A major revolution is expected in the audio world with the launch of a new type of headphones which is poised to bring a cutting-edge audio experience to the market. Jabra, an American audio firm and 3D Sound Labs, a French start-up has developed a new generation “3D audio” headphones. The headphones offer more joy to music lovers, gamers and movie buffs. It also offers unprecedented immersion in audio environments.
image source: CG Society
The sound sources are virtually positioned all around the listener’s head by 3D audio. It immerses them into a 360-degree sound spherethat mimics the experience of being embarked into the heart of a movie, a concert, or a video game. In order to achieve this, the 3D audio headphones are equipped with lots of sensors like compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, GPS etc. The sensors help to adapt the sound output to the surrounding environment and also to the movement of the wearer’s head.
3D Sound One was developed by 3D Sound Labs and was first showcased at CES 2015. The headphone is now available for US $ 324which is equivalent to INR 22,000. It is also compatiblewith devices running Windows or iOS with the help of 3D Audio Player mobile application.
Jabra also presented its first 3D audio headphones which are currently targeted for developers. They have teamed up with Microsoft and Guide Dogs UK charity to promote its technology.The aim of Guide Dogs UK charity is to adapt these intelligent audio headphones into a tool that can be used for visually impaired users. The headphone creates an audio image of a wearer’s surroundings and immerses them realistically in a given environment. Jabra’s Intelligent Headset Developer Edition was unveiled at the CES 2016 consumer technology show which was held in Las Vegas. It costs around US $ 420. They provide a portable alternative to 3D audio setups like home theatre systems. Which is expensive and space consuming.