Sony 360RA mixing
Sony 360 Reality Audio mixing: immersive sound built for music
Developed by Sony, 360 Reality Audio is an immersive format created specifically for music. Through three-dimensional spatialisation, instruments and voices can be placed around the listener to create a spacious, enveloping sound stage — particularly through compatible headphone playback. Studio d'Estrade produces Sony 360 Reality Audio mixes for artists, producers and labels exploring immersive music releases.
Immersive music mixing
Why offer Sony 360 Reality Audio
Not every immersive format serves the same needs. We added Sony 360 Reality Audio to offer an option designed specifically for music projects exploring immersive playback. Our goal isn't to champion one format over another, but to understand the available technologies and advise each artist according to their project and release strategy.
Unlike immersive formats that originated in cinema, Sony 360 Reality Audio was designed from the outset with music in mind. Its object-based approach can place musical elements around the listener, creating a sound stage intended to feel spacious and enveloping.
Designed for music
Why did Sony develop 360 Reality Audio?
While Dolby Atmos originated in cinema before expanding into music, Sony 360 Reality Audio was conceived from the outset for music playback.
The aim is to create the feeling of being inside the musical performance. Voices, instruments and ambience can each occupy a defined position in three-dimensional space, creating a more spacious listening experience — particularly through compatible headphone playback.
Which format should you choose for your release?
| If your project... | We may recommend... |
|---|---|
| is intended for cinema | Dolby Atmos |
| will be released on Apple Music | Dolby Atmos |
| targets services compatible with Sony 360RA | Sony 360RA |
| needs several formats | Both, depending on your needs |
| will be released across several platforms | Several immersive masters |
The right format mainly depends on how your project will be released and where your audience will listen. We help you make that decision so the technology follows the distribution strategy rather than the other way around.
A different way to listen to music
For artists
Give every instrument a precise place and build a sound stage that's true to your artistic vision.
For listeners
Rediscover music with immersion that's especially compelling on compatible headphones.
For labels
Explore an additional immersive format for catalogue releases where the distribution strategy makes it relevant.
Sony 360 Reality Audio
Every piece of music deserves its own space.
Sony 360 Reality Audio offers another way to experience music.
Your Sony 360RA project
How does a project unfold?
- 01
You tell us about your project
We discuss the music, its audience and the platforms you're targeting.
- 02
We choose the right format
We determine whether Sony 360 Reality Audio is the best fit, or whether another immersive format better serves your goals.
- 03
Immersive mixing
We position the musical elements in three-dimensional space to build a coherent, natural sound stage.
- 04
We refine it together
We fine-tune the result with you until the mix truly matches your artistic intent.
- 05
Delivery
You receive masters prepared for the intended Sony 360 Reality Audio distribution workflow.
Frequently asked questions
Sony 360 Reality Audio mixing, in practice
What is Sony 360 Reality Audio?
Sony 360 Reality Audio is an immersive audio format developed by Sony for music. Instruments and voices can be positioned in three-dimensional space to create a more natural and enveloping listening experience.
What is the difference between Dolby Atmos and Sony 360 Reality Audio?
Both formats can produce immersive music, but they weren't designed for the same purposes. Dolby Atmos originated in cinema before expanding into music, while Sony 360 Reality Audio was built from the ground up for music playback.
Does Sony 360 Reality Audio work with headphones?
Yes. Headphone listening is one of its key use cases. With compatible playback, instruments and voices can be perceived around the listener, creating a three-dimensional sound stage.
On which platforms can Sony 360 Reality Audio be heard?
Several streaming services have offered or currently offer content compatible with Sony 360 Reality Audio. Availability varies by platform, country and compatible device.
Can a stereo mix be converted to Sony 360 Reality Audio?
A conversion is possible in some cases, but the best results come from mixing directly from separated tracks (stems or a multitrack session).
Does my project need to be mixed in Sony 360 Reality Audio?
That mainly depends on your distribution strategy and your audience. We help you determine whether Sony 360 Reality Audio, Dolby Atmos or another immersive format best fits your project.
Planning a Sony 360 Reality Audio mix?
Tell us about your project and where you plan to release it. We'll help you determine whether Sony 360 Reality Audio is the right format and provide a no-obligation quote.
You don't need to have all the answers before reaching out.