Define reverberation and reverberation time
Reverberation:
- Reverberation is the echoing of sound within a space.
- This means that when sound waves hit surfaces, like walls, they reflect back and mix with the original sound.
- The result of this mixing is a continuation of sound even after the original sound source has stopped.
- Reverberation can affect the clarity and quality of sound, making it seem muffled or indistinct.
- It also contributes to the sense of spaciousness in a room.
Reverberation Time:
- Reverberation time is the amount of time it takes for the sound in a space to decrease by 60 decibels.
- In other words, it's a measure of how long the sound energy lasts in a room.
- This time can be influenced by various factors, such as the size, shape, and materials used in the construction of the room.
- A longer reverberation time can create a sense of spaciousness, but can also make it difficult to understand speech or other sounds.
- A shorter reverberation time can improve speech intelligibility, but can make a space seem smaller and less live.