MULTICHANNEL DOWNMIXING DEVICE

A downmixer provides a listener of an output signal with a substantially accurate rendition of the apparent direction and relative loudness of an input signal. Downmixing certain channels of the input signal independently may substantially preserve the energy and intended direction of the input signal. The downmixer may include a test downmixer that operates over a limited frequency range to more accurately reflect the loudness of the input signal at the output, as perceived by a listener. The downmixer may demand fewer resources, freeing up resources for use in other operations.