Assessment of a Binaural Microphone Array.

Abstract : Physical and behavioral methods were employed to determine the characteristics of a binaural microphone array and its ability to support the localization of sources of sound. The gain pattern and output delay of the array were made and compared to those of an acoustic mannequin. Three behavioral methods of assessing the adequacy of binaural information provided by the array were employed. These include (a) measuring the minimum audible angle, (b) defining the limit of image lateralization, and (c) determining the accuracy with which listeners could point the array at an acoustic source. Insights about transformations produced by the array were provided by a modeling effort. The data indicate that the present design would provide reliable information when it is used as a dynamic pointing device.

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