Surround Sound Hits Online Video as SRS Makes Quality an Issue
"It is 50 percent of the entertainment experience," said Todd Baker, director of content services for SRS Labs, adding that it's exciting to see people paying attention to audio quality.
SRS is platform agnostic, he said in a red carpet interview at the recent Streaming Media East conference in New York City. What matters to the company is delivering the best possible sound to listeners.
"We want a theatrical experience," Baker added. Even short-form online video makers are now using surround sound. It makes a difference on mobile phones, he said, as people using headphones with mobile devices often have a great setup for enjoying audio.
Baker noted some of the company's successes, such as working with OnLive, the breakout cloud gaming service. SRS showcased OnLive at its Streaming Media East booth, showing how the service allows people to experience HD video and surround sound while playing tier one games.
For video makers that want to improve their audio quality, Baker advised always recording in stereo with a surround microphone. In a sports broadcast, he said, combining the announcers' stream with surround sound from the floor creates a compelling experience.
"It's so crucial to improve the audio quality. The biggest thing I can ask anybody watching this is to start dedicating some time. What I say to my students is that audio is the best way to improve the production value of your film for the least amount of money," Baker said.
To see the interview, scroll down and view the video.
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