Igloo Vision has entered a joint vernture with Sennheiser and Neumann to create ‘the ultimate in immersive sound and vision’ – the result is an Igloo Shared VR space equipped with an Ambeo 9.1 sound system created from Neumann KH 80 DSP studio monitors.
The environments act similarly to a VR headset, providing wraparound sound and vision able to immerse entire teams in 360° or VR content. With Igloo spaces ranging in size from 5m-21m in diameter, up to 750 people can join the experience. Adding the Sennheiser Ambeo 9.1 system means that true 3D spatial soundscapes can be reproduced, enabling sound designers to precisely pinpoint the locations and sources of different sounds, accurately linking what is seen with what is heard.
The first step in the partnership has been to install and calibrate the 9.1 loudspeaker system in the standard 6m Igloo Shared VR cylinder. The resulting Ambeo Igloo cylinder works with an acoustically transparent screen that lets the high-quality audio pass unhindered, allowing for full immersion in both audio and video.
‘The spatial audio experience really makes or breaks the illusion – and this captivating combination of 360° video and spatial 3D audio creates a totally convincing experience of being in a different environment,’ says Véronique Larcher, Director of Ambeo Immersive Audio at Sennheiser.
‘Besides the huge field of immersive experiences for brands, Igloo is active in the field of simulation, where real-life scenarios are recreated for training and education purposes, and also in visualisation, helping customers see how finished design concepts will look and feel,’ adds Colin Yellowley, founder and Head of R&D of Igloo Vision. ‘With three-dimensional audio added to the 360 vision, we can now create even more lifelike experiences for clients.’
Through the partnership, Igloo is able to offer a wide range of ready-made spatial audio solutions: As well as the 6m Igloo cylinder, Sennheiser Ambeo systems can be specified and calibrated for any Igloo products – which range from 2.5m projection cubes right up to 21m projection domes. Clients and sound designers are invited to experience – and also to test their existing content – at Igloo Vision’s Shared VR demo centre in Wood Green, London.
