Head-Related Transfer Function and Acoustic Virtual Reality

This book covers all aspects of head-related transfer function (HRTF), from the fundamentals through to the latest applications, such as 3D sound systems. An introductory chapter defines HRTF, describes the coordinate system used in the book, and presents the most recent research achievements in the field. HRTF and sound localization in the horizontal and median planes are then explained, followed by discussion of individual differences in HRTF, solutions to this individuality (personalization of HRTF), and methods of sound image control for an arbitrary 3D direction, encompassing both classic theory and state of the art data. The relations between HRTF and sound image distance and between HRTF and speech intelligibility are fully explored, and measurement and signal processing methods for HRTF are examined in depth. Here, supplementary material is provided to enable readers to measure and analyze HRTF by themselves. In addition, some typical HRTF databases are compared. The final two chapters are devoted to the principles and applications of acoustic virtual reality. This clearly written book will be ideal for all who wish to learn about HRTF and how to use it in their research. 

FM         Preface

1              Introduction

2              HRTF and sound localization in the horizontal plane

3              HRTFs and sound localization in the median plane

4              Individuality of HRTFs

5              HRTF and sound image control for an arbitrary three-dimensional direction

6              Directional band and spectral cue

7              Distance perception and HRTF

8              Speech intelligibility and the HRTF

9              Measurement method for HRTF

10           Signal processing of HRTF

11           Comparison of HRTF databases

12           Principle of three-dimensional sound reproduction

13           Acoustic VR system

Appendix           

Appendix 1         Perception of direction of an actual sound source

Appendix 2         Transmission path of sound waves

Appendix 3         Prediction method of room acoustics

Appendix 4         Time window

Appendix 5         Method for making an earplug-type microphone

Appendix 6         HRTFs using 96-kHz sampling