What Do You Know About Acoustics
If you are an event manager, musician or dancer you know how important a room`s acoustics is. If you try and perform in a room with bad acoustics the chances of the audience not hearing you are much higher. How much do you about how to maximize the acoustics of different room shapes? Test yourself by taking the quiz below.
- 1.
A tuned trap designed to absorb a narrow frequency area is called a
- A.
Diffuser
- B.
Active trap
- C.
Diffusive trap
- D.
Helmholtz resonator
- E.
Resonant absorber
Correct Answer
D. Helmholtz resonatorExplanation
A tuned trap designed to absorb a narrow frequency area is called a Helmholtz resonator. Helmholtz resonators are specifically designed to target and absorb sound waves at a specific frequency range. They consist of a cavity with a small neck or opening that allows air to vibrate at a certain frequency. This resonance effect helps to absorb and dissipate sound energy within the desired frequency range, making it an effective solution for controlling specific frequencies in a room or acoustic environment.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is TTS
- A.
The brain's ability to eliminate things it doesn't want to hear.
- B.
The brain's ability to adjust your hearing both in frequency response and sound pressure level to help protect your hearing mechanism.
- C.
The brain's ability to enhance things it doesn't want to hear.
- D.
The brain's ability to separate one sound amoungst many.
Correct Answer
B. The brain's ability to adjust your hearing both in frequency response and sound pressure level to help protect your hearing mechanism. -
- 3.
The unit of measurement for sound absorbtion is
- A.
Nano-Webers
- B.
Sabins
- C.
MicroFarads
- D.
Pascalls
- E.
STC
Correct Answer
B. SabinsExplanation
The unit of measurement for sound absorption is Sabins. Sabins are used to quantify the sound absorption characteristics of materials. It represents the sound absorption capacity of a material or surface. The higher the number of Sabins, the better the material is at absorbing sound.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Glass would generally have
- A.
A negative value of absorption co-efficient
- B.
An absorption co-efficient greater than 1
- C.
A high absorption co-efficient
- D.
A low absorption co-efficient
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. A low absorption co-efficientExplanation
Glass would generally have a low absorption co-efficient. This means that glass is not very effective at absorbing or blocking the transmission of light or other electromagnetic waves. Instead, it allows light to pass through it with minimal absorption. This property is why glass is commonly used in windows and lenses, as it allows for clear visibility and minimal distortion of light.Rate this question:
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- 5.
When planning a rectangular room, odd sized ratios can be used to....
- A.
Lenghten the reverb time.
- B.
Minimize transmission noise
- C.
Give an even distribution of room modes
- D.
Encourage standing waves
- E.
Eliminate the need for amplification
Correct Answer
C. Give an even distribution of room modesExplanation
Odd sized ratios in a rectangular room can give an even distribution of room modes. Room modes are the resonant frequencies at which sound waves bounce back and forth between the walls, floor, and ceiling of a room. Having an even distribution of room modes helps to avoid certain frequencies from being overly emphasized or canceled out in different areas of the room, leading to a more balanced and natural sound.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What is used to randomize and even out the acoustic energy in a room?
- A.
A diffuser
- B.
A disperser
- C.
An acoustic evener
- D.
A decoupler
- E.
A concave surface
Correct Answer
A. A diffuserExplanation
A diffuser is used to randomize and even out the acoustic energy in a room. It scatters sound waves in different directions, preventing them from reflecting directly back to the listener and causing unwanted echoes or standing waves. This helps to create a more balanced and natural sound environment by reducing acoustic problems such as flutter echoes and excessive reverberation.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The physical seperation of surfaces to limit the transimission of vibrational energy is called:
- A.
Room modes
- B.
Tuning
- C.
Decoupling or floating
- D.
Dispersive silencing
- E.
Absolution
Correct Answer
C. Decoupling or floatingExplanation
Decoupling or floating refers to the physical separation of surfaces in order to limit the transmission of vibrational energy. This technique is commonly used in audio and construction industries to reduce unwanted vibrations and improve sound quality. By decoupling or floating surfaces, the vibrations are isolated and prevented from transferring from one surface to another, resulting in improved acoustics and reduced noise transmission.Rate this question:
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- 8.
An anechoic chamber is...
- A.
A reverberation or echo chamber
- B.
A totally air tight room
- C.
An isolated, reflection-free space
- D.
