NAMM: beyerdynamic introduced the Headzone, a portable surround mixing system.

Using DSP technology, Headzone provides headphone-based 5.1 surround sound reproduction and is ideal for a variety of applications including studio, mobile recording and post-production.

For use with Headzone, beyerdynamic has added “Headtracking” technology to its popular DT 800 PRO headphones. This ultrasonic-headtracking system locates the orientation of the listener’s head with respect to the source material and adjusts the audio accordingly. An engineer recording with Headzone can move around while the source material remains fixed in position as if they were in a 5.1 control room.

“Headzone’s portability and small size offers an affordable, flexible and space-saving alternative to mix surround sound in live situations,” explains Paul Froula, Pro Audio Business Manager. “It eliminates the need for six or seven speakers set up in the proper locations in a room in order to do a live surround mix. You just connect the Headzone to your Mac, PC or analogue inputs and instantly are ready to monitor in surround.”

The system features a 5.1 digital firewire input and 6 discreet analogue inputs. In addition to being compatible with Logic and Pro Tools, Headzone also comes equipped with an advanced room simulation software, which allows the users to create an ideal auditory space within which to monitor the surround audio and, therefore, provide the optimal “sweet spot.” Users can adjust the parameters of their room for size, ambiance level and distance their head is away from the loudspeakers. The software also allows for adjustment of the surround channels and overall mix.