These experiments investigated and described intra-subject, inter-subject, and inter-group variation in perception of synthetic vowels as well as the possibility that inter-group differences reflect dialect differences. Two tests were made covering the full phonetic range of English vowels. In two other tests subjects chose between one of two…

The emotional states of an adult male American speaker, as reflected in 30 utterances, were evaluated by 12 subjects on nine 7-point semantic differential scales. The subjects also evaluated the utterances on similar scales for pitch, loudness, and speed. Significant correlations were found between some acoustic variables and the judgments of some…

Reasons for the structural or functional classification of the Russian /y/ as an allophone of /i/ are explained in this article. Theory countering this classification, proposed by L.V. Scherba and L.R. Zinder, is also presented. Additionally, comments by Kenneth Pike support the author's criticism of the structuralist approach to the problem. (RL)

The author addresses the need for a new acoustic recognition strategy, extending the position that any adequate grammar of a language must distinguish between auditory and articulatory knowledge. Reviewing the existing literature and theories of language and its acquisition, the author discusses their limitations and inadequacies in accounting for…

This study, tenth in a series of publications entitled "Studies in the Phonology of Asian Language," describes the phonetic variation of the six tones in two-syllable utterances of Vietnamese. The study is based on acoustic measurements of actual words and phrases. Findings of the study concern: (1) overall pitch height of a tone, (2)…

This Rate Training Manual (RTM) and Nonresident Career Course form a self-study package for those U.S. Navy personnel who are seeking advancement in the Sonar Technician Rating. Among the requirements of the rating are the abilities to obtain and interpret underwater data, operate and maintain upkeep of sonar equipment, and interpret target and…

This experiment investigated the language specificity of phonetic processes. Results suggest the need for adding another language-specific level of processing to the contemporary phonology-phonetic theory. Such a phonetic competence component would define the level at which semantic intention is integrated with the functional properties of the…

This article provides information to aid in starting a course in musical acoustics. The selection of topics for lecture, a project-mode laboratory, texts, references, equipment, and lecture demonstrations are covered. (Author/CP)

The effects of environmental stress on the processing of task-irrelevant cues of a social nature were examined. While noise did not affect memory for the task-relevant cues, task-irrelevant cues, regardless of whether they depicted calm or distressed persons, were remembered less well under noise than under quiet. (Author/MA)

Describes the construction and operation of an apparatus to demonstrate acoustical resonance. (SL)

An analysis of the theory of distinctive features advanced by Roman Jakobson, Gunnar Fant and Morris Halle in "Preliminaries to Speech Analysis." The notion of binarism, the criterion of distinctiveness and the definition of features are discussed. Questions leading to further research are raised. (Text is in French.) (AMH)

Discusses the basics of inexpensive modular synthesizers (which demonstrate various principles of sound). Topics considered include: oscillators and musical range; oscillator waveforms and characteristics; synthesizing simple musical sounds; and modulation and sweeping filter effects. Suggestions for purchasing or building synthesizer components…

Pressure buildup patterns preceding the onset of phonation were studied in 573 fluent utterances of 10 stutterers and in 552 utterances of 7 controls. Stutterers evidenced deviant patterns of subglottal pressure buildup and abrupt voice onsets more often than did controls; occurrence of jitter and shimmer did not differ significantly. (Author/JDD)

Describes development and content of a speech science course taught to speech therapists for two years, modified by feedback from those two classes. Presents basic topics and concepts covered. Evaluates a team teaching approach as well as the efficacy of teaching physics relevant to vocational interests. (JM)

Reviews research studies that raise serious questions about phonological neutralization, that is, the merger of a contrast in certain contexts. Some findings cast doubt on the very existence of neutralization and the correctness of the theoretical principles that make assumptions based on neutralization. Reanalyzes neutralization in light of these…