Headphone set
Headphones with variable-size drivers and angular positioning enhance sound localization and reduce distortion, offering a more realistic and comfortable listening experience.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- アリール·ベスローテン·フェンノートシャップ
- Filing Date
- 2022-03-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-22
AI Technical Summary
Existing headphones fail to provide a realistic auditory experience due to limitations in simulating unique head and ear pair differences, inaccurate sound localization, and non-uniform frequency spectrum delivery, leading to distortion, fatigue, and potential hearing damage.
Headphones with variable-size drivers, including a main driver and auxiliary drivers positioned at specific angles, utilize separate power supplies and filters to process audio signals, dividing the frequency spectrum into distinct ranges and delivering sound waves at optimal angles for enhanced localization and reduced distortion.
The solution provides a more realistic, less fatiguing, and safer auditory experience by improving sound localization and reducing distortion through optimal frequency distribution and angular positioning of drivers.
Smart Images

Figure 0007864134000001 
Figure 0007864134000002 
Figure 0007864134000003
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] This invention relates to a set of headphones. This invention also relates to a method for handling a set of headphones. This invention also relates to the use of a set of headphones. [Background technology]
[0002] Currently, the immersive and / or surround sound headphones market essentially comprises two main segments.
[0003] The largest segment is based on 8D or binaural systems. Binaural systems aim to simulate reality. A sense of direction is generated by using a digital model that adds differences in volume, time, and / or color to simulated sounds in both ears. The most commonly used model is the Kemar model, which is based on an artificial head with average size and shape. However, results based on average heads can never be 100% satisfactory because each head and / or ear pair is unique to each person (resulting in a unique auditory sense of direction). This problem can be solved by using Head-Related Transfer Functions (HRTFs), which provide a unique digital model of a person's head / ear. By applying adapted software, a more personalized simulation can be provided. However, once a binaural render is performed, it cannot be changed to a different computational model. There are systems that measure ears to construct HRTFs and use them to convert the 7.1 surround format into a binaural experience. However, such systems are limited to television / movie and require external devices for computation. Furthermore, when an auditory experience is shared among many listeners, providing a specific rendering for each individual is simply not feasible. Therefore, any large-scale binaural system will always be based on averages.
[0004] The second segment uses a multi-driver and channel-based system within a single earcup to play surround sound formats. Such headphones are primarily used in the gaming industry, where the 7.1 standard is commonly used for localization. Existing systems typically use eight channels, resulting from one or more drivers within the earcup. These eight channels are played at different positions relative to the ear based on specific angles in the listening field, so the results are not accurate. Furthermore, such systems typically feature drivers of varying sizes, which means that the frequency spectrum cannot be uniformly delivered across different segments. Typically, all drivers also have the same angle relative to the ear, which does not correspond to a realistically accurate sound experience.
[0005] U.S. Patent No. 3,984,885 describes a four-channel headphone structure having sound-insulating means and tone control means for the front channel tone only between front and rear channel driver units, wherein the sound-insulating means is formed of a foam material that transmits low-pitch tones and absorbs high-pitch tones.
[0006] U.S. Patent Application Publication 2006 / 193481 describes a headset having an active crossover network. The headset is coupled to an audio source using either a wired or wireless connection.
[0007] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 332186 describes a method for calibrating an earphone, the method comprising determining a head-related transfer function (HRTF) corresponding to different parts of the user's anatomical structure (e.g., one or both of the listener's auricles).
[0008] U.S. Patent No. 9918154 describes a tactile vibration driver for use in headphones, the tactile vibration driver comprising a support structure, at least one suspension member for suspending at least one rigid member relative to the support structure, and a plurality of magnetic members, the plurality of magnetic members being attached to at least one rigid member and configured to drive the vibrational motion of at least one rigid member and at least one suspension member to generate tactile vibrations during operation of the tactile vibration driver.
[0009] Therefore, there is a need for headphones that enable a more realistic auditory experience. There is a need for headphones that enable signals with less distortion. There is a need for headphones that enable volume reduction. There is a need for headphones that are less fatiguing to listen to. There is a need for headphones that reduce the risk of hearing damage. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]
[0010] To satisfy one or more of the above needs, the inventors have developed a set of headphones and a method for handling the set of headphones. The advantages of this set of headphones, the method according to the present invention, and its embodiments are described herein. [Means for solving the problem]
[0011] In particular, the present invention relates to a set of headphones having two earcups, each earcup having a variable-size driver connected to a separate power supply unit, and each earcup is, - At least one main driver, - The system comprises at least two auxiliary drivers having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the main driver. Most preferably, the at least two auxiliary drivers are positioned at an angle to a plane defined by at least one main driver. Most preferably, the main driver has a lower cutoff frequency f LA range of low-frequency sound waves smaller than and an upper cut-off frequency f U It comprises a filter configured to select a range of high-frequency sound waves larger than. Most preferably, at least two auxiliary drivers have a lower cut-off frequency f L and an upper cut-off frequency f U and are configured to include a filter for selecting a range of intermediate-frequency sound waves therebetween.
[0012] In some preferred embodiments, at least one main driver is positioned at the center position, and at least two auxiliary drivers are positioned around at least one main driver.
[0013] In some preferred embodiments, the headphones are ear-covering headphones.
[0014] In some preferred embodiments, each earcup comprises at least three, preferably at least four, auxiliary drivers having a diameter smaller than that of the main driver.
[0015] In some preferred embodiments, the diameter of at least one main driver is at least 25 mm and at most 60 mm, preferably at least 30 mm and at most 55 mm, preferably at least 35 mm and at most 50 mm, for example at least 40 mm and at most 45 mm.
[0016] In some preferred embodiments, the diameter of at least two auxiliary drivers is at least 8 mm and at most 24 mm, preferably at least 12 mm and at most 20 mm, for example at least 14 mm and at most 18 mm, for example about 16 mm.
[0017] In some preferred embodiments, one or more of the auxiliary drivers are positioned at an angle α with respect to the main driver observed along the center ear level (front-back axis), and α is at least 5° to a maximum of 30°, preferably at least 10° to a maximum of 25°, preferably at least 12° to a maximum of 20°, preferably about 15°.
