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Знаете ли вы, что в Windows 10 можно легко и быстро включить пространственный звук, чтобы наслаждаться эффектным иммерсивным звучанием?
Что такое пространственный звук (Spatial Sound)?
Представьте, что вы смотрите фильм или играете в компьютерную игру и слышите звук пролетающего вертолета не только вокруг, но и прямо над головой. Система пространственного звука дает такую возможность! Это современная иммерсивная технология, создающая эффект объемного звучания в виртуальном трехмерном пространстве, вокруг вас и над вами. Пространственный звук создает более реалистичную атмосферу, превосходя старые форматы объемного звучания типа «звук вокруг».
С пространственным звуком все фильмы и игры звучат круче. Самый высокий уровень погружения и точности дают игры, фильмы и телешоу со встроенной поддержкой этой новой технологии. Но даже если такой поддержки нет, все равно любой контент, подходящий для традиционных систем объемного звучания, автоматически звучит гораздо эффектнее.
Какие форматы пространственного звука поддерживает Windows?
В Windows 10 доступны три варианта пространственного звука: Windows Sonic для наушников (Windows Sonic for Headphones), Dolby Atmos для наушников (Dolby Atmos for Headphones) и Dolby Atmos для домашних кинотеатров (Dolby Atmos for home theater)*.
Windows Sonic для наушников можно использовать с любыми наушниками, микронаушниками и гарнитурами. Этот вариант делает звук во всех фильмах и играх более иммерсивным и обеспечивает очень высокую точность звукового окружения в играх.
С Dolby Atmos домашние и портативные устройства обретают звук Dolby премиум-качества, как в кинотеатрах. Этот вариант можно использовать с наушниками или с домашними кинотеатрами, телевизорами и акустическими системами, поддерживающими Dolby Atmos. Формат Dolby Atmos позволяет получить иммерсивный, крайне эмоциональный звук при просмотре большинства современных кассовых фильмов. Игры, поддерживающие Dolby Atmos, позволяют игрокам испытать совершенно новый уровень потрясающей детализации, точности и реалистичности пространственной звуковой картины.
Как включить Windows Sonic для наушников или Dolby Atmos?
Windows Sonic для наушников поддерживается в Windows 10 по умолчанию. Чтобы включить этот вариант, следуйте приведенной ниже инструкции.
Чтобы включить поддержку Dolby Atmos, загрузите бесплатное приложение Dolby Access из Магазина Microsoft. После этого вы сможете наслаждаться улучшенным звуком домашних кинотеатров, телевизоров и акустических систем с поддержкой Dolby Atmos без какой-либо платы. А чтобы включить поддержку Dolby Atmos еще и для наушников, вы можете приобрести через приложение Dolby Access подписку, распространяющуюся на 10 устройств (включая Xbox One).
Как включить на моем компьютере Windows Sonic для наушников или Dolby Atmos?
Чтобы включить пространственный звук на ПК под управлением Windows 10:
- Подключите наушники или AV-ресивер с поддержкой Dolby Atmos к ПК через порт HDMI.
- Кликните правой кнопкой мыши значок звука в области уведомлений на панели задач и выберите вариант пространственного звука, который хотите использовать. (Примечание: при выборе Dolby Atmos для наушников или Dolby Atmos для домашних кинотеатров будет выполнен переход в магазин для загрузки бесплатного приложения Dolby Access. Там будут предоставлены инструкции, следуя которым, вы сможете приобрести или включить в пробном режиме Dolby Atmos для наушников или включить Dolby Atmos для домашних кинотеатров.)
- Запустите свою любимую игру или фильм. Наслаждайтесь!
* Доступно на ПК под управлением Windows 10 Creators Update и более поздних версий.
Tags: Dolby, Dolby Atmos, Windows 10, Windows Sonic, звук
Did you know that with spatial sound, you can experience more immersive audio with the flip of a switch?
What is Spatial Sound?
Imagine watching a movie or playing a game and hearing helicopters not only fly around you, but also fly directly over you. With spatial sound you can! Spatial sound is an enhanced immersive audio experience where sounds can flow around you, including overhead, in three-dimensional virtual space. Spatial sound provides an enhanced atmosphere which traditional surround sound formats cannot.
