Effects of binaural auralization via headphones on the perception of acoustic scenes
Abstract
The auralization of an acoustic scene can be realized with the presentation of binaural signals via headphones. One of the biggest challenges is the individualization of the headphone equalization and the generation of the binaural signals. A promising way is the use of probe microphones for equalization and recording. Very good results in terms of externalization and correct reproduction of the acoustic scene can be reached. However, former investigation indicates consistently that perceived acoustic illusion is much more plausible if the recording and the playback conditions are similar or even the same. Within this contribution we present a fully individualized binaural auralization system via headphones. Binaural recordings of sound sources on different representative positions in two real rooms with distinct different room acoustics are made. These recordings are presented via headphones to test persons. A series of listening tests show the expected influence of an accurate individualization on the correct localization of the synthesized sound source. Furthermore, a strong influence of congruence between the room acoustics of listening and recording room on the perception of the scene was observed. We can show that there is a significant decrease of perceived externalization if the listening rooms and the recording rooms are different.
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