Reducing the variability of loudspeaker preference ratings through digital equalization

Authors

  • J.G. Ryan Inst. for Microstructural Scis., Nat. Res. Council of Canada, Ottawa, Ont., Canada

Keywords:

architectural acoustics, audio acoustics, loudspeakers, signal processing, loudspeaker preference ratings, digital equalization, loudspeaker location, room geometry, listening test, sound quality, audio products, Athena project, subjective assessments

Abstract

It has long been recognized that loudspeaker location and room geometry are sources of variability in listeners' ratings of loudspeakers. When the intent of a listening test is to compare different loudspeakers, the effects of these variables are reduced through proper experimental design. In this manner, subtle differences in sound quality can be revealed. Unfortunately, the environments in which consumer audio products are used do not always conform with those of a controlled listening test. As a result, the sound quality delivered to the consumer may not reflect the fidelity of the audio product. This paper reports some key results of the recently completed Athena project, a collaboration between NRC and the Canadian Audio Research Consortium. The purpose of Athena was to investigate the interaction of loudspeakers and rooms and to develop a means to lessen the deleterious effects on subjective assessments

Additional Files

Published

1994-09-01

How to Cite

1.
Ryan J. Reducing the variability of loudspeaker preference ratings through digital equalization. Canadian Acoustics [Internet]. 1994 Sep. 1 [cited 2025 Feb. 19];22(3):61-2. Available from: https://jcaa.caa-aca.ca/index.php/jcaa/article/view/850

Issue

Vol. 22 No. 3 (1994)

Section

Proceedings of the Acoustics Week in Canada

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