A user centred investigation into the potential of alternative input devices for mixing immersive audio

This paper outlines a large scale study on user preference in relation to the suitability of commercially available input devices for immersive mixing. The rise of consumer focussed immersive audio formats marks a shift from channel-centric to object-orientated mixing workflows. Whilst traditional input methods dominate, prior research has explored the potential of alternative input devices, e.g. hand motion controllers, for immersive mixing. This research takes a step back from developing novel input methods to gauge music producers' views on the suitability of various commercially available input devices for immersive mixing. A three-stage questionnaire was developed for this study. The first section collected demographic information and ascertained the participants' level of experience. The second and third questionnaire sections considered the suitability of traditional and alternative input devices, respectively, for immersive mixing. Preliminary evaluation of the results highlights the potential of the joystick for positioning audio elements in the immersive mix.