Assessing the range of spatial impression metrics from varying source position across a stage in assorted performing arts venues

Abstract

A listener’s perception of sound in the built environment is determined by various physical factors such as the size and form of a space, and shape and finishing of materials. Spatial impression is a term used to describe the spatial perception of the auditory field by listeners, and a number of metrics have been proposed to quantify this, including Interaural Cross-Correlation Coefficient (IACC) and Lateral Energy Fraction (LEF). While values for these metrics have been presented for a number of performing arts venues, few investigations have studied the range of these metrics within a specific venue, particularly as a source moves across the stage. This paper assesses data from both computer-simulated and measured rooms on how IACC, LEF, and Interaural Level Differences (ILD) vary within a venue, due to early reflections, as the source location varies across the stage. How greatly do the ranges of these metrics differ with source location? The range and values of these spatial impression metrics due to source movement may be another way in which a venue’s spatial impression can be quantified and compared, correlating to how a listener at a fixed location spatially perceives sound sources within that room.