Release from masking of low-frequency complex tones by high-frequency complex tone cue bands

J Acoust Soc Am. 2012 Dec;132(6):EL450-5. doi: 10.1121/1.4766274.

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of high-frequency cue bands on the detection and discrimination of low-frequency target bands presented in a 3000-Hz low-pass noise masker. Target and cue bands were complex tones with 80-Hz spacing. The cue band consisted of 60 components starting at 4000 Hz; targets consisted of four components starting at different frequencies (500, 700, 1000, 1200, and 1500 Hz). Targets were presented with different durations within the 500-ms masker; target and cue bands had a common on- and offset. Presentation of the high-frequency complex tone significantly enhanced both the discrimination and detection thresholds by 2-3 dB.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acoustic Stimulation
  • Adult
  • Audiometry
  • Auditory Threshold
  • Cues*
  • Discrimination, Psychological*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Noise / adverse effects*
  • Perceptual Masking*
  • Pitch Perception*
  • Psychoacoustics
  • Signal Detection, Psychological
  • Time Factors