What is the modern way to get emulated 3D on headphones in a video game (PC)?
Solution 1:
While it's not something I've looked deeply into, it appears that virtual surround sound has moved to the headset itself. Headsets in combination with their software drivers are simulating the surround sound experience.
I recently purchased a new gaming headset from Logitech and it offered virtual surround sound. The software that came with it, provides the emulated surround sound. It works, somewhat. However it is not a high end headset. Perhaps more expensive model will provide a better experience.