[0018] In some preferred embodiments, one or more of the auxiliary drivers are positioned at an angle β with respect to the main driver observed along the center ear position (lower upper axis), where β is at least 2° to a maximum of 25°, preferably at least 5° to a maximum of 20°, preferably at least 7° to a maximum of 15°, and preferably about 10°.
[0019] In some preferred embodiments, f L The frequency range is at least 300Hz and up to 1000Hz, preferably at least 350Hz and up to 800Hz, preferably at least 400Hz and up to 700Hz, preferably at least 450Hz and up to 600Hz, for example, about 500Hz.
[0020] In some preferred embodiments, f U The frequency range is at least 5.0 kHz and up to 12.0 kHz, preferably at least 6.0 kHz and up to 11.0 kHz, preferably at least 7.0 kHz and up to 10.0 kHz, preferably at least 8.0 kHz and up to 9.5 kHz, and preferably about 9.0 kHz.
[0021] In some preferred embodiments, at least one main driver comprises a high-pass filter and a low-pass filter in parallel. In some preferred embodiments, an auxiliary driver comprises a high-pass filter and a low-pass filter in series. In some preferred embodiments, one or more, preferably all, of the filters in the main driver and auxiliary driver comprises a linear phase filter.
[0022] The present invention also relates to a method and embodiments for processing a set of headphones described herein. The method is most preferably, - Lower cutoff frequency f L The range of low-frequency sound waves smaller than and the upper cutoff frequency f UFiltering an audio signal to select a range of higher frequency sound waves and transmitting the audio signal to a main driver; - Filtering an audio signal to select a range of intermediate frequency sound waves between a lower cut-off frequency f L and an upper cut-off frequency f U and transmitting the audio signal to an auxiliary driver; including.
[0023] In some preferred embodiments, the audio signal transmitted to the main driver includes a delay compared to the audio signal transmitted to the auxiliary driver.
[0024] The present invention relates preferably to the use of the headset set and its embodiments described herein for gaming or VR, for exclusive audio experiences, and / or for combinations of audio / video experiences, or to the use of the methods and their embodiments described herein.
[0025] Embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that correct localization is obtained by exciting the ear from the right direction. Embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that the embodiments enable a more realistic auditory experience. Embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that the embodiments enable a signal with less distortion. Embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that the embodiments enable volume reduction. Embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that the embodiments are less tiring to listen to. Embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that the embodiments reduce the risk of auditory damage.
[0026] The following description of the figures of specific embodiments of the present invention is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present teachings, their applications, or uses. Throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the following parts and features: 100 - Headphone set; 101 - First ear cup; 102 - Second ear cup; 111 - Main driver; 121, 122, 123, 124 - Auxiliary drivers; 150 - Multi-channel input; 151 - High-pass filter; 152 - Low-pass filter; 153 - Amplifier; X - Front; X' - Rear; Y - Bottom; Y' - Top; X-X' - Center ear level (front-back axis); Y-Y' - Center ear position (bottom-top axis); α - Angle of the driver(s) compared to the main driver observed along the X-X' axis; β - Angle of the driver(s) compared to the main driver observed along the Y-Y' axis. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0027] [Figure 1A] This is a diagram showing a set of headphones with two earcups. [Figure 1B] This figure shows the layout of one earcup of a headphone set according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1C] This diagram shows how each auxiliary driver is directed towards the center of the ear, which improves the sense of direction. [Figure 2] This diagram shows an alternative configuration with four auxiliary drivers, one for each primary direction of the earcup (up, down, front, and back). [Figure 3A] This diagram shows a further alternative configuration with two auxiliary drivers: one for the front of the earcup and one for the rear. [Figure 3B] This diagram shows a further alternative configuration with two auxiliary drivers: one for the front of the earcup and one for the rear. [Figure 4A] This diagram shows a further alternative configuration with three auxiliary drivers: two for the upper part of the earcup and one for the lower part. [Figure 4B] This diagram shows a further alternative configuration with three auxiliary drivers: two for the upper part of the earcup and one for the lower part. [Figure 5]This is an electronic block diagram of the hardware used in a headphone set according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] This figure shows the frequency range in which the auxiliary driver operates in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] This figure shows the frequency range in which the main driver operates for the same embodiment as in Figure 6A. [Figure 7] This is a block diagram of a filter design according to one embodiment of the present invention, which creates a range in which both driver types must operate. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the difference between parallel drivers and angle drivers. [Figure 9] This figure shows the magnitude response and phase response of a low-pass filter. [Figure 10] This figure shows comb filtering that can occur when filters are coupled without phase response alignment. [Figure 11] This figure shows further use of the main driver's spatial midrange, illustrating all three ranges in which the main driver can be active. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0028] The present invention will be described in relation to specific embodiments, but will not be limited thereto, and will be limited only by the claims. Any reference numerals in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.
[0029] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include both singular and plural references unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise.
[0030] As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “comprises,” and “comprised of” are synonymous with “including,” “includes,” “containing,” and “contains,” and are inclusive or open-ended, not excluding further undescribed components, elements, or method steps. When referring to the components, elements, or method steps described herein, the terms “comprising,” “comprises,” and “comprised of” also include embodiments that “consist of” the components, elements, or method steps described above.
[0031] Furthermore, the terms 1, 2, 3, and similar in the description and claims are used to distinguish similar elements unless otherwise specified, and are not necessarily used to describe a sequential or temporal order. It is understood that the terms used in this manner are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and that embodiments of the invention described herein may operate in sequences other than those described or shown herein.
[0032] As used herein when referring to measurable values such as parameters, quantities, temporal durations, and the like, the term “about” means to include variations of a given value and from a given value of + / -10%, preferably + / -5%, more preferably + / -1%, and even more preferably + / -0.1% or less. Such variations are appropriate for implementation in the disclosed invention. It is understood that the values referred to by the modifier “about” are also specifically and preferably disclosed.
[0033] The enumeration of numerical ranges by endpoint includes all numbers, the partial sums within each range, and the endpoints listed.
