Research & development

Ideas into
instruments.

We collaborate with universities, research groups, creative organisations and industry partners to develop music technology with real commercial and cultural potential.

Sonalux is a Liverpool-based music technology company looking for R&D collaborations in music technology, including partnerships with universities, research groups, creative organisations and industry partners.

We are interested in funded R&D projects through programmes such as Innovate UK, UKRI and AHRC, especially collaborations that combine music, sound, electronics, software, AI, immersive audio, interactive systems and creative technology.

Our focus is on developing new music technology products, services and experiences with strong commercial potential, from early research and prototyping through to pilots, demonstrations and commercialisation.

We welcome conversations with partners seeking a UK-based music technology R&D partner for projects involving immersive sound, interactive audio, sound and light systems, music learning tools, embedded electronics and AI-assisted music technologies.

Spatializer SLX venue research
2025/2026

Sonalux &
MusicFutures

The Spatializer SLX was supported through CoSTAR National Lab: Grassroots Music Venue Innovation, a MusicFutures project designed to help grassroots venues explore innovative ways to attract new audiences. Through this support, Sonalux developed the rack/controller version of the Spatializer SLX, enabling quick installation in venues using a standard 19-inch rack and offering musicians and DJs a more intuitive way to control spatial sound.

Sonalux digital speaker prototype
2023/2024

X-Audio &
Digital Speakers

Innovate UK supported Sonalux between 2023 and 2024 to develop prototype speakers, specifically designed for multichannel connectivity. We have been experimenting with new solutions for spatial sound and designing smart speakers that integrate DSP, addressable LEDs and our innovative SLX protocol.

Sonalux MagicPick
2020/2022

Smart Guitar Accessories

We have not only designed the MagicPick, but also developed several plectrum prototypes with other special powers. We have also worked on sound wireless transmitters, augmented guitar whammy bars and other innovative ideas.

More about MagicPick
OPPO and AudioTrek electronic sensor and camera prototype
2019/2020

OPPO

Oscillating Personal Place Occurrences. Sensor-box IoT project developed in collaboration with Sensor City, University of Liverpool and TNW doctoral cohort (AHRC).

AudioTrek

AudioTrek was an AI-powered sound-assistive navigation prototype developed in collaboration with Pulse Systems to support visually impaired users. The device combined machine learning, distance sensing, colour detection, and object-recognition capabilities to interpret the surrounding environment and deliver real-time audio guidance.