Sound xR ImageSound Image Control

Sound xR Image employs an object-based audio system. This enables flexible playback that adapts to different speaker configurations in studios or live venues, and facilitates efficient mixing and production by allowing the same content to be reused across multiple venues. Furthermore, it utilizes DBAP rendering techniques, enabling smooth sound image movement and the construction of highly flexible speaker systems.

The “Rendering Area Conversion” function allows users to transform logical panning areas—such as those in DAWs or consoles—into any configuration ranging from a basic cube to a 16-sided polygon, within which objects can be placed. Three layers are available, with the height of each layer individually definable by the user. This enables operations such as rendering and controlling objects output from the console within the stage area, while rendering and controlling objects output from the DAW within the audience seating area.

The “Speaker Zoning” function enables audio objects to be rendered through specific speaker groups within the system. Sound xR Image allows defining up to 32 speaker zones, enabling precise control over perceived sound localization.

The “Sub Renderer” function allows a single sound object to be rendered simultaneously to a subwoofer group separate from the specified speaker zone. This feature is effective for reinforcing sound localization and movement with subwoofers for low frequencies or fill speakers, as well as for monitoring in rooms separate from the main venue.

In physical acoustic spaces, the perceived reverberation changes depending on the sound source's position. Drawing on years of expertise cultivated in theater and hall acoustic design, Yamaha developed its unique “3D Reverb” function. This function creates reverberation optimized for the position of each individual object and the speaker configuration, achieving a realistic sound field while maintaining image clarity. The directionality and spread of the reverberation can be freely controlled via an intuitive GUI.

Steinberg's DAW software “Nuendo” features immersive mixing capabilities, enabling you to effortlessly create compelling content for events ranging from small to large-scale. You can smoothly edit and assemble live or studio performances, as well as imported audio sources, on a single timeline. Via OSC (Open Sound Control), you can directly control the pan information of the VST Multipanner using Sound xR Image.

Achieving immersive audio requires precise speaker placement. The “Sound xR Design Assistant” feature in “NS-1”, dedicated software for flexibly configuring NEXO and Yamaha speaker systems, guides you in determining the number and optimal placement of speakers needed to deliver a cohesive audio experience to the entire audience. This is based on venue and stage dimensions, aisle widths, and other information. You can also export the configuration file for your designed speaker system and import it into the “Sound xR Image Controller”.

Yamaha’s “ProVisionaire Design” enables the creation of “configuration”, which are internal processor settings. By designing configs that include Sound xR Image, you can build immersive audio systems with intuitive configuration. Systems with varying input/output counts can be constructed according to scale, offering excellent customizability. Furthermore, settings for compatible power amplifiers, I/O devices, microphones, and more can be managed collectively.

The “Sound xR Image Controller” supports object-based audio mixing with its sophisticated, intuitive user interface. Diverse features like “3D Reverb” enable flexible and nuanced sound expression.

To enhance live mixing operability, Sound xR Image is natively compatible with Yamaha digital mixing consoles*. Both Input Channels and Mix Buses can be flexibly assigned, and object positions can be manipulated via the touchscreen. Furthermore, Sound xR Image's Main Fader and 3D Reverb Main Fader can be controlled from physical faders, and Scene Recall linking is possible.

*This feature will be available in the future.