[0034] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used in disclosing this invention, including technical and scientific terms, have meanings generally understood by those skilled in the art. Further guidance, provisions for terms used in the description are included to better understand the teachings of this invention. Terms or provisions used herein are provided solely to aid in understanding this invention.
[0035] Throughout this Spectrum, any reference to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in relation to an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the Invention. Therefore, the appearance of the phrase “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this Spectrum does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this Disclosure. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features from different embodiments are meant to fall within the scope of the Invention and form different embodiments, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, any embodiment of the claimed or described embodiments in the appended claims and description may be used in any combination.
[0036] In particular, the present invention relates to a set of headphones having two earcups, each earcup having a variable-size driver connected to a separate power supply unit, and each earcup is, - At least one main driver, - The system comprises at least two auxiliary drivers having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the main driver. Most preferably, the at least two auxiliary drivers are positioned at an angle to a plane defined by at least one main driver. Most preferably, the main driver has a lower cutoff frequency f L The range of low-frequency sound waves smaller than and the upper cutoff frequency f U The system includes a filter configured to select a range of high-frequency sound waves greater than f. Most preferably, at least two auxiliary drivers have a lower cutoff frequency f. L and upper cutoff frequency f U It includes a filter configured to select a range of intermediate frequency sound waves between and .
[0037] Headphones in which the frequency spectrum is divided into two or more sets (low and high frequencies) typically feature a spatial driver for the high-frequency range. However, if such a high-frequency spatial driver is positioned at an (sharp) angle, the higher frequencies reach the eardrum unsuitably because higher frequencies have less refractive power than lower frequencies. This results in an suboptimal spatial experience and the generation of artifacts. In this invention, the high frequencies are provided by the primary driver, but the mid-range frequencies still allow for a spatial experience. This results in optimal localization combined with maximum sound quality.
[0038] The present invention relates to a set of headphones, also referred to herein as a set of headsets or earphones.
[0039] In some preferred embodiments, the headphones are over-ear headphones.
[0040] Over-ear headphones may also be known as ear headphones. The exterior of the headphones can be identical to that of a shared pair of headphones. A set of over-ear headphones typically comprises two earcups. In some embodiments, both earcups are identical. In some embodiments, the driver configurations in both earcups are identical. In some embodiments, the driver configuration in one earcup is a mirror image of that in the other earcup.
[0041] In some embodiments, the headphone set includes an input unit, preferably configured to handle a multi-channel input selected from, for example, USB-C, RJ45, S / PDIF, optical connector, or HDMI®. In some embodiments, the headphone set includes a USB-C input. In some embodiments, the headphone set includes a wireless system, preferably configured to handle a multi-channel input, such as Bluetooth®, WiFi, or RF.
[0042] In some embodiments, the headphone set includes a battery, preferably a rechargeable battery.
[0043] In some embodiments, the headphone set includes one or more microphones. In some embodiments, the headphone set includes a noise cancellation unit.
[0044] In some embodiments, the headphone set includes a head-tracking unit, for example, a gyroscope.
[0045] Each earcup contains a main driver and multiple auxiliary drivers. The main driver may also be called a large driver, center driver, or a combination thereof. The auxiliary drivers may also be called small drivers, space drivers, angle drivers, surrounding drivers, or a combination thereof.
[0046] In some embodiments, the primary driver is a diaphragm driver. In some embodiments, the auxiliary driver is a diaphragm driver. In some embodiments, the primary driver is a movable coil driver, a dynamic driver, a bone conduction driver, and / or a planar driver. In some embodiments, the auxiliary driver is a movable coil driver, a dynamic driver, and / or a MEMS driver, or a combination thereof.
[0047] The primary driver needs to be able to handle both low and high frequencies, so preferably it is a full-range driver, for example, a driver with a range between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. The auxiliary driver only needs to be able to handle intermediate frequencies appropriately, so a driver with a more limited frequency response, for example between 500 Hz and 10 kHz, may be used.
[0048] Preferably, each of the drivers has a separate power supply unit to improve the spatial experience. Therefore, preferably, each (main and auxiliary) driver has its own amplifier. For example, if there is one large driver and four small drivers for each cup, this results in five channels (and thus five amplifiers) for each ear cup, or ten channels (and thus ten amplifiers) for the entire set of headphones.
[0049] An advantage of the present invention and its embodiments is that it uses multi-channel audio and multiple drivers, which provides a more realistic auditory experience compared to simulations, such as binaural simulations.
[0050] An advantage of the present invention and its embodiments is that by using multiple drivers for multiple segments of the overall frequency range, the drivers receive less charging load compared to conventional headphones where the entire frequency spectrum is provided by a single driver. This results in a signal with less distortion.
[0051] In some preferred embodiments, each earcup comprises at least three, preferably at least four, auxiliary drivers having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the main driver. In some embodiments, each earcup comprises at least two, preferably at least three, preferably four auxiliary drivers. In some embodiments, each earcup comprises up to 24, preferably up to 20, preferably up to 16, preferably up to 12, preferably up to 10, preferably up to 8, preferably up to 6, preferably up to 5, preferably four auxiliary drivers. In some embodiments, each earcup comprises at least 2 to up to 24, preferably at least 2 to up to 20, preferably at least 2 to up to 16, preferably at least 2 to up to 12, preferably at least 3 to up to 10, preferably at least 3 to up to 8, preferably at least 3 to up to 6, preferably at least 3 to up to 5, preferably four auxiliary drivers.
[0052] In some embodiments, each earcup comprises exactly one main driver.
[0053] In some preferred embodiments, at least one main driver is positioned at the center, and at least two auxiliary drivers are positioned around at least one main driver.
[0054] In some embodiments, the horizontal distance between two of the auxiliary drivers is at least 20 mm to a maximum of 60 mm, preferably at least 30 mm to a maximum of 50 mm, for example, about 40 mm. In some embodiments, the vertical distance between two of the auxiliary drivers is at least 20 mm to a maximum of 50 mm, preferably at least 25 mm to a maximum of 40 mm, for example, about 30 mm. In some embodiments, the absolute distance between two of the auxiliary drivers is at least 20 mm to a maximum of 60 mm, preferably at least 25 mm to a maximum of 50 mm, for example, at least 30 mm to a maximum of 40 mm.
