Virtual reality is the new frontier for the film industry.

It brings a whole new perspective by putting the viewer inside a 360-degree environment. However, no virtual reality experience is truly immersive without a convincing sound. This is where “Spatial Audio” listening experience steps in. Spatial Audio lets VR viewers hear sounds in all directions. Just like real life. Users can experience immersive 3D binaural sound effects whenever they rotate their heads. But for many, recording spatial audio can be hard and complicated.

In order to solve this problem, a Los Angeles based startup called HEAR360 launched a beta program to promote their new spatial audio microphone 8ball. 8ball is a microphone with companion software allowing filmmakers to record audio for VR experiences in a simple way. “We decided to create a microphone that would expand the fidelity of a single source surround capture,” says Greg Morgenstein, CTO of HEAR360, “It had to be easy to use, quick to set up, and deliver the highest quality sound with the simplest post production process.” According to the company statement. HEAR360 audio works with any set of headphones/earbuds. It also doesn’t require client-side decoding, which leaves more CPU — something that is critical for mobile devices. “In virtual reality the impact of audio is amplified. When done properly audio will immerse the viewer quicker and deeper into an emotionally engaging experience.” says Matthew G. Pollock the CMO of HEAR360, in an interview. “VR filmmakers like Google Daydream’s Jessica Brillhart know that in Cinematic VR we don’t move from shot to shot, but world to world. Using strategically placed spacial audio a filmmaker can direct the viewer’s attention, helping them navigate through the narrative.” he adds.

Matthew G. Pollock confirms that “HEAR360 audio works with any set of headphones/earbuds. It also doesn’t require client side rendering, which leaves more CPU — something that is critical for mobile devices.”

If you are a VR movie maker and interested to learn more you can join HEAR360’s beta program to get a limited edition 8ball OmniMicrophone and other required equipment for specific needs. If you want to test the audio quality on your computer you can visit here, or for Google Cardboard here. Or alternatively you can check this trailer titled as The Parksville Murders.