With spatial sound, all your movies and games will sound better. Some games, movies, and shows can natively support spatial sound – which provides the highest level of audio immersion and location accuracy. Otherwise, any traditional surround sound content is automatically upscaled to also provide an enhanced audio experience.
What spatial sound formats does Windows support?
You can choose from three different spatial sound providers to hear the benefits: Windows Sonic for Headphones, Dolby Atmos for Headphones, and Dolby Atmos for home theater.*
Windows Sonic for Headphones can be used with any headphones, earbuds or headsets, and makes all your movies and games sound more immersive and enables games to place audio with pinpoint accuracy.
Dolby Atmos brings Dolby’s premium cinema experience to your home or to your device on the go. Dolby Atmos can be experienced over headphones or through your Dolby Atmos enabled home theater system, sound bar, or TV. With Dolby Atmos, you’ll be able to experience powerfully immersive and emotive audio in many of today’s blockbuster movies. Games that take advantage of Dolby Atmos provide new ways to heighten the experience for gamers with stunning detail, precision, and realism.
How do I get Windows Sonic for Headphones or Dolby Atmos?
Windows Sonic for Headphones is available out of the box as part of Windows 10. Simply follow the instructions below to enable it.
To enable Dolby Atmos, just download the Dolby Access app, available for free in the Microsoft Store. You can then enjoy your Dolby Atmos enabled home theater system, sound bar, or TV for free. To enable Dolby Atmos for Headphones, you can purchase it through the Dolby Access app for $14.99, which activates it on up to 10 devices (including Xbox One).
How do I enable Windows Sonic for Headphones or Dolby Atmos on my PC?
To enable spatial sound on your Windows 10 PC:
- Plug your headphones or Dolby Atmos capable audio-video receiver via HDMI to your PC.
- Right click on the volume icon in the Task Tray, highlight the spatial sound provider you’d like to use. (Note: If you choose Dolby Atmos for Headphones or Dolby Atmos for Home Theater, you will be taken to the store to download the free Dolby Access From there you can follow the instructions to try or buy Dolby Atmos for Headphones or enable Dolby Atmos for Home Theater.)
- Start your favorite movie or game and enjoy!
*Available on select Windows 10 PCs running the Windows 10 Creators Update or higher.
В этой публикации, друзья, рассмотрим такой вопрос: пространственный звук в Windows 11. Пространственный, виртуальный объёмный, 3D, иммерсивный — всё это понятия одного и того же. Звука, исходящего из разных точек в пространстве вокруг нас. Как мы слышим звуки в реальном мире. Что такое пространственный звук, и как его реализовать на компьютере с Windows 11?
Пространственный звук, друзья – это нечто волшебства. Звуки окружают нас со всех сторон как в реальной жизни. Фильмы, игры, музыка превращаются в настоящее приключение. Будем слышать звуки так, будто мы находимся в самом центре событий. Шаги, будто они приближаются или отдаляются. Гул самолёта, будто он пролетает прямо над нами. Шум леса, журчание реки, шелест листьев, гул ветра, будто мы находимся на природе. Гул транспорта, разговоры прохожих, звуки ресторанов, будто мы затесались среди городской суеты. В диалогах фильмов и игр будем слышать персонажей, будто они говорят рядом с нами, за спиной, сверху, снизу, кричат вдали и т.п. Будем более ярко ощущать всю гамму эмоций актёров.
Такой же объёмный звук, как в современных кинотеатрах, можем иметь у себя дома, он может исходить от компьютера. И мы сможем погружаться в разнообразие звуков прямо в своей комнате.
Пространственный звук дома можно реализовать разными способами. Можно приобрести многоканальную аудиосистему 5.1, 5.2, 7.1, 7.2, 8.0, 9.1, 9.4.
А можно ограничиться приобретением наушников, AV-ресивера или дискретной звуковой карты с поддержкой технологий пространственного звука. Решение минимум – обычные наушники или гарнитура и использование штатной технологии пространственного звука Windows 11. Ну а при наличии обычной стереосистемы или динамиков можно просто покопаться в настройках диспетчера Realtek HD.
