Virtual surround что это windows 10

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The Windows 10 Creators Update contains some hidden jewels you may not have found yet. One such jewel is Windows Sonic, a new spatial surround sound tool for Windows 10.

This small program modifies headphone audio to emulate a 3D living room-style environment. That makes it a fantastic addition for both movie and ingame sound design. Best of all, it’s available completely for free when you upgrade to the Windows 10 Creators Update.

Windows Sonic: All-Around Surround Sound

With Microsoft’s new push to create an all-inclusive operating system (OS), they’ve attempted to integrate desktop features in consoles and visa versa. Windows Sonic is one such example.

Available for desktop and console gaming alike (both Windows 10 and Xbox), Windows Sonic promises to add a new dimension to audio. Frankly, this did sound like just another marketing shtick to me and an aspect of Windows I didn’t think I would want. After having spent time with Windows Sonic, however, I must say that it’s actually a pretty great and seamless audio tool.

Sonic seems to be Microsoft’s answer to Dolby Atmos, the other spatial sound client available in Windows by default. Except for the fact that Dolby Atmos requires a subscription payment, that is.

«The spatial sound APIs allow developers to create audio objects that emit audio from positions in 3D space. Dynamic audio objects allow you to emit audio from an arbitrary position in space, which can change over time.» — Microsoft

Essentially, Sonic simulates a 3D environment using the audio that comes from your device. While this won’t necessarily work as well for movies, it works brilliantly for games.

Keep in mind, it won’t redefine the experience. That depends on the quality of your sound card and headphones. You will, however, note a definite and immediate change in the perceived depth and quality of audio.

The audio technology behind this also isn’t exactly new for Microsoft. In fact, it’s highly reminiscent of the approach Microsoft undertook with one of its newest endeavors; HoloLens.

Except, Windows Sonic doesn’t require a HoloLens. It’s available now on your Windows PC for free!

How to Enable Windows Sonic in Windows 10

Enabling Windows Sonic is surprisingly easy.

Disable Audio Effects

A few motherboard and sound card manufacturers require device software in order to use hardware properly. At times, they work in the background without the user knowing. That includes audio software.

For example, using an MSI motherboard may mean you have the Realtek HD Audio Manager software installed on your computer.

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Before using Windows Sonic, disable any effects you may have activated prior.

Once you’ve deactivated any sound effects, you can activate and enjoy using the simulated 7.1 surround sound of Windows Sonic in its full capacity.

Activate Windows Sonic

To activate Windows Sonic, right-click on the sound icon on the right-hand side of your task bar and select Spatial sound.

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Then select Open Volume Mixer, click the Speakers icon to open Speakers Properties, and switch to the Spatial sound tab. Under the Spatial sound format, click on the dropdown menu and select Windows Sonic for Headphones. Ensure you checked the Turn on 7.1 virtual surround sound option. Select Apply, and then OK.

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That’s it!

Test the Sound

It might be a bit difficult, or a bit jarring, to test the sound outright without being able to detail the exact changes in the audio. In order to gauge the audio sufficiently, head to the Dolby Labs website and download the 7.1 Dolby Test Tones MP4 file.

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With Windows Sonic turned on, attempt to map out the virtual configuration of the audio. Audio direction and location should be more noticeable than using the regular PC audio.

Up Your Audio

Microsoft is trying things out, and that’s always a good thing. With Windows Sonic, however, we see yet another of Microsoft’s attempt to merge the living room console world with Windows. In my opinion, any effort to urge this process on is a step in the right direction.

I’ve also yet to turn the effect off because it does exactly what it’s meant to do: provide an extra bit of depth to your audio.

Have you tried out Microsoft’s new spatial sound experiment? Did you enjoy it? Let us know in the comments below!

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The Windows 10 Creators Update comes packed with all kinds of little surprises. This tip covers a new feature that audiophiles will want to know about, as well as those who want to try and get a little bit extra out of their headphones and speakers.

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The Creators Update includes a feature called Windows Sonic for Headphones. It’s a spatial sound format that is supposed to make audio more immersive and give even the most bland pair of headphones a more 3D Audio feel.

