Project Challenge
This state university’s multi-purpose auditorium hosts theatrical performances, orchestral concerts, academic lectures and graduation ceremonies. The large-volume masonry structure with high ceilings suffered from severe mid-low frequency standing waves and uneven sound field distribution. Speech intelligibility was poor for lectures, and musical performances lacked clarity and dynamic range, with muddy low-frequency response. Conventional porous acoustic panels could not resolve the stubborn low-frequency resonance issues, and the university required a professional acoustic upgrade that met educational building design standards and maintained a formal, elegant aesthetic.
Solution
A combined system of grooved and perforated resonant acoustic panels was installed on the side and rear walls of the auditorium, paired with mineral wool backing and rear air cavities. