Investigation on the Phantom Image Elevation Effect

Listening tests have been carried out in order to evaluate the phantom image elevation effect depending on horizontal stereophonic base angle. Seven ecologically valid sound sources as well as four noise sources were tested. Subjects judged the perceived image positions of phantom centre image created with seven loudspeaker base angles. Results generally showed that perceived images were elevated from front to above as the loudspeaker base angle increased up to around 180°. This tendency depended on the spectral characteristics of sound source. The perceived results are explained from both physical and cognitive points of view.