FAQ

Quick answers to common questions about Orbit Lite.

General

What is Orbit Lite?

Orbit Lite is a streamlined ADM BWF and IAMF player for macOS. It lets you load, play back, and monitor immersive files across multiple output formats — without the complexity of a full DAW or QC workstation.

How is Orbit Lite different from Orbit?

Orbit Lite focuses on playback and monitoring. It includes the same four monitoring modes (7.1.4, binaural, Apple Spatial Audio, stereo) but doesn't have the 3D visualizer, advanced timeline, markers, loudness metering, PDF export, ADM video sync, or session management found in the full version. (Lite does play the video in IAMF files.) See the comparison table for a full breakdown.

What files does Orbit Lite support?

• ADM BWF files (.wav) with valid ADM metadata — the standard format for immersive masters.
• IAMF / Eclipsa files (.iamf, or IAMF-wrapped .mp4, including files that carry video), in every IAMF 2.0 profile. See IAMF in Orbit Lite.

For Compare, the stereo master can be WAV, AAC or MP3.

Is Orbit Lite on iPhone and iPad?

Yes. Orbit Lite is a free download on the App Store for iPhone and iPad (iOS 17 or later). It plays the same ADM BWF and IAMF masters as the Mac app, with the same monitoring modes and Compare checks. Sign in with your Orbit Spatial account to use one of your licence's device seats, start the 14-day trial in the app, or buy Orbit Lite for iOS in the app (£14.99 at launch), which unlocks every iPhone and iPad on your Apple ID. See Orbit Lite on iPhone & iPad.

Monitoring

Can I use regular headphones with binaural mode?

Yes. Binaural mode works with any headphones. Apple Spatial Audio mode requires compatible Apple or Beats headphones for head tracking.

Does Orbit Lite support head tracking?

Yes, with compatible AirPods or Beats headphones, in both Binaural and Apple Spatial Audio modes. In Binaural, the footer shows a Head Tracking switch and a Recenter button.

Licensing

Is Orbit Lite a subscription?

No. Orbit Lite is a one-time purchase.

Can I try Orbit Lite before buying?

Yes. Sign in when you first open Orbit Lite and you get a free 14-day trial; the welcome screen shows how many days are left. See orbitspatial.io for purchasing options.

Can I upgrade to Orbit later?

Yes. Contact [email protected] for upgrade options.

Privacy

Does Orbit Lite upload my audio files?

No. All playback happens locally on your machine. Internet is used for your licence and account, update checks and, if you allow it, anonymous usage data. See Data & Privacy.