What the hell is Q-sound?

[Gamereviewgod]

And, why was it so big back in the day? Is it really something special or just a buzzword created by Capcom?

[Bratwurst]

I've seen it on some Sega CD games too although it was a little more subtle as opposed to the Rockman arcade games. I always thought the logo music was really neat.

They're still around. http://www.qsound.com/2002/

[omnedon]

Surroundy sound simulation gimmick. Nothing as good as real modern surround.

[Flack]

Google.

http://www.qsound.com/2002/technology/main1.asp

[le geek]

Q-sound: cue 'saund (see Blast Processing)

[wberdan]

Surroundy sound simulation gimmick. Nothing as good as real modern surround.

Completely untrue that Q-Sound is not as good as modern surround.
To get the real effect from Q sound you must have time and phase accurate speakers (Vandersteen, Theil, and Medowlark are the only three true time and phase accurate brands in the world).
With time and phase accurate speakers, Q-sound can reproduce focused sounds above your head, behind you, and directly beside and in front of you.
It sounds more natural than using surround speakers.

If you havn't heard a Q-sound recording with time and phase accurate speakers, then you simply have not heard it.

Some examples of Q-sound magic-

Track 12 of Guns and Roses Use Your Illuision I (various sound effects)
Any track on the Roger Waters album Amused to Death (a complete sound effect carnival-probably the best demo disc)
Track 6 of the Nine Inch Nails album The Downward Spiral (during the chorus places reznors voice in a huge area the the left side of you, and during the 'breakdown' places the bass guitar and drum set directly to, and slightly behind your right side)


willie