Volume adaptive equalizer
Rob Milchem · Southampton Solent University Digital Library · 2009
The human ear can in many ways be likened to a microphone. As with a microphone, it has its own unique frequency response, a response which just like that of the microphone varies with sound pressure level. This variation explains why music sounds fuller at louder volumes. At such levels the ear produces a flatter response across the spectrum. This report outlines the design and implementation of an Audio Unit plugin, capable of correcting the ear's variable response. The device as constructed operates as a graphic equalizer, pre-programmed with settings to suit the listening conditions from quiet to loud. The design stages and implementation are fully documented and the device produced is subsequently tested and substantiated for its intended purpose. The later design stages for automating the device using the output voltage of a microphone remain unimplemented due to time constraints. Finally, recommendations are made for the further development of the project.