PERCEPTUAL EVALUATION OF THE ACOUSTICAL QUALITY OF A TRADITIONAL MUSIC PERFORMANCE HALL BASED ON PREFERENCE TESTS

Abstract

The influence of acoustic parameters was investigated while evaluating the musical sound produced by convolution through impulse responses recorded in an existing traditional performance hall. A Likert scale survey and paired comparison tests were performed on reverberation, intelligibility, spatial impression, and overall preference. Solo and orchestral music sources for Korean and Western music were evaluated at the seats where IRs were measured, and the measured values and changes of EDT (Early Decay Time), C80 (Claity), BQI (Binaural Quality Index) and G (Sound Strength) at these locations were provided. It was also provided to change the ratio of the stage volume to the auditorium in order to find a renovation plan to fit the listener's preference for the existing hall. As a result, it was found that the subjects preferred a longer EDT value and a higher G value for the event venue. C80 and BQI did affect listeners' perceptions and preferences for performance music and space, but not as significantly as EDT or G. As a result, it was found that the EDT decreased by the volume reduction of the stage, but the G value increased significantly. In conclusion, it was possible to create an acoustically preferred performance hall by changing the stage volume and the interior surface materials (sound absorption and diffusion characteristics) and the role of additional reflectors.