It appears developers have to enable this feature via some new APIs from Microsoft. To be honest, in my tests with a cheap pair of smartphone earbuds and then a pair of desktop speakers I didn’t hear a difference. Both were routed through the headphone jack; perhaps a nicer pair of headphones would’ve made a noticeable difference.

Some users on Reddit report a better experience, while others are in the same boat as me. As the new spatial audio APIs get more use we should be able to judge the difference more accurately in the future.

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If you want to turn on the new feature today, however, it’s very easy. First, right-click the speaker audio icon in your taskbar. The right-click context menu will show a new option that reads Spatial sound (none).

Select that option, and your current audio device’s properties window will open at the new Spatial sound tab.

Now just click on the drop down menu and select Windows Sonic for Headphones, which will automatically check the box labeled “Turn on 7.1 virtual surround sound.” Now click Apply and then OK. 

You’re done! For even more goodies, be sure to read PCWorld’s guides to the Windows 10 Creators Update’s best features and hidden secrets.

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.

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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.

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On an Xbox One, you’ll find this option at System > Settings > Display & Sound > Audio Output. Choose Windows Sonic for Headphones under Headset audio.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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The incredible audio technology known as Windows Sonic for headphones is designed to elevate your auditory experience to extraordinary heights. It replicates the immersive listening experience of a 3D surround sound system through artificial means.

Today, we will explain how the Windows Sonic for headphones works its magic. In this article, you will also learn how to unlock an extraordinary auditory adventure.

What is Windows Sonic for Headphones?

Windows Sonic for headphones is a special audio tool from Microsoft that uses spatial sound technology to create a 3D listening experience. It was added to Windows 10 and Xbox One in 2017. Spatial sound, in this context, refers to the perception of audio in a three-dimensional space, mimicking the natural sound environment where sounds come from various directions around the listener.

It uses spatial sound principles to create a surround sound effect, even when using headsets with only two speakers (left and right). The primary goal of Windows Sonic for headphones is to simulate the experience of having multiple speakers placed around the listener. As a result, it provides an enhanced audio experience without physical equipment.

How does it work

The technology works by taking a surround sound mix, such as from a game or movie, and using positional data assigned to each sound in the mix. This positional data indicates where the sounds should appear in the virtual 3D space. Windows Sonic then processes the audio signals and applies psychoacoustic techniques to create the perception of sounds coming from specific directions and distances.

This is important, because it can enhance your audio experience, especially when playing games or watching movies. With Windows Sonic, you can feel more immersed in the virtual world, as the sounds feel like they are happening all around you. It makes you feel like you are in a game or movie, which can be exciting and fun.

One of the great things about Windows Sonic is that it comes built-in with Windows 10 and Xbox One, so you don’t need to spend extra money on buying specific headphones or additional hardware. It works with the headphones you already have.

It is worth noting that for Windows Sonic to work at its best, it is good to have content specifically designed to take advantage of it. For example, Dolby Atmos for headphones mixes or 5.1/7.1 surround sound content. However, it can still improve your audio experience with regular content, even though it may not be as optimized.

What is Spatial Sound

Spatial sound refers to a special audio technology that creates the illusion of sound coming from different directions in a three-dimensional space, just like in the real world. It aims to make you feel like sound surrounds you, even when using headphones with only two speakers (left and right).

To achieve this effect, spatial sound relies on software and techniques that simulate the experience of having multiple speakers positioned around you. It tricks your ears and brain into perceiving sounds as if they are coming from specific locations in the environment.

Here is how it works, the sound designers carefully create a sound mix by assigning positional data to each sound. This data indicates where the sound should appear in the virtual 3D space. For example, if there is a bird chirping, the sound designer will decide that it should come from above and to the left.

