Ambisonic Surround Sound FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions by domestic listeners about Ambisonic Surround Sound. Includes theory, practice, details of current decoder manufacturers and a discography of UHJ encoded LPs and CDs.

This FAQ about Ambisonic Surround Sound FAQ was compiled and written by Martin Leese with numerous contributions by others.

1. Where can I get this FAQ?

2. Corrections to the FAQ

3. What is surround sound?

4. What is Ambisonic Surround Sound?

5. What are W, X, Y and Z?

6. What were Matrix H and HJ?

7. What is UHJ?

8. What are BHJ, SHJ, THJ and PHJ?

9. Are UHJ encoded CDs available?

10. What happens with stereo sources (conventional LPs, CDs, etc)?

11. How does Ambisonics differ from quadraphonics?

12. What is the pair-wise mixing style?

13. Can Ambisonics reproduce Dolby MP?

14. Can Ambisonics reproduce Dolby Surround AC-3?

15. Can Ambisonics reproduce DTS Digital Surround?

16. Can Ambisonics make use of DVD?

17. Have Ambisonic decoders been manufactured commercially?

18. Are Ambisonic decoders being manufactured commercially?

19. If Ambisonics is so wonderful, why is it not a commercial success?

20. How many speakers does Ambisonics use?

21. From where can I obtain more information?

22. What about recording and studio processing?

23. References

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