SAMPLE: Acoustics

Title: Better Listening

Background: a recent journal asked about your favorite types of music. A related question is, "Is the accuracy of sounds you hear important?" We may take sound fidelity for granted but acousticians have developed a keen understanding of the nature and behavior of sound waves.

Reference: Mitchell, P. W. (1990). Room for Improvement. Stereo Review. December 1990. pp 85-88.

In his article, Mr. Mitchell has a few suggestions to improve the quality of sound reaching your ears:

-speakers on stands about 1 ft high and 3 ft out from the walls (too close reinforces bass but reduces midrange)

-both speakers in a similar location in the room, e.g., both on the floor in corners

-locate yourself so the distance from the floor to your ears is not the same as the distance from a rear wall to them. For example, if you are seated 2.5 ft above the floor, you should not be 2.5 ft out from a rear wall.

-aim both speakers at a point in front of yourself

-place both speakers the same distance from yourself

-listen to each speaker separately and adjust the tone controls for a natural, not boomy, sound

Process:

1. Decide in which room you do most of your listening to music. Sketch a plan view of the room, i.e., looking down into it from the ceiling. Show you, the furniture, doors, windows, plants, lamps, and the location of the sound system and speakers.

2. Listen carefully to three or four your favorite tunes. Record your volume and tone control settings.

3. Decide which of the above suggestions you can make and redraw the room. Listen to the same tunes again and note any changes in your aural perception.