Perceptual weights for loudness reflect central spectral processing.

Weighting patterns for loudness obtained using the reverse correlation method are thought to reveal the relative contributions of different frequency regions to total loudness, the equivalent of specific loudness. Current models of loudness assume that specific loudness is determined by peripheral processes such as compression and masking. Here we test this hypothesis
using 20-tone harmonic complexes (200Hz f0, 200 to 4000Hz, 250 ms, 65 dB/Component) added in opposite phase relationships (Schroeder positive and negative). Due to the varying degree of envelope modulations, these time-reversed harmonic complexes have been shown to produce different outputs at the basilar membrane and different amounts of forward and simultaneous masking. The perceptual weights for loudness did not differ for these two complexes. To determine whether the level rove introduced to obtain weights had changed the fundamental differences in the stimuli, a
similar level rove (68 dB) was introduced on each component of Schroeder positive and negative forward maskers. The Schroder negative maskers continued to be more effective. These results suggest that perceptual weights for loudness are not completely determined by peripheral processes and reflect a central frequency weighting template.