Haptic and Visual feedback in 3D Audio Mixing Interfaces

This paper describes the implementation and informal evaluation of a user interface that explores haptic feedback for 3D audio mixing. The implementation compares different approaches using either the LEAP Motion for mid-air hand gesture control, or the Novint Falcon for active haptic feedback in order to augment the perception of the 3D space. We compare different interaction paradigms implemented using these interfaces, aiming to increase speed and accuracy and reduce the need for constant visual feedback. While the LEAP Motion relies upon visual perception and proprioception, users can forego visual feedback with interfaces such as the Novint Falcon and rely primarily on haptic cues, allowing more focus on the spatial sound elements. Results of the evaluation support this claim, as users preferred the interaction paradigm using the Falcon with no visual feedback. Furthermore, users disliked active haptic feedback for augmented perception of 3D space or for snapping to objects.