A BRIEF OVERVIEW ABOUT SOUND TRANSMISSION AND ACOUSTICS
About Sound

Most people easily overlook the importance of Sound. For instance, too much sound may not only be uncomfortable, but can also be physically damaging. Similarly, too little sound, or even worse…bad sound, can be equally uncomfortable. Moreover, "bad" sound can make communication totally incomprehensible.

How Are Acoustics Measured?

The universal measurement describing acoustics in any architectural space is called Reverberation Time, (T) the time in seconds, during which initial sound is effectively dissipated by means of reflection and absorption. For any given architectural space, Reverberation Time is highly variable and dependant upon two factors…
…#1 - the size and shape (V) of the space and …#2 - the absorbing properties (A) of the space.
…which results in the following formula T=V/A

What Distinguishes Good Acoustics?

Scientific research has determined optimal Reverberation Times for various room uses. While designers, architects and engineers target certain sound characteristics, additional acoustical insulation is generally required to meet specified objectives.
sound reverberation graph

"How Can Desirable Acoustics Be Achieved?"
By using the formula discussed above… T=V/A…
If V (the volume of a given architectural space) is fixed
THEN the only way to reduce T (the Reverberation Time)
IS by increasing A (the Sound Absorbing Properties)
THROUGH

the use of additional acoustical insulation.

PLEASE NOTE - Don't confuse sound absorption with sound transmission.
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Additional Acoustical References

Ceiling Interior Systems Contractors Association (CISCA) / Acoustical Society Of America (ASA)
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