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Netflix introduces spatial audio for Stranger Things and other originals

Netflix introduces spatial audio for Stranger Things and other originals




Netflix has announced that, starting today, it is rolling out spatial audio to select original programming. The feature should deliver more impressive sound, especially for customers who are listening to a TV show or movie with headphones on. Netflix has collaborated with Sennheiser to turn surround sound mixes into a detailed spatial audio presentation that can be played through stereo speakers or headphones; You don't need to buy anything new or own a proper surround system to make it work. According to Netflix, Spatial Audio is "compatible with all devices, all streaming plans, and does not require surround sound speakers or home theater equipment."

The company said in a blog post, "Netflix Spatial Audio helps translate the cinematic experience of immersive audio into any stereo, so the work producers do to bring you into the story no matter where you watch Netflix " Which tool do you use for this? There's a fairly limited selection of content supporting the new audio experience on day one, but you can browse through by searching for "spatial audio" in the Netflix search bar. Early options include Stranger Things 4, Red Notice, The Witcher, and more.

On supported content, the regular stereo output will now be replaced with Sennheiser's Ambeo 2-channel spatial audio. Ambeo pulls from any available surround sound or Dolby Atmos audio track for selected content and blends it into a more immersive stereo profile. “Importantly, this process preserves the original sound mix and honors creative intent with a remarkably clean sound,” said Scott Kramer, Netflix manager for sound technology. Sennheiser goes into this a bit more on its website:

While the Ambeo 2-Channel Spatial Audio isn't a separate mix, creators still have finer control over spatialization. Mixers can define the amount of Ambeo processing separately for each group. Re-recording mixers can dial-in the desired amount of processing, from standard stereo mixdowns to full ambio effects, and anywhere in between. Dialogue can be left untouched, while maximum spatialization can be applied to the surroundings and sound effects.

For those with full Atmos systems in their living rooms, Netflix's spatial audio is nothing new or different from anything they've experienced before. But it can be a good upgrade while keeping you entertained on the go. If you've ever used spatial audio on AirPods while watching a movie or TV show on supported apps, it might be the same—only without the head tracking part.

Spatial audio is often less noticeable and can be overwhelming when listening with a laptop or standard TV speakers, but I'll definitely try some of these supported shows and movies in the coming days to see what makes it better. makes. There is kind of a difference.

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