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Convention Paper

Improving the Intelligibility of Aircraft PA Systems

Authors: Mapp, Peter

AES Convention 111 · Paper 5431 · November 2001

Abstract

A survey carried out by the authors on a range of commercial Jet Aircraft whilst in normal flight, found a wide variation in perceived intelligibility and operational signal to noise ratios of their on-board PA systems. Typical passenger cabin background noise levels of 80-85 dBA (100 -105 dBC) were recorded, whilst many systems were found to operate with either zero or negative S/N ratios. The results of extensive mock up testing are reported. It is shown that high frequency dispersion is a major factor contributing to the perceived intelligibility. The use of Distributed Mode Loudspeaker technology was found to bring about significant improvements in clarity & intelligibility but the effectiveness of Rasti as an accurate intelligibility descriptor under these conditions is questioned.

Details

Published in
AES Convention 111
AES Convention
111
Paper number
5431
Publication date
November 6, 2001
Session subject
Mobile and Internet Audio; Audio Networking; Loudspeakers
Affiliation
Peter Mapp Associates, Colchester, UK (See document for exact affiliation information.)
Type
Convention Paper