[net.audio] linear phase and reality

vax2:fudd (12/07/82)

Regarding the statement that linear phase is not good enough...

I would not doubt that tests with two isolated sine waves will demonstrate
the perception of a linear phase transformation.  However, I don't believe
that it would upset the percieved reality of recorded music.  Think about
it.  When listening to live music, you have very little control over the
time delay from the instruments to your ear.  A change of four rows in the
concert hall results in significant (linear) phase shifts, but does not
affect my enjoyment of the music.

Perhaps zero phase shift is important for certain electronic music record-
ings, (listening through headphones, remember the phase shift from your
speakers to your ears), but that would be the pathalogical case. 
Personally, I enjoy the extra time delay when listening to two sine waves;
it adds some variety to the otherwise boring signals.

Mark Freeman
John Fluke Mfg.
Everett (Seattle) Wa.