Calculation of Psychoacoustic Parameters: Loudness, Sharpness, Roughness, and Beyond

To comprehensively analyze and interpret the acoustic properties of any environment, evaluating psychoacoustic parameters is essential. Key metrics such as loudness (perceived sound intensity), sharpness (high-frequency content perception), roughness (amplitude modulation perception), and tonality (prominent frequency components) provide deeper insights into sound behavior and human auditory perception. These parameters can be computed using MATLAB's signal processing toolbox, where algorithms like Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) for spectral analysis, auditory filter banks mimicking human hearing, and modulation detection models are implemented. For instance, loudness calculation may involve integrating frequency-weighted sound pressure levels based on ISO 532 standards, while roughness estimation could utilize amplitude modulation depth analysis across critical bands. Understanding these metrics enables informed design of acoustic treatments and sound systems, ensuring optimal audio quality tailored to specific applications.