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How KLANG Is Transforming Backstage Sound for The Magic of Motown

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In March 2025, the legendary production The Magic of Motown celebrated its 20th anniversary on stage at London’s iconic Palladium Theatre. This vibrant musical show, which channels the spirit of Motown’s golden era, continues to attract sold-out audiences across the UK. Behind the scenes, sound engineer Job Lewis plays a dual role as both Front of House (FOH) and monitor engineer.

One of the most impactful upgrades to the production’s audio setup has been the integration of the immersive DMI-KLANG monitoring system, paired with the DiGiCo Quantum 225 digital mixing console. This combination has significantly enhanced both the performance quality and the comfort of the performers on stage.


A New Approach to Monitoring

On tour, where tight schedules and rotating lineups are the norm, adaptability is critical. The KLANG system allows for personalized, spatial (3D) mixes for each performer, while still giving the engineer full oversight and control.

Unlike traditional stereo monitoring, where sound is limited to left and right channels, KLANG creates a true binaural experience. Instruments and vocals are “placed” within a 360° soundscape — in front, behind, or to the sides — closely mimicking how we hear sound in real life. Each performer can independently adjust their mix using the KLANG mobile app (available on iOS and Android), while Lewis can make real-time changes from the console without disrupting his FOH responsibilities.

“My workflow changed dramatically with KLANG,” says Lewis. “It’s made my job easier and boosted the performers’ engagement. For the artists, it’s a new level of comfort — and for me, it’s a huge time-saver that reduces overall workload.”

Sound Tailored to Each Performer

The lineup of The Magic of Motown ranges from a core group of four musicians to a full ensemble that includes a horn section, percussionists, and guest performers. Up to eight vocalists may take the stage at once. This diversity requires a flexible and precise monitoring setup.

“We often have seven vocalists performing,” Lewis explains. “With KLANG, I can place each voice clearly in the mix so everyone hears themselves and their harmonies without clashing. The vocal blend is tighter, and the performances are more confident. From the very first rehearsal, everyone noticed how much easier and more comfortable it was to sing.”

Interestingly, vocalists tend to stick with their pre-configured mixes during performances, while musicians frequently tweak theirs — adjusting the spatial placement of instruments in their headphones as though positioning them in a virtual space. This hands-on control allows for a more comfortable, personalized listening experience and greater precision.

Simplicity, Reliability, and Professional Control

Despite its advanced capabilities, KLANG remains intuitive. Performers can engage with the system as actively — or passively — as they choose. Regardless of individual preferences, the system remains stable and reliable, freeing Lewis to focus on what matters most: the sound in the venue.

“I monitor every mix from the console, but it doesn’t distract me. I can make quick adjustments as needed. The Quantum 225 is our first DiGiCo desk, and it has really impressed us with its sound quality, routing flexibility, and ease of use in the tight spaces typical of theatres.”

The Bottom Line

The KLANG immersive monitoring system has become more than just a convenience — it’s a new benchmark in live sound comfort and control. For touring productions like The Magic of Motown, where each night brings a different venue and lineup, the ability to deliver consistent, high-quality monitor mixes is essential. This show is a prime example of how cutting-edge audio technology can not only improve sound, but also streamline workflows and elevate the entire performance experience for both crew and cast alike.