, with the mission to establish how WaveForming^TM will produce the best results in any existing environment, even without requiring a physical change to the room or subwoofer/speaker layout and placement.

Paris, France – May 24th, 2023

In May 2003, Trinnov Audio SA was incorporated near Paris, France by Arnaud Laborie, Remy Bruno and Sebastien Montoya. Fast-forward 20 years and our 3 co-founders, still at the helm today, share some insights on the beginning of this extraordinary journey and where Trinnov goes next.

A BRIEF LOOK IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR

In 20 years, Trinnov went from a student’s research project to a reference in active acoustics, and one of the most successful audio businesses in France. 

20 YEARS TO BUILD A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS

“We started in my grandmother’s living room, which we had turned into an acoustic lab covered with more than 20 custom-built speakers. Looking back, I realize how much we have done and I am very proud of what we have accomplished”, says Arnaud Laborie, co-founder and CEO.

Trinnov is now a team of over 60 people spread across 6 time zones with sales representation in more than 70 countries.

The company is renowned for its innovative audio processing technologies, but also develops its own hardware. Trinnov sells digital audio processors in some of the most demanding environments, ranging from professional studios (over 3000 studios use the Optimizer technology daily), commercial cinemas to high-end Hifi and home theaters.

“We have an installed base of over 10 000 processors and we are accelerating our transition from a craft operation to a true industrial operation.” added Sebastien Montoya, co-founder and head of production.
 

20 YEARS FIGHT FOR BETTER SOUND CALIBRATION

Besides this entrepreneurial success, Trinnov gradually managed to overcome the forceful rejection of digital acoustic correction and significantly contributed to the acceptance of such a game-changing technology, particularly in the professional audio industry.

“Our first customer was the ORF, the Austrian national broadcaster and one of the most renowned audiovisual institutions in Europe, who placed an order to equip 10 of their multichannel control rooms after we personally demonstrated the benefit of our Optimizer technology. We had to wait and keep fighting hard for another 15 years before Loudspeaker/Room optimization eventually became something obvious for a majority of studio owners.” added Arnaud Laborie.

Trinnov never claimed to replace passive acoustics, but keeps challenging the benefits and limits of both active and passive acoustics and the optimal combination of both.

20 YEARS TO BUILD A REPUTATION

Trinnov’s excellent reputation might be one of the company’s most significant and valuable achievements during these first 20 years. 

“I believe it essentially comes down to the fact we have always looked after our clients, and delivered stable software and hardware.” said Remy Bruno, co-founder and director of R&D.

“Hearing how positively people mention Trinnov in the industry is very rewarding but also humbling. It helps us stay focused and keeps reminding us that we have to keep working hard to maintain that reputation and to earn people’s respect”, concluded Arnaud Laborie.

THE TRINNOV FORMULA

Since its creation, Trinnov never deviated from its founding principles and original spirit. The Trinnov journey started with a true passion for audio, and was driven by innovation as well as great ambition.

INNOVATE, NOT IMITATE

“After our time at IRCAM, we had a good understanding of the state of the art in audio research. That’s why we decided to focus our own work on spatial audio, which was almost uncharted territory at the time. This was far more challenging scientifically speaking but also much more rewarding in case of success. Creating our own unique path rather than following existing trends still defines a lot of what we do.” said Arnaud Laborie.

“We always had the ambition and knew we could become a world technological leader in our field of 3D audio”, added Sebastien Montoya.

“At Trinnov, we cover every step of the innovation process from fundamental research to product development. We constantly push the boundaries of knowledge about sound, acoustics, signal processing and human perception. We believe it sets us apart in our industry.” said Remy Bruno.

CREATE LASTING IMPACT, LOOK FAR AHEAD

True impactful innovation usually stands the test of time and Trinnov’s work is no exception. The Optimizer is still perceived as best-in-class, 18 years after its first introduction at the Audio Engineering Society. And our unique CPU based audio processing platform delivers unrivaled processing power. It allows the Altitude platform to remain the highest performing immersive AV Processor on the market, almost 10 years after its introduction. with the ability to render immersive sound formats at their full capability including the 34 channels Atmos channels or to process natively up to 24 channels at 192k.

“Quite honestly, this success is almost unintentional and just resulted from our intention to make quality products and impactful technologies, but if we consider the average life cycle, repairability, and upgradeability of our products, Trinnov is probably one of the most sustainable audio processor  manufacturers”, commented Sebastien Montoya. 

In fact, the notion of sustainability is truly fundamental for Trinnov. No major decision regarding technology, product, hire, or investment is made without reasonable confidence that it won’t be questioned or significantly challenged in the next 5 years.

