Detection threshold for distortions due to jitter on digital audio

Abstract

Detection threshold for distortions due to time jitter was measured in a 2 alternative forced choice paradigm with switching sounds. Music signals with random jitter were simulated on the digital domain. The size of jitter was arbitrary controlled so that the detection threshold could be estimated. Professional audio engineers, sound engineers, audio critics and semi-professional musicians participated as listeners. The listeners were allowed to use their own listening environments and their favorite sound materials. It was shown that the detection threshold for random jitter was several hundreds ns for well-trained listeners under their preferable listening conditions.