Psychometric functions and a correlation model of binaural detection

Sets of psychometric functions for the detection of tone in noise are reexamined for several interaural listening conditions. Best-fit sets of functions are determined for a “correlation” model of binaural masking level differences (MLDs). Based on only three parameters, this model predicts both the forms and relative positions of all such functions. The finding that MLDs are relatively independent of the detection level chosen for their determination is predicted by the model, and the sets of theoretical functions describe the data nearly as well as a previously determined empirical relation which requires M + 1 parameters for M curves.