BUILD A FANTASTIC GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS

“To make right decisions and build durable products, we rely on collective intelligence. The whole team can give their opinion and most of the time, the best decisions are consensual. This is not always the most efficient method but it enables us to avoid major mistakes. It also keeps the team engaged and motivated. This is not a management trick we have learned in a book and implemented with the help of a consultancy firm, it’s just the way it works naturally in the company”, added Remy Bruno.

“I think we have managed to create a good working environment, where people work with what they love, respect and learn from each other, never feel too much stress or under unnecessary pressure. Being fundamentally looking far ahead, with long term goals, we run a marathon, not a sprint.” added Arnaud Laborie.

 

EDUCATE AND SUPPORT THE INDUSTRY

True innovations open new possibilities but have also a deep impact on our habits, practices and workflows. Successful adoption takes time and requires to shift minds. This is why we are very active with education. As an example, 10 years ago when the immersive sound formats were released Trinnov had not only to resolve their compatibility but also to redefine design guidelines to ensure successful projects on the field. This work secured the adoption of high channel count immersive sound at home and has been the foundation of a significant revision of the CEDIA design guidelines (RP22) for residential integrators.

Adopting Trinnov goes well beyond acquiring a product. It is also joining a community that relies on deep expertise to elevate the industry. This is why Trinnov received the CEPro award for best training program and our CEO is still delivering some training himself, for instance at CEDIA.

STAY SAFE, STAY IN CONTROL

Trinnov raised funds twice, but is still majority owned by the 3 co-founders. 

“Trinnov could grow significantly faster, but what matters more to us is to keep a healthy, organic and steady growth. So, we make sure we develop a sustainable business, diversified geographically and also by addressing very different markets. I believe this makes us more resilient than a lot of small to medium audio manufacturers”, said Sebastien Montoya.

“It is essential for us to be able to make our own decisions, to remain true to ourselves for as long as we can. We have received some offers, but Trinnov is not for sale.” said Arnaud Laborie.

This consistency, continuity, and stability helped the company grow through the 2008 and Covid-19 crisis with an average double-digit growth year to year.

2023: THE FUTURE IS ALMOST HERE

Like most other companies, the Covid-19 pandemic heavily disrupted Trinnov’s plans and required significant R&D resources to overcome the difficulties posed by the lack of certain components.

But the long-term focus prevailed.

Throughout this period, Trinnov kept hiring and significantly grew the research and development team to stay on track and even accelerate its long-term developments and critical projects.

“We look for very specific profiles, as talented as passionate about sound. It’s certainly slowed down our hiring program, but the R&D team is now almost 50% of our staff.” commented Remy Bruno.

Trinnov will continue to focus on unique breakthrough innovations that will redefine high performance sound reproduction. After pioneering – and now leading – the fields of room optimization, computer based audio, high resolution immersive sound, Trinnov is focusing on new uncharted territories that will have similar impact.

In 2023, years of extensive research and development materialized into very exciting new technologies and products, opening perspectives for what to expect next from Trinnov.

Maybe the word pivotal year applies here, to celebrate this 20th birthday with style.

WAVEFORMING

The main research project was obviously WaveForming, started more than 6 years ago, announced and showcased at ISE 2023. 

WaveForming redefines low frequency reproduction with an uncompromised and revolutionary scientific approach to eliminate all sorts of wave interferences such as reflections and room modes. The second demonstration outside Trinnov and ISE was held in Australia in front of a professional audience who attended a Trinnov and Krix training.

“The feedback we got only equals the confidence we have in the potential of this new patent-pending technology”, said Arnaud Laborie.

‘‘ If you can impress professionals who calibrate and design home cinemas for a living, then you are on to something I know I am speaking for everyone who attended the Trinnov Advanced training that what we experienced on our final day was a revelation. Watching movie scenes that we have seen 100’s of times left us with shivers and opened mouths. The tactile feel from the subwoofer array transcended our belief and understanding. Frequencies that traveled right through my body created sensations I have never felt. Not just the sheer impact, what we experienced was balanced over multiple rows of listening and subtle frequencies that only enhanced the overall cinematic soundscape. Thank you to Tom, and the team at Krix for sharing their knowledge and sharing their excitement. It was contagious. I can’t wait for the opportunity to show our clients what is possible with WaveForming.” Mick Stillone, Director at Sydney HiFi Mona Vale

The whole team is really excited and proud to drive this innovation forward.

NOVA

Whilst Trinnov’s research team was busy developing WaveForming, software and hardware engineers were not at rest with NOVA, the company’s latest processor introduced in April at the NAMM Show, and designed for studio application.

