Optimizing pitch allocation in a cochlear stimulation system

A method of fitting a cochlear stimulation system, the system including an electrode array implanted into the cochlea of a patient, each electrode associated with a filter defined by a center frequency, the method comprising:

• selecting a fundamental frequency having a frequency F1 and a harmonic of the fundamental frequency, wherein the harmonic has a frequency F2 between the center frequencies of two of the filters;
• presenting a first audible tone to the patient through the electrode array, the first audible tone comprising the fundamental frequency F1 but not the harmonic;
• presenting a second audible tone to the patient through the electrode array, the second audible tone comprising the fundamental frequency F1 and the harmonic;
• manipulating the frequency of the harmonic to a new frequency F2′ until the second audible tone sounds like the first audible tone when presented to the patient;
• determining the difference between the frequency F2 and F2′;
• and
• adjusting the center frequency of at least one of the two filters in accordance with the difference.