A few years back, audio engineers were still trying to figure out the nitty gritties of improving audio processing equipment. The main goals were to improve signal quality and audio crispness. Enter the 21st century and we are now talking of the possibility of Artificial Intelligence (or simply AI) reshaping modern web streaming audio processors.

We saw it coming. It started with video and image processing but now AI has spread its tentacles into the audio world as well. Before we delve into the potential AI poses on audio processing improvement, first we look at how far we have come in redefining web streaming audio processors.

Notable improvements

There have been sound improvements in terms of how audio equalization (the attenuation or tuning up and down of various audio frequencies to optimize audio signal’s sound) is carried out in web streaming audio processing. EQ channel mixers are able to fine tune sound by shutting out unwanted frequencies. It is also possible to use equalization channels to customize your speaker setup and determine which speakers produce the dominant sounds and which maintain a background profile.

We cannot fail to mention how dynamic effects have revolutionized sound output levels. We now have ambient noise compensation (or ANC) setups that immediately detect ambient noise level in relation to the sound coming from a main mic. These ANC devices then tone down ambient noise to give advantage to the main sound source, all happening in real time.

Enter AI

Now with AI, we are looking at a possibility of reconstructing sound from low quality sources into Hi-Fi quality. We are also eager to see AI-incorporated web streaming audio processors that can pick up surround sounds, for instance from playing instruments, then build-up ready-to-use sound presets for the user; again in real time. We also cannot wait for AI aided speech processors that will allow us to manipulate dialects, languages, and voice recordings to our advantage.

We already live in a digitally smart world, so it is about time we also talked about digital smart audio. With time, we may also be able to study neural pathways from auditory systems and come up with an audio architecture that will help us improve audio experiences for human consumption.

Final Thoughts

AI in web streaming audio processors is now a reality in the tech world. Though much of it is still in the trial phase, it won’t be long before we start creating smart audio with artificial intelligence. Perhaps the only question left to be answered is how affordable this new technology will be.