What is 8D audio, and how does it work?
Learn what 8D audio is, how it works, and if it’s safe to use.
For a more visual walkthrough, watch Epidemic Sound ambassador Bryan Francisco’s video below. Keep reading for a full rundown.
We’ll cover:
- What is 8D audio?
- Does 8D audio really have eight dimensions?
- How does 8D audio work?
- Do you need headphones to listen to 8D audio?
- Do you need special headphones for 8D audio?
- The health effects of binaural beats
- Is 8D audio good for neurodivergent people?
- What does 8D audio do for ADHD?
- Does 8D audio help with anxiety?
- Is 8D audio harmful?
- How do you convert normal songs to 8D songs?
- Where can I find 8D audio songs?
What is 8D audio?
8D audio is a production technique that manipulates a stereo track, making it feel like the sound’s coming from all around, instead of just a left and right channel. Some listeners liken it to live music, while others feel that they’re listening with their brain rather than their ears.
8D audio is not a new invention. While the format’s found a new audience online, the underlying techniques have existed for decades.
Check out the video below, where Epidemic Sound artist Ooyy’s track has been given an 8D makeover.
Does 8D audio really have eight dimensions?
8D audio doesn’t have eight dimensions. It tricks the brain into thinking there’s more depth than there actually is. This is different from something like spatial audio, which “places” specific sounds in a room as if they’re objects.
How does 8D audio work?
8D audio is often created through a combination of equalization, panning, and reverb.
- Equalization, also known as EQ, balances different frequency ranges within a track. You may be familiar with bass, mids, and treble; these can be turned up and down to create a different “feel.”
- Panning distributes sound across various audio channels, positioning elements to the left, right, and everywhere in between. Done well, it builds a sense of space within a track.
- Reverb is a sound continuing after it’s been made. It’s not the same as echo; reverb extends the sound, rather than repeating it.
Combined, these components encourage the sensation of music playing “inside” your head. The comments on this version of Comfortably Numb show how 8D audio can even impress diehard Pink Floyd fans.
Do you need headphones to listen to 8D audio?
You need headphones to properly experience 8D audio. If you listen through speakers, you’ll experience crossover. Your brain loses the ability to distinguish where each sound comes from, and the immersive effect collapses.
Headphones remove crossover. The audio is created and distributed in a controlled environment, going directly into your ears. It can’t be misinterpreted before it gets there.
Do you need special headphones for 8D audio?
You don’t need premium headphones to hear 8D audio. Any pair will produce the “all around” effect, but better headphones offer more precision and depth.
A robust, over-ear pair of noise-canceling headphones should work. If you have a budget, here are three options to consider:
- Sony WH-1000XM series: A reliable choice for 8D listening. The WH-1000XM6 is the latest model, retailing at around $459.99. Older models can be found cheaper at retail and on the second-hand market.
- Bowers & Wilkins Px8: B&W’s flagship wireless headphones, fitted with Carbon Cone technology for precise directional sound. Retail price is around $749.
- Sennheiser HD 800 S: Reference-grade, open-back headphones with built-in vibration dampening, designed for spatial audio. No compromise means no Bluetooth, with a $1,999.95 price tag.
The health effects of binaural beats
Studies suggest that binaural beats can produce similar results as meditation and help reduce anxiety. Binaural beats are closely connected to 8D audio, appearing when each ear hears a slightly different frequency. From there, your brain generates a third perceived tone: the difference between the two.
For this to work, both tones need to be below 1,000 Hz. If your left ear hears 200 Hz and your right hears 210 Hz, the binaural beat is 10 Hz.
Is 8D audio good for neurodivergent people?
Claims of 8D audio’s positive impact on neurodivergent listeners have grown since 2020, mainly through TikTok. Reported benefits include:
- Relaxation
- Reduced stress
- Improved mood
- Full-body shivers
What does 8D audio do for ADHD?
People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have reported that 8D audio helps them concentrate, especially during longer tasks. The movement of sound seems to hold their attention in a way that standard stereo audio doesn’t. This evidence is anecdotal, and isn’t backed by formal research.
Does 8D audio help with anxiety?
Some listeners and practitioners of binaural therapy report that 8D audio can reduce anxiety and stress. However, academic research in this area is limited.
Is 8D audio harmful?
There’s no evidence suggesting that 8D audio is harmful, as long as you listen at a reasonable volume. Like any music, high volume can cause hearing damage, including tinnitus. Keep your listening level at 85 dB or below to be on the safe side.
A small number of listeners report short-term side effects, including:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sensory overload
These effects are uncommon and should end once you stop listening. If they don’t, 8D audio may not be the right format for you.
How do you convert normal songs to 8D songs?
audioalter’s 8D audio preset is available for free online. People often try tools like this to test 8D audio for private, non-commercial use.
Where can I find 8D audio songs?
YouTube has a massive, free selection of 8D audio content. The licensing status of many of these tracks is unclear, as most are remixes of existing songs.
Epidemic Sound’s Sleep & ASMR playlist features many of the production techniques that characterize 8D audio. If you like what you hear, stick around.
More than 55,000 tracks made by real artists. One workflow to help you find, edit, and place music in your video. Globally cleared licensing. No surprises.
Get started with Epidemic Sound and tell your best story, your way.
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