Improving 3-D Audio Localisation Through the Provision of Supplementary Spatial Audio Cues

Abstract

This study examined whether azimuth localising performance for non-individualised 3-D audio without integrated head tracking can be improved through the provision of supplementary reference signals. Twenty-two participants attempted to determine the location of spatial sounds developed through a non-individualised head-related transfer function (HRTF) while performing a visual distractor task. Localising sounds were randomly presented at 0degrees elevation for each 10-degree increment about the azimuth. Three audio conditions were tested, two of which included different supplementary cues in the form of stationary and transient sounds that were spatially positioned to aid localising reference toward the midsagittal plane and interaural axis. The supplementary cues decreased errors in frontback perception; however, they did not significantly aid azimuth localising performance, and occasionally were reported to distract and disorient some participants. Supplementary audio cues have the potential to improve localising performance but should be more closely associated with the presented sound to lessen distraction and disorientation.