[A dynamic model of loudness adaptation].

Abstract

Previous research on loudness adaptation has provided heterogeneous and partly contradictory results. One major reason seems to be the inconsistent use of the term 'adaptation', which is due to differing operational definitions. Here, a measurement-theoretic definition of loudness adaptation is introduced, which also comprises a new method for the identification of certain linear dynamic systems. This is of particular interest, since there is a lack of dynamic models describing loudness adaptation. An experiment with sinusoidal sound stimuli (3000 Hz) was performed to test whether loudness adaptation can be modeled by such a linear system. The results of the system identification indicate that this is possible. Therefore, it can be concluded that the given definition of loudness adaptation might be appropriate and that the method of system identification is an applicable research tool.