OS X Virtual Surround Software

Hajo Headphone OS X Solution

• Automatically detects headphone status and music playing to disable itself and save battery.
• Uses only 1.5% CPU for 5.1 simulation on a MacBook Pro.

Alternative USB Audio Devices

• Use an external USB audio device like ZPS USB 6-Channel 5.1 Audio External Optical Sound Card Adapter for virtual surround options on MacBooks.

Razer Surround for OS X

• Mentioned as creating a virtual audio device for playing 7.1 or 5.1 audio with "true" virtual surround.

New Audio Technology's Spatial Sound Card

• Available for both Windows and Mac OS X.
• Costs €169 or €89 on sale, uses significant CPU power.
• Offers headphone equalization presets, but DRM protected.

Pros and Cons

• Hajo Headphone: Efficient, battery-friendly, and low CPU usage.
• Alternative USB Audio Devices: Provide options beyond software solutions for Mac compatibility.
• Razer Surround: Offers "true" virtual surround but lacks specific details for Mac OS.
• New Audio Technology's Spatial Sound Card: Offers advanced features but comes at a cost and requires high CPU usage.

It seems like users are divided on the efficiency, implementation, and preferences for virtual surround software and solutions on OS X, with each option presenting its own set of pros and cons based on user experiences and preferences.