Advantages of enabling Windows Sonic for Headphones

Windows Sonic for headphones offers several advantages that enhance your audio experience in a convenient and budget-friendly way. Here are the key benefits:

1. No need for a complicated setup: Unlike traditional surround sound systems that require multiple speakers placed around the room, Windows Sonic provides a similar immersive audio experience without the hassle. You can enjoy virtual surround sound using just your regular headphones, eliminating the need for extra equipment and saving space.
2. Cost-effective solution: The best part about Windows Sonic for Headphones is that it won’t cost you a fortune. It comes included with Windows 10/11 operating systems, so there is no need to spend money on expensive equipment or licenses. This makes it a wallet-friendly option for anyone looking to enhance their audio without breaking the bank.
3. Compatible with any headphones: Whether you have high-end headphones or basic stereo ones, Windows Sonic works with any ordinary pair of headphones you already own. You don’t need to invest in specific headphones like those required for DTS or Dolby Atmos. Just plug in your favorite headphones, enable Windows Sonic, and enjoy the virtual surround sound experience.

Disadvantages of enabling Windows Sonic for Headphones

Alongside the benefits, Windows Sonic for headphones comes with the following disadvantages as well:

1. Could decrease sound quality: Unlike technologies like Dolby Atmos or DTS that have content specifically mastered for them, Windows Sonic relies on software interpretation. This can sometimes lead to inaccurate sound reproduction, leading to a potential decline in audio quality.
2. Primarily designed for headphones: Windows Sonic is primarily optimized for headphone use. While you can still use it with desktop or built-in laptop speakers, you might experience distortion or subpar audio quality.
3. Not ideal for music: Music is usually not mastered in surround sound or spatial audio formats. When you play music through Windows Sonic, it may behave strangely or not provide the intended audio experience. This means that if you are a music lover seeking accurate stereo sound, Windows Sonic may not be the best choice for you.
4. Limited compatibility with audio formats: It works best with audio content that is formatted for 7.1 channel surround sound. If you try to use it with audio that doesn’t conform to this format, it may not work correctly or provide the desired spatial audio effect.

Enable Windows Sonic for Headphones in Windows 10

You can easily enable Windows Sonic for your headphones by following any of the effective methods mentioned below:

From Taskbar

The quickest way to turn on Windows Sonic for headphones on your PC is via the taskbar. Follow these simple steps:

1. Right-click on the speaker icon displayed in the taskbar.

2. Select the “Spatial Sound (Windows Sonic for Headphones)” option.

3. Enable the Windows Sonic for Headphones option.

   

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From Settings App

Another easy way to enable Windows Sonic for headphones is via the settings app on your computer. Here are the steps to do so:

1. Press “Win + I” to open the Settings app. From there, select System.

2. Click on “Sound” and under the “Related settings” section, select “Sound Control Panel.”

   

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3. From the Playback tab, choose the playback device (headphones) you want to enable Windows Sonic for.

4. Click on “Properties”.

   

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5. A new window will open. In this window, select the “Spatial sound” tab.

6. Under “Spatial sound format,” choose “Windows Sonic for Headphones.”

   

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7. Click “OK” to save the changes.

From Device Properties

To enable these settings, you can access the device properties and follow the steps below:

1. Right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbar and select “Open Sound Settings”.

2. Choose your audio output device (headphones) and click on “Device properties”.

3. Under the Spatial sound section, select “Windows Sonic for Headphones” to enable it.

   

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Enable Windows Sonic for Headphones in Windows 11

Windows 11 menus are a little different from Windows 10. To enable Spatial Audio in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Open Windows Settings (Windows + I).

2. Under System, open Sound settings.

3. Click on Speakers.

4. Open the drop-down menu beside Spatial audio and select “Windows Sonic for Headphones“.

   

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Ending Thoughts

Windows Sonic for Headphones is a fantastic feature that enhances your audio experience without expensive headphones. Whether you are gaming or watching Netflix, enabling Windows Sonic brings spatial surround technology to your existing headphones.

Additionally, Windows 10 offers various audio software options, including audio equalizers and surround sound software. It allows you to further customize and optimize your audio setup. So, even if you can’t afford new headphones, Windows Sonic, and the available audio software ensure you can still enjoy high-quality audio and a world-class experience.

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