3D Tune-In Toolkit: An open-source library for real-time binaural spatialisation.

Area of Science:

• Computer Science
• Audio Engineering
• Acoustics

Background:

• Binaural spatialization research has evolved over 40 years.
• Accurate audio rendering requires simulating Head-Related Impulse Responses (HRIRs) and Interaural Time Differences (ITDs).
• Existing tools often lack customization or introduce audible artifacts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the technical details and architecture of the 3D Tune-In Toolkit (3DTI Toolkit).
• To describe the rendering processes, including HRIR interpolation and ITD management.
• To evaluate the performance and compare the 3DTI Toolkit with other binaural renderers.

Main Methods:

• The 3DTI Toolkit uses HRIR convolution for anechoic rendering.
• Interaural time differences are managed separately for listener customization.
• Reverberation is simulated using Ambisonic techniques and Binaural Room Impulse Responses (BRIRs).

Main Results:

• The 3DTI Toolkit successfully renders anechoic and reverberant audio paths.
• Customization for listener head size and reduction of comb-filtering are achieved.
• Performance metrics, including non-linear distortion, are assessed and presented.

Conclusions:

• The 3DTI Toolkit offers a comprehensive and customizable open-source solution for binaural audio rendering.
• It effectively minimizes audible artifacts during source and listener movement.
• The toolkit provides a valuable alternative to existing open- and closed-source binaural renderers.