What Does Binaural Recording Mean?

Binaural recording, or dummy head recording, refers to the technique of recording directional sound using two omnidirectional microphones in order to create a three dimensional acoustic experience. One microphone is placed in each ear of an artificial head, which is a life-sized replica of a human head and torso complete with life-like ears (including the pinnae and ear canals).

This technique allows the sound to be modified as it travels through the artificial head so that when a person listens to a binaural recording, each ear receives a slightly different sound and frequency than the other. This is a much more accurate representation of how our brains process sounds from the real world around us – the slight difference in frequencies from each ear gives our brains valuable information that allows us to receive and process detailed directional and distance cues of different sound sources.

Check out the following example of a binaural recording that delivers an incredible sensation of feeling like you are sitting in an actual hair salon or barber shop (headphones required):

“(3D binaural recording)Asmr virtual hairdresser/barber – Binaural Enthusiast” by Deep Ocean of Sounds

Binaural recordings require playback on headphones because each ear needs to receive isolated frequencies. For this reason, binaural recordings are not suited for movie theaters or home stereo setups because speaker systems are unable to deliver isolated frequencies to each ear. When the frequencies are mixed together, the binaural effect is lost.

Filmmakers have already started integrating binaural audio in their films to give viewers who may be watching a movie on a personal device with binaural headphones a more detailed sound experience, and when binaural audio is used with virtual reality applications, filmmakers can deliver a truly innovative and immersive viewing experience.

If you are looking for sound mixers/recordists for your next project, visit our online Nevada Production Directory to find experienced Nevada production crew and support services or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you offer production and film-related services in Nevada and are not yet listed in our Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.

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