A hybrid approach to rendering multichannel audio, using wave‐field synthesis and stereophonic techniques, with virtual microphone control

In the evolution of multichannel audio presentation, a number of formats have emerged including 5.1 surround and wave‐field synthesis (WFS). Due to the complexity and number of components required to realize an immersive WFS system, the use in a home theater environment is currently impractical. This study aims to investigate the perceptual advantages of integrating both systems into a hybrid array capable of providing immersive sound for a number of listeners, at a scale that is attainable for the consumer in terms of budget and complexity. In this approach the three front speakers (left, center, and right) are replaced with a linear line array allowing for a better lateral and depth imaging, while increasing the sweet spot. The rendering will be created using Virtual Microphone Control (ViMiC) for both WFS, simulating a line of omnidirectional microphones with ViMiC, and surround sound, which will allows dynamic source movement, speaker positioning, and scalability. The advantage of using this hybrid ap...