SOUND & COMMUNICATION 49
We dig deep into the expanding world of spatial audio – and how it is rewriting
the language of experiential environments
Words Oliver Webb
W hat is a soundscape? Now a blanket phrase, the term was originally coined by Michael Southworth in 1969 to describe acoustic conditions of urban life, and was later popularised by Canadian composer and music theorist R Murray Schafer. In the world of AV tech, a soundscape is a system that combines multiple audio clips to create a surround-sound, immersive experience. And, in recent times, soundscapes have been the focus of technological development. For example, featuring a spatial audio system with 1600 speakers, a 16K resolution wraparound screen and haptic seats, Sphere in Las Vegas has changed the soundscape game. It is a venue designed to transport audiences into unique 4D sensory experiences. More generally, in environments such as hospitality venues, branded spaces and museums, teams are using sound not just to complement visuals, but to lead the narrative. From audio systems that respond to audience movement in real time to hyper-localised sound zones that create personalised listening experiences within shared spaces, the possibilities are expanding rapidly. Let’s dig deeper into some groundbreaking recent examples. AUDIO REINVENTION As spatial audio moves from theory to real-world application, manufacturers and designers are rethinking how sound systems are made and deployed. One
Sphere, Las Vegas (left) is an innovative venue for soundscapes
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