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Updated: May 30, 2026

An Automated System for Sound Localization Testing in Hearing-Impaired Listeners
Published on: March 13, 2026
Equal autophonic level curves under different room acoustics conditions
David Pelegrín-García1, Oier Fuentes-Mendizábal, Jonas Brunskog
1Acoustic Technology, Department of Electrical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark. dpg@elektro.dtu.dk
Room acoustics significantly impact voice loudness, with variations quantified by room gain and voice support. Talkers adjust their vocal effort based on auditory feedback, using cues beyond just loudness to adapt to different acoustic environments.
Area of Science:
- Acoustics
- Psychoacoustics
- Speech Communication
Background:
- Indirect auditory feedback, from room reflections or sound systems, influences vocalization.
- Room acoustic parameters like room gain and voice support are key, not just reverberation time.
Purpose of the Study:
- Quantify relative variations in indirect auditory feedback.
- Investigate how room acoustics affect vocal loudness and adaptation.
Main Methods:
- Fourteen subjects matched their autophonic (self-voice) loudness to an external reference.
- Synthesized various room acoustic conditions to test vocal responses.
Main Results:
- Equal autophonic level curves were generated, showing voice level variations.
- Overall voice level varied by ~2 dB, and by >3 dB in the 4 kHz band in typical rooms.
Conclusions:
- Talkers adapt their voice level based on auditory feedback and room acoustics.
- Loudness is not the sole cue; other acoustic factors influence vocal adjustment.
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