Amplitude limiters based on phase optimization

In order to reduce the peak value of source waveforms without quality degradation, a novel method is proposed. In this method, by exploiting the characteristics of human auditory system, which is often said to be insensitive to phase changes, peak value reduction is made possible. The proposed method is an improved version of our previous study, which manipulated the waveforms mainly based on phase control. In the conventional algorithm, however, amplitude characteristics have to be altered to some degree. The proposed method attempts to minimize the change of amplitude characteristics. Evaluation experiments show that the proposed method outperforms the conventional one in a Perceptual Evaluation of Audio Quality (PEAQ) test but the superiority is not found in a MUltiple Stimuli with Hidden Reference and Anchor (MUSHRA) test.