Theories of pitch perception

[jasonmccoy]

It is my understanding that the average human can neurally represent pure soundwaves within a range of 20hz-20,000hz.


But how the brain exacts this neurochemical "match game" is another story. If my understanding is correct, three theories with roots as early as the mid to late 1800's are the explanatory frontrunners.


My question... Can anyone offer an exact range, with corresponding references for the soundwaves each of the following theories of pitch percpetion can account for:
frequency, place, and temporal or volley ?


Lastly, I have read some contradictary information in multiple introductory texts on auditory perception regarding the maximum rate at which hair cells in the inner ear (cochlea) can fire. Can anyone clarify this? Most sources suggest 1,000 impulses/ second. However, many argue only 100. Perhaps my confusion centers upon the lack of specificity in these general texts.



Thanks in advance!

 

[Jeff Corey]

Since the absolute refractory period of the neurons involved is about 1 msec, the frequency theory can handle up to roughly 1 Hz. The volley, up to 4 or 5 Hz, and the place theory, above that.
The evidence is indirect and may be inaccurate for the volley principle.
The volley principle was proposed by Wever and Brey in 1937.

 

[Jeff Corey]

Reference for the volley principle:
Zwislocki, J.J. (1981) Sound analysis in the ear: A history of discoveries. American Scientist, 69, 184-192.

 

[Soapy Sam]

Jason- there might be some relevant comments by jj and others in this thread-

Audible difference among 44.1Khz, 48Khz, 96Khz?

Started by Vohaul in Science forum about two months ago.