Using resonance to study the deterioration of the pulse percept in jittered sequences

Abstract

Studies of pulse perception in rhythms often ask what periodicity describes the pulse, e.g., tempo identification. In studies of pulse attribution, irregular rhythmic sequences are rated for the degree to which a pulse percept is elicited, if at all. Here, we investigate how a resonance approach to pulse perception may explain the reduction in pulse attribution ratings for jittered sequences while also predicting perceived tempo. We use a signal processing approach to predict perceptual ratings and behavioral performance measures (i.e., tapping data). Measures of resonance are evaluated using both FFT and a network of neural oscillators. The stimuli were isochronous sequences modified with varying levels of pseudorandom Kolakoski jitter. In separate blocks, participants were asked to provide pulse attribution judgments and to tap at the pulse rate. As levels of jitter increased, pulse attribution ratings decreased and participants tapped periodically at the mean sequence rate. At certain high levels of jitter, pulse attribution ratings increased and participants entrained at a new tapping rate. Resonance measures account for both mean tapping rate and pulse attribution ratings, suggesting that these two behavioral measures may be different aspects of the same resonant phenomenon.