Pitch perception of simultaneous complex tones

A.J.M. Houtsma, J.M. Canning

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

    Abstract

    A harmonic tone complex typically evokes a sensation of pitch at its fundamental frequency, even without acoustic energy at this frequency. This phenomenon, which has been shown to be of central neural origin, can be accounted for by a template model in which components of an internally generated harmonic template are optimally matched to transformations of stimulus frequencies. When two or more harmonic tone complexes are simultaneously presented, such as simultaneous playing of musical instruments or vowels from simultaneous speakers, the listener' s task is much more complex. He must first parse the per-ceived spectral components into the correct groups before matching templates to each group. This study presents results of an experimental investigation of constraints on perception of simultaneous complextone pitches imposed by frequency interference within and across aural channels. Our results so far indicate that the only significant constraint is adequate spectral resolution within each ear.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)20-25
    Number of pages6
    JournalIPO Annual Progress Report
    Volume18
    Publication statusPublished - 1983

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Pitch perception of simultaneous complex tones'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this