Investigation on Audio Models for Enhanced Comfort and Audio Clarity in Virtual Reality

Abstract

This study investigates four different audio models in virtual reality (VR) environments to improve social interactions specifically within Metaverse settings for poster conference presentation. The audio models include Global Voice (uniformly audible), Spatial Attenuation Voice (volume decreases with distance), Area Voice (Limited by area), and Directional Voice (audio dependent on the listener's head direction). A virtual conference room was created using Unity, and user experience was assessed through subjective questionnaires and physiological data. Results showed that Spatial Attenuation and Directional Voice models enhanced focus and interaction, while the Area model promoted relaxation. The findings highlight the potential of unique audio systems to enhance immersion and usability in VR.