A Journey in (Interpolated) Sound

Abstract

Graphical interpolation systems provide a simple mechanism for the control of sound synthesis systems by providing a level of abstraction above the parameters of the synthesis engine, allowing users to explore different sounds without awareness of the synthesis details. While a number of graphical interpolator systems have been developed over many years, with a variety of user-interface designs, few have been subject to user-evaluations. We present the testing and evaluation of alternative visualizations for a graphical interpolator in order to establish if the visual feedback provided through the interface, aids the navigation and identification of sounds with the system. The testing took the form of comparing the users' mouse traces, showing the journey they made through the interpolated sound space when different visual interfaces were used. Sixteen participants took part and a summary of the results is presented, showing that the visuals provide users with additional cues that lead to better interaction with the interpolators.