Research shows that too much low frequency reverberation is the primary source of an unpleasant sonic experience perceived by musicians as well as audiences during amplified music concerts. The author has researched acoustics recommended in halls for amplified music, from medium sized venues to the biggest arenas. These results show that it is essential to provide means for additional low frequency absorption in most venues. Typical temporary solution involves an installation of several layers of molton fabric at various distances from reflecting surfaces. However, this method provides a relatively modest absorption coefficient in the important 63 and 125 Hz octave bands, while damping well the high frequencies, which are already absorbed substantially by the audience partly due to the high Q of loud speakers pointed at them at higher frequencies. A new, technology of inflated, ultra thin plastic membranes seems to solve this challenge of low-frequency control and is suitable for multipurpose halls that need to adjust their acoustics at the push of a button. The same applies to halls and arenas that only occasionally present amplified music and need to be treated just for the event. This paper presents the authors’ research as well as the technology showing successful applications in differently sized venues, including before and after measurements of reverberation time versus frequency.
https://www.aes.org/e-lib/browse.cfm?elib=17828
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