Introduction to Acoustics and Auditory Perception

Abstract

This chapter introduces the theory behind sound propagation in enclosed environments, room acoustics, reverberation time, and the decibel scale. Also included are basics of loudspeakers and microphone acoustics and responses, room impulse responses, and stimuli for measuring loudspeaker and room responses. We conclude the chapter with a brief discussion on the structure of the ear, and some relevant concepts such as loudness perception and frequency selectivity.