Open Forum

I have a smallish theatre (300 seats) so I really do not want to use bodymics (also don't like some kids mic'ed and some not). It is not really a theatre at all - built to be a lecture hall! Stage is about 32' at proceneum and 25' edge of apron to back cinderblock wall. I do have curtains.   and So the sound is not terrible on the apron, but the stage itself just opens upward to a black hole of sound. Would hanging diffuser panels help? Tilted to directed sound out to the house?  Is there a plan to build those or do I need to invest in professional grade?   What are some thoughts or experiences you guys can share? 

Thanks so much!

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Ruth Farrimond
Theater Director
Signal Mountain Middle-High School
TN
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Hi there.  Acoustics are a very complex issue. Your question is not entirely clear to me. If I am reading it correctly, you are asking adding diffusion above the stage will improve sound for your audience.  That depends on what you are trying to improve.  Diffusion may help to deal with any reflections or echos coming from the stage, but if you are hoping to increase the overall level from the stage, the answer would be no. Remember this... diffusion will move the sound around.  Absorption sucks it up. The amount of absorption is directly dependent upon the depth of the absorptive material.  Lower frequencies have long wave lengths, and can require deep absorptive materials.  My suggestion would be to try what you are suggesting, using existing material, in a non-permanent manner.  If it helps, look at making it permanent.  Unfortunately, I would not be too optimistic.  In the end, projection is likely your best solution.

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Kirk Longhofer
Theatrical Sound Design, Audio Production, Editing and Engineering
Systems Design and Consultation
www.technopraxis.org
kirk@technoprasix.org
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