PMID: 9433687Jan 20, 1998Paper

Theoretical and applied external ear acoustics

Journal of the American Academy of Audiology
B B Ballachanda

Abstract

The external ear (pinna and earcanal) plays a major role in transforming acoustic signals from free field to the tympanic membrane in humans. It acts as a filter to reduce low frequencies, a resonator to enhance mid frequencies (2.0 to 7.0 kHz), and a direction-dependent filter at high frequencies to augment spatial perception. The external ear transfer function is altered by variations in the physical dimension of the external ear either due to individual differences or due to mechanical obstructions such as blockages, hearing aid placement, perforation of the tympanic membrane, and use of insert earphone. It is significant that any change in the characteristics of the acoustic signal can produce considerable disparity in within- and between-individual responses. The present paper examines published studies on sound pressure transfer function provided by the external ear in humans.

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Auditory Perception

Auditory perception is the ability to receive and interpret information attained by the ears. Here is the latest research on factors and underlying mechanisms that influence auditory perception.