Dolby Pro Logic 11Z

Dolby 'With Height'

Dolby Labs have relatively recently introduced a new system called Dolby Pro Logic 11Z which is different to other Dolby systems in that it has the potential to add an additional 4 speakers that claim to add height to the listening experience. The system claims to work by 'identifying and decoding spatial cues that occur naturally in all content' (online) and directing this to the speakers above. Whether this adds any true height to a recording or just plays sound from 'higher up' I have yet to be convinced.

If we chose to put aside any argument for or against this technology, we can see yet again that companies that have been revolutionary, in relation to they way we experience audio in theaters or at at home, are recognising that planar formats are just not good enough when it comes to immersing the viewer. This can only be advantageous for creators of Ambisonic content. As companies like Dolby encourage people to put more speakers into their homes, by adding to existing surround systems or through new purchases, then that may be the in-road for Ambisonics in the home. As consumers will have a sufficient number of loudspeakers the potential for this becomes even greater. All that would need to happen next would be the agreement of a standard for transmission, suitable commercially available decoders and someone with the foresight to make this happen. I don't think that we will be too far off....

Here is the Dolby system in action

Dolby Pro Logic IIz - Video Demo - dolby.co.uk

Or from Youtube: