Sound Acoustics » Industry News

All room acoustics can be improved, but some better than others

James — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 01:13:13 +0000

Room modes (peaks and dips in frequency response) are directly related to the dimensions of the room. Room mode calculatorThis room mode calculator is helpful to determine where the problem frequencies are in your room. Another method to determine the problem frequencies of a room is to acoustically measure a room with a calibrated mic and software. There are many software programs on the market, and even combined with a budget calibration mic, will provide useful information about the acoustics of your room. The main issue is that rooms with larger peaks and dips (nodes) provide a more challenging starting point than a room with less severe and more dispersed room modes. Rooms that are reasonably flat to begin with require far less acoustic treatment to achieve an accurate listening environment that a “lumpy” room. Also, lower frequency room modes are more difficult to tame. A 50Hz peak is significantly more difficult to control than a 100Hz peak. When facing a losing battle it may be necessary alter the internal dimensions of a room by building additional angled walls, so as to disperse room modes.

An SSL in your bedroom!

James — Mon, 11 May 2009 01:02:24 +0000

One of the most interesting products to emerge for some time would have to be the Solid State Logic X-desk. I think this really demonstrates where traditional manufacturers of high-end gear see the recording market heading. http://www.solid-state-logic.com/music/Xlogic%20X-Desk/index.asp From all reports it truly does sound like an SSL (without the price tag) . While home recording gear has vastly improved over the last few years, what a small recording set-up can’t reproduce is the nice acoustics that a well designed pro studio can provide. That said, it can be worth exploring the acoustics of your own home. Hallways, bathrooms and even kitchens can sound great. You might be able to create a truly unique sound!

Elisabeth Murdoch Hall Acoustics

James — Tue, 05 May 2009 00:15:40 +0000

I’ve noticed in some opinion pages that the Melbourne Recital Hall is copping some flack for uneven acoustics, perhaps unfairly. It would be great to hear from anyone who has seen a performance there to comment on their own experience.
Achieving even acoustics in a live space is a notoriously difficult thing to do.