Q&A: Sound diffusion

What is the difference between an absorber and a diffuser?

It’s simple to understand the difference between the two.

When sound waves hit them, absorbers take in sound energy, transforming it into heat. The result is better control of the reverberation time as well as reduction of echoes, reflections, and coloration.

Diffusers, in contrast, contribute to a better sound by causing sound energy to be scattered in many directions, giving your listening environment a sense of spaciousness and liveliness. This is due to their irregular but sophisticated shapes, which divert sound waves in a variety of angles, scattering them within the room and ensuring sound energy is maintained.

How many diffusers do I need in my room?

A diffuser must be at least a few meters wide to make a difference. Alternatively, a number of smaller diffusers may be placed in an array to ensure as much sound energy as possible is scattered.

Room acoustics is not rocket science, but it’s not grade 4 math, either. Here is a simplified look at how it works. Generally speaking, diffusion is most effective if 5 or more acoustic diffusers are put next to each other. The reason for this is that the greater the number of diffusers (aka periods), the more evenly sound energy gets distributed. And even distribution of sound is what acoustic diffusion is all about.

That said, if your diffusion panel array is less than one meter wide, you will probably not hear much of a difference.

Where do I place diffusers?

On the rear wall. This is how it’s done in most music studios, listening rooms, home theatres, and other musical spaces. The reason is if you place your listening position far enough from the rear wall (at least 2 meters), the diffusers on the wall have enough space to evenly distribute the energy, ensuring the best acoustic experience.

On the side walls. Installing diffusers in addition to absorbers on the first reflection points will preserve more liveliness in your high-end listening room. Make sure you place diffusers on the sidewalls between the speakers and the listening position as well. Also, it is important that the first reflection points are covered and sound energy is not reflected by the flat walls directly at the listening position.

On the front wall. Are you an audiophile? Have you already treated your rear wall with diffusers and are now looking to give the music an even greater sense of spaciousness? Then this is the option to go for. Covering the two opposite walls with diffuser arrays results in sound energy scarcely being reflected by a flat surface, creating an effect of endless space.

Should I always use the diffusers?

We only recommend placing diffusers on a wall if there’s at least 2 m of space between the rear wall and the listening position. If there isn’t, sound energy will not spread evenly prior to reaching your ears at the listening position. In such a case it’s more advisable to tame the low frequencies and flutter echoes instead.

Can you custom make me a panel?

By all means! We are passionate about providing bespoke acoustic solutions tailored to client'’ specific needs. In addition to being precision-crafted to last a lifetime, our designer custom-made diffusers and absorbers boast an elegant look that is sure to impress. Don't hesitate to contact us to find out more!