Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IISFraunhofer Demonstrates Consumer-Friendly 3D Soundbar Concept
Fraunhofer IIS Features New Interactive Content on its 3D TV Audio System
Las Vegas, USA, April 4, 2014 – At the 2014 NAB Show Fraunhofer IIS is demonstrating its new TV audio system’s interactivity by presenting excerpts from field tests at live broadcast events. Fraunhofer’s Interactive 3D Audio System for TV allows viewers to personalize sound broadcasts to suit their personal preference. With a click of the remote, viewers can boost otherwise hard-to-understand dialogue or create a “home team” mix of sports broadcasts.
In addition, Fraunhofer will show a new soundbar concept that delivers 3D audio without the wires, multiple external speakers or complex equipment settings needed for traditional speaker-based 3D sound. As the provider of the HE-AAC Multichannel audio codec powering half the world’s TV surround sound today, Fraunhofer IIS continues to unveil new technologies that bring interactive 3D TV audio entertainment to reality for broadcasters and consumers.
“Future UHDTVs might build similar technology into the TV itself, offering consumers an ‘un-box, plug-in, enjoy’ experience with immersive sound. That will be much better than the soundbars of today, with no wires or external components at all,” said Robert Bleidt, General Manager, Audio and Multimedia Division, Fraunhofer USA Digital Media Technologies. “While high-end home theater enthusiasts will likely still prefer nine or eleven separate speakers for the ultimate 3D sound quality, this new soundbar concept will greatly enhance the audio experience for a broad consumer base without complex installation and set-up,” he added.
Show attendees can experience the future of interactive television audio at the Fraunhofer booth at NAB (South Hall, booth SU 6117).