Performance evaluation of acoustic echo control: required values and measurement procedures

Abstract

We consider in this paper the general problem of performance evaluation of acoustic echo control, and (with less emphasis) of speech enhancement, as basic functions to be integrated in terminals like hands-free telephones, videophones, teleconference systems, etc, globally named hands-free audio terminals. Performance requirements are first reviewed under the light of desirable correspondence between objective characteristics and subjective quality. Some typical examples illustrate the discussion. Then the problem of performance verification is considered, with emphasis on test signals. Outlines for future directions of research on the topic of performance evaluation and verification are finally sketched.