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.