A Perceptual Masking based Feature Set for Speech Recognition

"Perceptual" masking of speech by multitalker speech (babble) has been widely reported but poorly quantified. Furthermore, the validity of the construct of perceptual masking is questionable. This report describes an experiment using a newly standardized test of speech perception in noise (SPIN) with both babble and spectrally matched random-noise maskers. Classical psychophysieal ogive curves were used to model speech recognition as a function of signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). The two maskers yielded speech recognition functions of the same steepness but different locations on the S/N axis. The high-context items of SPIN yielded speech recognition curves with steeper slope and different locations on the S/N axis than the low-context items. These data are used to argue that perceptual masking was not documented (under certain assumptions) and that the superior masking of babble may be explained in purely acoustical terms. Speculations are offered about the possible acoustical differences that could be responsible for the differences in masking effect.

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Measuring Mandarin Speech Recognition Thresholds Using the Method of Adaptive Tracking

Journal of Speech Language and Hearing Research ◽

10.1044/2019_jslhr-h-18-0162 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 62 (6) ◽

pp. 2009-2017

Author(s):

Yuxia Wang ◽

Zhaoyu Lu ◽

Xiaohu Yang ◽

Chang Liu

Keyword(s):

Speech Recognition ◽

Adaptive Tracking ◽

Mandarin Speech Recognition

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Selecting the Optimal FM System for Children With Cochlear Implants

Perspectives on Hearing and Hearing Disorders in Childhood ◽

10.1044/hhdc18.1.19 ◽

2008 ◽

Vol 18 (1) ◽

pp. 19-24

Author(s):

Erin C. Schafer

Keyword(s):

Speech Recognition ◽

Cochlear Implants ◽

Empirical Research ◽

Background Noise ◽

Signal To Noise Ratio ◽

Evidence Based ◽

Signal To Noise ◽

Speech Processor ◽

System Input ◽

Optimal Type

Children who use cochlear implants experience significant difficulty hearing speech in the presence of background noise, such as in the classroom. To address these difficulties, audiologists often recommend frequency-modulated (FM) systems for children with cochlear implants. The purpose of this article is to examine current empirical research in the area of FM systems and cochlear implants. Discussion topics will include selecting the optimal type of FM receiver, benefits of binaural FM-system input, importance of DAI receiver-gain settings, and effects of speech-processor programming on speech recognition. FM systems significantly improve the signal-to-noise ratio at the child's ear through the use of three types of FM receivers: mounted speakers, desktop speakers, or direct-audio input (DAI). This discussion will aid audiologists in making evidence-based recommendations for children using cochlear implants and FM systems.

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