WHITE PAPER:
New PC Sound Requirements
Attacking MP3 File Compression and PC Fidelity Input/Output for
HOLISTIC Listening Improvement
December 9, 2002
Traditionally, sound in personal computers has not really been
about listening quality. Beeps, chirps and other simple tones
used in personal computers were originally created to
augment various commands, not to support an alternative
listening experience. Used primarily as audio cues, personal
computer sounds were tied to games, productivity applications
or used as a single element in a brand, as in the Microsoft®
“chord” that plays upon the opening of the Windows®
operating system.
Today, however, PC sound is going through a renaissance.
Because of the proliferation and increasing sophistication of
personal computers – and the continued migration of digital
media into the home in general – consumers now want to
listen to their computers in much the same way they listen to
their stereos or TVs. Now, consumers want to improve the
quality of entertainment experiences that are
uniquely and
conveniently
provided by their computers.
Manufacturers are responding. New computer introductions
are emerging onto the market that position the PC as the
staging area for home entertainment. In addition to enhanced
music capability, these PCs have TV tuner cards, Personal
Video Recorders (PVR), online program guide, etc.
Philips White Paper: New PC Sound Requirements
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