A database of near-field head-related transfer functions based on measurements with a laser spark source

•Near-field head-related transfer functions were measured at distances of 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 m on a head mannequin.•A laser-induced ‘spark’ was used as a sound source to overcome problems with mounting a loudspeaker too close to the head.•Low-frequency extension was applied using a rigid-sphere model.•The collected database is shared to facilitate further research.