To determine a threshold for listener perception of image shift caused by imperfectly synchronized stereo signals, a series of experiments using method of adjustment and ABX procedures was run over headphones and loudspeakers. Listeners adjusted an endless knob to vary delays between the stereo channels of music programs in search of a centered stereo image. The results demonstrated that 9 out of 10 listeners could reliably detect delays between loudspeaker or headphone channels at levels of 0.06 ms or lower. Furthermore, when centering a stereo image 95% of all listener adjustments were under 0.16 ms for headphones and 0.22 ms for loudspeakers. Many variables that may have affected the experiments are explored, including hearing balance, program material, and listening environments.
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