Soundscape Perception Analysis Using Soundscape Simulator

Soundscape perception based on soundscape dimensions was investigated using a soundscape simulator. A soundscape simulator is a system to design a soundscape by controlling the parameters of sound objects (both background and event sounds), allowing the participants to compose a soundscape according to their expectation. In this study, the participants were requested to compose several soundscapes based on the dimension of relaxation, and dynamic. In addition, they also were asked to rate their compositions based on the dimensions of relaxation, dynamic, and communication.Analysis using logistic regression shows a significant relationship between the sound objects and the soundscape dimensions. Although the participants selected several sound objects related to natural sound, the sound of birds chirping is the only natural sound object that affected the perception of relaxation. In addition, the sounds urban noise and pop music are associated with feeling uncomfortable. The sound objects which significantly affect the scale of dynamic only make the soundscape feel varied, not simple. The dimension of communication is affected mainly by the sound of people talking. In conclusion, soundscape simulators could be used to analyse the relationship between soundscape dimensions and sound objects based on the participant expectation of space and perception.