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A quick method for determining the relative minimum audible distance using sound images
V M Sitdikov1, A P Gvozdeva1, I G Andreeva2
1Laboratory of Comparative Sensory Physiology, Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Attention, Perception & Psychophysics
|March 23, 2023
Summary
A new, quick method using sound images accurately estimates relative minimum audible distance (RMAD) in auditory localization tests. This technique significantly reduces measurement time compared to traditional methods, aiding in preliminary assessments.
Area of Science:
- Auditory perception
- Psychoacoustics
- Human spatial orientation
Background:
- Auditory localization is critical for spatial orientation, locomotion, attention, and memory.
- Efficient experimental methods are needed for assessing sound localization abilities.
- Current methods can be time-consuming, necessitating optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and validate a novel, rapid technique for estimating relative minimum audible distance (RMAD) using sound images.
- To compare the efficiency and accuracy of adaptive psychoacoustic procedures with traditional methods for RMAD measurement.
- To assess the influence of visual input (sighted vs. blindfolded) on RMAD measurements with sound images.
Main Methods:
- Twenty adults with normal hearing participated in free-field RMAD measurements.
- Compared a method of constant stimuli (real sound source) with stationary sound images (two loudspeakers).
- Utilized one-down, one-up and two-down, one-up adaptive staircase procedures for RMAD determination with sound images.
Main Results:
- Group-average RMADs were similar across methods (constant stimuli, adaptive procedures) and stimulus types (real source, sound images), averaging 7% (SD = 2%).
- Measurement times were significantly reduced with adaptive procedures (85-124 s) compared to the method of constant stimuli (373 s).
- Subject's visual status (sighted or blindfolded) did not significantly affect RMAD measurements using sound images.
Conclusions:
- Adaptive psychoacoustic procedures with stationary sound images provide a valid and quick method for estimating RMAD.
- This optimized technique can effectively aid in the preliminary assessment of auditory localization abilities.
- The findings support the use of sound images and adaptive procedures for more efficient auditory research.
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