THX Steerable Line Array

[sholling]

This looks like an interesting if potentially expensive concept.

Gizmodo Blurb

As the name implies, the system uses an array of 92 speakers in total: 30 low, 30 mid-range, and 32 high-end tweeters that blast sound through a 1.4-inch tall gap. The system allows the sound to be directed more precisely, creating eight individual sweet spots that can be targeted directly via a wireless app running on a smartphone or tablet during setup.

Full Popular Science Story

Amplifiers: To fit so many speakers into the Array, THX developed a new kind of amplifier. A 100-watt amp aligns with each driver; each powers up only when its driver needs to fire and uses just one tenth of a watt when inactive. Less power means less heat, allowing THX to cut bulky heat sinks.