This paper introduces a new way of creating and controlling sound for both functional and creative applications. Building on the principles of beamforming and Wave Field Synthesis, 3D sound fields reproduced by dense matrix arrays, can be controlled precisely in every direction. The unique combination of ‘Inverse Wavefront Shaping’ and numerical array optimization is the foundation of 3D Audio-Beamforming. This new technology allows for precise shaping and steering of beams in two dimensions, providing optimum coverage and spectral consistency across audience areas of any shape and size. Unwanted reflections from hard surfaces, or sound spill into neighboring areas are strongly reduced by including avoidance areas. 3D Wave Field Synthesis is capable of delivering a physically correct and realistic reproduction of the audio scene. It enables accurate sound localization at every listening position. The performance of a WFS system can be even further improved by Wave Field Optimization. By shaping the synthesized wave field, an accurate sound localization can be combined with a uniform coverage and minimum interaction with the room, which is not possible with conventional WFS. A single Matrix array can generate multiple sound fields simultaneously, each with its own content, equalization, level, shape, and target area. This opens up new degrees of freedom in system design and content creation for Public Address as well as Spatial Audio.
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