Absorption vs Diffusion
Removing sound energy versus scattering sound energy evenly across time and space.
Acoustic absorption converts sound energy into heat using friction within porous materials. Acoustic diffusion scatters reflected sound waves evenly in time and direction without removing energy, preserving room liveness.
How it works
Small rooms require heavy absorption to control room modes and flutter echo. Larger control rooms and home theaters use diffusers (QRD or PRD) on rear walls to maintain spatial warmth without deadening the space.
Work it out for your room
Put in your own room's size and get the numbers for it, free and without an account.
Open the Acoustic Panel CalculatorReferences
- ITU-R BS.1116-3: Listening environment for multichannel sound
See this in your own room: draw it, place speakers and treatment, and simulate the result.