Diffusion
Scattering reflections in time and direction, keeping space without draining energy
Related
Diffusion scatters reflections across direction and time, keeping acoustic energy and a sense of space while avoiding strong comb filtering or echoes. It is the opposite of absorption: absorption removes energy, diffusion redistributes it.
Typical devices are two- or three-dimensional panels whose wells or blocks follow a mathematical sequence; their size sets the working frequency range. They usually go on the rear wall, the later part of side walls or the ceiling, far enough from the listener to scatter rather than simply reflect nearby.
The usual mistake is thinking any rough surface diffuses. Random bumps scatter only the top end; real diffusion is designed for a frequency range. Small rooms should solve bass first.
Sources
- 声扩散与房间处理，参 Everest & Pohlmann, Master Handbook of Acoustics 与 Philip Newell, Recording Studio Design；本文为原创表述
Used for fact-checking only; all prose is original.