A simulation tool for introducing MPEG - audio (MP3) concepts in a DSP course

This paper presents a simulation tool¹ for introducing perceptual audio coding concepts in senior undergraduate and graduate DSP courses. The tool consists of a user-friendly graphical interface along with a complete MA TLAB realization of all aspects of the audio MPEG-1 Layer 3 (MP3) algorithm. The tool is accompanied by a series of computer experiments and exercises that can be used to provide hands-on training to class participants. The tool may also be used by instructors in a class setting to demonstrate key signal processing concepts associated with the processing of high-fidelity audio. The MATLAB MP3 tool has been used in Arizona State University undergraduate DSP courses as well as in a graduate course on speech and audio coding and in a continuing education short course. Evaluation of the tool is being performed by an educational software assessment specialist.