Speech referenced limiting: Controlling the loudness of a signal with reference to its speech loudness

Michael Fisher*, Nicky Chong-White, Harvey Dillon

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference proceeding contributionpeer-review

Abstract

A novel method of sound amplitude limiting for signals conveying speech is presented. The method uses the frequency-specific levels of the speech conveyed by the signal to generate a set of time-varying speech reference levels. It limits the level of sounds conveyed by the signal to these speech reference levels. The method is called speech referenced limiting (SRL). It provides minimal limiting of speech while providing greater control over the loudness of non-speech sounds compared to conventional (fixed threshold) limiters. It is appropriate for use in applications where speech is the primary signal of interest such as telephones, computers, amplified hearing protectors and hearing aids. Three experiments were conducted to subjectively evaluate SRL. The results show preservation of speech loudness and quality and a reduction in the loudness of louder non-speech sounds to that of speech.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication129th Audio Engineering Society Convention 2010
Place of PublicationNew York
PublisherAudio Engineering Society
Pages63-72
Number of pages10
Volume1
ISBN (Print)9781617821943
Publication statusPublished - 2010
Externally publishedYes
Event129th Audio Engineering Society Convention 2010 - San Francisco, CA, United States
Duration: 4 Nov 20107 Nov 2010

Other

Other129th Audio Engineering Society Convention 2010
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco, CA
Period4/11/107/11/10

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Speech referenced limiting: Controlling the loudness of a signal with reference to its speech loudness'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this