Sound Effects and Ambience Recording

Capturing authentic environmental audio, intricate foley details, and bespoke sound design elements for film, games, commercials, social media or any project.

Real-world sounds are typically recorded in the field or on location and there are numerous recording setups and techniques to utilise, each suited to different situations.

MONO

Mono is the default audio format for sound effects that do not require stereo width or spatialisation. Mono sound effects can be used in any type of mix from standard stereo to immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos. Although mono files cannot convey movement independently, they are easier to pan than stereo or multichannel recordings.

Mono recordings are made using single point microphones such as Sennheiser MKH-8060 shotgun or MKH-8050 cardioid.

Stereo recording is the preferred format for sounds that feature one-dimensional motion. While motion can be achieved by panning mono sound effects, stereo recordings provide a more natural effect.

Stereo provides a sense of width that can enhance the dynamic and immersive qualities of certain sounds. It is particularly effective for capturing large sound sources such as urban and rural areas, forests, beaches and dense birdlife as well as general backgrounds and ambient sounds.

Stereo recordings are made using various techniques including dedicated mid/side microphones and individual microphones in specific layouts.

SURROUND / AMBISONICS:

Ambisonics is a multichannel spatial audio format capable of capturing and reproducing a complete three-dimensional soundfield including above and below.

The Ambisonic format is ideal for representing the full scope of a soundscape with greater spatial resolution than typical surround formats. As Ambisonic audio provides a complete sphere of sound it brings to life immersive details such as the hustle and bustle of a city or the sounds of a forest.

Ambisonic recordings are made using a special microphone such as the Sennheiser AMBEO.