Head-Related Transfer Function (HRTF)

The Head-Related Transfer Function (HRTF) describes how our ears perceive sound from different directions. It captures how the shape of our head, ears, and torso modify sound waves traveling through the air, affecting the timing, volume, and frequency content of sounds arriving at each ear. This allows our brain to determine the location of sounds in 3D space—whether they're coming from above, below, behind, or in front. HRTF is essential for creating realistic 3D audio in headphones and virtual environments, making sounds feel more natural and spatially accurate.