Belgian immersive audio specialist Areal has appointed Amptec as its official distributor for its pro audio portfolio in the Benelux region.

The announcement follows Areal’s international debut at ISE 2026, where the company introduced its practical, hardware-based approach to immersive audio workflows.

Complementary DNAs
Areal is a Belgian manufacturer focused on developing hardware and software solutions that make immersive audio usable in real-world environments. Its Upmix Engine was originally developed to address a recurring live production challenge: how to activate immersive loudspeaker systems when incoming content remains stereo. The commercial launch follows more than five years of development and field deployment at several editions of Tomorrowland festival, where the technology ultimately operated across nine stages in 2025.

Amptec is an established professional audio distributor and system integrator in the Benelux region, representing premium brands across live entertainment, studio, broadcast and corporate markets. The company is recognized for delivering benchmark professional audio solutions, accompanied by exceptional service and customer support. With deep customer relationships across the various markets, Amptec continuously adapts its portfolio to evolving production standards and technological innovation – including the transition toward immersive audio.

“Amptec is a highly respected name in the region, standing for service quality and technical excellence. They also bring proven expertise in immersive audio, making them a natural and values-aligned partner in our home market” said Kristof Jeuris, Commercial Director at Areal. “Together, we look forward to supporting customers across the region as they take the next step toward immersive sound.”

Immersive, Made Accessible
Within Amptec’s portfolio, the Upmix Engine strengthens support for customers transitioning toward immersive deployments – from festivals and touring systems to venues, corporate environments and broadcast applications.

Positioned between stereo workflows and full object-based systems, the Engine acts as a practical entry point into immersive sound. It enables multi-speaker setups to be fully utilised without disrupting established production processes, making it relevant for both new immersive projects and retrofit applications.

For rental and production companies, it provides a scalable way to prepare inventories for next-generation events. For venues and integrators, it lowers the barrier to specification and expands immersive adoption beyond productions that are already object-based-ready.

“Areal naturally complements our portfolio and our commitment to innovation,” said Dieter Claeys, Sales Director at Amptec. “The Upmix Engine responds to a clear market evolution and enables us to support rental companies, venues and integrators with a pragmatic approach to immersive audio. Customers will be able to experience the solution firsthand in our immersive lab, where we can demonstrate its integration within real-world system setups.”
The appointment of Amptec marks the beginning of a structured European distribution rollout for Areal. The company is building a selective partner network focused on innovation, technical credibility and quality of service.

The partnership establishes a strong foundation for long-term collaboration as Areal continues to develop its portfolio and expand its international presence.

Further distribution announcements will follow throughout 2026 as the company expands its international footprint.