Spatial audio encoding and reproduction of diffuse sound

摘要

A method and apparatus processes multi-channel audio by encoding, transmitting or recording “dry” audio tracks or “stems” in synchronous relationship with time-variable metadata controlled by a content producer and representing a desired degree and quality of diffusion. Audio tracks are compressed and transmitted in connection with synchronized metadata representing diffusion and preferably also mix and delay parameters. The separation of audio stems from diffusion metadata facilitates the customization of playback at the receiver, taking into account the characteristics of local playback environment.

主权项

1. A method for conditioning an encoded digital audio signal, said audio signal representative of a sound, comprising the steps:
receiving a digital audio signal comprising a plurality of source channels for outputting a plurality of output channels; receiving encoded metadata associated with the digital audio signal, the metadata including at least one diffusion parameter indicating a desired rendering of at least one source channel with a diffuse effect; decorrelating, by a utility diffuser, a contribution of the at least one source channel in at least two output channels with the diffuse effect based on the diffusion parameter; and generating the plurality of output channels.