Pineapple Audio

Since its inception in 2007, Pineapple Audio has quietly but powerfully redefined how sound is experienced in hospitality space.

With over 17 years of expertise, the company has become a leader in designing and integrating custom audio-visual (AV) systems tailored to hotels, restaurants, and event venues. Unlike firms that treat AV as an afterthought or focus primarily on corporate clients, Pineapple Audio is dedicated to hospitality and prioritizes the guest experience.

What sets Pineapple Audio apart is its holistic design-build approach. From day one, the company collaborates with property owners, interior designers, and operators to ensure every AV element is purpose-built for the space. The goal isn’t to add speakers but to create an experience.

“At the heart of our process is the design narrative—a detailed roadmap that outlines the story, goals, and operational needs of each project,” says Matt Edgar, president. “We spend a lot of time looking at the interiors of the spaces, matching speaker finishes to colors, materials, and even wood tones. It’s about creating an experience, not just adding sound.”

Custom Solutions for Every Space

Pineapple Audio excels in customization, a critical factor in hospitality where no spaces are alike. The company has a knack for designing speakers that are as visually appealing as they are functional. From natural wood finishes to fabric-covered grills that blend with a venue’s decor, its custom designs ensure that the AV elements are an extension of the interior design.

In many projects, bulky components are integrated into seating areas, planters, or benches, delivering rich sound without sacrificing valuable floor space or aesthetic appeal. This balance of form has become Pineapple Audio’s trademark.

Managing noise is one of the biggest challenges in hospitality spaces. Loud restaurants and echoing hotel lobbies don’t just annoy guests—they hurt the overall experience and, in turn, business success. Pineapple Audio’s expertise in acoustics helps address these issues.

The team doesn’t just recommend solutions; they model them. Using advanced acoustic modeling tools, Pineapple Audio simulates how sound will behave in a space before installation. Whether adding sound-absorbing materials or optimizing speaker placement, the goal is to create environments where sound enhances the experience rather than competing with it.

Technology That Works for People

Technology is only as good as its usability, and Pineapple Audio takes this seriously. Many traditional AV systems are overly complicated, requiring extensive programming and training. Pineapple Audio flips the script, offering intuitive solutions that are easy to manage.

One standout feature is its AI-driven sound optimization. This system automatically adjusts music volume based on the ambient noise, ensuring the perfect ambiance without constant manual adjustments. It’s a practical innovation that allows hospitality staff to focus on guests instead of fiddling with controls.

The company also simplifies maintenance. Its systems are networked for remote monitoring, such that issues can be diagnosed and resolved quickly. This proactive approach is especially valuable for properties with multiple locations, providing a consistent experience.

Global Reach, Local Expertise

While Pineapple Audio calls Chicago home, its influence spans the globe. The company serves clients across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond, with offices in Dallas, Washington, D.C., and Scottsdale. Notable collaborations include writing the global AV brand standards for Hyatt and working with luxury brands like Rosewood Hotels.

Its portfolio includes projects as varied as Virgin Hotels, Justin Timberlake’s 1230 Club in Nashville, and Jon Bon Jovi’s JBJ venue. Each project reflects Pineapple Audio’s ability to adapt to different styles, scales, and client needs.

Looking ahead, the company has ambitious expansion plans. It’s targeting new markets in the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, and strengthening its presence in Europe and Asia. An upcoming office in the UAE will serve as a hub for its growing international operations.

One of Pineapple Audio’s defining traits is its commitment to measurable results. A prime example is KOR, a high-end nightclub in Taipei. Initially, the client opted for solid wood panels instead of the company’s recommended acoustic materials. After revisiting the project and implementing Pineapple Audio’s suggestions, the venue reported a 20 percent increase in patrons’ time on-site—a clear testament to the business impact of excellent sound design.

Pioneering Music Curation and AI Soundscapes

Much of Pineapple Audio’s success stems from the team’s roots in live production. Many staff members have concert touring and event production backgrounds, giving them a unique perspective on system design. This hands-on experience allows them to anticipate challenges and deliver solutions beyond standard AV integration.

“Whether it’s crafting custom speaker designs or troubleshooting complex setups, our expertise ensures that every project meets the highest quality and creativity standards,” says Edgar.

Beyond hardware, Pineapple Audio is pushing boundaries with its music curation services. Partnering with top-tier music curators and leveraging AI technology, the company creates evolving soundscapes tailored to specific environments. These soundscapes adjust dynamically based on times of day, weather, and guest demographics.

For luxury spas or wellness centers, this approach replaces repetitive playlists with rich, evolving soundtracks that enhance relaxation. It’s not just about playing music—it’s about creating an emotional connection through sound.

Shaping the Future of Hospitality Sound

Pineapple Audio is working on many exciting projects, including a roller rink nightclub in Dallas and an upscale karaoke venue in Los Angeles called Mic Drop. These projects exemplify Pineapple Audio’s ability to combine creativity, technology, and design to deliver unforgettable guest experiences. Looking ahead, the company is focused on expanding geographically and refining its processes to serve clients better globally.

“We’re doubling down on what we do best—delivering tailored AV solutions that enhance the story and vision of every space we work on,” says Edgar.

Pineapple Audio is more than an AV company; it’s a partner in crafting the stories that define hospitality spaces. By blending innovative technology, thoughtful design, and a commitment to client success, the company continues to set the standard for audio-visual excellence in hospitality.