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Auditory distance perception in rooms.
1TNO Human Factors Research Institute, Soesterberg, The Netherlands. bronkhorst@tm.tno.nl
Nature
|February 24, 1999
Summary
A new model accurately predicts perceived sound distance using a modified direct-to-reverberant energy ratio. This 6-millisecond integration time explains the auditory horizon in spatial hearing.
Area of Science:
- Acoustics
- Psychoacoustics
- Auditory perception
Background:
- Perceived sound source distance depends on direct-to-reverberant sound energy ratio.
- Previous research lacked a quantitative model for this phenomenon.
- Virtual sound source technology enables controlled studies of distance perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a quantitative model for perceived sound distance.
- To investigate the role of a modified direct-to-reverberant energy ratio.
- To explain the auditory horizon effect in auditory perception.
Main Methods:
- Conducted two experiments using controlled, deterministic stimuli generated via virtual sound sources.
- Applied a modified direct-to-reverberant energy ratio model.
- Incorporated a 6-millisecond integration time for direct sound energy calculation.
Main Results:
- The proposed model accurately predicted experimental results on perceived distance.
- The modified ratio provided an explanation for the auditory horizon.
- A 6-millisecond integration time was identified as crucial for direct sound energy calculation.
Conclusions:
- A simple, modified direct-to-reverberant energy ratio model effectively predicts perceived sound distance.
- The 6-millisecond integration time is a key factor in spatial hearing and the auditory horizon.
- This model advances our understanding of auditory distance perception and spatial hearing mechanisms.
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