Investigating the amplitude of interactive footstep sounds and soundscape reproduction

In this paper, we study the perception of amplitude of soundscapes and interactively generated footstep sounds provided both through headphones and a surround sound system. In particular, we investigate whether there exists a value for the amplitude of soundscapes and footstep sounds which is considered appropriate for different subjects while navigating in the acoustically-simulated environments. In order to answer such question, several experiments are run. Results show that subjects overall choose higher amplitudes when using sound delivery through headphones rather than speakers. The addition of soundscapes does not significantly affect the selected amplitude of footstep sounds. Similarly, the perception of the soundscapes amplitude is not significantly affected by the selected amplitude of footstep sounds.

► Perception of amplitude of footstep sounds and soundscapes.
► Higher amplitudes for headphones compared to loudspeakers.
► Subjects are consistent in their choice of amplitude.
► Combination of footstep sounds and soundscapes does not increase the amplitude.
► Guidelines are provided to sound designers.