NOVA is not just another Trinnov processor, as it only shares the Optimizer with the rest of the range. Over the last 4 years, everything has been redesigned and rewritten:

• New hardware platform
• New operating system
• New graphical user interface
• New desktop and mobile applications
• New measurement microphone
• New Optimizer licenses management system
• New intranet & extranet
• New test benches & production lines

“NOVA changes everything for Trinnov in terms of perspective. With NOVA, we set new foundations for our next development phase, we streamline all of our internal processes and simplify the installation and operation of our products. We equip ourselves with the ability to unlock our full potential as an innovative company. We gradually make our technology more widely accessible.”, said Sebastien Montoya.

But NOVA does not change everything for Trinnov customers. For sure NOVA is more user friendly, easier to apprehend than any other Trinnov product before it. Indeed it is also the least expensive Trinnov product ever announced.

But NOVA does not change everything for Trinnov customers. For sure NOVA is more user friendly, easier to apprehend than any other Trinnov product before it. Indeed it is also the least expensive Trinnov product ever announced. But it does not fundamentally change the performance gain anyone gets from an existing Trinnov product. In fact, Trinnov believes no one could notice a difference in blind tests. Previous generations of pro products will continue to deliver state of the art room optimization for the many years to come.

 

WHAT’S NEXT?

As a company, in this fast changing world, Trinnov faces as many challenges as opportunities.

“As a successful, truly innovative engineering driven company, we face a lot of challenges, including the overwhelming importance of marketing and communication (our marketing team consists of only 2 full-time persons), the mindblowing flow of information, true or false, that one can read on the internet every day.” commented Arnaud Laborie.

“But as a successful, truly innovative engineering driven company, we are offered more opportunities than we can accept. Licensing, pure software solutions, the automotive or live market…the most difficult part is to carefully choose the best path, as we believe and hope we have done so far.” added Remy Bruno.

In addition to Waveforming and NOVA, we will unveil in 2023 other multi-year efforts including a massive project to open a new facility that matches the ambitions of the company.

But our 3 co-founders and the entire Trinnov team know that none of this would be possible without the incredible support from our community of suppliers, partners and customers.

“We can’t say how grateful we are to all our customers, from the early adopters who believed in our technology before anyone else, to the person who is impatiently waiting for his Trinnov processor to be delivered or installed.” said Sebastien Montoya.

“To all of you we want to say thank you. And whilst a lot of changes are happening at the moment, as disclosed in this interview, we appreciate that it may be confusing and raise questions about the future of the existing products. Rest assured of one thing: our commitment to sustainability and to our clients remains unchanged. It may take time before we can get to it, but we will keep maintaining existing products and bridge the gap to the upcoming generation of Trinnov processors to offer the same sound performance and user experience”. added Arnaud Laborie.

Meanwhile, Trinnov invites everyone to stay tuned for further announcements this year, and to seize any chance to attend upcoming WaveForming demonstrations and form an opinion out of this incredible new experience.

Paris, France – Trinnov Audio will demonstrate its new groundbreaking acoustic processing technology, based on years of research, at ISE 2023 (booth 2D150). In partnership with Krix, Sony & Officina Acustica, this new digital sound field control system makes its debut in an active 13.16.6 channel home cinema system.

The revolutionary new acoustic technology from Trinnov Audio

For the first time, Trinnov will demonstrate its new technology to the public. This innovation takes the fundamental research of Trinnov in acoustics and signal processing to the next level and effectively eliminates room modes.

“In 2023, we officially celebrate our 20th anniversary as a company. It has been an incredible journey so far and we are proud to celebrate this with style, by unveiling yet another groundbreaking technology. This is a major milestone in our development, and it will further reinforce our singularity and leadership for years to come” said Arnaud Laborie, Trinnov co-founder and CEO.

For more than 15 years, Trinnov’s Optimizer has been recognized as the best-in-class loudspeaker/room optimization technology by the most demanding experts across multiple markets, from studios to commercial cinemas and home theaters. The Optimizer’s purpose is to improve the sound reproduction of any loudspeaker in any given acoustic environment. With this major evolution and addition to the Optimizer, we rely even more dramatically on the very fundamental aspects of acoustics and physics. 

In its first iteration, this new algorithm uses subwoofer arrays and sophisticated processing to control the acoustics of the room. 20 years after Trinnov’s original breakthrough research work, the French innovators return to their deepest roots and mission of innovating in acoustic field processing. With this break-through, one can truly start talking about Active Acoustics.

