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sound and listening

Binaural audio

Headphone spatial audio designed around human ear perception.

definition

Definition

Binaural audio is a headphone-based spatial audio approach that uses the cues of human hearing to create a sense of direction, depth and proximity.

soundsol context

soundsol includes binaural work when headphone listening becomes a serious spatial, narrative or installation format.

what it is not

A stereo headphone mix is not automatically binaural. The spatial cues need to be intentional.

where it appears

Where Binaural audio appears

  • headphone installations
  • sound walks
  • VR works
  • immersive listening pieces

questions this term answers

Questions about Binaural audio

What is binaural audio?

Binaural audio creates a spatial listening effect over headphones, making sounds feel placed around the listener.

Do you need special headphones for binaural audio?

Usually no. Most binaural works are designed for standard headphones, though quality and fit affect the result.

current examples

events where this language appears

spaces and institutions

where the term has cultural infrastructure