Spatial Synth musical creation in three dimensions

The Spatial Synth operation, promoted by Sound Particles and co-financed by COMPETE 2030, marked a decisive moment in the evolution of 3D audio applied to music creation. With the project now complete, the results confirm an ambition that was clearly stated from the outset by Nuno Fonseca, Founder & CEO of the company.

“Sound Particles, S.A. is a deep tech company recognised for its innovative and disruptive approach in the audio sector,” says Nuno Fonseca. “By applying computer graphics concepts to sound, it develops high-quality solutions with a global impact on industries such as music, video games, TV and cinema, and is widely used by major Hollywood studios in productions such as Dune, Oppenheimer, Mission Impossible and Star Wars.” 

A synthesiser born from the vision of sound in space

It was from this vision that Spatial Synth emerged: a synthesiser designed to allow the perception of sound coming from any direction, integrating space as a central element of musical composition. As Nuno Fonseca points out, “the Spatial Synth project, developed in partnership with the Escola Superior de Música e Artes do Espetáculo (ESMAE), has resulted in an innovative musical instrument that allows sound to be perceived coming from any direction, reinforcing Sound Particles’ position as a leader in 3D audio technology.”

Throughout the operation, advanced technologies, innovative synthesis algorithms and new approaches to musician-instrument interaction were explored. This work was based on a systematic collection of scientific and technical knowledge, complemented by contributions from experts and key users in the audio sector, as planned from the outset of the project.

Applied research and validation in a real context

One of the pillars of Spatial Synth was the strong link between research and practical application. “During the project, cutting-edge technologies were explored and insights were gathered from experts and key users, with validation of a proof of concept in a laboratory environment by the stakeholders involved,” explains Nuno Fonseca.

This approach not only confirmed the technical feasibility of the solution, but also allowed the instrument to be adjusted to the real needs of musicians, producers and composers, ensuring intuitive creative workflows and an excellent user experience.

The strength of collaboration between industry and academia

ESMAE’s involvement proved decisive for the success of the operation. According to Sound Particles’ CEO, “collaboration between industry and academia was decisive for success, bringing together the research teams from Sound Particles (including four PhDs) and ESMAE.” This combination of skills enabled the project to reach a higher level of technological maturity.

“The final result exceeded the initial objectives, enabling us to bring to market (TRL9) a disruptive product with high added value compared to the technology developed,” he adds.

International recognition and creative impact

With the project completed and the product launched, the impact of Spatial Synth has become evident on the international music scene. “The synthesiser is now used by many renowned musicians, including Grammy Award winners,” says Nuno Fonseca, highlighting the acceptance of the solution by top creators.

This recognition confirms Spatial Synth’s role as a tool that broadens the creative field of music, allowing users to work directly with spatial audio formats and explore new forms of sound expression.

Crucial support for innovation

For Nuno Fonseca, the financial framework was essential for turning vision into reality. “The support from Compete 2030 was fundamental, enabling investment in cutting-edge technology and contributing to the creation of a highly competitive economy,” he concludes.

The Spatial Synth operation thus demonstrates how technological innovation, combined with research and structured support, can result in disruptive products with a global impact, reinforcing Portugal’s position at the forefront of 3D audio.

Links 

Sound Particles | Website