Physical correlates of loudness transfer functions in binaural synthesis

Abstract

The frequency dependent level correction necessary for a binaural synthesis system to elicit via headphones the reference scene loudness of narrow-band signals is referred to as loudness transfer function. An ideal binaural synthesis system provides frequency independent loudness transfer functions for every listener. The frequency dependence of the average of a binaural synthesis system’s individual loudness transfer functions has been shown to depend on the degree of individualization of the binaural synthesis system. In this contribution, perceptually acquired loudness transfer functions are compared from an auditory-adapted perspective to physical parameters of signals involved in the binaural synthesis process. The results provide quantitative relations between individual physical cues of the binaural synthesis output signals and the resulting loudness transfer functions.