Signal Processing and Speech Communication Laboratory

Artificial Head for Auditory Research

The SPSC utilizes a high-precision dummy head microphone system — commonly known as a Kunstkopf — for a wide range of hearing and sound localization experiments. This sophisticated device is designed to replicate the shape and acoustic properties of the human head and ears, allowing for realistic binaural recordings. The dummy head features anatomically accurate pinnae and ear canal structures, which enable highly naturalistic simulations of human hearing. When used in acoustic testing, it provides crucial insights into spatial hearing, sound perception in complex environments, and the development of audio technologies such as hearing aids, headphones, and immersive 3D audio systems.

This equipment supports research in:
  • Sound localization and directionality
  • Binaural hearing and psychoacoustics
  • Speech intelligibility in noisy environments
  • Virtual and augmented reality audio applications
The Kunstkopf is an essential tool for our experimental setups, ensuring reproducible, human-like auditory data for both scientific studies and applied research.