Download A Comparison of Player Performance in a Gamified Localisation Task Between Spatial Loudspeaker Systems This paper presents an experiment comparing player performance in a gamified localisation task between three loudspeaker configurations: stereo, 7.1 surround-sound and an equidistantly spaced octagonal array. The test was designed as a step towards determining whether spatialised game audio can improve player performance in a video game, thus influencing their overall experience. The game required players to find as many sound sources as possible, by using only sonic cues, in a 3D virtual game environment. Results suggest that the task was significantly easier when listening over a 7.1 surround-sound system, based on feedback from 24 participants. 7.1 was also the most preferred of the three listening conditions. The result was not entirely expected in that the octagonal array did not outperform 7.1. It is thought that, for the given stimuli, this may be a repercussion due to the octagonal array sacrificing an optimal front stereo pair, for more consistent imaging all around the listening space.
Download Diffuse-field Equalisation of First-order Ambisonics Timbre is a crucial element of believable and natural binaural synthesis. This paper presents a method for diffuse-field equalisation of first-order Ambisonic binaural rendering, aiming to address the timbral disparity that exists between Ambisonic rendering and head related transfer function (HRTF) convolution, as well as between different Ambisonic loudspeaker configurations. The presented work is then evaluated through listening tests, and results indicate diffuse-field equalisation is effective in improving timbral consistency.
Download Soundscape Categorisation and the Self-assessment Manikin This paper contains the results of a study making use of a set of B-format soundscape recordings, presented in stereo UHJ format as part of an online listening test, in order to investigate the relationship between soundscape categorisation and subjective evaluation. Test participants were presented with a set of soundscapes and asked to rate them using the Self-Assessment Manikin (SAM) and in terms of three soundscape categories: natural, human, and mechanical. They were also asked to identify the important sound sources present in each soundscape. Results show significant relationships between soundscape categorisation and the SAM, and indicate particularly significant sound sources that can affect these ratings.