[0055] In some embodiments, the horizontal distance between the midpoint of the auxiliary driver and the midpoint of the main driver is at least 0 mm to a maximum of 30 mm, preferably at least 5 mm to a maximum of 25 mm, preferably at least 10 mm to a maximum of 20 mm, for example, about 15 mm. In some embodiments, the vertical distance between the midpoint of the auxiliary driver and the midpoint of the main driver is at least 0 mm to a maximum of 40 mm, preferably at least 5 mm to a maximum of 35 mm, preferably at least 10 mm to a maximum of 30 mm, preferably at least 15 mm to a maximum of 25 mm, for example, about 20 mm. In some embodiments, the absolute distance between the midpoint of the auxiliary driver and the midpoint of the main driver is at least 5 mm to a maximum of 50 mm, preferably at least 10 mm to a maximum of 40 mm, preferably at least 15 mm to a maximum of 30 mm, for example, at least 20 mm to a maximum of 25 mm.
[0056] The arrangement of the auxiliary driver can be symmetrical with respect to the center ear level, also referred to herein as the longitudinal axis, as shown in the figure. The arrangement can be symmetrical with respect to the center ear position, also referred to herein as the lower upper axis, as shown in the figure. The arrangement can be asymmetrical with respect to the center ear level. The arrangement can be asymmetrical with respect to the center ear position.
[0057] Depending on the number of auxiliary drivers, the arrangement of the auxiliary drivers can form a triangle (e.g., an isosceles or equilateral triangle), a quadrilateral (e.g., a rectangle, diamond, or square), a regular pentagon, or a regular hexagon. As used herein, the terms “smaller” and “larger” refer to the relative size of the drivers. It is understood that an auxiliary driver may have a smaller diameter than the main driver, and conversely, the main driver may have a larger diameter than the auxiliary driver. Furthermore, the diameter of the drivers is preferably suitable for properly emitting the desired frequencies. The diameter of the main driver is preferably large enough to properly emit low frequencies but still fit inside the earcup.
[0058] In some embodiments, the diameter of at least one main driver is at least 25 mm, preferably at least 30 mm, preferably at least 35 mm, for example at least 40 mm. In some embodiments, the diameter of at least one main driver is up to 60 mm, preferably up to 55 mm, preferably up to 50 mm, for example at least 45 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the diameter of at least one main driver is at least 25 mm and up to 60 mm, preferably at least 30 mm and up to 55 mm, preferably at least 35 mm and up to 50 mm, for example at least 40 mm and up to 45 mm.
[0059] The diameter of the auxiliary driver is preferably large enough to properly emit intermediate frequencies but still fit inside the ear cup. All auxiliary drivers may have the same diameter, or they may be of different sizes. Preferably, the auxiliary drivers have the same diameter.
[0060] In some embodiments, the diameter of at least two auxiliary drivers is at least 8 mm, preferably at least 12 mm, for example at least 14 mm. In some embodiments, the diameter of at least two auxiliary drivers is up to 24 mm, preferably up to 20 mm, for example at least 18 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the diameter of at least two auxiliary drivers is at least 8 mm and up to 24 mm, preferably at least 12 mm and up to 20 mm, for example at least 14 mm and up to 18 mm, for example at about 16 mm.
[0061] In conventional technology, drivers are typically positioned perpendicular to the ear, delivering sound waves in the same direction. However, this angular positioning improves the sense of direction. The inventors unexpectedly discovered that these specific angles also improve the sound experience and provide a more natural sound. The inventors also unexpectedly discovered that filtering a separate delivery unit in a specific way eliminates any unpleasant artifacts caused by angular positioning.
[0062] Therefore, an advantage of the present invention and its embodiments is that the driver within the earcup allows sound waves to approach the ear canal at the correct angle, which provides a more realistic and comfortable auditory experience.
[0063] Positioning a driver at a certain angle can sometimes result in unpleasant artifacts. However, the inventors unexpectedly discovered that if the auxiliary driver includes intermediate frequency sound waves while the main driver combines low and high frequency sound waves, such unpleasant artifacts can be avoided, and the overall sound quality is improved.
[0064] As used herein, angles α and β are defined as the angles of the auxiliary driver relative to the main driver or earcup. The main driver will typically be positioned perpendicular to the ear and in the same plane as the earcup.
[0065] Angle α is defined as the angle observed when viewed along the center ear level (anterior-posterior axis), as demonstrated in the figure. Angle α typically defines an auxiliary driver positioned at the bottom or top of the ear cup.
[0066] The angle α is shown in Figures 1C and 4B. A positive value of angle α indicates an angle of the auxiliary driver pointing in the direction of the main driver, while a negative value of angle α indicates an angle of the auxiliary driver pointing outward from the main driver. Preferably, angle α is positive, and the auxiliary driver is angled in the direction of the main driver, as shown in Figures 1C and 4B.
[0067] Angle β is defined as the angle observed when viewed along the center ear position (lower upper axis), as demonstrated in the figure. Angle β typically defines an auxiliary driver positioned in front of or behind the ear cup.
[0068] The angle β is shown in Figures 1C, 3B, and 4B. A positive value of angle β indicates an angle of the auxiliary driver pointing in the direction of the main driver, while a negative value of angle β indicates an angle of the auxiliary driver pointing outward from the main driver. Preferably, angle β is positive, and the auxiliary driver is angled in the direction of the main driver, as shown in Figures 1C, 3B, and 4B.
[0069] The angles α and / or β may depend on the distance between the midpoint of the auxiliary driver and the midpoint of the main driver. The further away the auxiliary driver is positioned, the larger the angles α and β are preferably.
[0070] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary drivers, preferably positioned on the upper or lower part of the earcup, are positioned at an angle α with respect to the main driver observed along the center ear level (anterior-posterior axis), where α is at least 5°, preferably at least 10°, preferably at least 12°, and preferably about 15°. In some embodiments, α is up to 30°, preferably up to 25°, preferably up to 20°, and preferably about 15°. In some preferred embodiments, α is at least 5° to a maximum of 30°, preferably at least 10° to a maximum of 25°, preferably at least 12° to a maximum of 20°, and preferably about 15°.
