This tutorial is a step-by-step procedure describing how to build your own binaural dummy-head on a budget. It tells you everything you need to know about materials, microphones, and design. As I go through, I will discuss various design issues that I've come across and try to explain the reasons behind why I've built my dummy head this way.

Note: Binaural audio is a mysterious beast. Depending on the dummy head design, localization might work great for one person, and not at all for the next. Keep this in mind and try not to get too discouraged. I am continuously trying to improve my design for universal binaural enjoyment, so keep checking back.

Here are the materials and general costs for the project assuming you have all the tools:

Of course if you go with a cheaper option for microphones, the price will go down. I use the Core Sound Binaural Microphone set in this tutorial, but alternative mics can be used. I mention one other option for mics in the Microphone section just for your information, which cost around $70.

Example Recording

This video was made by Rafael Sentoma as a way of demonstrating 3 different kinds of binaural recording techniques. It's also a great demonstration of a dummy head built using this tutorial. Rafael used the Core Sound binaural microphones. He used a set of my ears and also constructed and used the ear canals as described in this tutorial.

Binaural Technique Demo - Rafael Sentoma from Bird vs. Alligator on Vimeo.

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