How the human ear works: Science of hearing for musicians

In this video I go over the basics of how a human ear works, and why we all hear things a little differently. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrM3K8QCJcE   === Understanding how the human ear works is crucial for musicians, as it directly affects how they perceive and interact with sound. Here’s a simplified overview of the science of … Read more

The Discordant Eardrum – Chaotic and Superior above 3 kHz

Abstract   “At frequencies above 3 kHz, the tympanic membrane vibrates chaotically. By having many resonances, the eardrum can transmit the broadest possible bandwidth of sound with optimal sensitivity. In essence, the eardrum works best through discord. The eardrum’s success as an instrument of hearing can be directly explained through a combination of its shape, … Read more

Auditory Perception of Nonlinear Distortion

SOURCE   Auditory perception of nonlinear distortion is a fascinating area within psychoacoustics, the branch of psychology concerned with the scientific study of hearing. Nonlinear distortion occurs when an audio system (such as speakers, amplifiers, or headphones) introduces harmonics that were not present in the original signal, often as a result of the system being … Read more

Listening to tailor-made notched music reduces tinnitus loudness and tinnitus-related auditory cortex activity

Abstract   Maladaptive auditory cortex reorganization may contribute to the generation and maintenance of tinnitus. Because cortical organization can be modified by behavioral training, we attempted to reduce tinnitus loudness by exposing chronic tinnitus patients to self-chosen, enjoyable music, which was modified (“notched”) to contain no energy in the frequency range surrounding the individual tinnitus … Read more

How the human ear works — the science of hearing for musicians

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrM3K8QCJcE     Understanding how the human ear works is essential for musicians, as it enables them to appreciate and manipulate sound effectively. Here’s an overview of the science of hearing relevant to musicians: 1. **Outer Ear**: Sound waves are collected by the outer ear, which consists of the pinna (visible part of the ear) … Read more

Understanding the Different Types of Acoustical Treatments – Absorption

In this livestream, we go over the various types of acoustical room treatments with resident expert Anthony Grimani. We discuss how to acoustically treat a room and where to locate treatments along with things you should NOT do. Various acoustical treatment types are discussed with this episode focusing on absorption. Diffusion, reflectors, and bass traps … Read more

Contribution of active hair-bundle motility to nonlinear amplification in the mammalian cochlea

Abstract   The cochlea’s high sensitivity stems from the active process of outer hair cells, which possess two force-generating mechanisms: active hair-bundle motility elicited by Ca2+ influx and somatic motility mediated by the voltage-sensitive protein prestin. Although interference with prestin has demonstrated a role for somatic motility in the active process, it remains unclear whether … Read more