Так, друзья, пространственный звук можно реализовать не только средствами дорогостоящих многоканальных аудиосистем, но также с помощью различных технологий виртуального объёмного звука. Технологий, использующих разные алгоритмы и эффекты, которые создают иллюзию трёхмерного аудиопространства вокруг нас. Это технологии как то:
- Windows Sonic for Headphones — встроенная в Windows начиная с 10 технология пространственного звука для наушников;
- Dolby Atmos – одна из ведущих технологий пространственного звука, используемая в кинотеатрах.
- DTS Sound Unbound – другая популярная технология пространственного звука, также используемая в кинотеатрах.
Dolby Atmos и DTS Sound Unbound требуют специальных аудиоустройств – наушников, AV-ресиверов, звуковых плат с поддержкой этих технологий. И нужно ещё платное ПО этих технологий.
Тогда как технология Windows Sonic for Headphones уже входит в состав функционала Windows 11. И может быть использована не только с устройствами с поддержкой технологий пространственного звука, но с обычными наушниками или гарнитурами.
Если у вас имеются наушники, друзья, включить Windows Sonic for Headphones можно на панели быстрых настроек звука Windows 11. Жмём значок сети и громкости в системном трее. Далее жмём кнопку панели аудиовыходов.
На этой панели смотрим блок «Пространственный звук» и кликаем «Windows Sonic for Headphones». На этом всё, пространственный звук, реализуемый штатной технологией Windows 11, включён. Но мы можем по отсылке внизу панели обратиться к дополнительным системным настройкам звука.
Запустится приложение «Параметры» с настройками звука по пути:
Здесь можем выбрать те наушники и гарнитуры, которые не установлены устройствами вывода звука по умолчанию. Зайти в их свойства.
И в блоке «Пространственный звук» включить для них Windows Sonic for Headphones. Ещё, друзья, обратим внимание, что в этом блоке для каждого устройства вывода звука есть отсылка на получение других приложений пространственного звука из Microsoft Store.
Клик по этой отсылке запустит Microsoft Store с предложениями установки приложений технологий пространственного звука Dolby Atmos или DTS Sound Unbound.
Если у вас есть аудиоустройства, совместимые с этими технологиями, можете опробовать их. Использование этих технологий, как упоминалось, платное, но каждая предлагает тестовый бесплатный период. Скачиваем приложение Dolby Atmos или DTS Sound Unbound. Запускаем. Выбираем кодек технологии в соответствии с имеющимся устройством вывода звука. DTS Sound Unbound, например, предлагает кодеки для наушников, универсальный, для домашнего кинотеатра. И жмём кнопку бесплатного опробования технологии.
Далее в свойствах устройства вывода звука, для которого мы выбрали кодек, в блоке «Пространственный звук» включаем технологию Dolby Atmos или DTS Sound Unbound.
Если это устройство значится в Windows 11 устройством вывода звука по умолчанию, технологию Dolby Atmos или DTS Sound Unbound можем применить также на панели аудиовыходов в системном трее.
Друзья, если у вас нет аудиоустройств, совместимых с Dolby Atmos или DTS Sound Unbound, в случае с обычными наушниками, стереосистемами, динамиками может помочь элементарно диспетчер Realtek HD. На большинстве ПК и ноутбуков присутствует интегрированная звуковая карта от производителя Realtek. И мы можем использовать для наших целей поставляемую вместе с драйвером звуковой карты программу настройки звука — тот самый диспетчер Realtek HD. Таковой не всегда есть в Windows, чтобы он был, необходимо установить драйверы на звук с сайта производителя материнской платы, ноутбука или с сайта самой компании Realtek.
Запустить диспетчер Realtek HD можно в панели управления Windows 11, в разделе «Оборудование и звук». Эта программа предусматривает свою технологию пространственного звука, которая может быть использована для наушников или определённых стереосистем — с декодером Matrix, встроенным в AV-ресиверы и другие аудиоустройства. Технология называется «Виртуальный объёмный звук», нужно просто установить его галочку во вкладке настроек для наушников или динамиков. Что делать, если нет стереосистемы с декодером Matrix? Для всех подряд устройств вывода звука диспетчер Realtek HD может предложить различные эффекты окружающей обстановки, с которыми можно поэкспериментировать за неимением возможности использовать пространственный звук.
