Some published data on auditory localization reanalyzed within the framework of a model proposed by Searle, Braida,...

The model for auditory localization proposed by Searle et al (J. Acoust. Soc. Am., 1976, 60, 1164-1175) was predicated on several assumptions and on data from restricted sound source loci. For example, only those studies were included using frontal-median plane sources and Ss with restrained head movements. The authors noted, however, that the model's generality needed to be tested by use of paradigms that gathered data from positions all around the S, and with data in which variables other than those accounted for by the model were utilized. Two studies (Gatehouse and Cox, J. Audit. Res., 1972, 12, 179-183, Gatehouse, J. Audit. Res., 1976, 16, 265-273) had required Ss to identify the position of a loudspeaker in both azimuth and elevation stimultaneously from a matrix of as many as 60 loci, but data had been reported only in per cent correct. The present paper offers a reanalysis of these data using average error in the spherical coordinates system of the model. Average-error analysis proved to be a relatively powerful tool, confirming the model to that extent. For example, a significant superiority of binaural over monaural performance in vertical plane localization was extracted from the data. Again, it could be shown that broadband noise, as compared with pure tones, provides useful binaural information in both the horizontal and vertical planes. Use of the model in studies of complex localization tasks may answer some unresolved issues and inconsistencies found in the general localization literature.