Dysonics RondoMotion
RondoMotion by Dysonics is the world’s first wireless motion sensor created with the intention to bring the live music listening experience to regular headphones. The project launched on Kickstarter in April of 2013 and successfully raised $60,841 just two months later.
Technology
Dysonics capture acoustic properties of concert halls and various venues, using their patented 360° audio array called RondoMic. The captured measurements are subsequently applied to music, which creates a faithful illusion of being actually present on the location.
A wireless motion-sensing module tracks user’s head movement and modifies the sound in a spatially correct way. As a result, listeners can freely move inside a static field of sounds and music.
In an interview with VentureBeat, Robert Dalton, the co-founder of San Francisco-based Dysonics and chief technology officer, hinted at the possibility of using the motion-tracking capability of gaming consoles like the Nintendo Wii and Microsoft’s Kinect for the Xbox to deliver even more immersive audio experience.
The sensor includes a three-axis accelerometer and a three-axis gyroscope to sense both rotation and acceleration. A low-energy Bluetooth 4.0 connection is used to wirelessly transfers data to listening devices, such as an iPhone or iPod.
Usage
The RondoMotion sensor is simple to install and the complete process can be accomplished in just three steps: #- The sensor is then attached to any pair of regular over-the-ear or on-ear headphones.
- After turning the sensor on, it will automatically sync with a compatible device and provide an immersive 360° audio experience.
The desktop application is compatible with popular services such as Spotify, Netflix, iTunes, YouTube, Pandora, and others.
Users can fully customize the virtual space and toggle between many presets for music and video playback.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 1in x 1in x 0.25in
- Weight: 20 grams
- Wireless: Bluetooth v4.0
- Max. range: Approx. 30 ft
- Battery type: Rechargeable lithium Ion
- Charge time: Approx. 1 hour
- Operating time: Approx. 20 hours
- Standby time: Months
The company
Dysonics has over 15 years of experience with academic research in human audio perception and spatial sound capture/reproduction, resulting in a number of patents. The company as we know it emerged in 2012 from the Engineering Translational Technology Center (ETTC), which is a technology incubator at the UC Davis College of Engineering. Their mission is to provide the best headphone listening experience, in a time where headphones are becoming the preferred way to listen to media.
Resources
- https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/261641446/bring-your-headphones-to-life/description
- http://dysonics.com/
- http://venturebeat.com/2013/04/26/dysonics-launches-kickstarter-to-fund-its-first-wireless-motion-sensor-for-headphones/
