Guide: How to produce great audio for your VR content

Creating great VR content isn't just about stunning visuals - high-quality audio is equally important. Properly mixed and encoded audio enhances realism and immersion. This guide covers the best practices for recording, mixing, and encoding audio for VR videos on DeoVR.

1. Choosing the Right Audio Format

DeoVR supports several audio formats, but for the best experience, use AAC or Opus. These codecs offer excellent compression while maintaining high audio quality.

• AAC (Advanced Audio Codec) - Works well for stereo audio and is widely compatible.
• Opus - Best for spatial audio due to its superior compression efficiency and low latency.

For spatial audio experiences, consider ambisonic audio (first or second order AmbiX format) to create a fully 3D soundscape. For more on spatial audio, check out our Spatial Audio Guide.

2. Recording Best Practices

To capture high-quality audio for VR, follow these guidelines:

• Use Binaural or Ambisonic Microphones - Binaural mics mimic human hearing, while ambisonic mics capture 360-degree sound.
• Record in High Bitrate - Aim for a sample rate of at least 44/48 kHz and a bitrate of 192 kbps or higher.
• Reduce Background Noise - Use windshields and noise reduction tools to avoid distractions.
• Maintain Proper Mic Placement - Position microphones at ear level for binaural recordings or use a central position for ambisonic captures.

3. Mixing and Mastering for VR

Mixing for VR differs from traditional stereo mixing. Keep these factors in mind:

• Balance Levels - Maintain consistency across different sound elements to avoid sudden loud or quiet sections.
• Minimize Reverb - Too much artificial reverb can reduce clarity, especially in VR environments.
• Spatialization - Ensure sounds originate from their intended directions.
• Export in AmbiX Format for Spatial Audio - If using ambisonics, export in first or second order AmbiX (SN3D/ACN) format.

4. Encoding for DeoVR

Before uploading, ensure your audio is correctly encoded:

• Stereo Audio - Use AAC at 192 kbps+.
• Spatial Audio (Ambisonics) - Encode using Opus at 256 kbps+.
• File Formats - Audio should be embedded in supported video formats like MP4 (H.264/H.265/AV1) or MKV.

For advanced spatial audio, include a properly formatted ambisonic track alongside your video.

5. Testing Before Uploading

Before publishing, verify that your audio works as intended:

• Listen with headphones to check spatial positioning.
• Test playback on DeoVR to confirm compatibility.
• Adjust levels if necessary to avoid distortion or imbalance.

By following these steps, you can create VR content with audio that enhances immersion and realism, ensuring the best possible experience for viewers on DeoVR.

If you have any questions about recording spatial audio feel free to contact us at audio@deovr.com or evgeniy.kordiuk@deovr.com.