Virtual Acoustic Models for Physically Modeled Musical Instruments

An industry-academic collaboration between McGill University and Applied Acoustics Systems of Montreal, Canada.

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Summary

This two-phase industry–academic collaboration between Applied Acoustic Systems and McGill University, developed and validated intuitive virtual acoustic environment models for physically modeled musical instruments. The project addressed the perceptual gap between highly realistic instrument models and the absence of convincing acoustic space, with the work enabling realistic spatial sound rendering without requiring acoustic expertise, enhancing both performance and recording applications.

Objectives

  • Develop physically informed models of acoustic environments compatible with physically modeled instruments
  • Create an intuitive control interface for musicians that does not require acoustic expertise
  • Translate high-level user controls into physically consistent acoustic parameters
  • Validate and refine the models through perceptual testing in realistic use conditions
  • Prepare the technology for integration into commercial software instruments

Timeline

2015–2016 — Phase 1: NSERC Engage Grant. Status: Complete.
2016–2017 — Phase 2: NSERC Engage Plus Grant. Status: Complete.

Approach

The project developed physical and perceptual models of virtual acoustic environments, including room effects, source–listener geometry, source directivity, and virtual microphone configurations. Standard acoustic modeling techniques were used —e.g., direct sound, early reflections, source directivity, microphone techniques, and artificial reverberation—were parameterized using physically meaningful variables. A control algorithm was developed to automatically translate intuitive user inputs (such as room type and spatial geometry) into timing, filtering, gain, and reverberation parameters. The Engage Plus phase focused on fine tuning, computational optimization, perceptual testing, and validation in realistic user contexts.

Outcomes & Impact

  • Developed a complete and physically consistent virtual acoustic environment model for physically modeled instruments suitable for commercial audio software
  • Enhanced realism and usability of spatial audio
  • Validated usability and perceptual quality through testing in realistic scenarios
  • Intuitive control strategy for musicians
  • Integration into Applied Acoustics Systems product line

People Involved

  • Principal Investigator: Catherine Guastavino, McGill University (Canada)*
  • Lead Researcher/PhD student: David Romblom, McGill University (Canada)*
  • Academic collaborator: Philippe Depalle, McGill University (Canada)*

*CIRMMT Regular or student members

Partners

Applied Acoustics Systems

Granting Agencies / Funding Sponsors

  • NSERC Engage (2015–2016)
  • NSERC Engage Plus (2016–2017)
  • Applied Acoustics Systems (2015-2017)

Resources

Keywords

Industry, Virtual acoustics; Physically modeled instruments; Spatial audio; Reverberation; Music technology

Learn More

Contact: Prof. Catherine Guastavino [firstname.lastname@mcgill.ca].