Future improvements to the encoder are likely to include a feature similar to feature 2
above for the front channels. In the current encoder when the two front channels are out
of phase the encoding will cause the decoder to place the sound in the rear. We intend to
detect this condition and make the resulting output unsteered.
Conclusions
This paper has presented the mathematical details of the design of a 5-2-5 matrix encoder
and decoder, which is compatible with standard stereo recordings. Results of the work as
shown in listening tests have been highly gratifying. While not every detail of original 5
channel recordings is preserved by the matrix, the artistic quality of the mix is well
preserved. Both conventional stereo and film sound mixed for the previous standard
matrix are enhanced by the new matrix.
Figure 24: Solid curve – center output level as a
steered signal pans from center to left. Dotted
curve – Left output as a steered signal pans from
center to left. (The values along the CS axis are
inverted.) With the center correction the center
pan function is reasonably close to a sin/cosine
pan function.
Figure 25. The new active encoder diagram