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A Precise Sound Image Panning Method for Side Areas Using 5.1 Channel Audio Systems

5.1 channel home theater systems have been widely used for home audio systems and also for high reality game audio systems. In this research, we have conducted two experiments to improve the precision and clarity of sound image creation and reproduction in the side areas. The experimental setup was to change the intensity ratios between the two left speakers, L and SL, and ask the listeners about the directions and clarity of the sound images. From the results, we found the traditional amplitude panning method in the side areas is not linear and asymmetrical, and the motion is almost obtained on the middle range of intensity ratios. Based on the localization curve obtained in this experiment, we can compensate the non-linearity and asymmetry of sound panning. We also added the frequency characteristics of HRTF to the sound signals assigned to L and SL speakers by amplitude panning method. This changes of frequency characteristics can increase the reality of the sound signals to the near ear, and improve the precision and clarity of sound images in the side areas.

Authors: Tanno, Keita; Saji, Akira; Ito, Shinya; Huang, Jie; Hatano, Wataru
Affiliations: Tamura Corp., Tokyo, Japan; The University of Aizu, Aizu-Wakamatsu City, Fukushima, Japan(See document for exact affiliation information.)
AES Conference:35th International Conference: Audio for Games (February 2009)
Paper Number:5 Import into BibTeX
Subject:Audio for Games

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