Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing sound in a spatial environment is provided. Control is provided over the perceived position of sound sources, including perceived positions behind the listener or listeners. The invention is effective for multiple simultaneous listeners distributed throughout the spatial environment. The invention provides techniques for real-time interaction with graphic images, computer game controls, or other computer-based events. The invention provides control over the relative amplitude of signals provided to each of a plurality of spatially diverse transducers. By controlling the relative amplitudes of signals applied to each of the transducers, the present invention provides control over the perceived position of sound sources in a spatial environment with respect to one or more listeners. Attenuation parameters may be stored in a table, indexed by the spatial region to which they apply, and used to adjust the relative amplitude of each of the transducers used to produce a sound.

Abstract: A software algorithm is disclosed which allows audio signals to be positioned discretely and dynamically in a 360.degree. environment, the center of which is assumed to be the position of the user-listener. The algorithm includes: a) proprietary knowledge of the sound sources (such as a synthesizer chip); b) proprietary knowledge of the number of independently addressable couplers (i.e. how many speakers are employed); and c) a software driver incorporated on a host, computer, or a stand-alone device which includes the algorithm for routing the sound sources to the transducers at the proper volume levels. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the algorithm functions by controlling the amplitude attenuation of each source as it is coupled to the transducers, and the relationship of the amplitudes sent to each transducer by means of reference values contained in a matrix table native to the algorithm.