Sound quality measurements of audio systems based on models of auditory perception

Traditional methods of analyzing the sound quality of audo equipment are based on simple test signals as well as on simple measurement procedures. Sine wave or sweep is applied when measuring nonlinear (harmonic) distortion or frequency response. Combinations of sine waves and/or some kind of noise signals are the most complex test signals used in practice. Analysis methods as well are based on oversimplified models of auditory perception. It is easy to demonstrate how measures like harmonic distortion may be misleading when used to describe the perceived quality of sound, A new methodology is introduced here, which is based on a computational model of auditory perception as the analyzer of sound quality. The model makes it possible to use any real signal as a test signal. Some measurements carried out in practice are described.