While studying for their MA in Innovation in Sound at dBs Institute, where they achieved distinction, Theo discovered a zeal for crafting multi-channel sound effects for live performances. Their collaboration with d&b Audiotechnik marked a significant leap forward, offering Theo the chance to experiment with an advanced object-based system capable of utilising up to 64 speakers and employing wavefront synthesis techniques.
Theo has since developed an extensive range of sound effects. Their creations include traditional reverbs and delays, innovative delays that retune according to specific scales or intervals, granular soundscapes that seem to swirl around the audience, even engineering sounds that mimic the Doppler effect while moving in predefined patterns, and vocal harmonisers that envelop listeners in a choral surround-sound experience.
The driving concept behind their work is to make these complex sound effects more user-friendly, enabling artists to incorporate them into live performances with ease. Theo's designs come with straightforward instructions, allowing performers to connect any MIDI controller (and potentially other controllers or sensors in the future) and receive visual feedback that illustrates how the sound will behave. This is particularly useful in rehearsal settings that might not support multi-channel environments or have limited speaker setups.
Importantly, Theo has ensured that their sound effects are compatible with any multi-channel system, from d&b Soundscape to Dolby Atmos, L-ISA, SPAT, or 4D Sound. They aspire to a future where manufacturers make their systems more intuitive, shifting away from the need for highly trained technicians to simple, creative play.
In the process of developing these effects, Theo has engaged with various artists to tailor systems that meet diverse needs, leading to the insight that a modular approach is essential for true accessibility. This project remains a work in progress for Theo, who is intent on expanding their collaborations, including continued work with d&b Audiotechnik, utilizing their demo room, and connecting with venues like Dareshack in Bristol and The Goods Shed in Stroud to push the boundaries of live sound.
