What Is PS5 3D Audio? Here's Everything You Need To Know

With the announcement of the PS5, Sony unveiled that the next-gen console would feature 3D audio, but what exactly is it?

For many wanting to upgrade to PS5, it can be worth exploring exactly what 3D audio is and whether it is enough to draw you into next-gen gaming.

With that being said let's dive in!

What Is PS5 3D Audio?

3D audio essentially attempts to recreate the sound as if it were happening all around you, which is supposed to add an extra layer of immersion while gaming.

Examples of this would be hearing footsteps behind you or gunfire in the distance, adapting this depending on whichever game you're playing.

Tempest 3D AudioTech is PS5's custom engine which they claim "will provide high-quality audio and allow games to offer a much deeper sense of immersion via the custom 3D Audio implementation with a PS5-compatible headset"

It seems Sony are confident that their new Tempest 3D AudioTech is worth getting excited about, but what exactly are the limitations of this?

Read More: PS5 3D Audio vs Dolby Atmos: Which is Better?

Will Every PS5 Game Benefit From 3D Audio?

Sony has claimed that yes, all games on PS5 will be able to benefit from 3D audio, stating that even single-channel audio will have added dimensions thanks to the PS5's Tempest 3D AudioTech.

While exact effects will vary from title to title, 3D audio should be present when using any of the best headsets for PS5.

If you're looking for the ultimate immersive experience while gaming, why not combine the PS5's 3D audio with a standout curved gaming monitor.

How To Enable 3D Audio On PS5

If you have managed to bag yourself a 3D audio compatible headset, then to take advantage of this new tech then you'll need to enable it within the PS5's settings.

In order to do this, open up the Settings menu, go into Sound and then into Audio Output. Here you can enable 3D Audio and adjust individual profiles to find one that will suit your ears best.

Do I Need The Pulse 3D Headset To Experience 3D Audio On PS5?

Credit: Sony

The Pulse 3D Wireless headset was released alongside the PS5 and has been designed to take full advantage of the PS5's 3D audio.

Sony has stated: "The PULSE 3D wireless headset has been engineered to take full advantage of PS5’s 3D Audio capabilities. With a refined design, dual noise-cancelling microphones, and an array of easy-access controls, the PULSE 3D wireless headset offers a seamless experience.

Players can also experience 3D Audio on PS5 with a PS5-compatible headset that you may already own, either through the console’s USB connection, or by plugging an analog headset into the DualSense wireless controller’s 3.5mm headset jack."

This suggests that while the Pulse 3D headset is designed specifically for it, that any compatible headset can experience PS5 3D audio.

Though if you're looking to take advantage of the PS5's Bluetooth and use a wireless headset, we'd say the Pulse 3D is a standout choice for us.

See More: Best PS5 Headset: Our Top Picks

Can I Use My TV's Speakers To Experience 3D Audio?

When the PS5 launched in 2020. its exciting new 3D audio tech was reserved for headphone users, including Sony's own Pulse 3D Wireless headset.

As a result of a new update for the PS5 in September 2021 though, it is now possible to experience the 3D audio effect through your TV's speakers. This can be achieved by enabling the 'Enable 3D Audio For TV Speakers' option in the PS5's settings.

To get the best results, you can also measure your room's acoustics through the built-in mic on the DualSense controller. This system looks to work similarly to Sonos' TruePlay system by analysing your room and optimising the audio experience based on the setup of your space.

READ MORE: PS5 DualSense Vs PS4 DualShock 4: Which Is Best?