Gaussian vs uniform noise audibility (Bob Masta )

Subject: Gaussian vs uniform noise audibility
From:    Bob Masta  <masta(at)UMICH.EDU>
Date:    Mon, 19 Jan 2004 09:19:40 -0500

Dear List:

I often see noise stimuli specified as having a Gaussian distribution.
>From a production standpoint, this seriously limits the upper sound level
that can be generated, due to the need to accommodate those pesky
infinite peaks.   ;-)

Is there any literature to support the use of Gaussian versus uniform
distribution?  In particular, has anyone ever reported any audibility
differences?  Is there any theory that might suggest that the auditory
system can detect amplitude distributions, given matching frequency
distributions and overall loudness?

Thanks for any insights!


Robert Masta
dqatech(at)daqarta.com

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