As part of Professor Sungyoung Kim’s Music Technology Seminar (GCT 731), members from AIRIS Lab, MAC Lab, and HCI Lab of KAIST GSCT (Graduate School of Culture Technology) had the opportunity to visit Seokyeong University’s Dolby Atmos studio. The field trip provided invaluable insights into professional immersive audio production and mixing techniques.
Jongho Lee, Eden Park, and Kangeun Lee from AIRIS Lab attended this field trip along with colleagues from MAC Lab and HCI Lab, under the guidance of Professor Sungyoung Kim.
Learning from Industry Experts
We had the privilege of meeting with Professor Ho-jung Kang, a renowned figure in the Korean music industry. Professor Kang, known for his work as the keyboardist for bands like GIGS and 봄여름가을겨울, now serves as a Sound Supervisor and Professor at Seokyeong University’s Graduate School of Contemporary Music Production. His expertise bridges the gap between artistic expression and technical innovation in audio field.
Technical Insights and Hands-on Experience
During our visit, we observed and analyzed a big band jazz project recording and mixing session in the Dolby Atmos environment. We also were able to explore the cutting-edge immersive mixing techniques, including the practical application of tools like Altiverb and Sidechain Compressors.
By discussing the integration of narrative elements in music and technology, we were able to learn on how to emphasize the importance of simultaneous artistic and technical approaches.
Beyond Technical Perspectives
One of the most enlightening aspects of the visit was our discussion about the philosophical implications of immersive sound. This conversation sparked interesting debates about the future of spatial audio and its role in shaping musical experiences.
Possible Future Research Directions
- Holistic Approach to Audio Production: The experience emphasized the importance of developing expertise across multiple sectors rather than focusing on a single technical aspect. Future research should consider both musical and technical solutions simultaneously.
- Layer-based Thinking in Immersive Mixing: Professor Kang’s insights about the fundamental differences between stereo and Dolby mixing, particularly regarding instrument layering, suggest new approaches to spatial arrangement and mixing techniques.
- Resource Optimization: Rather than focusing on limitations, researchers should explore creative ways to maximize existing resources, promoting innovation within practical constraints.
- AI Integration in Immersive Sound: The field trip included valuable discussions about current AI applications in immersive audio and potential future developments, highlighting opportunities for interdisciplinary research.
Personal Reflections and Impact
This field trip reinforced the importance of maintaining a balance between technical expertise and creative vision in immersive audio production. It demonstrated how academic research can be effectively applied in professional settings, while also highlighting the need for innovative thinking in approaching spatial audio challenges.
The experience provided students with practical insights that will inform their research approaches and technical methodologies in future projects. It also emphasized the importance of understanding both the technical and philosophical aspects of immersive audio to create more meaningful and impactful auditory experiences.
For students and researchers interested in immersive audio, we recommend exploring multiple perspectives and approaches, maintaining an open mind to both technical and artistic solutions, and considering the broader implications of spatial audio beyond purely technical applications.
Big thanks to Professor Hojung Kang and Professor Kim for this valuable opportunity! 🙂