ABSTRACT

Ambisonic audio was developed in the 1970s by Michael Gerzon and the British National Research Development Corporation. It is getting much wider use as more tools are developed for gathering, implementing, and playback of spatial audio. This chapter aims to provide filmmakers with both the big picture on where immersive is headed, and some practical storytelling tips for the tools and strategies they will need to become successful in building the audio story for three-dimensional experiences. Breakthroughs in the recording, mixing, and playback of spatial audio have given creators new tools and workflows, allowing immersive sound to take its rightful place alongside immersive visuals. Spatial audio can refer to a wide range of sound, from stereo to the various types of multichannel surround sound to binaural and ambisonic sound. The chapter looks at what is emerging in spatial audio and how it affects filmmakers as a filmmaker.