Background ducking to produce esthetically pleasing audio for TV with clear speech
Torcoli M, Freke-Morin A, Paulus J, Simon C, Shirley B (2019)
Publication Type: Conference contribution
Publication year: 2019
Publisher: Audio Engineering Society
Conference Proceedings Title: AES 146th International Convention
Event location: Dublin
Abstract
In audio production, background ducking facilitates speech intelligibility, while keeping the background track enjoyable. Technical details for recommendable ducking practices are not currently documented in literature. Hence, we first analyze common practices found in TV documentaries. Second, a subjective test investigates the preferences of 22 normal-hearing listeners on the Loudness Difference (LD) between commentary and background during ducking. Highly personal preferences are observed, highlighting the importance of object-based personalization. Statistically significant difference is found between non-expert and expert listeners. On average, non-experts prefer LDs that are 4 LU higher than the ones preferred by experts. Based on the test results, we recommend at least 10 LU difference between commentary and music and at least 15 LU between commentary and ambience.
Additional Organisation(s)
Involved external institutions
Fraunhofer-Institut für Integrierte Systeme und Bauelementetechnologie (IISB)
Germany (DE)
University of Salford
United Kingdom (GB)
Germany (DE)
University of Salford
United Kingdom (GB)
How to cite
APA:
Torcoli, M., Freke-Morin, A., Paulus, J., Simon, C., & Shirley, B. (2019). Background ducking to produce esthetically pleasing audio for TV with clear speech. In AES 146th International Convention. Dublin, IE: Audio Engineering Society.
MLA:
Torcoli, Matteo, et al. "Background ducking to produce esthetically pleasing audio for TV with clear speech." Proceedings of the 146th Audio Engineering Society International Convention: Excite Your Ears, AES 2019, Dublin Audio Engineering Society, 2019.
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