Audio dynamics automatic equalization inspired by visual perception

Abstract

This paper explores the behavior of an algorithm called Audio Dynamics Automatic Equalization (ADAE). This algorithm has been inspired by research carried out in the context of image restoration: it is the adaptation of a contrast and color unsupervised equalizer for images, called Automatic Color Equalization (ACE), into the audio domain. Beside testing if the domain shift from image to audio processing can bring some interesting result, this work also investigates if ADAE behaves like already-known technologies for audio manipulation and restoration. To this end, after a description of the original and the derived algorithms, quantitative test are carried out using typical analyses from the Sound and Music Computing literature, such as frequency response, transfer function, and harmonic distortion. Finally, the paper discusses how the algorithm introduces dynamic range adjustments and non-linear distortions, thus behaving like a dynamics processor, a harmonic exciter, and a waveshaper.