The VR Igloo Shared space turns virtual reality into a 3D group experience

With the Sennheiser Ambeo sound system 9.1 and KH studio monitors 80 Neumann DSP has created a solution that offers an immersive experience that combines 360° video and 3D audio.

Igloo Vision has been associated with Sennheiser and Neumann to create the most innovative in immersive sound and vision: an Igloo Shared VR space equipped with an Ambeo sound system 9.1 created from compact Neumann KH studio monitors 80 Dsp.

Environments act like a giant virtual reality headset. Surround sound and vision immerse users in a 360° panorama or virtual reality content. With these spaces Igloo, ranging in size from 5 until 21 meters in diameter, allow up to 750 people can join the experience and participate, be inspired or entertained.

Add the Sennheiser Ambeo system 9.1 means that spatial soundscapes can be reproduced in 3D, allowing sound designers to accurately identify locations and sources, accurately linking what you see with what you hear.

Neumann KH speakers 80 DSPs are configured in an arrangement 9.1 behind the acoustically transparent display of the Igloo cylinder, completely enveloping visitors in the sound of the orchestra.

"The spatial audio experience creates or breaks the illusion, and this captivating combination of 360° video and 3D audio creates a totally compelling experience of being in a different environment.", comments Véronique Larcher, Director of Ambeo Immersive Audio at Sennheiser.

The first step in the partnership has been to install and calibrate the speaker system 9.1 on the standard six-meter Igloo Shared VR cylinder. The resulting Ambeo Igloo cylinder works with an acoustically transparent display that allows high-quality audio to pass unhindered, providing total immersion, both audio and video.

"In addition to the large field of immersive experiences for brands, Igloo is active in the field of simulation, where real-life scenarios are recreated for training and education purposes, and also in visualization, allowing you to see what the finished design concepts will look like. With three-dimensional audio added to vision 360, now we can create more real experiences", adds Colin Yellowley, founder and head of R&D at Igloo Vision.

Thanks to the partnership, Igloo can offer a wide range of out-of-the-box spatial audio solutions. As well as the six-meter Igloo cylinder, Sennheiser Ambeo systems can be specified and calibrated for any Igloo product, varying from projection cubes of 2,5 meters to projection domes up to 21 metre.

The new spatial audio solutions created by Shared VR, Igloo Vision and audio experts Sennheiser and Neumann are designed to turn the individual VR experience into a new form of collective leisure. The solution allows museums, Artists, educational facilities, event spaces, architects and corporations offer engaging immersive experiences.

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