A room used to store tape machines
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. An isolated, reflection-free spaceExplanation
An anechoic chamber is an isolated, reflection-free space. This means that it is designed to minimize the reflection of sound waves, creating an environment where there are no echoes or reverberations. It is commonly used for scientific and acoustic research, as well as for testing and calibrating audio equipment. The chamber is typically lined with sound-absorbing materials, such as foam or wedges, to absorb any sound waves that are generated inside the chamber. This allows for accurate measurements and experiments without any interference from external noise or reflections.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Room modes occur at frequencies whose wavelengths are
- A.
The same as the distance between two surfaces
- B.
Half of the distance between two surfaces
- C.
One third of distance between two surfaces
- D.
One quater of the distance between two surfaces
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
Room modes occur at frequencies whose wavelengths are the same as the distance between two surfaces, half of the distance between two surfaces, one third of the distance between two surfaces, and one quarter of the distance between two surfaces. This means that room modes can occur at various frequencies depending on the dimensions of the room, resulting in resonances and standing waves.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A LEDE control room:
- A.
Has a reflective front and absorbtive rear
- B.
Has an dead front and a dead rear
- C.
Has a reflective front and absorbtive rear with no low frequencies
- D.
Has a dead front and live rear with early reflections eliminated
- E.
Has a reflective front and rear panel absorbers
Correct Answer
D. Has a dead front and live rear with early reflections eliminatedExplanation
The correct answer is "has a dead front and live rear with early reflections eliminated". This means that the front of the control room does not reflect sound waves, while the rear of the room allows sound to be reflected. Additionally, any early reflections, which can cause audio interference, are eliminated in this type of control room setup.Rate this question:
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- 11.
An absorber that uses fiberglass or foam to obstruct the travel of sound waves is a:
- A.
Membrane absorber
- B.
Helmholtz resonator
- C.
Porous absorber
- D.
Low mode absorber
- E.
Tyner trap
Correct Answer
C. Porous absorberExplanation
A porous absorber is a type of absorber that uses materials like fiberglass or foam to obstruct the travel of sound waves. These materials have a porous structure that allows sound waves to enter and get trapped within the material, converting the sound energy into heat. This absorption process helps to reduce the reflection and reverberation of sound waves in a room, making it acoustically more pleasant.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Mechanical decoupling of recording environments is required for which purpose?
- A.
To minimise the transmission of outside airbourne and structural noise into the recording area
- B.
To allow heat detention to ensure an even studio temperature
- C.
To obtain correct room ratio's for realistic RT 60 time
- D.
To allow enough space between outer and inner walls to construct bass traps
- E.
To allow for a more natural room mode structure
Correct Answer
A. To minimise the transmission of outside airbourne and structural noise into the recording areaExplanation
The mechanical decoupling of recording environments is necessary in order to minimize the transmission of outside airborne and structural noise into the recording area. This is important because unwanted noise can negatively impact the quality of the recording and interfere with the desired sound. By decoupling the recording environment, the vibrations and sound waves from the outside are less likely to transfer into the recording area, resulting in a cleaner and more isolated sound.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A soft porous material would generally have:
- A.
A negative value of absorption co-efficient
- B.
An absorption co-efficient greater than 1
- C.
A high absorption co-efficient
- D.
A low absorption co-efficient
- E.
A sliding absorption co-efficent
Correct Answer
C. A high absorption co-efficientExplanation
A soft porous material would generally have a high absorption co-efficient because its porous nature allows it to absorb and retain more liquid or gas. The pores in the material provide a larger surface area for absorption, resulting in a higher absorption co-efficient.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Helmhotz resonator 'traps' absorb frequencies in the
- A.
Low mid frequency range
- B.
High frequency range
- C.
Upper-mid range
- D.
Free range
- E.
A and c
Correct Answer
A. Low mid frequency rangeExplanation
A Helmhotz resonator is a device designed to absorb specific frequencies of sound. It consists of a cavity with an opening that allows sound waves of a certain frequency to enter and resonate. The resonator then absorbs and dissipates the energy of these specific frequencies, effectively "trapping" them. In this case, the correct answer indicates that Helmhotz resonators are most effective at absorbing frequencies in the low mid frequency range.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A rating system designed to compare the transmission loss charactristics of various acoustical materials and constructions describes:
- A.
STC
- B.
Sabines Co-efficient
- C.
Transmission Loss
- D.
AES
- E.
Mass Law
Correct Answer
A. STCExplanation
The correct answer is STC. STC stands for Sound Transmission Class, which is a rating system used to compare the transmission loss characteristics of different acoustical materials and constructions. It measures the ability of a material or construction to reduce sound transmission through it. Higher STC ratings indicate better sound insulation properties.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The main reason we would float a floor is to:
- A.
Isolate our space from structural noise
- B.
Maintain a constant reverb time for all audio frequencies
- C.
Isolate our space from electrical noise
- D.
