Unidimensional Simulation of the Spatial Attribute ‘Ensemble Depth’ for Training Purposes – Part 2: Creation and Validation of Reference Stimuli

In the context of devising a spatial ear-training system, a study into the perceptual construct ‘ensemble depth’ was executed. Based on the findings of a pilot study into the auditory effects of early reflection (ER) pattern characteristics, exemplary stimuli were created. Changes were highly controlled to allow unidimensional variation of the intended quality. To measure the psychological structure of the stimuli and hence to evaluate the success of the simulation, Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) techniques were employed. Supplementary qualitative data were collected to assist with the analyses of the perceptual (MDS) spaces. Results show (1) that syllabicity of source material (rather than ER design) is crucial to depth hearing and (2) that unidimensionality was achieved, thus suggesting the stimuli to be suitable for training purposes. 1 The term ‘syllabicity’ is used to denote a discontinuous or erratic amplitude envelope characteristic.