[0071] In some embodiments, one or more auxiliary drivers, preferably positioned in front of or behind the earcup, are positioned at an angle β with respect to the main driver observed along the center ear position (lower upper axis), where β is at least 2°, preferably at least 5°, preferably at least 7°, preferably about 10°. In some embodiments, β is up to 25°, preferably up to 20°, preferably up to 15°, preferably about 10°. In some preferred embodiments, β is at least 2° to a maximum of 25°, preferably at least 5° to a maximum of 20°, preferably at least 7° to a maximum of 15°, preferably about 10°.
[0072] In some embodiments, angle α is limited with respect to angle β as described above.
[0073] In some embodiments, angle α is greater than angle β. In some embodiments, angle α is at least 2° greater than angle β, preferably at least 4° greater, preferably at least 6° greater, preferably at least 8° greater, for example about 10° greater. In some embodiments, angle α is up to 20° greater than angle β, preferably up to 16° greater, preferably up to 14° greater, preferably up to 12° greater, for example about 10° greater. In some embodiments, angle α is at least 2° to a maximum of 20° greater than angle β, preferably at least 4° to a maximum of 16° greater, preferably at least 6° to a maximum of 14° greater, preferably at least 8° to a maximum of 12° greater, for example about 10° greater.
[0074] In some embodiments, angle β is greater than angle α, as described above.
[0075] In some embodiments, angle α is equal to angle β.
[0076] An advantage of the present invention and its embodiments is that specific processing is used to distinguish between various segments of the frequency spectrum.
[0077] As used herein, the terms low-frequency, intermediate-frequency, and high-frequency sound waves are relative terms. It is understood that high-frequency sound waves have higher frequencies than intermediate-frequency sound waves, and that intermediate-frequency sound waves have higher frequencies than low-frequency sound waves.
[0078] The low-frequency range, for example, 20Hz to 500Hz, corresponds to a frequency range that the human brain finds difficult to localize. Therefore, this frequency range can be covered by a main driver, preferably configured in a central position. The main driver also has a larger diameter than the auxiliary driver, which allows the main driver to optimally deliver low frequencies.
[0079] The intermediate frequency range, for example, 500Hz to 9000Hz, corresponds to the frequency range that the human brain uses to localize sound. Angled auxiliary drivers that emit these frequencies allow the user to optimally localize sound.
[0080] The high-frequency range, for example, 9000Hz to 20000Hz, is crucial for providing an "open" or "fresh" sound experience. Due to their short wavelengths and correspondingly low energy, these frequencies are difficult to capture at certain angles because they are hard to bend into the ear cavity. The main driver provides a direct entry point for these frequencies to be fully perceived.
[0081] As used herein, the term “cut-off frequency” may also be called corner frequency or breakpoint frequency. As used herein, the cut-off frequency is defined as the 3dB point.
[0082] In some embodiments, the slope of the cutoff frequency is at least 6 dB / octave, preferably at least 12 dB / octave, for example about 24 dB / octave. In some embodiments, the slope of the cutoff frequency is up to 48 dB / octave, preferably up to 36 dB / octave, for example about 24 dB / octave. In some embodiments, the slope of the cutoff frequency is at least 6 dB / octave and up to 48 dB / octave, preferably at least 12 dB / octave and up to 36 dB / octave, for example about 24 dB / octave. As used herein, the term “lower cutoff frequency” or f L This refers to the cutoff frequency between the low frequency and the intermediate frequency. As used herein, the term “upper cutoff frequency” or f U This refers to the cutoff frequency between the intermediate frequency and the high frequency.
[0083] The main driver has a lower cutoff frequency f. L The upper limit cutoff frequency f is lower than this. U It operates above that, while the auxiliary driver has a lower cutoff frequency f L and upper cutoff frequency f U It is understood that it operates between [the two points].
[0084] The inventors unexpectedly discovered that when the main driver combines low-frequency and high-frequency sound waves, while the auxiliary driver includes intermediate-frequency sound waves, unpleasant artifacts can be avoided and overall sound quality can be improved.
[0085] In some embodiments, f L The frequency is at least 300 Hz, preferably at least 350 Hz, preferably at least 400 Hz, preferably at least 450 Hz, for example, about 500 Hz. In some embodiments, f L The frequency is up to 1000 Hz, preferably up to 800 Hz, preferably up to 700 Hz, preferably up to 600 Hz, for example, about 500 Hz. In some preferred embodiments, f LThe frequency range is at least 300Hz and up to 1000Hz, preferably at least 350Hz and up to 800Hz, preferably at least 400Hz and up to 700Hz, preferably at least 450Hz and up to 600Hz, for example, about 500Hz.
[0086] In some embodiments, f U The frequency is at least 5.0 kHz, preferably at least 6.0 kHz, preferably at least 7.0 kHz, preferably at least 8.0 kHz, and preferably about 9.0 kHz. In some embodiments, f U The frequency is up to 12.0 kHz, preferably up to 11.0 kHz, preferably up to 10.0 kHz, preferably up to 9.5 kHz, and preferably about 9.0 kHz. In some preferred embodiments, f U The frequency range is at least 5.0 kHz and up to 12.0 kHz, preferably at least 6.0 kHz and up to 11.0 kHz, preferably at least 7.0 kHz and up to 10.0 kHz, preferably at least 8.0 kHz and up to 9.5 kHz, and preferably about 9.0 kHz.
[0087] Preferably, f L and f U The values are exactly the same for both the main driver and the auxiliary driver, although there may be some margin of error between the drivers. Preferably, the difference is 0Hz or close to it.
[0088] In some embodiments, f for each driver L The difference between them is a maximum of 20.0%, preferably a maximum of 10.0%, preferably a maximum of 5.0%, preferably a maximum of 2.0%, preferably a maximum of 1.0%, for example a maximum of 0.5%, for example a maximum of 0.2%, for example a maximum of 0.1%. In some embodiments, f for each driver L The difference between them is a maximum of 100Hz, preferably a maximum of 50Hz, preferably a maximum of 20Hz, preferably a maximum of 10Hz, preferably a maximum of 5Hz, for example a maximum of 2Hz, for example a maximum of 1Hz.
