Stopping Sound Reflections

We were asked by a church if there was a way to reduce the reflections of sound off a back wall in their church caused from foldback monitors of their band. We of course suggest that it is best to reduce the sound level coming from the monitors, possibly by considering stand mounting monitors (see another of our posts) however, if the decor of the church allows it, you CAN reduce echos and reverberation with wall hangings and carpets on the floor etc.

Coverings on walls definitely reduces reflection. You need the heaviest possible material, and this should be hung a few inches away from the wall (leaving a gap behind) because then sound is absorbed as it goes from front to back, bounces on the wall and then is further absorbed as it bounces back again - double the attenuation. From an aesthetic point of view, it is difficult to treat walls in churches in this way - unless you are into the look of curtains - and as we have said before, reducing the foldback level is a quicker and simpler solution.

There are also devices such as "bass traps" which are designed to absorb sound. These look out of place in many churches, but the option exists and can work in some buildings.

So, firstly look to reducing the sound level from the foldback monitors, then add carpet where possible, finally consider adding wall hangings or sound traps at strategic points in the church.

We hope this helps.

Tim Ridgway.

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