Provide even distrubution of room modes
- E.
Provide a pathway for little people in our studio
Correct Answer
A. Isolate our space from structural noiseExplanation
Floating a floor is a technique used to isolate a space from structural noise. By creating a separate floating floor, vibrations and impact noises from the building's structure are minimized, resulting in a quieter and more acoustically isolated space. This is particularly important in environments where audio recording or sensitive equipment is being used, as it helps to prevent unwanted noise interference.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A wave form with a short wavelength would be :
- A.
Louder
- B.
Direct
- C.
High Freq
- D.
Quieter
- E.
Low Freq
Correct Answer
C. High FreqExplanation
A wave with a short wavelength would be associated with a high frequency. This is because frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional - as the wavelength decreases, the frequency increases. Therefore, a wave with a short wavelength would have a high frequency.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What is RT60
- A.
The amount of time it takes a reverberant field to decay 20 dB
- B.
The amount of time it takes a reverberant field to decay 60 dB
- C.
The amount of time it takes a reverberant field to decay 10 dB
- D.
The amount of time it takes reverberant field to decay 6 dB
- E.
The amount of time it takes reverberant field to decay 12 dB
Correct Answer
B. The amount of time it takes a reverberant field to decay 60 dBExplanation
RT60 stands for Reverberation Time 60 and it refers to the amount of time it takes for a reverberant field to decay by 60 dB. In other words, it measures how long it takes for sound to decrease by 60 decibels in a space after the sound source stops. This measurement is commonly used in acoustics to assess the characteristics of a room or space in terms of its reverberation and sound decay properties.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The three types of room modes are:
- A.
Axial, Tangential, and Oblique
- B.
Axial, Tangential and Transverse
- C.
Axial, Oblique, and Transindential
- D.
Axial, Tangential, and Obtuse
- E.
Axis, Obtuse, Tangential
Correct Answer
A. Axial, Tangential, and ObliqueExplanation
The correct answer is Axial, Tangential, and Oblique. These three types of room modes refer to different ways in which sound waves can propagate and interact within a room. Axial modes occur when the sound wave travels back and forth between two parallel surfaces, such as the walls. Tangential modes occur when the sound wave bounces off four surfaces, such as the walls and ceiling. Oblique modes occur when the sound wave interacts with multiple surfaces at different angles. These different types of room modes can affect the acoustics and resonance within a room.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which of the following can be used to absorb low frequencies?
- A.
Panel absorbers
- B.
Drapes
- C.
Fiberglass
- D.
Carpet
- E.
Fuzz
Correct Answer
A. Panel absorbersExplanation
Panel absorbers can be used to absorb low frequencies because they are designed to reduce sound reflections and absorb sound waves across a wide range of frequencies. They are typically made of materials that are dense and have high sound absorption coefficients, allowing them to effectively absorb low-frequency sounds. Panel absorbers are commonly used in recording studios, concert halls, and other spaces where sound quality and control are important.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which of the following would be an effective high frequency absorber?
- A.
Panel absorbers
- B.
Concrete
- C.
Carpet
- D.
Glass
- E.
A and D
Correct Answer
C. CarpetExplanation
Carpet would be an effective high frequency absorber because it is made of soft and porous materials that can absorb sound waves. The fibers in the carpet can trap and dissipate the sound energy, reducing the amount of sound reflection and echo in a room. This makes carpet a good choice for absorbing high frequency sounds and improving the acoustics of a space.Rate this question:
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- 22.
What is constructive interference
- A.
When reflecting sound waves decrease a sound's amplitude
- B.
When reflecting sound waves increase a sound's amplitude
- C.
When the frequency of the second sound wave is exactly twice the original sound wave
- D.
25 times that of the first mode
- E.
When there is excessive bass trapping
Correct Answer
B. When reflecting sound waves increase a sound's amplitudeExplanation
Constructive interference occurs when two or more waves combine to create a resultant wave with a larger amplitude than any of the individual waves. In the case of reflecting sound waves, when they combine with the original sound wave, they reinforce each other, resulting in an increase in the sound's amplitude. This means that the reflected sound wave adds to the original sound wave, making it louder and more intense.Rate this question:
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- 23.
What will affect the reverb time of a room?
- A.
The size of the room.
- B.
Type of materials used in the interior of the room.
- C.
The type of seals used on the door frames.
- D.
A and C
- E.
