ARD has successfully introduced audio track for clear speech

The sound mix of movies and series is not always ideal. Often, bass and effects are in the foreground, while conversations are difficult to understand. ARD is now remedying this situation. With the additional sound track “Klare Sprache” they offer a technically improved sound track for better speech intelligibility.

ARD Klare Sprache successfully launched

On 01 June 2022, ARD launched the new sound track called “Klare Sprache” in the main program Das Erste, as well as some third programs. The aim of the speech-optimized soundtrack is to improve speech intelligibility for all viewers.

The new soundtrack is available nationwide on Das Erste, as well as on the regional TV programs of Westdeutscher Rundfunk (WDR), Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR) and Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg (rbb). Additional third programs are to be added on September 1, 2022.

In the first two weeks, the audio track has been very well received. “The feedback we receive shows that many viewers have a great need for better audio intelligibility. Not only because everyone hears differently – especially as they get older – but also because modern flat-screen TVs have little room for good speakers,”, reveals Christoph Augenstein, chairman of the ARD Production and Technology Commission (PTKO) and operations and production director at Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg (rbb).

With ARD’s “Clear Speech” soundtrack, there is now a simple way to improve the listening experience. “Background noises and music are played out more quietly, and the spoken word is then much easier to understand,” says Augenstein.

How do you activate ARD Clear Speech?

The new audio track can be easily selected via the remote control in the audio menu. In addition, the desired audio track can also be activated via the settings in the ARD HbbTV start bar. It is available in the HD programs via satellite and partially via DVB-T2 HD. It is also available in the web livestream of WDR, NDR, rbb and Ersten.

Those who watch the programs via cable or an IP platform provider must hope for availability on the part of the respective provider. Here, too, implementation is possible. Some operators are also already offering the new audio track, it continues.

Where exactly the advantages lie, the ARD shows in a video contribution of the MDR magazine Umschau, which you can watch in the information article on the ARD sound track Klare Sprache.