Relative Sound Localization for Sources in a Haphazard Speaker Array

Abstract

A rapidly deployable, easy to use method of automatically configuring multi-channel audio systems is described. Compensating for non-ideal speaker positioning is a problem seen in immersive audio-visual art installations, home theater surround sound setups, and live concerts. Manual configuration requires expertise and time, while automatic methods promise to reduce these costs, enabling quick and easy setup and operation. Ideally the system should outperform a human in aural sound source localization. A naïve method is proposed and paired software is evaluated aiming to cut down on setup time, use readily available hardware, and enable satisfactory multi-channel spatialization and sound-source localization.