FUNDAMENTAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL LIMITATIONS OF IMMERSIVE AUDIO SYSTEMS

Numerous applications are currently envisioned for immersive audio sys tems. The principal function of such systems is to synthesize, manipul ate, and render sound fields in real time. In this paper, we examine s everal fundamental and technological limitations that impede the devel opment of seamless immersive audio systems. Such limitations stem from signal-processing requirements, acoustical considerations, human list ening characteristics, and listener movement. We present a brief histo rical overview to outline the development of immersive audio technolog ies and discuss the performance and future research directions of imme rsive audio systems with respect to such limits. Last, we present a no vel desktop audio system with integrated listener-tracking capability that circumvents several of the technological limitations faced by tod ay's digital audio workstations.