A head-and-torso model for low-frequency binaural elevation effects

Abstract

Low-frequency elevation-dependent features appear in HRTF (head related transfer function) measurements because of torso and shoulder reflections and head diffraction effects. A simple structural model that accounts for these features is presented. Listening tests show that the model produces significant elevation cues for virtual sound sources whose spectra are limited to frequencies below 3 kHz. The low-frequency binaural elevation cues are perceptually significant away from the median plane, and complement high-frequency monaural pinna cues.