Decomposition of Head-Related Transfer Functions Based on the Hankel Total Least Squares Method

Abstract

Head-Related Transfer Functions (HRTFs) are used to achieve binaural sound spatialization. Originally, sound spatialization techniques that utilize HRTFs require an intended listener to undergo lengthy measurements with specialized equipment. Unfortunately, the alternative generic HRTFs increase localization errors especially in elevation. Another option that we are pursuing is to customize HRTFs based on the physical measurements of a listener such that their performance is equivalent to measured HRTFs. However, an initial step of decomposing measured HRTFs in order to reveal the parameters of the required structural pinna model must be performed. A new approach for the decomposition of HRTFs is suggested and evaluated on simulated examples. Finally, the method is used to decompose actual HRTFs and the results are evaluated.