Abstract: A stimulus waveform is processed using a model of the human auditory system to provide a plurality of output waveforms. Each output waveform corresponds to excitation at different locations along the basilar membrane in the cochlea, and matches the narrow frequency bandwidth, short time response, and wave propagation characteristics of the human cochlea. Primary feature detection is achieved by comparing response waveforms and their spatial and time derivatives to predetermined stereotypes. Secondary feature detection is achieved by comparing spatial and temporal patterns of primary features with patterns stereotypical of human speech elements.