AES Fall Convention 2023

In recreational listening, we have all but said goodbye to stereo as a predictable format; as consumers are mainly listening on pods, soundbars and headphones. Even so, AES standards have served production well, ensuring 75 years of content that may still be reproduced as the artist intended.

3D sound, however, has taken off on a tangent with a multitude of ad hoc listening and distribution methods, creating confusion in production. 3D sound lacks the support from global standardization stereo had; and as a result, experienced recording artists in the field are being adversely influenced by moving playback targets; and by arbitrary content flooding the consumers.

From recording, recreational and physiological perspectives, we discuss qualities offered by 3D music compared to stereo, and propose guidelines that enable a transparent listening experience, also for future generations to enjoy.