This paper concerns the use of a simple head-and-torso model to correct deficiencies in the low-frequency behavior of experimentally measured head-related transfer functions (HRTFs). This so-called "snowman" model consists of a spherical head located above a spherical torso. In addition to providing improved low-frequency response for music reproduction, the model provides the major low-frequency localization cues, including cues for low-elevation as well as high-elevation sources. The model HRTF and the measured HRTF can be easily combined by using the phase response of the model at all frequencies and by "cross-fading" between the dB magnitude responses of the model and the measurements. For efficient implementation, the exact snowman HRTF is approximated by two time delays and two first-order IIR filters. Because the poles are independent of the location of the virtual source, this supports a simple real-time implementation that allows for arbitrarily rapid head and source motion.

Authors: Duda, Richard O.; Algazi, V. Ralph; Thompson, Dennis M.
Affiliation: CIPIC Interface Laboratory, University of California, Davis CA,
AES Convention: 113 (October 2002) Paper Number: 5712
Publication Date: October 1, 2002
Subject: Psychoacoustics

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