As Renato Cipriano, director of WSDG, emphasized in our interview, "Acoustics have a greater importance in audiovisual spaces for obvious reasons, such as the need to promote an essential balance, especially when we talk about audio capture. This is not only a technical issue, but also a direct reflection of how sound can affect our physical and mental health." 

Whether in a movie theater, a concert hall, a retail store or even a corporate space, sound directly influences how people perceive and interact with that space. Cipriano adds, "The balanced condition of sound is completely related to the balance of our health, both physical and mental. In recent years, I have been studying sound therapy and neuroscience, perceiving how sound directly influences people's behavior." 

This impact goes beyond the technical design of the space. Sound can affect our well-being in profound ways, even influencing our emotional and cognitive response to environments. 

One of the main objectives of acoustic design is to ensure that sound reaches the audience in a clear and balanced manner. In environments such as cinemas or auditoriums, where sound accuracy is crucial, unwanted distortions and reflections that can affect the quality of the experience must be eliminated. To achieve this, a variety of specialized techniques and elements can be employed. 

Techniques and elements for acoustic design in audiovisual spaces

Reverberation control 

Reverberation occurs when sound bounces off reflective surfaces, creating echoes or unnecessarily prolonging the sound. To control it, absorbent materials such as acoustic foam panels, heavy curtains and carpets are used. Renato Cipriano explains: "Excessive reverberation can impair sound intelligibility in audiovisual spaces. The main issue is to ensure that the sound arrives in a clear and balanced way, which involves a series of variables and techniques that we adjust according to the space and its needs." 

In some spaces it is possible to use diffuser surfaces, such as wooden panels or geometric structures, which disperse the sound waves in a controlled and uniform manner, avoiding sound concentration points. 

Frequency treatment 

In the acoustics of spaces such as concert halls, it is essential to consider how the design can affect different sound frequencies. Equipment designed for these environments must incorporate equalization technology to adjust the frequency response of the space. "In a recording studio, for example, the internal acoustics must be completely different from those required for an orchestra hall," emphasizes Cipriano. The choice of the type of acoustic treatment will depend directly on the type of audio to be captured or transmitted.

This can include strategic positioning of state-of-the-art loudspeakers and subwoofers to ensure that all frequencies, from low to high tones, are heard clearly and without distortion. 

3. Acoustic insulation

Sound insulation refers to the ability of a space to block external sound and prevent internally generated sound from escaping. In recording studios or movie theaters, high-density materials such as insulated drywall, laminated glass and acoustic seals on doors and windows are used. "It is essential, for example, to design the air conditioning system so that it does not introduce unwanted noise into critical environments," says Cipriano. Controlling the environment is essential to preserve sound quality without external interference. 

4. Surround sound systems

In environments such as cinemas or auditoriums, the use of surround sound systems is essential. "These systems allow an immersive sound experience, but the most important thing is to ensure that the type of sound system is suitable for the type of acoustics of the space," says Cipriano. These systems use speakers strategically positioned around the space to create an immersive sound experience. Implementing a 5.1 or 7.1 system, along with DSP, allows precise sound distribution, so that viewers can perceive the audio in three dimensions. In addition, subwoofers are often used in these types of spaces to reinforce the low frequencies and create a fuller experience. Sounds that feel all around you, in your chest, and that bring you to that "wow!" 

5. Noise cancellation technology in commercial spaces

In spaces such as stores, restaurants or shopping malls, acoustic design must consider ambient noise control. Cipriano adds, "Noise cancellation systems, which help neutralize unwanted frequencies, are an excellent solution to create a more comfortable environment, especially in places with high traffic."

To this end, we can integrate active noise cancellation systems, which use microphones and loudspeakers to identify and neutralize unwanted frequencies, creating a more comfortable environment. In addition, strategic positioning of acoustic panels, room dividers and acoustic ceilings can reduce echo and improve overall sound quality.

Why consider acoustics in different environments? 

In cinemas and auditoriums, acoustic design must ensure that sound is evenly distributed to the entire audience. "Acoustics and architecture must walk together," Cipriano emphasizes. "When we start an acoustics job, we study the proportions of the space from the beginning, because this directly affects the sound quality. Architecture and acoustics are one and the same." 

In commercial and retail spaces, ambient noise control is crucial to create a pleasant environment for customers. Acoustics should be adjusted to maintain a comfortable noise level, without sound interfering with conversations or the shopping experience. "Creating quiet areas or using strategic absorbent materials can greatly enhance the customer experience," suggests Cipriano. 

In offices and meeting rooms, acoustics are essential for productivity. The use of acoustic panels on walls and ceilings helps reduce background noise, improving the intelligibility of conversations. Acoustical dividers between these work areas are also helpful to ensure that sound does not propagate across large open areas. "The main mistake in many projects is not integrating acoustics and soundproofing. It is essential that acoustics and audio systems projects are done together, not separately. Without forgetting here the air conditioning system, which introduces a lot of noise in certain projects that require quieter environments, "emphasized Cipriano.

Think and analyze before choosing

Acoustic design is not only about creating pleasant environments, but also about ensuring that sound is efficiently and harmoniously integrated into the space, enhancing the user experience. To do this, a technical approach that considers the acoustic properties of the environment, appropriate materials and specialized technologies is essential. "New technological innovations, such as acoustic simulations, micro-perforated and even transparent materials, have allowed acoustics to reach places where it seemed impossible before, without compromising the aesthetics of the environment," concludes Cipriano. 

Remember: sound insulation is not acoustic treatment, and don't forget: it is important to understand how the space works in order to choose the right materials and sound equipment, ensuring that each part converses with the other in the ideal way. In the end, sound equipment, audio and acoustics should always go together. 

Do you also use these elements and techniques? Tell us about your experience in acoustic design in AVIXA Xchange and, of course, we invite you to visit us at InfoComm Latin America to talk about this and other topics in person,register and receive our news!