This paper discusses sound reproduction using a surface nearfield source (SNS), which is categorized between headphones and loudspeakers providing also a natural audio-tactile augmentation to the listening experience. The SNS can be embedded for example in the headrest as a personal sound system. In this sense it has similarities to headphones, but there is no need to wear a device. The SNS has also several advantages compared to loudspeakers, such as suppressed room effect and enhanced bass perception. Differences and similarities of the SNS approach with open and closed headphones, mobile device speakers, and regular loudspeakers are itemized. The SNS implementation is applicable to e.g. movie theater couches and car seats.

Authors: Linjama, Jukka; Välimäki, Vesa
Affiliations: Flexound Systems Oy, Espoo, Finland; Flexound Systems Oy, Espoo, Finland and Aalto University, Espoo, Finland(See document for exact affiliation information.)
Express Paper 4; AES Convention 153; October 2022
Publication Date: October 19, 2022 Import into BibTeX
Subject: Spatial Audio
Permalink: https://www.aes.org/e-lib/browse.cfm?elib=21922

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