Figure 3
WHAT IS IMMERSIVE AUDIO ?
Before we get too far into this topic , let ’ s define some important terms :
1 ). Immersive Audio , also known as Spatial audio and 3D audio , is a set of technology solutions that enable sound to be recorded in a 3D environment . They also enable that sound to be accurately reproduced in a virtual 360 sphere surrounding the listener . These solutions include ambisonic and binaural microphones , plug-ins , rackmount encoders or decoders and standalone applications .
To break this down further , Spatial audio solutions consist of consumer formats , such as Dolby Atmos , Auro-3D , Sony 360RA , etc . 3D audio solutions generally adhere to the MPEG-H specification , the most notable exception is Sony ’ s Tempest audio for the PS5 .
2 ). Sound source : Any object that emits sound , such as a live instrument or a recorded track .
3 ). Sound field : Any 3D environment where sound is moving . That is , the sonic environment ( acoustic field ) that surrounds a sound source .
4 ). Object-based audio : Enables playback of Immersive Audio independent of speaker configuration or placement . Metadata associated with each sound provides the
position and directionality of each sound source to the playback device , such as a soundbar .
5 ). Channel-based audio : Maps each sound source to a specific speaker , such as in surround sound systems .
6 ). Ambisonics : The underlying theory behind Immersive Audio . Simply put , sound sources are represented by their directionality . That is , the pattern and direction of the sound they radiate in a 3D space , and their physical properties , such as sound pressure level , density , etc .
WHY DOES IMMERSIVE AUDIO MATTER ?
To further build on the “ aha ” moment at the beginning of this article , there are three reasons why Immersive Audio is a game changer for consumers , producers and decision makers . They are :
1 ). Detailed 3D reproduction By recording the depth , width and height of sound sources in a 3D environment , Ambisonics provides a more detailed snapshot than traditional recording techniques . Because this lines up more closely with the way we experience sounds in the real world , the playback is a far more immersive experience .
2 ). Head Tracking This provides a basic interactive audio experience for the consumer . While the playback is in progress , if they turn their head to the left , the sound sources at the front of the mix shift to the right , maintaining their orientation to the front of the virtual sphere . A similar shift occurs when the consumer turns their head to the right – the sound sources at the front shift to the left . This again provides a more convincing experience because it aligns with how we hear sound in the real world .
3 ). Easy access Unlike the complex setup and specialized equipment required to play back surround sound , Immersive audio can be experienced on a mobile device with earbuds . A growing number of soundbars , streaming devices and services now support it , further lowering the barrier to entry . See Figure 2 for a roundup of devices and services that support Immersive Audio .
CAN IMMERSIVE AUDIO ENHANCE THE WORSHIP EXPERIENCE ?
Worship is intended to connect people with Almighty God and to each other , in a more meaningful way . In addition , it can provide an engaging , energetic and memorable experience that we can savor throughout the week . While
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