[0089] In some embodiments, f for each driver U The difference between them is a maximum of 20.0%, preferably a maximum of 10.0%, preferably a maximum of 5.0%, preferably a maximum of 2.0%, preferably a maximum of 1.0%, for example a maximum of 0.5%, for example a maximum of 0.2%, for example a maximum of 0.1%. In some embodiments, f for each driver U The difference between them is a maximum of 1000Hz, preferably a maximum of 500Hz, preferably a maximum of 200Hz, preferably a maximum of 100Hz, preferably a maximum of 50Hz, for example a maximum of 20Hz, for example a maximum of 10Hz.
[0090] In some preferred embodiments, at least one main driver comprises a high-pass filter and a low-pass filter in parallel. In some preferred embodiments, an auxiliary driver comprises a high-pass filter and a low-pass filter in series.
[0091] Preferably, in some embodiments, the main driver has a center position within the ear cup, and the main driver has a lower cutoff frequency f L and upper cutoff frequency f U It features a separate (further) channel with a filter configured to select a range of intermediate frequency sound waves between the primary and secondary drivers. This allows the primary driver to act as a further spatial driver, improving sound quality and perception.
[0092] This headphone set uses angled drivers to improve the sense of direction towards the ear. Because angled drivers cannot be aligned over a specific distance, there is no possibility of aligning the phase responses of the high-pass and low-pass filters used in the headphones. However, failing to align the driver's phase response can result in a side effect known as comb filtering, as shown in Figure 10. The audible effect of comb filtering can be described as unpleasant.
[0093] In some preferred embodiments, one or more, preferably all, of the filters in the main driver and auxiliary driver are linear phase filters. This has also been found to allow for further reduction of unwanted artifacts caused by angle settings.
[0094] An advantage of the embodiments of the present invention is that, by using a linear phase crossover filter, there is no phase difference between the various drivers. This makes it possible to avoid the comb filter effect and provides improved hearing.
[0095] The use of linear phase filters also allows for the use of time differences between drivers. This enables delaying the main driver so that sounds coming from smaller spatial drivers reach the ear first. Consequently, the human brain focuses on those drivers, resulting in a better spatial experience.
[0096] An advantage of the present invention and its embodiments is that a more spatial auditory experience can be delivered by using a processing algorithm that splits a standard stereo signal across various drivers. Furthermore, it has been found that more spatial music can be played at lower volumes and is less fatiguing to listen to. This can also reduce the risk of temporary or permanent hearing damage.
[0097] The present invention also relates to a method and embodiments for processing a set of headphones described herein. The method is most preferably, - Lower cutoff frequency f L The range of low-frequency sound waves smaller than and the upper cutoff frequency f U The steps include filtering the sound signal to select a range of higher frequency sound waves and sending the sound signal to the main driver, - Lower cutoff frequency f L and upper cutoff frequency f UThe steps include: filtering the sound signal to select an intermediate frequency range of sound waves between and and sending the sound signal to an auxiliary driver; Includes.
[0098] In some preferred embodiments, the sound signal transmitted to the primary driver includes a (smaller) delay compared to the sound signal transmitted to the auxiliary driver. This delay allows the user's brain to focus on the smaller spatial driver, improving the sense of direction. By introducing a small delay, the auditory signals coming from a certain angle that first reach the brain—these sounds—are considered primary, resulting in an improved perception of localization. The secondary signals, arriving slightly later, are merged with the primary signals by the human brain, which completely allows for the merging of sounds within a limited margin, also known as the Haas effect.
[0099] The delay is preferably at least 0.01 ms, preferably at least 0.02 ms, preferably at least 0.05 ms, preferably at least 0.10 ms, for example at least 0.20 ms. The delay is preferably up to 20.0 ms, preferably up to 10.0 ms, preferably up to 5.0 ms, preferably up to 2.0 ms, preferably up to 1.0 ms, for example at a maximum of 0.50 ms, for example at a maximum of 0.30 ms.
[0100] In some embodiments, the polarity of one or more, for example, all, auxiliary drivers is inverted relative to the main driver. In some embodiments, the polarity of one or more auxiliary drivers is inverted relative to one or more other auxiliary drivers. The method and embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that they are preferably implemented as an object-based method rather than a channel-based method.
[0101] In channel-based audio, multiple channels are directly assigned to a single specific sound source. The ratio of virtual sound sources to actual sound sources is fixed when the mix is generated. This means that the system on which the sound is played must precisely match the system on which the mix was generated. This can result in a substandard sonic experience.
[0102] In object-based audio, instead of referencing fixed channels and positions, virtual sound sources with individual spatial information are used. The ratio of virtual sound sources to real sound sources is calculated solely by the end user. This calculation depends on the end user's system. By using such a technique, the generated mix is optimally delivered to the end user.
[0103] In some embodiments, computational models are used to allow channels to arrive from specific angles. For example, the center channel of a surround sound movie may be broadcast by at least two drivers. However, the ratio of the driver volumes may be adapted so that the human brain perceives the arriving sound as the center.
[0104] In some embodiments, the method is a computer-implemented method. In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method uses panning, for example, vector-based amplitude panning (VBAP) or vector-based intensity panning (VBIP).
[0105] To optimize the localization of different sound sources, the computational model uses ILD (interaural level difference) in combination with ITD (interaural time difference). This means that panning is achieved not only by the ratio of volumes but also by the ratio of times.
[0106] The present invention also relates to the use of a set of headphones and embodiments described herein, preferably for gaming or VR, for an exclusive audio experience, and / or for a combination of audio / video experiences, or to the use of a method and embodiments described herein.
[0107] The present invention also relates to the use of headphones or methods described herein for gaming or VR (virtual reality).
[0108] The present invention also relates to the use of headphones or methods described herein for an exclusive audio experience, such as listening to music or sounds.