Имитация различных акустических сред – оббитой войлоком комнаты, ванной, гостиной, каменных стен, концертного зала и т.п. – могут дать некие ощущения, будто звук воспроизводится в такой среде. Но, конечно, эти эффекты не заменят технологии пространственного звука.
Если у вас нет диспетчера Realtek HD, вместо него ищите приложение из Microsoft Store «Realtek Audio Control». Это современная альтернатива диспетчеру Realtek HD, но суть приложения та же. В нём есть возможность включить технологию «Виртуальный объёмный звук».
И есть возможность выбрать эффекты имитации различных акустических сред.
- Dolby Atmos and Windows Sonic are both spatial sound features in the Windows operating system.
- Windows Sonic is free, but Dolby Atmos requires a one-time licensing payment of $14.99.
- While Windows Sonic adds a surrounding 3D experience, Dolby Atmos adds an additional layer to differentiate sound height for an immersive experience.
When it comes to immersive audio experiences in the world of gaming and entertainment, two prominent names stand out i.e., Windows Sonic and Dolby Atmos. Both technologies aim to provide a three-dimensional soundscape that enhances the overall audio quality and adds depth to the listening experience.
But what exactly are Windows Sonic and Dolby Atmos, and how do they differ? In this article, we will talk about both in detail and compare the two based on their audio technologies, features, compatibility, and performance. This will help you understand which one suits your needs best.
Table of Contents
What is Windows Sonic
Windows Sonic is a special sound feature created by Microsoft for Xbox One and Windows devices. It was introduced in 2017 and is completely free to use. With Windows Sonic, you can make your audio experience more immersive and realistic.
You can use Windows Sonic with any decent headphones, and all you need to do is turn it on in the settings. It is especially great for gaming because many game developers make their soundtracks compatible with Windows Sonic, so you can hear more detailed and lifelike sounds while playing.
Learn more about Windows Sonic from our detailed article: Windows Sonic for Headphones: Enable Spatial Sound in Windows 10, 11
It works by creating a three-dimensional sound effect, making it seem like the sounds are coming from different directions around you.
How Windows Sonic Works
Windows Sonic works by creating a virtual 3D sound effect, making it feel like the sound is coming from all around you, even though it is just playing in your headphones.
The magic happens through software. Windows Sonic takes the audio signals from your games, movies, or programs and applies some clever processing to make them sound more immersive. It uses complex algorithms to calculate how the sound should reach your ears from different directions, simulating the way sound waves interact in the real world.
Imagine you are playing a game where a car is approaching from the left. With Windows Sonic, the sound of the car’s engine will appear to come from the left side of your headphones, as if it is really passing by you. The technology tricks your brain into perceiving the sound as three-dimensional, adding depth and realism to your audio experience.
Note: Windows Sonic works best with content that has been designed to support 7.1 channel formats or higher. This means that certain games, movies, or programs that don’t use these formats may not benefit from the virtual 3D effect, even if you have Windows Sonic enabled.
Learn how to enable Windows Sonic for Headphones in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
That said, Windows Sonic might not be beneficial at certain times. It might even deteriorate the sound quality. Here is a list of benefits and caveats for Windows Sonic:
Pros
- Experience spatial sound for free
- Excellent for watching movies and playing games
- Easy setup, just toggle the function on your computer or Xbox One
- No need to buy expensive equipment, any stereo headphones will work
- Windows Sonic for headphones is pre-installed on every Windows 10 and Xbox One
- No separate download is required
Cons
- Spatial sound software may be inaccurate in some cases
- Not ideal for music
- Incompatible with speakers
- Enabling the software without headphones can cause sound distortions on external/laptop speakers
What is Dolby Atmos
Dolby Atmos sound technology is created by Dolby Laboratories. It helps make the sound you hear from movies, music, and games feel more immersive and realistic. It can make it seem like the sound is coming from above, below, and all around you, like you are inside the action. In simpler words, it adds height and depth to the sounds to give you a 3D experience.
You can use Dolby Atmos with headphones or set it up in your home theater for a more amazing sound experience. To use it, you may need to pay a fee to get the license. To access Dolby Atmos, you need to buy it from the Microsoft Store for $14.99. While a 30-day free trial is available, you will have to purchase it after the trial period ends.
