Amplifying sonic impact: a guide to impressive audio experiences
New Upmixing Technology Transforms Stereo Audio to Surround Sound
Déjà Vu, a groundbreaking upmixing technology developed by Frank Foti and the Telos Alliance, is revolutionizing the way we experience audio. This innovative technology transforms stereo audio into true 5.1 surround sound, without relying on typical electronic tricks like phasing, time delay, or reverb.
The roots of Déjà Vu can be traced back to 2002, during the early days of digital radio in the United States. Foti and his late partner, Steve Church, were inspired to create Déjà Vu due to the lack of a 'wow factor' during the transition to HD radio. They discovered Fraunhofer's MPEG surround technology, which enabled surround sound transmission, and set out to develop a method for creating a true 5.1 surround presentation from stereo audio.
Unlike other upmixers that simulate surround effects artificially, Déjà Vu produces a surround sound field that is natural and discrete, preserving the integrity of the original audio and enhancing its spatial dimension. This makes it an ideal tool for broadcasters and streamers who want to deliver a true 5.1 surround presentation from a stereo mix.
Déjà Vu is available as a standalone application for Mac and Windows, and as a plugin in three different formats. A separate application, Dejà Phonic, has been developed to render immersive audio for headphones. The technology can also operate in the cloud, and an SDK is available for broadcasters or streaming services looking to incorporate the technology.
The potential applications of Déjà Vu extend beyond music and broadcast radio. It has the capability to elevate sound quality for TV shows, movies, and other broadcast content by providing a surround sound experience without needing original multichannel mixes. This supports the industry's push toward immersive audiovisual experiences, improving viewer engagement through enhanced audio realism and spatial detail.
At the NAB Show in April, Déjà Vu was demonstrated with clips from Monday Night Football. It can be used as an alternative to Dolby Atmos or to augment Atmos, offering broadcasters and streamers more flexibility in delivering immersive audio experiences to their audiences.
The future of sound in TV and film will be driven by consumer demand and the ability to leverage existing home audio setups. With Déjà Vu, viewers can enjoy a more immersive audio experience without the need for expensive upgrades to their home audio systems.
Déjà Vu has received positive feedback from musical experts, including Gary Katz (Steely Dan producer), Hugh Padgham, and Giles Martin. Foti's work with this technology has solidified his position as a pioneer in the field of audio upmixing.
Whether you're listening with speakers or headphones, Déjà Vu promises to deliver a more immersive audio experience for a variety of content. With its natural and discrete surround sound field, this technology is set to change the way we listen to music, watch films, and experience sports broadcasts.
- The technology used in Déjà Vu could potentially enhance the surround sound experience for various entertainment mediums, such as television shows, movies, and sports broadcasts.
- The integration of Déjà Vu technology in streaming services and broadcasting platforms can support the industry's aim for immersive audiovisual experiences, offering a more engaging lifestyle for viewers by improving the spatial detail and realism of audio.
