JVC has some new technology called "Near Speaker Surround" that creates surround sound using a single 2ch speaker unit. The speaker unit is placed close to the listener. Incoming multichannel signals are processed to be converted to binaural signals. Binaural signals are typically listened to using headphones, since they get the maximum channel separation -- use standard speakers and you will experience what is known as "crosstalk," where signals that are intended for just one ear also reach the other ear. However, with JVC's new "Transaural Processing" technology, crosstalk is cancelled, enabling listeners to achieve a headphone-like experience using a standard 2ch speaker setup. Because near-field involves placing the speaker nearby and requires only a single speaker unit, sound leakage can be reduced by as much as 56% versus standard multi-speaker setups.

Just as a side note, for those that doubt 2ch stereo's ability to provide true surround sound, put on a pair of headphones and listen to this.



Inspired by:
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20060912/victor2.htm

Press Release:
http://www.victor.co.jp/press/2006/near_speaker.html