# How to remove background noise from sound file for analysis

I'm working on a project at my university and it involves background noise recognition/classification. I'm very new to this so I'm unsure what to really search/google or where to really begin any research.

I'd like to remove background noise from any audio file and analyze THAT and not the primary signal (for example, if you had a recording of someone talking on a phone, remove their voice and keep the remaining background noise). I then wish to train a classifier to cluster or group possible sound samples.

How does one do this (extraction and preseervation of background noise)? I'm guessing I need to do a FFT on the raw data? Are there proper file formats one needs to have an audio file in to do this? Additionally, what are proper learning or classification techniques for audio recognition?

• I'm actually asking about how to do this via a program and am interested in modules that might do this, but I equally am asking about the DSP portion as well. I'll migrate if this seems like the best path forward.
– WildBill
Jul 28 '14 at 13:47
• It seems more DSP than programming to me, since there is no language/platform specified. Once you have an algorithm then it may become a programming question. I think you'll get more "expert" DSP answers on DSP.SE too. Jul 28 '14 at 13:50
• I'm told this needs to be migrated to DSP. I'm guessing I should try to migrate via this method (unsure how to do so otherwise) vs. creating a new question...
– WildBill
Jul 28 '14 at 13:50
• You can either hit the flag button above and ask a moderator to do it (may take time) or just copy and paste the question (don't forget to delete the original once it's been reposted on DSP.SE!). Jul 28 '14 at 13:51