Binaural recordings are an indispensable basis for analyses that help us understand how products are actually perceived in real acoustic environments. In practice, however, one crucial step is often underestimated: faithfully reproducing what a binaural recording system, such as an artificial head, has recorded. Without defined levels, headphone-specific equalization, and complete control over all playback parameters, identical audio data can sound fundamentally different across workstations. For applications in NVH, sound design, product sound evaluation, or psychoacoustics, this variability undermines the high value of binaural data.

HEAD acoustics addresses this critical issue with the playSeries. The company is currently the only provider to cover the entire binaural signal chain with consistently high-quality standards – from calibrated recording and precise software analysis to accurate reproduction, tailored to the headphones used. The playSeries translates HEAD acoustics' binaural expertise into practical, reliable hardware solutions. Every device in the playSeries guarantees correct level reproduction and integrates headphone-specific equalization. This ensures that the perceived acoustic scene remains consistent – regardless of where a recording is evaluated or which teams are involved.

playBasic – precise binaural hearing, anywhere

playBasic was developed for mobile workflows. The compact device enables reliable binaural playback without additional configuration or calibration effort, making it ideal for time-critical workflows. As a high-quality, low-threshold offering, it is perfect for equipping the entire team, enabling efficient work. It is offered exclusively as a package – with a choice of open or closed headphones from HEAD acoustics – and is ready for immediate use. This makes playBasic ideal for variant comparisons, quick sound evaluations, or cross-departmental communication where a uniform and technically reliable reference is required.

playPro – two outputs for joint decisions

In many development phases, variants must be discussed, subjective impressions compared, or results validated long before a listening studio is available. playPro supports this process with two independently equalized headphone outputs, allowing two people to listen to the same binaural scene simultaneously under identical conditions. The device stores individual equalization data for calibrated headphones, enabling reproducible evaluations at any time.

playStudio – reference playback for laboratories and simulators

For listening studios, research facilities, and demanding simulation environments, playStudio offers the highest precision in binaural playback. Professional digital and analog interfaces such as AES/EBU, ADAT/TOSLINK, and analog outputs, as well as the daisy chain function, even when the device is turned off, enable scalable multi-device setups. playStudio can be securely installed in a rack and becomes the central reference point for jury tests, psychoacoustic investigations, management demos, and simulator applications.

The missing link

The playSeries makes binaural listening a scalable, reproducible technical tool for all areas of application. Developers can evaluate NVH signatures directly at their workstations, while laboratories and studios maintain the highest reference standards. At the same time, management, purchasing, and quality assurance are given the opportunity to conduct sound evaluations under defined, technically optimized conditions.

In this way, the playSeries facilitates informed communication between individuals and departments, makes subjective evaluations traceable, and enables development decisions that reflect how products are actually experienced by users. The playSeries makes binaural hearing a reliable, technically valid tool across the entire development chain.