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Pitch of complex signals according to virtual-pitch theory: Tests, examples, and predictions
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1982
Year
MusicAuditory ImageryPsychoacousticsPitch-extraction AlgorithmComplex SignalsPhonologyAcoustic ModelingVocal Tract ImagingPhoneticsAudio Signal ProcessingAudio AnalysisAudio Signal AnalysisAcoustic AnalysisHealth SciencesCognitive ScienceAuditory ModelingArtsSpeech AcousticAuditory ResearchVirtual-pitch TheoryShepard Pitch PhenomenonSpeech AcousticsSpeech ProcessingVirtual PitchSpeech PerceptionLinguistics
The study builds on the pitch‑extraction algorithm proposed by Terhardt et al. The algorithm was applied to a range of stimuli—including harmonic and inharmonic complex tones, Shepard tones, bell sounds, and musical chords—to generate examples testing its validity. The predictions of the algorithm matched psychoacoustic observations, supporting its usefulness for audio engineering and psychoacoustic research. Published in J.
The pitch-extraction algorithm described by Terhardt et al. [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 71, 679–688 (1982)] is used to compute a number of examples to test the procedure’s validity, and to illustrate its applicability. The following subjects are considered: (a) pitch of harmonic complex tones (with and without fundamental); (b) existence region of virtual pitch; (c) Shepard pitch phenomenon; (d) virtual pitch of inharmonic complex tones; (e) spectral dominance; (f) effect of amplitude spectrum on pitch; (g) pitch of bell sounds; and (h) tonal evaluation of musical chords. The algorithm’s predictions agree well with psychoacoustic observations and it is concluded that it can be useful in audio-engineering and psychoacoustic research.