Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 28, 2026

13:51
Cross-Modal Multivariate Pattern Analysis
Published on: November 9, 2011
Monaural phase discrimination by macaque monkeys: use of multiple cues
D B Moody1, C G Le Prell, A J Niemiec
1Kresge Hearing Research Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor 48109-0506, USA.
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
|May 30, 1998
Summary
This study shows that the temporal envelope is crucial for discriminating phase changes in three-tone complexes at low frequencies. At higher frequencies, other auditory cues become more important for this discrimination.
Area of Science:
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Psychoacoustics
- Signal Processing
Background:
- Monaural phase change discrimination research suggests temporal envelope shape is a key auditory cue.
- Three-tone complexes, varying center frequency (Fc) phase, alter both temporal envelope and fine structure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the roles of temporal envelope and fine structure as cues in phase discrimination.
- To determine how changes in phase are perceived in three-tone auditory stimuli.
Main Methods:
- Monkeys were trained to detect phase changes in three-tone complexes.
- Stimuli varied in center frequency (Fc) and sideband frequency (delta F).
- Comparison stimuli with matched temporal envelopes were used to isolate cue salience.
Main Results:
- Phase discrimination thresholds decreased as delta F increased.
- Temporal envelope was a critical cue for small delta F values.
- Other auditory cues became significant for discrimination at larger delta F values.
Conclusions:
- Temporal envelope plays a vital role in discriminating phase changes in three-tone complexes, particularly at lower delta F.
- Auditory system utilizes different cues for phase discrimination depending on the frequency separation (delta F).

