The design of a lightweight DSP programming library

This paper discusses the processes involved in designing and implementing an object-oriented library for audio signal processing in C++ (ISO/IEC C++14). The introduction presents the background and motivation for the project,which is related to providing a platform for the study and research of algorithms, with an added benefit of having an efficient and easy-to-deploy library of classes for application development. The design goals and directions are explored next, focusing on the principles of stateful representations of algorithms, abstraction/ encapsulation, code re-use and connectivity. The paper provides a general walk-through the current classes and a detailed discussion of two algorithm implementations. Completing the discussion, an example program is presented

M2 Diffusion: The Live Diffusion of Sound in Space

This paper outlines some of the rapid changes taking place in electroacoustic music performance and introduces the M2 diffusion system, currently in use at The University of Sheffield Sound Studios (USSS). The paper focuses upon a process commonly known as ‘sound diffusion’ and the performance of music usually played from CD or computer. The M2 system comprises bespoke software and hardware tools offering greater flexibility and improvisation in performance and new approaches to the musical composition of space. The paper speculates upon the future of the M2 system with SuperDiffuse software, and the new ‘composition opportunities’ it has triggered

Improving speech intelligibility in hearing aids. Part I: Signal processing algorithms

[EN] The improvement of speech intelligibility in hearing aids is a traditional problem that still remains open and unsolved. Modern devices may include signal processing algorithms to improve intelligibility: automatic gain control, automatic environmental classification or speech enhancement. However, the design of such algorithms is strongly restricted by some engineering constraints caused by the reduced dimensions of hearing aid devices. In this paper, we discuss the application of state-of-theart signal processing algorithms to improve speech intelligibility in digital hearing aids, with particular emphasis on speech enhancement algorithms. Different alternatives for both monaural and binaural speech enhancement have been considered, arguing whether they are suitable to be implemented in a commercial hearing aid or not.This work has been funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation, under project TEC2012-38142-C04-02.Ayllón, D.; Gil Pita, R.; Rosa Zurera, M.; Padilla, L.; Piñero Sipán, MG.; Diego Antón, MD.; Ferrer Contreras, M.... (2014). Improving speech intelligibility in hearing aids. Part I: Signal processing algorithms. Waves. 6:61-71. http://hdl.handle.net/10251/57901S6171

Tuning to Trust: System Calibration as Creative Enabler

This paper presents a mixed-music composition methodology emerging from the author’s latest practice-based research in the field over the last five years. The calibration of the interactive performance systems has enabled trust in reproducible sound quality for both the composer and the performers, enhancing the portability and adaptability of the works, and permitting increasingly daring creative experiments without compromising the rehearsal and concert experiences. A set of general, transferable responsibilities and solutions are presented and assessed against clear design criteria in the author’s latest pieces