Augmented Hankel Total Least-Squares Decomposition of Head-Related Transfer Functions

Filters based on head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) allow a monaural source to be localized in a three-dimensional virtual space. There are three ways to obtain HRTF impulse responses: (a) individually measured on each specific person, which requires extensive effort; (b) generic standardized responses, such as dummy heads, which are often inaccurate; and (c) derived responses based on anthropometric measurements of an individual's head. This article proposes an approach for decomposing HRTFs that will facilitate the development of systems based on the third method. This method offers the potential to produce high accuracy without the extensive effort.