How Dolby Atmos Works
Dolby Atmos adds an extra dimension to the audio experience that gives us a sense of height in addition to the regular surround sound. In traditional surround sound setups, audio is played through speakers placed around the room, giving the impression of sounds coming from different directions. Dolby Atmos takes this a step further by adding overhead speakers or virtualized overhead sound to create the illusion of sounds coming from above us.
When you watch a movie or play a game with Dolby Atmos, the audio is mixed and encoded with special information about where each sound should be placed in three-dimensional space. This information is then sent to compatible speakers or headphones that support Dolby Atmos. These devices can accurately reproduce the sound effects, making you feel like you’re in the middle of the action.
The added height component of Dolby Atmos makes a big difference in creating a more lifelike experience. For example, imagine watching a scene where a helicopter is flying overhead. With Dolby Atmos, you will not only hear the helicopter’s sound coming from the sides but also from above, giving you a more realistic sensation of its presence.
To enjoy Dolby Atmos, you may need to buy specific headphones or speakers compatible with the technology. Additionally, some Windows 10 devices with the Creators Update can support Dolby Atmos without additional hardware.
That said, here are a few benefits and caveats of the Dolby Atmos feature:
Pros
- More immersive and realistic spatial sound experience
- Works with various devices and platforms, including major streaming services
- Compatible with home theater setups for a theater-like audio experience
- Offers a limited-time free trial for users to experience the technology
- Provides excellent performance with Dolby Atmos-compatible headphones
Cons
- Costs $14.99 for a license
- Requires supported hardware and software for the optimal experience
- The setup process can be complex and may require tinkering with PC settings
- Some users may find the level of sound improvement minimal for the price
Windows Sonic vs. Dolby Atmos
The chart below highlights the major differences between Windows Sonic and Dolby Atmos sound technologies:
| Feature | Windows Sonic | Dolby Atmos |
|---|---|---|
| Device Compatibility | Windows 11 & 10, Xbox consoles, Windows MR headsets | Windows 11 & 10, Xbox consoles, home theater setups, supported mobile devices |
| Setup | Built-in feature, no additional downloads | Separate software license and specific hardware support required |
| Spatial Sound | Virtual surround sound experience | Advanced spatial sound with added height |
| Hardware Support | Works with any headphones/speakers | Requires Dolby Atmos-compatible headphones, speakers, or home theater systems |
| Best Used For | Games and movies | Games, movies, and music |
| Focus | Gaming optimized | Home theater and cinematic audio experience |
| Cost | Free | $14.99 license fee after a free trial period |
| Platforms Supported | Windows PCs, Xbox consoles | Windows PCs, Xbox consoles, mobile devices, streaming platforms |
How to Choose Between Dolby Atmos and Windows Sonic?
Picking which sound technology fits your needs the best can be tricky. To help you decide, we have compiled a comprehensive guide that explains the key considerations before making the purchase.
Compatibility
It is essential to check if your hardware and operating system support Windows Sonic or Dolby Atmos. Different platforms such as Windows PC, Xbox consoles, or mobile devices have varying compatibility with spatial sound technologies. Ensuring compatibility is crucial to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.
Compatible devices for Windows Sonic:
- Windows 11/10 computers
- Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S consoles
- Windows Mixed Reality headsets
Compatible devices for Dolby Atmos:
- Windows 11/10 computers
- Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S consoles
- Home theater systems with Dolby Atmos support
- Dolby Atmos-compatible headphones and speakers
Note: Compatibility may vary depending on specific device models, software versions, and updates. It is recommended to check the official documentation or manufacturer’s specifications to confirm compatibility with Windows Sonic or Dolby Atmos.
Purpose
Considering the environment and the purpose of sound enhancement is vital. Depending on which type of hardware you’ll be using, such as headphones, external speakers, or a surround sound setup, and the purpose it will be used for, such as watching movies, listening to music, etc., you can decide which sound-enhancing technology will be right for you.
-
For general use and convenience:
If you are looking for a spatial sound solution that is easy to set up and compatible with a wide range of headphones or speakers, Windows Sonic is a suitable choice. It offers virtual surround sound and can enhance your audio experience without requiring specialized hardware.
