AES Europe 2026

As spatial audio moves to a consumer standard, the demand
for sophisticated design frameworks has never been higher.
This panel brings together key contributors from the
recently published "Immersive Sound Volume II: The Design
and Practice of Binaural and Multi-Channel Experiences" to
bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world
production. The session will explore the recent and
developing trends and practices of immersive audio,
focusing on the core design principles that define modern
binaural and multi-channel workflows. Panelists will
discuss themes from the text, including current guiding
principles and system design, and the creative practice of
building immersive sound experiences. Through a mix of case
studies and technical perspectives, the authors will
provide insights into a roadmap for engineers and creators
looking to master the immersive soundstage.

Join leaders in immersive audio who work with affinity
groups: women and miniorities who are building social
capital in audio in unexpected ways. Following the
"Credibilitizing" framework proposed by Dr Leslie
Gaston-Bird, the panel discussions how role models,
networking, and the right kind of mentoring opportunities
are helping people from underrepresented groups upskill,
innovate, and find new purpose and career pathways in
immersive audio.

Binaural audio delivered over headphones is currently the
most widely used method for experiencing immersive sound.
However, significant challenges remain in achieving the
highest possible quality of immersive listening through
current binaural delivery systems. Numerous technical
factors influence the listening experience, including the
personalisation of head-related transfer functions (HRTFs),
room simulation, head tracking, headphone type,
equalisation, etc. Beyond these technical considerations,
however, content types, production practices, and user
expectations and preferences also play critical roles in
shaping perceptual outcomes. Binaural audio is often
treated primarily as a post-processing technique for
simulating loudspeaker reproduction. Yet binaural
approaches also offer substantial creative opportunities
when considered from the earliest stages of content
production. This panel workshop will discuss these topics,
bringing together perspectives from creative practice,
research and development. The session will explore how
immersive listening experiences can be more effectively
designed, produced, and evaluated using binaural audio
technologies.

Join us for a panel discussion about audio design featuring some of the industry’s leading audio designers and educators. This session is meant to inspire upcoming designers and encourage dialogue with established audio designers.
 
The panelists will give a brief overview of their designs, their roles in the AES, and how and why educators and students should participate in the various design competitions that the AES has to offer. The panel discussion is followed by a Q&A session that allows for questions and exchange with the panelists.