Before diagnosing the issues that surround your noise complaints and recommending acoustic panels for reverb control, it’s important to differentiate between absorbing sound and blocking sound. We use the terms ‘reverb control’ and ‘noise transmission reduction’.
Reverberation control and noise transmission reduction are at the heart of every solution Sound Zero provides. It will dictate the type of acoustic panel used.
Both terms differ and are often used interchangeably, welcoming a barrage of jargon which leaves people even more confused than before.
The purpose of this blog is to delve into reverb control, addressing when you might need it and the solutions that Sound Zero provides.
To read about noise transmission reduction, click here.
When might you need reverberation control?
“My open-plan office is an acoustical nightmare. It’s starting to affect my work.”
“I can’t hear what my friend is saying in this noisy restaurant.”
“This warehouse conversion is a great example of modern architecture but has terrible acoustics.”
These are all common complaints that people may have when seeking reverberation control.
What do all three environments have in common? They’re all large, open spaces. They all contain a variety of hard, reflective surfaces.
It’s now fashionable for designers to remove naturally absorbing materials, which in the past will have (inadvertently) provided acoustic comfort. How many open-plan offices do you see with carpets these days?
The core aim of reverberation control
Speech intelligibility is one of the main aims of reverberation control. Offices, restaurants and classrooms all require an element of communication and collaboration. Without these key elements, the opportunity to thrive is inhibited.
Poor acoustics are responsible for a plethora of complaints in both the workplace and in public establishments such as restaurants.
To learn more about how poor acoustics can affect creativity, click here.
Read More:
- How to customise your ceilings and walls with acoustic panels
- Keep the noise down with acoustic panels
- The different types of acoustic panels
- What are acoustic panels and why do we use them?
What solutions does Sound Zero recommend for reverberation control?
For instances such as those highlighted above, Sound Zero recommends acoustic panels for the walls and ceiling. The open and flexible cell structure of these materials acts as a natural soundwave absorber, preventing noises from being reflected off hard surfaces.
This is achieved by converting sound energy to heat and reducing the ability for soundwaves to bounce back into the room.
Sound-absorbing foam can be used to enhance room acoustics
When placed strategically, acoustic panels can enhance the acoustics in a room. Instances, where this is most common, would be in recording studios and music venues.
Such an approach requires the experienced ear of an acoustician to identify points of reflection, maintaining a good balance of absorptive and reflective surfaces.
Conclusion
To summarise, if you’re looking to improve the acoustics of a large, open space, Sound Zero recommends acoustic panels that absorb sound and provide reverberation control.
Whether your aim is to create a dramatic visual impact or discretely enhance room acoustics, Sound Zero works closely alongside architects and designers to ensure the best solution for you.
To talk about your next project, get in touch with an expert today.
