Each neuron on the LSO receives inputs from both ears. The ear located on the same (ipsilateral) side provides an excitatory input to the dendrites. The ear on the opposite (contralateral) side provides an inhibitory input.

Sound Source in Front	Sound Source to the Side
Sound same at each ear. Excitation and inhibition about the same.	Sound bigger at right ear. Excitation and inhibition unequal: excitation bigger on ipsilateral side; inhibition bigger on contralateral side.

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