Release from masking of low-frequency complex tones by high-frequency complex tone cue bands

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of high-frequency cue bands on the detection and discrimination of low-frequency target bands presented in a 3000-Hz low-pass noise masker. Target and cue bands were complex tones with 80-Hz spacing. The cue band consisted of 60 components starting at 4000 Hz; targets consisted of four components starting at different frequencies (500, 700, 1000, 1200, and 1500 Hz). Targets were presented with different durations within the 500-ms masker; target and cue bands had a common on- and offset. Presentation of the high-frequency complex tone significantly enhanced both the discrimination and detection thresholds by 2–3 dB.