AES Show 2024 NY

This panel introduces DEI pedagogical examples in teaching audio engineering and music technology from the University of Colorado, the University of Lethbridge, Georgia Tech, and the University of Michigan, which incorporate topics that address diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and accessibility in the broader field of audio engineering and music technology. These topics include 1) how Open Educational Resources (OER) pedagogy can help bridge the Music Technology Educational Gap and increase accessibility; 2) how to create a safe learning space and build community in the classroom where ideas can be shared and valued; 3) How the Project Studio Music Technology course contributes female-identifying, trans, and non-binary musicians and engineers to electronic music and how this process-based learning method impacts students from diverse backgrounds. 4) how the new course called "Diversity in Music Technology" brings students in new DEI experiences and how the course was structured to include community-building. Through this panel discussion, we strive to improve accessibility, welcoming diverse perspectives, and radiating inclusiveness to all races, genders, and gender identities. Meanwhile, we aim to provide some insights for educators to improve students' mental health and well-being during the post-COVID era.

Games and music go together like macaroni and cheese. Music is a large part of what makes games fun. So, what are some of the hot button issues that composers folks need to know about game music design and production? Good questions!

This is a must-attend for anyone in the field interested in trying to navigate the waters and steer a path toward more immersive and creative game music. Attendees will gain a more complete understanding of the issues that composers and game designers face when working together in teams. All who attend will gain a better understanding of how great music makes games more fun and increases playability.

This is for anyone involved with game audio -- calling all music composers, game designers, sound designers, animators, audio producers, programmers and technical implementation specialists! It's a must for industry professionals, students, and teachers alike, all who are trying to navigate the waters and steer a path toward deeper creativity and understanding

Climate change is real and it’s here to stay. Floods are more severe because of sea level rise and intensifying storms. Fires are more frequent as droughts get worse. Basically, the world is collapsing. Good news! There are some simple steps you can take to protect your audio assets. This panel of audio preservation experts will cover easy archival strategies for mitigating the effects of natural disasters. We will discuss the best practices for safe storage, whether it’s your historic audio collection or newly-created digital files. The panel will also discuss some techniques for recovering your audio assets if they get damaged in a disaster. We hope you never have to use any of this information, but just in case, it’s best to be prepared!

This presentation will also highlight a case study from the “HBCU Radio Preservation Program.”

This panel brings together leading industry experts to explore the critical role of spatial audio in enhancing the gaming experience. As games become more immersive, the demand for high-quality spatial audio has surged, making it an essential component for game developers. The discussion will delve into the intricacies of implementing spatial audio in both middleware and custom sound engines, addressing the challenges and solutions involved in achieving superior audio quality. Panelists will share insights on how to optimize spatial audio for various elements within a game, including sound effects, dialogue, and ambient sounds. Emphasis will be placed on customization techniques that ensure each audio component contributes to a cohesive and realistic auditory environment. A key focus of the panel will be on making spatial audio sound good across different types of games and game engines, highlighting the unique considerations and strategies for each scenario. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on the latest advancements in spatial audio technology and practical tips for integrating these innovations into their game development workflows. Whether you are an audio engineer, game developer, or sound designer, this panel will provide you with the tools and strategies needed to elevate the audio experience in your games.

Game Audio education programs have taken root and sprouted up all over the world. Game audio education is a hot topic. What are some of the latest training programs out there? What are the pros and cons of a degree program versus just surfing YouTube? I am already a teacher, how can I start a game audio program at my current school? Good questions! This panel brings together sound artists and entrepreneurs from some of the top private instructional institutions and teachers from some growing programs to discuss the latest and greatest educational models in audio for interactive media. Attendees will get a fantastic overview of what is being offered inside and outside of the traditional education system. This is a must for students and teachers alike, who are trying to navigate the waters and steer a path toward programs that are right for them in the shifting tides of audio for games and interactive media.

Spatial audio reproduction is predominantly achieved through surround speaker setups or headphones. Surround setups offer high levels of immersion but can be impractical to set up and are unable to reproduce near-field binaural cues, such as whispers.
Conversely, while headphones are convenient, they struggle with sound externalization.

Cross-talk cancellation is a technique for reproducing binaural sounds via speakers, capable of delivering precise 3D audio, including both distant sounds (externalization) and near-field sounds (whispers). Despite its development over five decades ago, its commercial adoption has been slow. However, recent market innovations are enhancing user experiences significantly.

This panel aims to investigate the viability of cross-talk cancellation as an alternative to headphones and surround setups for high-quality binaural 3D audio, particularly in video games. We will engage experts from the gaming industry, spatial audio reproduction sector, and academia to gather insights on the method and its potential applications.