“We started research on this very ambitious technology more than 6 years ago. At ISE, we will be demonstrating the technology in an uncompromised environment, delivering the highest possible performance generally expected from Trinnov. Although the technology is fully functional, we will first roll it out selectively, based on specific projects, before offering the finalized software as a complimentary upgrade to Altitude¹⁶ and Altitude³² owners. We have reached a point where we believe this new technology has the potential to redefine home theater design. It may well set a new standard, and replace today’s best practices.” added Laborie.

Provided that the minimum required conditions are met, Trinnov claims this innovation can “make the room disappear”. 

“Traditionally, low frequency reproduction is handled through a modal analysis where resonances are identified in the frequency domain.  Through our extensive research and unique expertise in 3D acoustic fields, we propose something different. Our disruptive approach seeks to fully understand and control the behavior of the room in all its dimensions (time, frequency and the 3 dimensions of space) so that resonances are removed almost entirely and without artifacts.“

Trinnov explains that in order to achieve such results and aim for optimal performance, one must embrace a holistic approach where every aspect of the system design is understood and carefully considered.

“As our acoustician friends will all agree, you need decent room acoustics to extract the maximum benefit of a technology such as the Optimizer. Similarly, our 3D Loudspeaker Remapping technology requires sensible speaker placement to perform at its best. With this new technology, things are no different. While it will deliver remarkable improvements in most cases, the result will be truly unprecedented with a proper subwoofer implementation in the first place.” 

Engineering focused demonstration

To deliver the highest possible performance, Trinnov will demonstrate this groundbreaking innovation in an uncompromised environment. Trinnov is teaming up with a few key partners, starting with long-time and trusted partner Officina Acustica.

Maurizio Conti & Peter Aylett engineered an impressive room that includes 18 seats distributed across three rows. The excellent acoustics and exquisite design Officina Acustica are known for will not disappoint, allowing maximum performance on every level and, combined with Trinnov’s new technology, across every seat. 

All loudspeakers and subwoofers are provided by the Australian manufacturer Krix. The screen channels are comprised of Krix’s MX-40 LCR modules. These 3-way, bi-amped speakers feature Krix’s patented horn design, providing a uniform, constant directivity pattern, improved frequency response and extremely low distortion.

Krix’s most versatile surround speaker, the Hyperphonix 45, will be used in sixteen surround and overhead positions around the room to place viewers in the middle of the action.

The Double Bass Array consists of sixteen Cyclonix 18” subwoofers – eight at the front of the room and eight at the back. The immense output available, paired with Trinnov’s latest technology, is sure to provide a unique and visceral experience.

The whole system is driven by four Amplitude¹⁶ power amplifiers, showing its full power, capability, and versatility. Surround and overhead speakers are all powered with single-ended channels, whilst screen channels and subwoofers are all bridged.

On the video front, the system uses Sony’s flagship GTZ-380 10,000 lumen laser projector to illuminate a 5.8 meter wide screen. The VPL-GTZ380 is the world’s most advanced compact 4K Laser Projector. Designed and produced by Sony, equipped with native SXRD 4K panels, this projector can reproduce the full DCI-P3 color space without brightness loss. The 10,000 lumens delivered by “Raptor” are obtained through a dual laser light source combining blue and red lasers.

Thanks to Kordz, MadVR, Screen Research, Surgex and Zappit for completing the list of equipment used in this unique demonstration.

Arnaud Laborie to teach and join a panel dedicated to low frequency reproduction 

Trinnov will continue its education effort to help integrators make the right design decisions for maximum performance. This implies a sharp understanding of the contribution and limits of each component and their optimal combination. For low frequencies, the optimal design includes individual subwoofer performance, loudspeaker layout, passive acoustics and digital acoustic optimization.

Trinnov will contribute to a CEDIA course series dedicated to low frequency reproduction. Arnaud Laborie, Trinnov CEO, will present “The Double Bass Array – Next Generation Bass” at ISE on Wednesday, February 1, at 12:30 in room CC1.4. This series also includes “Subwoofer Room Gain” by Erik Weiderholtz, Perlisten Audio CTO and “Infra Bass in Private Entertainment Spaces” by Geoffrey Heinzel, Partner at Ascendo Immersive Audio GmbH. Arnaud Laborie will also join the panel session Room Acoustics for Better Bass on Thursday, February 2, at 12:30, chaired by Peter Aylett, Partner at Officina Acustica, that will discuss the best design practices to deliver excellent bass across multiple seats.

We encourage attendees to register for this course series, where they will gain deep, research-based insight to the future of bass in home cinema. 

ISE Attendees can experience Trinnov’s revolutionary technology at our booth 2D150. 

For press inquiries, please contact press@trinnov.com