-
For a cinematic experience:
If you are primarily interested in creating a cinematic audio experience, especially for movies and home theater setups, Dolby Atmos is the recommended option. It is designed to provide a three-dimensional sound experience with added height channels.
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For gaming:
Windows Sonic and Dolby Atmos can enhance the gaming experience, but the choice depends on your preferences and hardware setup. If you already have a good pair of headphones or speakers and want to experience virtual surround sound, Windows Sonic is a suitable and convenient choice.
However, if you are seeking a more realistic and immersive gaming audio experience, Dolby Atmos with specialized gaming headphones or speakers can provide enhanced spatial sound and improved accuracy for in-game audio cues.
-
For music:
When it comes to listening to music, Dolby Atmos is the preferred choice for those seeking a heightened audio experience. It can provide a more immersive and enveloping sound, especially for music that is mixed and encoded in Dolby Atmos format.
Setup
Evaluating the setup process helps determine the ease of getting the spatial sound technology up and running. Windows Sonic is typically straightforward, as it is built into the Windows operating system. On the other hand, Dolby Atmos may involve additional steps, such as software downloads, licensing costs, and configuration settings.
Spatial Sound Experience
Windows Sonic offers virtual surround sound that creates an immersive atmosphere by simulating directional audio cues. Whereas, Dolby Atmos takes it a step further with an advanced spatial sound that includes height channels. As a result, it produces a more realistic and lifelike audio environment.
Your desired level of immersion and audio quality plays a key role in determining the right choice. If you prefer a solid virtual surround sound experience that enhances overall audio, Windows Sonic may suffice. However, if you seek a more immersive and lifelike soundstage with precise sound positioning, Dolby Atmos provides a heightened sense of realism.
Streaming Platform Support
If you plan to use spatial sound for streaming services, checking which platforms support each technology is crucial. Windows Sonic is supported by a wide range of applications and platforms, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Spotify. Dolby Atmos is also supported by multiple streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Music.
Therefore, always check which platforms you’ll be using and which sound enhancement technology is supported by them before selecting one.
Cost
Evaluating the cost implications is important when choosing between the technologies. Windows Sonic is typically available for free, while Dolby Atmos requires a one-time $14.99 license fee after a trial period. Assessing the value you expect to derive from the technology and determining if the cost is justified helps make an informed decision based on your budget.
Final Words
The debate between Windows Sonic and Dolby Atmos has shed light on the world of spatial sound technologies for headphones. While both options provide immersive audio experiences, the final outcome relies on several factors.
Windows Sonic offers a more accessible solution with less reliance on specific hardware, making it suitable for users on a budget. However, Dolby Atmos offers advanced spatial sound with added depth and realism but comes with a price tag of $14.99.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences, available content libraries, hardware and software support, and the importance of advanced spatial sound. Whether you opt for Windows Sonic or decide to invest in Dolby Atmos, both technologies have the potential to elevate your audio experience to new heights.
Quick Links
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How to Enable Windows Sonic
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How Does Spatial Sound Work in Headphones?
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What About 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound?
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How Many Applications Provide Positional Data?
Microsoft added «Windows Sonic» spatial sound to Windows 10 back in the Creators Update. Windows Sonic for Headphones is disabled by default, but you can enable it for virtual surround sound. This option is available on the Xbox One, too.
How to Enable Windows Sonic
You can easily toggle this feature on or off from the sound icon in your notification area. Right-click the speaker icon, point to Spatial Sound, and select «Windows Sonic for Headphones» to enable it. Select «Off» here to disable Windows Sonic.
If you don’t see an option to enable spatial sound here or in the Control Panel, your sound device doesn’t support it. For example, this option won’t be available when using built-in laptop speakers.
You can also access this feature from the Sound Control Panel applet. To launch it, head to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound.
Double-click the playback device you want to enable Windows Sonic for, click the «Spatial Sound» tab, and choose «Windows Sonic for Headphones» in the box. You can also enable Dolby Atmos for Headphones on the same dropdown menu. This is a similar spatial sound technology for headphones. However, it uses Dolby’s technology, and requires a $15 in-app purchase to unlock.
You can also toggle the «Turn on 7.1 virtual surround sound» option on or off on the Spatial Sound tab.
On an Xbox One, you’ll find this option at System > Settings > Display & Sound > Audio Output. Choose Windows Sonic for Headphones under Headset audio.
