BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™
Adding to the impact of immersive experiences
Following an impressive track record in film visuals (including 3D film and TV), BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™ founders branched into holographic technology. They soon found that while holograms could be used to create a powerful visual impact, traditional sound was destroying the ‘true to life’ illusion. Audiences are generally surrounded by speakers that envelop them in sound, rather than hearing the sound emanating from the appropriate source location. This is even more noticeable in virtual environments and immersive experiences.
Creating object-based sound
Unable to find an available solution for their holographic presentations, the BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™ team eventually sought out Rob Oldfield, author of a PhD thesis on wave field synthesis based on work he undertook in 2010. The thesis posited that instead of ‘having’ a sweet spot, the listener can become the sweet spot, so they can move around and get a realistic sound.
By applying wave field synthesis, BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™ technology can exactly place a sound at its apparent source – ideal for its holograms.
Digital Catapult was a catalyst for a significant change of approach
Still working with holograms, BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™ held a showcase at Knebworth and it became apparent that the incredibly realistic sound was creating more of an impression than the visuals. It was the Digital Catapult team that recognised the potential offered by this new sound technology and encouraged BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™ to explore new and wider applications.
Once working with Digital Catapult, BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™ started to attract a lot of attention, especially as the true to life sound would be ideal for immersive experiences. For example, words can appear to come from an actor’s mouth, or a gunshot can be made to sound as if it takes place outside the room. Or the participant can walk through a virtual orchestra and experience the way the sound changes as they move around the musicians.
Facilitating and hosting a crucial investor workshop
Digital Catapult hosted a workshop for BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™ that made it possible for the team to introduce its technology to groups from the United Arab Emirates who were particularly interested in its use with artificial intelligence. As well as making the workshop possible the Digital Catapult team also applied its technical expertise to help resolve some ‘leakage’ from the system and development of a miniaturised version that would be more portable.
Digital Catapult Surroundscapes 2019
BULLDOG 3D SOUND TRUE2LIFE™ took part in Surroundscapes, an immersive showcase highlighting those creating the latest solutions to amplify virtual reality, augmented reality and adding to the impact of immersive experiences, in the face of some impressive competition. This heightened profile and increased exposure have led to multiple introductions and connections to new companies and sectors, including medical companies, the music industry, forensics specialists, K-Pop, and the British Film Institute.
The company is now moving to Leeds and building a development centre with support from the Leeds City Council.
It’s Bulldog True2Life™
In 2019 it won the best use of AR/VR award and then later the Uk Digital catapult award for best soundscapes.
After Covid the company had success in recording immersive story telling highlighted by a fully immersive version of E.A Poes the Raven.
The company currently has two projects where it provides Sound and Vision experiences and two other potentials. For the main one it has composed, arranged and recorded a new orchestral work by our director of sound Allan Wilson – which it is understood that King Charles will be present later in 2026 – its a truly unique experience.