Working-memory and auditory localization: demand for central resources impairs performance

Four experiments explored possible roles for working memory in sound localization. In each experiment, the angular error of localization was assessed when performed alone, or concurrently with a working-memory task. The role of the phonological slave systems in auditory localization was ruled out by Experiments 1 and 2, while an engagement of central resources was suggested by the results of Experiment 3. Experiment 4 examined the involvement of visuo-spatial systems in auditory localization and revealed impairment of localization by the concurrent spatial working-memory task. A comparison of dual-task decrement across all four studies suggests that localization places greater demand on central than on spatial resources.