Subjective Aspects of Sound

Abstract

In section 1 we examined the nature and behaviour of sound objectively with little reference to human response and interpretation. In applied acoustics an understanding of the subjective aspects of sound is equally important if we are to discover design criteria for what is acceptable in the control of noise and the provision of good room acoustics. This section will therefore describe the physiology of hearing, the effects of noise on human well-being and the requirements for the appreciation of speech and music.