Method for Encoding and Decoding Object-Based Audio Signal and Apparatus Thereof

An audio encoding method comprising the steps of:

• generating a first audio signal in which one or more music objects are grouped and encoded;
• generating a second audio signal in which at least two vocal objects are grouped step by step and encoded, and a residual signal corresponding to the second audio signal;
• and
• generating a bitstream including the first and second audio signals and the residual signal.

An audio encoding apparatus comprising:

• a multi-channel encoder for generating a first audio signal in which one or more music objects are grouped and encoded;
• an object encoder for generating a second audio signal in which at least two vocal objects are grouped step by step and encoded, and a residual signal corresponding to the second audio signal;
• and
• a multiplexer for generating a bitstream including the first and second audio signals and the residual signal.