Definition of Interaural time difference
The interaural time difference (or ITD) when concerning humans or animals, is the difference in arrival time of a sound between two ears. It is important in the localization of sounds, as it provides a cue to the direction or angle of the sound source from the head. If a signal arrives at the head from one side, the signal has further to travel to reach the far ear than the near ear. This pathlength difference results in a time difference between the sound's arrivals at the ears, which is detected and aids the process of identifying the direction of sound source.
When a signal is produced in the horizontal plane, its angle in relation to the head is referred to as its azimuth, with 0 degrees (0°) azimuth being directly in front of the listener, 90° to the right, and 180° being directly behind.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Interaural time difference?
The interaural time difference (or ITD) when concerning humans or animals, is the difference in arrival time of a sound between two ears.
Sources & credits
- Wikipedia: Interaural time difference – CC BY-SA 4.0
- Image by PeloWisky – Public domain