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Effects of distance on vocal intensity
D D Michael1, G M Siegel, H L Pick
1Department of Communication Disorders, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.
Journal of Speech and Hearing Research
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Speakers adjust vocal intensity with distance, but less than predicted by the inverse square law. This study found a maximum vocal intensity change of 2.46 dB when distance was altered, reconciling conflicting research findings.
Area of Science:
- Acoustics
- Psychoacoustics
- Speech Communication
Background:
- The relationship between vocal intensity and listener distance is debated.
- Previous studies show conflicting results regarding the inverse square law's applicability to speech intensity compensation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reconcile conflicting findings on vocal intensity compensation for distance.
- To investigate implicit knowledge of distance effects on speech intensity.
Main Methods:
- Speakers were instructed to adjust vocal intensity based on listener distance.
- Vocal intensity changes were measured in response to controlled distance variations.
Main Results:
- Speakers significantly adjusted vocal intensity to compensate for distance changes.
- The observed vocal intensity compensation was less than predicted by the inverse square law, with a maximum change of 2.46 dB.
Conclusions:
- Speakers possess implicit understanding of distance-intensity relationships.
- The inverse square law is not fully obeyed in vocal responses to distance changes.
- Further research is needed to explain discrepancies in vocal intensity compensation.
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