Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. PhantomStage 5.1 converts legally owned stereo FLAC, WAV, or AIFF music into real 5.1 surround FLAC files with six discrete channels. The goal is not to replace the original stereo mix, but to preserve its front-stage feel while expanding ambience, depth, center focus, and low-frequency support into a natural surround field.

It is a real multichannel 5.1 FLAC file, not a stereo widening preset. The delivered file contains separate Left, Right, Center, LFE, Surround Left, and Surround Right channels. Playback works best through a true 5.1 speaker system, AV receiver, or media player that supports multichannel FLAC output.

No. PhantomStage 5.1 is not Dolby Atmos, not SACD, and not an object-based immersive format. It creates real 5.1 channel FLAC files for home theater and AV receiver playback. Atmos uses a different delivery format and object-based rendering system.

A receiver upmixer applies a real-time preset to everything you play. PhantomStage 5.1 is a custom conversion process created for the specific track or album. The front Left and Right channels are preserved as the musical foundation, while center, surround, and LFE channels are built to support the original mix rather than overpower it.

We take your stereo FLAC files and create a true 5.1 surround mix — six discrete channels: Left, Right, Center, Low-Frequency Effects (subwoofer), Surround Left, and Surround Right. Each channel is carefully crafted to sound natural and musical, preserving the original stereo soul of the recording while adding genuine spatial depth.

It is a form of upmixing, but done manually with audiophile intent rather than algorithmically in real time. AV receivers apply generic DSP presets that process everything the same way regardless of the music. PhantomStage 5.1 conversions are handcrafted per album — each element is evaluated and placed deliberately. The result is significantly more musical and natural than any automatic mode.

The front Left and Right channels are kept as close to the original as possible. We do not apply EQ, compression, or processing to the primary stereo image. The center, surround, and LFE channels are derived from and complement the original — they never replace or alter it.

Accepted formats: FLAC (16-bit or 24-bit), WAV, and AIFF at any standard sample rate. You can also upload a ZIP file containing multiple tracks for an album submission. Lossy formats (MP3, AAC, OGG) are not accepted — lossless source material is required for a meaningful 5.1 conversion. The better the source, the better the result.

You receive 24-bit multichannel FLAC files — one per track, containing all 6 channels following the standard 5.1 channel order: L · R · C · LFE · Ls · Rs. Files are delivered securely to your dashboard for private download. We also include our Playback Guide with step-by-step setup instructions for every common system.

Turnaround time varies by project scope. Single tracks typically deliver faster than full albums. You will receive an email notification the moment your files are ready — you can also track the status in real time from your dashboard. If you have a specific deadline, mention it in your request notes and we'll do our best to accommodate.

You will receive an email at the address you registered with. You can also track the status of every request in real time from your dashboard.

Your files are stored securely and available in your dashboard indefinitely. You can re-download them at any time — there is no expiry on delivered files.

Yes — you can submit as many separate requests as you like. Each album or project gets its own request, its own folder, and its own delivery notification. Use the Custom Quote tier for bulk or ongoing work.

Contact us at [email protected] describing what you'd like adjusted. Full Album and Custom projects include up to 2 revision passes for fine-tuning. Single Track previews can be revised at a reduced rate — reach out and we'll discuss options. Our goal is that you're genuinely delighted with the result.

For the full experience, yes. PhantomStage 5.1 is designed primarily for real 5.1 speaker systems connected to an AV receiver or multichannel playback chain. Headphone listening is possible only when your software or device supports 5.1 virtualization or binaural rendering.

You need either an AV receiver with HDMI input connected to 5.1 speakers, a media player capable of multichannel FLAC output (JRiver, Kodi, foobar2000), or headphones with a binaural renderer (DTS:X, APL Virtuoso). See our full Playback Guide for step-by-step setup instructions for every common system.

Most media players will automatically downmix the 5.1 channels to stereo when a stereo output is selected — so yes, they will play, but you won't hear the surround channels. For the full experience you need a multichannel setup.

Yes, both Plex and Jellyfin support multichannel FLAC. Make sure your client app is configured to pass through multichannel audio rather than transcode it, and that your playback device and receiver support multi-channel PCM input via HDMI.

Yes — Infuse Pro on iOS/iPadOS handles multichannel FLAC and outputs all 6 channels via HDMI (using a USB-C to HDMI adapter or AV adapter). See the Playback Guide for the full Apple setup walkthrough.

The Single Track Preview ($25) covers one stereo FLAC track converted to 5.1 FLAC. Includes your choice of surround style (Audiophile, Immersive, or Cinematic), bass preference, front stereo preservation, and final delivery as a 24-bit 5.1 FLAC file. This tier is designed for listeners who want to experience the service before ordering a full album.

The Full Album Conversion ($199) covers up to 12 stereo FLAC tracks. Every track is handled individually and tuned to the character of the song, while keeping the album consistent as a full listening experience. Includes 32-bit float internal processing, 24-bit 5.1 FLAC delivery, and up to 2 revision passes for fine-tuning.

Yes — an account is required to submit requests and access your files. Registration is free and takes less than a minute. Your account gives you a personal dashboard to track all your requests and download your delivered files securely.

Your files are stored on a private server and are only accessible through your authenticated account. We do not share your files or account information with any third party. See our Privacy Policy for full details.