[0109] The present invention also relates to the use of headphones or methods described herein for a combination of audio / video experiences, such as watching a movie or a concert. example To better illustrate the characteristics, advantages, and features of the present invention, several preferred embodiments are disclosed as examples with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is by no means limited to the illustrative examples described below. Example 1: Possible configurations Figure 1A shows a set of headphones (100) with two earcups (101, 102).
[0110] Figure 1B shows the layout of one earcup (101, 102) of a headphone set according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1B shows the preferred positions of four auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) acting as spatial drivers. The center of the cup features a large diaphragm driver as the main driver (111). Each driver is fed by a specific signal. Using object-based audio processing, different sound sources are virtually positioned in space. The software calculates each signal sent to each driver to produce the correct spatial experience.
[0111] Figure 1C shows how each auxiliary driver (121, 123, 124) is oriented towards the center of the ear, which improves the sense of direction. The larger main driver is preferably at 0° and aims directly at the ear. The upper and lower drivers (123, 124) are preferably positioned at an angle α greater than 15° so as they are observed along the center ear level. The rear and front drivers (121, 124) are preferably positioned at an angle β greater than 10° so as they are observed along the center ear position.
[0112] Figure 2 shows a preferred alternative configuration comprising four auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124), with one driver for each main direction (up, down, front, and rear) of the earcup. The upper and lower drivers (122, 124) are preferably positioned at an angle α greater than 15°, as observed along the center ear level. The rear and front drivers (121, 123) are preferably positioned at an angle β greater than 10°, as observed along the center ear position.
[0113] Figures 3A and 3B show a further alternative configuration comprising two auxiliary drivers (121, 122), one for the front of the earcup (101, 102) and one for the rear. As observed along the center ear level, the rear and front drivers (121, 122) are preferably in the same plane as the main driver, i.e., positioned at an angle α equal to 0°. As observed along the center ear position, the rear and front drivers (121, 122) are preferably positioned at an angle β greater than 18°.
[0114] Figures 4A and 4B show a further alternative configuration with three auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123) with two drivers for the upper part of the ear cup (101, 102) and one driver for the lower part. As observed along the center ear level, the rear and front drivers (121, 123) located on the upper part of the ear cup are set at an angle α greater than 15°, while the lower driver (122) is set at an angle α greater than 20°. As observed along the center ear position, the rear and front drivers (121, 123) located on the upper part of the ear cup are preferably set at an angle β greater than 10°, while the lower driver (122) is set at an angle β equal to 0°, i.e., in the same plane as the main driver. Example 2: Block Diagram Figure 5 is an electronic block diagram of the hardware used in a headphone set according to one embodiment of the present invention. The figure shows possible inputs and desired processing that may be selected.
[0115] In this example, the only possible multi-channel input is dedicated to the USB-C input, because both Bluetooth® and the 3.5mm jack are stereo inputs. If desired, the stereo input may be upmixed to a multi-channel audio source.
[0116] The diagram also shows the presence of the battery, which is the power source. In this example, this is a rechargeable battery that is charged via a USB-C connector.
[0117] Optionally, microphones may be added. These may be used for speech (e.g., communication during games) or to cancel out unwanted background noise. Example 3: Processing Figure 6A shows the frequency range in which the auxiliary driver operates in one embodiment of the present invention, while Figure 6B shows the frequency range in which the main driver operates for the same embodiment.
[0118] Since the spatial experience is only noticeable within the frequency range between approximately 500Hz and 9kHz, this is the range that is fed to the spatial driver. Frequencies lower than approximately 500Hz and higher than approximately 9kHz are fed to the larger center driver.
[0119] The spatial driver operates only from 500Hz to 9kHz. The filter used is a 24dB / octave filter. Because the use of a steep filter can generate a phase shift between drivers, the filter is designed to be a linear phase filter.
[0120] Figure 7 shows a block diagram of a filter design according to one embodiment of the present invention, which creates a range in which both driver types must operate. A multi-channel input (150) is sent to an amplifier (153) through a high-pass filter (151) and a low-pass filter (152). The high-pass filter (151) and the low-pass filter (152) are arranged in series for the auxiliary driver and in parallel for the primary driver. Example 4: Linear Phase Filter Figure 8 illustrates the difference between parallel drivers and angular drivers. Over a certain distance, parallel drivers will maintain equal timing between themselves. In the case of angular drivers, i.e., angular drivers with angles between the auxiliary driver (121) and the main driver (111) and / or between the two auxiliary drivers, the timing between the drivers will vary over distance. Therefore, alignment may be difficult to achieve.
[0121] Figure 9 shows the magnitude and phase responses of a low-pass filter. It is preferable to align the different filters used in a coupled driver due to the phase shift typically caused by the filter. If the filters are coupled without alignment, phase-response comb filtering may occur, as demonstrated in Figure 10.
[0122] To avoid the consequences of poor alignment of phase response, linear phase filters are preferably used. These filters are designed to produce amplitude changes without compromising the phase response. When the phase responses of both drivers are theoretically identical, the angular position between the two drivers no longer results in an undesirable comb filter effect, and therefore, an improved sound. Example 5: User Experience Persons A and B were subjected to the influence of various types of headphones, as described below. Example 5A Headphones according to one embodiment of the present invention were compared to conventional stereo headphones.
[0123] Stereo headphones are headphones that reproduce separate sounds from two speakers (left and right speakers), resulting in two independent channels (left and right channels), providing separate sounds coming out of each speaker. When wearing stereo headphones, each ear can only hear sound from its own earpiece—there is no natural way for sound from the left earpiece to reach the right ear. As a result, the recorded amplitude difference between the left and right channels does not produce the required arrival time difference. Consequently, most people perceive sound coming from inside their own heads, roughly spaced apart along the line extending from ear to ear. The responses of persons A and B were similar, complimenting clarity and looking for nuances that may occur. During the test, subjects noticed a slow but steady increase in listening levels. Listening levels were high despite the fact that headphone drivers exhibit lower distortion (i.e., more detail and clarity in the mid / high range) than loudspeakers.
