Audio Processing

Spatial and 3D audio signal processing
Whisper Labs researchers have been investigating spatial audio for more than 5 years. As part of this research we have developed a 3D audio system known as the Configurable Hemispheric Environment for Surround Sound (CHESS). Our research has led new techniques for the compression and delivery of 3D audio, including a new spatial squeezing approach . We have also developed new approaches to synthesizing source wideness and improved spatialisation techniques.

Audio Coding and Synthesis
Scalable audio coding research within Whisper Labs has investigated low bit rate perceptual audio coding, lossless audio coding and scalable-to-lossless audio coding. The team has also researched sound synthesis techniques based on physical models, known as linked audio visual modelling.

Audio Annotation and Capture
Research into the annotation of audio has led to the development of an MPEG-7 Description tool. We are also performing research into the annotation and capture of audio recorded in meeting and conferencing scenarios. In particular, we are examining the robustness and suitability of spatial location cues and the best approaches to their capture and derivation.