Where does sound reach the cortex, and how is it laid out there? · Grey Matter

Sound reaches the cortex on Heschl's gyri, on the upper surface of the temporal lobe hidden inside the lateral fissure, after relays in the brainstem and the medial geniculate nucleus of the thalamus.

Where does sound reach the cortex, and how is it laid out there?

Sound reaches the cortex on Heschl's gyri, on the upper surface of the temporal lobe hidden inside the lateral fissure, after relays in the brainstem and the medial geniculate nucleus of the thalamus. The primary auditory cortex there is laid out by frequency, low tones at one end and high tones at the other, copying the layout of the cochlea. Each side hears both ears, so damage to one auditory cortex barely affects hearing, while the belt areas around it go on to identify voices, words and melodies.