Meeting Topic: The Relationship between The Perception and Measurement of Sound Quality of Audio Systems
Moderator Name: Fallon Stillman
Speaker Name: Dr. Sean Olive, Harman International
Meeting Location: Ball State University Music Instruction Building MMT Studios (second level): Sound House C 1809 W Riverside Ave. Muncie, Indiana 47303, USA
This talk summarized some of Harman's recent scientific research related to the perception and measurement of sound quality of audio systems including loudspeakers, room correction systems, and more recently, headphones. A common theme throughout the past 25+ years of research is that when listeners are given the opportunity to compare a variety of different audio systems under controlled listening conditions, they tend to prefer the most accurate, neutral options. Furthermore, listeners' preference ratings can be accurately predicted based on a set of acoustical measurements of the system. The discussion also explores some of the controversies and myths related to whether sound quality preferences are influenced by age, culture and critical listening experience.
Written By: Daniel Porter