[0124] Persons A and B did not notice any difference in the physical dimensions of the headphones according to one embodiment of the present invention, other than the thicker cable (for beta testing purposes). When the program material was played, both A and B noticed what was described as "air" in the mix, as well as better positioning of the equipment and sound. Words such as "resolution," "definition," and "warmth" were used to describe the higher quality sound received. As a surplus, in both cases the overall level (master volume) was reduced by approximately -6 dB. Not only was the perceived sound described as horizontal (also known as left to right), but the dimension of height was also introduced into the description. Example 5B Headphones according to one embodiment of the present invention were compared to conventional binaural headphones.
[0125] The difficulty in listening through headphones lies in the impression of stereo positioning, assuming the use of conventional pan-pot amplitude difference techniques. When one of the more complex panning systems, involving arrival time difference and HRTF functions, is also used, imaging can be more easily understood. Generally, however, when listening through headphones, the spatial image will typically spread along a line extending between the ears and almost certainly within the head. Furthermore, the linearity of the panning characteristics differs rather from the linearity experienced with loudspeakers. A common HRTF profile, tested by a large laboratory and suitable for the majority of people, was used. The tests revealed that individuals A and B were likely to hear a definite difference between stereo program material and binaural. Binaural was perceived as an upgrade of the stereo mix in terms of spatial experience. Unfortunately, the processing techniques and psychoacoustics required for the binaural mix affected the overall sonic quality of the music. Both subjects A and B agreed that the original stereo mix felt warmer and easier to listen to.
[0126] When comparing the binaural mix with headphones according to one embodiment of the present invention, subjects A and B both readily agreed that a perfect match was achieved. An open mix was perceived, the warmth of the original music was preserved, and unpleasant artifacts that occur with binaural processing were eliminated. Example 5C A pair of headphones with four spatial drivers in a rectangular pattern (Figure 1B) was compared to a pair of headphones with four spatial drivers in a diamond pattern (Figure 2) to define the difference in localization. The results favored the diamond layout because spatial drivers are present in each primary direction (up, down, front, and back). When sound is placed in front of the listener in the rectangular layout, two drivers generate sound, thereby virtually placing sound between the two drivers. In the diamond configuration, there is only one driver that generates sound in front of the listener, which produces a more defined result. When using a 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound source (both are 2D surround sound because they lack height information) in the rectangular configuration, all four drivers need to generate sound to simulate a 2D sound field between them. When using the same file in the diamond configuration, only the front and rear drivers generate sound. This results in a less ambiguous listening experience and more defined localization. Example 6: Center spatial channel To increase the amount of spatial driver within headphones, the midrange of the main driver can be used as an additional spatial channel. The center driver originally only emits low frequencies (e.g., 20Hz to 500Hz) and very high frequencies (e.g., 9kHz to 20kHz), i.e., frequencies outside the spatial area. However, the unused frequency spectrum of the center driver (e.g., 500Hz to 9kHz) can be used as an additional spatial channel in the center of the earcup, resulting in a higher resolution 3D sound image.
[0127] A computational model that defines the distribution of sound across spatial drivers will be more accurate when there are more spatial drivers available to generate a sense of direction in sound. Another benefit of adding a spatial center channel is that the distance between spatial drivers is reduced (typically halved), which results in a higher resolution sound image.
[0128] Figure 11 illustrates further use of the main driver's mid-spatial range, showing all three ranges in which the main driver can be active. Since the spatial range (e.g., 500Hz–9kHz) is represented by multiple spatial drivers, the generated levels are lower than the upper and lower frequency ranges. Because the design already has an amplifier for the main driver, the addition of the spatial center channel is purely software / DSP based and requires no hardware adjustment.
Claims
1. A set of headphones (100) having two earcups (101, 102), each earcup (101, 102) having a variable-size driver connected to a separate power supply unit, each earcup is, - At least one main driver (111), - The system comprises at least two auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the main driver (111), The at least two auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) are positioned at an angle relative to a plane defined by the at least one main driver (111), The main driver (111) has a lower cutoff frequency f L The range of low-frequency sound waves smaller than and the upper cutoff frequency f U It includes a filter configured to select a range of higher frequency sound waves than, The at least two auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) control the lower cutoff frequency f L and the aforementioned upper limit cutoff frequency f U A set of headphones (100) comprising a filter configured to select a range of intermediate frequency sound waves between and .
2. A set of headphones (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one main driver (111) is positioned in a center position, and the at least two auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) are positioned around the at least one main driver (111).
3. The headphones are over-ear headphones, a set of headphones (100) according to claim 1 or 2.
4. A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each ear cup (101, 102) comprises at least three auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the main driver (111).
5. A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the diameter of the at least one main driver (111) is at least 25 mm and at most 60 mm.
6. A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the diameter of the at least two auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) is at least 8 mm and at most 24 mm.
7. A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein one or more of the auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) are positioned at an angle α with respect to the main driver (111) as observed along the center ear level, where α is at least 5° and up to 30°.
8. A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein one or more of the auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) are positioned at an angle β with respect to the main driver (111) as observed along the center ear position, where β is at least 2° and up to 25°.
9. f L A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the frequency range is at least 300 Hz and at most 1000 Hz.
10. f U A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the frequency range is at least 5.0 kHz and at most 12.0 kHz.
11. A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one main driver (111) comprises a high-pass filter (151) and a low-pass filter (152) in parallel, and / or the auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) comprises a high-pass filter (151) and a low-pass filter (152) in series.
12. A set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein one or more of the filters (151, 152) of the main driver (111) and the auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) are linear phase filters.
13. A method for processing a set of headphones (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, - Lower cutoff frequency f L The range of low-frequency sound waves smaller than and the upper cutoff frequency f U The steps include filtering the sound signal to select a range of high-frequency sound waves greater than the above range, and transmitting the sound signal to the main driver (111), - the lower cut-off frequency f L and the upper cut-off frequency f U filtering an audio signal to select a range of intermediate frequency sound waves between them, and transmitting the audio signal to the auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124) Methods that include...
14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the sound signal transmitted to the main driver (111) includes a delay compared to the sound signal transmitted to the auxiliary drivers (121, 122, 123, 124).
15. A method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the method is performed during gaming or VR, during an exclusive audio experience, and / or during a combined audio / video experience.