Standardization of PEAQ-MC: Extension of ITU-R BS.1387-1 to multichannel audio

PEAQ (Perceptual Evaluation of Audio Quality) is a standardized algorithm for the objective measurement of perceived audio quality [1]. It predicts the perceived audio quality of mono and stereo audio files as listeners would do in a subjective listening test according to ITU-R BS.1116-1 [2]. Unfortunately this prediction is not intended for multichannel material, such as 5.1 or beyond. Additionally, the quality estimation of the standard does not consider spatial artifacts. Members of ITU-R Working Party 6C are developing an extension towards multichannel compatibility, as well as an integration of the modeling of spatial artifacts assessments [3]. In this paper, the current status of the standardization progress is illustrated. The concept of one of the three proposals currently under consideration is explained and the results of a first verification test conducted by ITU-R are presented.