Predictions of spatial release from masking from architectural plans

Abstract

Spatial separation of target speech and interfering noise produces spatial release from masking (SRM). A model of SRM for speech in noise gives accurate predictions for multiple noise sources and in reverberation. The model is based on the frequency-weighted combination of better ear listening and binaural unmasking. Here we use this model to explore the effects of room acoustics, seating choice, listener head orientation and table layout in a virtual restaurant simulation. The modeled restaurant contains nine tables for two in three rows, and each diner listens to their partner across the table. Substantial SRM was predicted in all seating locations, but was lowest at the centre table. Orienting the head away from the target voice by 20-30deg improved SRM for most seating positions, but this benefit was small for those seated at the edges of the restaurant and facing in. Reorienting these tables so that they have a wall at one side improved average SRM. Acoustic treatments applied to the walls produced larger benefits in SRM than treatment of the ceiling that achieved equivalent reverberation time. Reverberation reduced both SRM and its variability across seating locations and head orientations.