The significance of representing realistic torso orientation relative to the head in the head-related transfer function (HRTF) is studied in this work. Actual head position relative to the torso is found for 195 persons. The effect of the head position in HRTF is studied by modifying the 3D model of a Kemar head-and-torso simulator geometry by translating the head relative to torso in up-down and forward-backward directions and rotating the torso. The spectral difference is compared to that seen in the closest matching actual persons. Forward-backward location of the head has the strongest influence in theHRTF. The spectral difference between the fixed and rotated torso spectra can exceed a 1-dB limit for all sound arrival azimuth directions when the torso rotation exceeds 10◦. The spectral difference decreases with increasing source elevation. A subjective listening test with personal HRTF demonstrates that the spectral effect of the torso rotation are audible as a sound color and location changes. The HRTF data in this work is found by calculating the sound field using the boundary element method and the 3D shape of the person acquired using photogrammetry.
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