Low frequencies produce tactile whole-body sensation while higher frequencies drive pitch perception

Evidence

At the low-frequency end of the scale, things are complicated because humans can feel high-level low frequencies in addition to tonal perceptions. Pitch cues fade and vibration cues get stronger at very low frequencies. Feeling deep bass is pleasant, but the perception of pitch is the melody. The dual perceptions begin in the upper bass region, including kick drum “punch”. Disproportionately boosted bass is common at rock concerts because it is dramatic to literally have your breath modulated by the kick drum and bass guitar—something not normally experienced at home. These can be “whole body” experiences. Fortunately, low frequencies are not high-risk sounds for hearing loss, but the rest of the accompanying spectrum definitely is hazardous. — Toole, Floyd E, Sound reproduction- the acoustics and…, 884

Categorization

• DEFINE: Clarifies the dual tonal-plus-vibratory perception operating in the bass region, distinguishing pitch cues from vibration cues.