L-Acoustics Unveils Ultra-Compact LA1.16i Amplified Controller: Delivering Decades of Professional Audio Expertise in its Most Accessible Amplifier to Date
The new LA1.16i brings unprecedented amplification value and versatility to small and medium-scale installations
MARCOUSSIS, France – May 8, 2025 -- Building on the revolutionary approach introduced with the LA7.16i, L-Acoustics announces the LA1.16i, an ultra-compact 16-channel amplified controller specifically engineered for the installation market. This latest innovation delivers unmatched channel density in a space-saving 1U format, making premium L-Acoustics sound accessible for a wider range of venues and applications.
Purpose-built for near-field and short-throw applications where higher sound pressure levels aren't the priority, the LA1.16i is ideal for hospitality venues, retail environments, cultural spaces, and residential installations. Its high channel count enables the deployment of large quantities of speakers - for example, up to 48 X4i compact enclosures - while its space-efficient design maximizes rack space utilization and optimizes installation costs.
"Following the success of our LA7.16i amplified controller, we identified a clear need for a complementary solution for small to medium installations," says Genio Kronauer, Executive Director of R&D, Technologies and Platforms at L-Acoustics. "The LA1.16i applies the same innovative approach to these applications, significantly reducing the cost-per-channel of amplification while maintaining the sonic signature and reliability that L-Acoustics is known for."
Like its predecessor, the LA1.16i incorporates L-SMART, L-Acoustics' patented power management technology that intelligently matches real-time power delivery to the needs of the loudspeaker system. This innovation optimizes efficiency and ensures reliable performance while reducing energy consumption compared to traditional amplifier designs.
The LA1.16i is ideal for front-fill and delay systems in theaters and performing arts centers, distributed background music systems in restaurants, hotels, and retail spaces, L-ISA spatial audio and Ambiance active acoustics installations, and home cinema and yacht entertainment systems.
For network integration, the Milan-certified LA1.16i supports Milan-AVB and AES67 audio network protocols with seamless redundancy, alongside AES/EBU and analog inputs.
Installation-friendly features include terminal block connectors for all audio outputs, GPIOs for third-party control system integration, and a 24V DC backup power input for the DSP card.
The LA1.16i is remotely configurable, monitored using L-Acoustics LA Network Manager software, and offers integration with popular media control systems through Q-SYS plugins, Crestron modules, and HTTP API.
LA1.16i represents a significant step forward in making L-Acoustics solutions more accessible for projects where high channel count and precise audio control are required. Its unique combination of features creates a compelling amplification solution that delivers uncompromised quality at an approachable price point.
LA1.16i will ship in summer 2025. For more information on LA1.16i, please visit https://www.l-acoustics.com/product/la1.16i
The L-Acoustics Keynote 2025 presentation can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/5lZ-5bcLFVM
About L-Acoustics
L-Acoustics has been shaping the future of sound since 1984 through trailblazing innovation. Our European-designed and manufactured solutions deliver premium sound experiences from the most intimate immersive spaces to the largest stages. L-Acoustics is the #1 brand chosen by the world’s largest music festivals and installed in over 13,000 premium venues from music halls, theaters, and sports entertainment to wellness, hospitality, homes and yachts.
Our team of 1,000 employees, including 20% in design, research, and development, conceives the industry’s most award-winning and transformative sound reinforcement technologies, including the modern line source array V-DOSC, L-ISA immersive hyperreal solutions, and the eco-conscious, performance-leading L Series. These technologies have led to the company being honored with a Decibels d’Or and featured in Fast Company’s most innovative companies.
With major hubs in Paris, Los Angeles, London, and Singapore, and a network of trained service providers present in 80 countries, our technologies power the most demanding live events and memorable sound experiences: from Adele’s Las Vegas residency to the world's largest sports events, from the Zaha Hadid-designed Guangzhou Opera House to the Philharmonie de Paris Concert Hall.
Related images:
- LA_LA1-16i_Front_01.jpg - The new LA1.16i amplified controller delivers 16 channels of premium L-Acoustics sound in an ultra-compact 1U format, ideal for small and medium-scale installations.
- LA_LA1-16i_Front_01.png - The new LA1.16i brings unprecedented amplification value and versatility to small and medium-scale permanent installations
- LA_LA1-16i_Perspective_01.jpg- L-Acoustics LA1.16i combines sophisticated amplification technology with flexible output bridging capability, making professional audio accessible for a wider range of venues.
- LA_LA1-16i_Perspective_02.png - Engineered for near-field applications, the LA1.16i amplified controller maximizes rack space efficiency while delivering the unmistakable L-Acoustics sonic signature.
- LA_LA1-16i_Rear.jpg - The LA1.16i features installation-friendly terminal block connectors, Milan-AVB networking, and a 24V DC backup power input for DSP for mission-critical applications