A and B
Correct Answer
E. A and BExplanation
The reverb time of a room is affected by the size of the room and the type of materials used in the interior. The size of the room determines the amount of space available for sound waves to reflect and bounce around, affecting the duration of reverberation. Additionally, the type of materials used in the interior can absorb or reflect sound waves, further influencing the reverb time. Therefore, both the size of the room and the type of materials used in the interior will affect the reverb time.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What 3 things are necessary to stop the transmission of sound from 1 environment to the next
- A.
Mass, Density, Space
- B.
Mass, Density, Fiberglass
- C.
Weight, Density, Space
- D.
Mass, mass, and more mass
Correct Answer
A. Mass, Density, SpaceExplanation
In order to stop the transmission of sound from one environment to the next, three things are necessary: mass, density, and space. Mass refers to the amount of matter present, which can help absorb and block sound waves. Density is a measure of how tightly packed the particles in a material are, and denser materials are better at blocking sound. Space refers to the physical distance between the source of sound and the receiver, and increasing the distance can reduce the intensity of the sound. Therefore, all three factors - mass, density, and space - are necessary to effectively stop the transmission of sound.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Neoprene is commonly used to
- A.
Absorb low frequencies.
- B.
Decouple construction elements.
- C.
Absorb high frequencies.
- D.
Create low frequency enhancers.
- E.
Increase the bass response of the room.
Correct Answer
B. Decouple construction elements.Explanation
Neoprene is commonly used to decouple construction elements. This means that it is used to isolate or separate different parts of a structure in order to prevent the transmission of vibrations or sound between them. Neoprene's properties, such as its elasticity and ability to absorb vibrations, make it an effective material for decoupling construction elements.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Walls must be constructed heavily enough to solve which problems?
- A.
Isolation of the studio space from exterior noise.
- B.
Elimination of standing waves.
- C.
Protection of neighbors from high sound levels.
- D.
To increase reverb time.
- E.
A and C
Correct Answer
E. A and CExplanation
The correct answer is A and C, which means that walls must be constructed heavily enough to solve the problems of isolation of the studio space from exterior noise and protection of neighbors from high sound levels. This means that the construction of the walls should be able to block out external noise and prevent sound leakage to ensure a quiet and isolated studio environment. Additionally, the walls should also be able to contain the sound within the studio to prevent it from disturbing the neighbors.Rate this question:
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- 27.
To help prevent vent noise, studio air conditioning systems should be:
- A.
High Volume, High velocity
- B.
High Volume, Low velocity
- C.
Low Velocity, Low Volume
- D.
High compression
- E.
Painted yellow
Correct Answer
B. High Volume, Low velocityExplanation
To help prevent vent noise, studio air conditioning systems should be high volume and low velocity. This means that the system should have a high airflow capacity to efficiently cool the studio, but the air should be delivered at a low speed to minimize noise. This combination allows for effective cooling without creating excessive noise that could interfere with the recording or production process in the studio.Rate this question:
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- 28.
When building a gypsum wall, what can help to increase the overall STC of the wall?
- A.
Double layering the sheet rock
- B.
Adding an extra coat of paint
- C.
Replacing the gypsum board with cardboard
- D.
All of the above
- E.
A and B only
Correct Answer
A. Double layering the sheet rockExplanation
Double layering the sheet rock can help to increase the overall STC (Sound Transmission Class) of the wall. By adding an extra layer of gypsum board, the wall becomes thicker and denser, which helps to block sound transmission. The additional layer of sheet rock creates a more effective barrier against sound waves, resulting in a higher STC rating. This is why double layering the sheet rock is a viable option for increasing the overall soundproofing capabilities of a gypsum wall.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The weighting system on a SPL meter is used to....
- A.
Compensate for the non-linear response of human hearing
- B.
Allow the meter to used for electrical readings as well
- C.
Compensate for the non-linear response of the meter
- D.
Let the meter to be used for indoor and outdoor readings
- E.
Allow the meter to be used in low gravity situations
Correct Answer
A. Compensate for the non-linear response of human hearingExplanation
The weighting system on a SPL meter is used to compensate for the non-linear response of human hearing. This means that it adjusts the measurements taken by the meter to reflect how the human ear perceives sound at different frequencies. By applying different weightings, the meter can provide a more accurate representation of the loudness levels that humans actually experience.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The speed of sound in air at 68 degrees travels at
- A.
1,130 ft/sec
- B.
4,800 ft/sec
- C.
11,000 ft/sec
- D.
18,020 ft/sec
- E.
20,670 ft/sec
Correct Answer
A. 1,130 ft/secExplanation
The correct answer is 1,130 ft/sec. The speed of sound in air is affected by various factors such as temperature, humidity, and altitude. At 68 degrees, the speed of sound in air is approximately 1,130 ft/sec.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 15, 2011Quiz Created by
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