Ultra-realistic binaural surround sound in ordinary headsets is being developed by researchers at the University of York and the University of Sydney.

The subtle distortions to sound caused by the head and ear shapes of the listener normally account for the perception of 3D location of sound.

The scientists use “spatial filters” to artifically create these distortions. They envisage booths where customers can have the shape of their head and ears measured. The shape information will be used to compute an individual’s “spatial filters” or “head-related transfer functions,” which determine how an individual’s physical features alter sounds before they reach the eardrum.

The spatial filter measurements would be recorded on a smart card, readable by next-generation sound systems. The result: sounds heard through headphones should be indistinguishable from hearing the same sounds live.

Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council news release