What is Spatial Sound?
As Microsoft’s developer documentation puts it, Windows Sonic is a «platform-level solution for spatial sound support on Xbox on Windows.» Application developers can use spatial sound APIs to «create audio objects that emit audio from positions in 3D space.» All applications can take advantage of this—new UWP apps, traditional Windows desktop applications, standard PC games, and Xbox One games.
This is exactly the data that Dolby Atmos-enabled receivers need to mix their spatial sound, so Windows Sonic enables full Dolby Atmos support in the latest versions of Windows 10. When paired with a Dolby Atmos-enabled receiver and speaker system, sounds you hear can be positioned in 3D space—vertically as well as horizontally—for an improved surround sound experience.
So, for example, if a sound is coming from above you and to your right in a movie, TV show, or video game, the upwards-firing or ceiling mounted speakers on the right side of your room will place the sound in that location—assuming you have Dolby Atmos.
The Dolby Access app in the Store will help you set up Dolby Atmos home theater audio with a Windows 10 PC.
How Does Spatial Sound Work in Headphones?
This spatial data would normally only be useful if you have a Dolby Atmos system that can actually use it. Even if you have a traditional 7.1 stereo surround sound system, you’re just getting normal surround sound with eight channels of audio—seven speakers plus your subwoofer.
However, this positional data can provide spatial sound in any pair of headphones. You just need to enable either «Windows Sonic for Headphones» or «Dolby Atmos for Headphones.» Both work similarly, but Dolby’s version uses Dolby’s technology and has a price tag, while Windows Sonic uses only Microsoft’s technology and is included for free with Windows 10 and the Xbox One.
When you enable one of these features, your Windows PC (or Xbox One) will mix the audio using the positional data, providing a virtual spatial sound experience. So, if you’re playing a game and a sound is coming from above your character and to the right, the sound will be mixed before it’s sent to your headphones so you hear that sound as coming from above you and to the right.
These spatial sound features only work with applications that provide the spatial data to Windows.
What About 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound?
When you enable Windows Sonic for Headphones, the «Turn on 7.1 virtual surround sound» feature in the Sound Control Panel is also enabled by default. On the Xbox One, this feature is named «Use virtual surround sound.»
With 7.1 virtual surround sound enabled, Windows will take 7.1 surround sound audio—in video games or movies, for example—and mix it to stereo sound, taking into account the position of the objects, before sending it to your headphones. 5.1 surround sound will also work.
To use this feature properly, you’ll need to set your game or video player to output 7.1 surround sound, even though you’re using headphones. Your headphones will function as a virtual 7.1 surround sound device.
Unlike with true surround sound, you’re still using a standard pair of stereo headphones with only two speakers—one for each ear. However, the virtual surround sound provides more better positional audio cues, which are particularly useful when playing PC or Xbox games.
These headphone features function similarly to surround sound technologies for gaming headphones like Dolby Headphone, Creative Media Surround Sound 3D (CMSS-3D Headphone), and DTX Headphone X. But they’re integrated into Windows and work with any pair of headphones.
The virtual surround sound feature works with all applications that provide 7.1 surround sound audio. Many games and movies that don’t provide spatial sound do have 7.1 surround sound support, so this is compatible with many more applications.
How Many Applications Provide Positional Data?
With the «Turn on 7.1 virtual surround sound» feature enabled, you’ll get some mixed positional audio in your headphones with any 7.1 surround sound signal. However, for the best positional audio, you’ll need applications that actually provide that positional audio data to Windows (or your Xbox One.)
It’s unclear just how many applications now support this. However, Microsoft’s documentation says that «many app and game developers use third party audio rendering engine solutions» and that «Microsoft has partnered with several of these solution providers to implement Windows Sonic in their existing authoring environments.»
One thing is clear: Any game or application that advertises support for Dolby Atmos will also provide spatial data to Windows Sonic for Headphones.
Either way, with Windows Sonic for Headphones enabled, you’ll still get positional sound as long as you have the 7.1 virtual surround sound feature enabled and you’re using applications with 7.1 surround sound. Some applications will just have better positional sound if they provide the data to Windows Sonic.
Image Credit: ktasimar/Shutterstock.com.