Improved method for accurate sound localization

Abstract

When implementing out-of-head sound localization with headphones, it is well known that using head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) other than those of a listener degrades sound image localization, and enhances localization error and front-back confusion. Some studies have indicated that moving a sound image eases these problems. We focus on moving sound images to achieve highly accurate localization, and propose a swing sound image method that enables sound image swing between two locations on a horizontal plane. Listening tests reveal that the proposed method greatly reduces the front-back confusion.