Abstract: A system and method for providing improved virtual sound images. One or more spatial cues of an audio signal may be modulated within a described range to increase the clarity and perceived localization of a virtual sound image. Interaural time delay, interaural intensity difference and/or spectra may be varied at below the “just noticeable level” to cause the virtual source location to move slightly relative to the listener's head. Such variation assists the listener's auditory system in filtering out ambiguous spatial cue information from the audio signal. The resulting virtual sound image has a larger sweet spot and is less sensitive to head movement.

Abstract: The manipulation system and apparatus receives electronic signals which are to be processed and recorded for playback as enhanced stereophonic audio signals from two laterally spaced loudspeakers in front of the listener. The system and apparatus processes those signals to produce a conditioning signal, such as which would be produced by virtual room boundaries, which is heard together with the original signals so that an enlarged listening area is perceived by the listener. By amplitude and phase control of the signal to the two real speakers, the system and apparatus provide a means for control over the enhanced sound field. This enhanced sound field is perceived by the listener as being contained within boundaries larger than those normally reproduced by stereophonic speakers.

Abstract: The manipulation system and apparatus receives electronic signals which are to be processed and recorded for playback as enhanced stereophonic audio signals from two laterally spaced loudspeakers in front of the listener. The system and apparatus processes those signals to produce a conditioning signal, such as which would be produced by virtual room boundaries, which is heard together with the original signals so that an enlarged listening area is perceived by the listener. By amplitude and phase control of the signal to the two real speakers, the system and apparatus provide a means for control over the enhanced sound field. This enhanced sound field is perceived by the listener as being contained within boundaries larger than those normally reproduced by stereophonic speakers.