Neumann have announced the release of a new plug-in that allows users of their NDH headphones to monitor immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos. RIME (Reference Immersive Monitoring Environment) is capable of converting multi-channel formats to binaural audio, and has been designed to provide a high-quality alternative to working with a loudspeaker-based setup.
The plug-in captures a real, purpose-built studio room using a selection of Neumann’s reference-quality gear. An immersive monitoring setup comprising KH-series loudspeakers was installed by acoustic experts before being fine-tuned using the company’s MA 1 Automatic Monitor Alignment suite, with the capture carried out using the renowned KU 100 binaural head microphone. Unlike many of the alternatives, Neumann have chosen to stick with modelling a single room rather than provide users with a collection of different spaces.
RIME captures the sound of a single, purpose-built immersive mixing room.
The approach means that they’ve been able to ensure the space is simulated to the highest possible standards, and as the software can only be used with Neumann’s headphones, the entire system remains under tight control. “As RIME is made for Neumann headphones exclusively, this perfect signal chain extends all the way to the user,” explains Product Manager Jorma Marquardt. “Our NDH 20 and NDH 30 headphones are manufactured to extremely tight tolerances. And of course, we know all of their acoustic parameters. Using ground-breaking AMBEO algorithms, we are able to realise true immersion with unmatched sonic consistency and razor-sharp 3D localisation.”
For added realism, RIME supports OSC-compatible head tracker devices, allowing users to create a listening experience that responds to their head movements. It’s not just for immersive audio, either: RIME can be used to enjoy a loudspeaker-like listening experience with stereo material without the in-head localisation typically associated with headphones.
“Immersive audio is the new standard. Streaming services favour content that can be enjoyed in spatial audio formats such as Dolby Atmos or Sony 360 Reality. More and more DAWs now offer immersive audio capabilities, and engineers, producers and musicians alike are eager to explore these new possibilities. Reliable monitoring is essential for this. With RIME, we're offering an integrated solution that meets these evolving needs, providing a more cost-effective and mobile alternative to loudspeaker-based monitoring solutions. Our NDH headphones have the same carefully balanced sound as our studio KH studio monitors, making it easy to switch between the two. With RIME this unique benefit extends to immersive monitoring as well.” - Yasmine Riechers, CEO, Neumann
Compatibility
RIME is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or above, and Macs running macOS 10.15 and higher. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in formats are available.
Pricing & Availability
RIME is available now, priced at $99.95£85 including VAT / €99.
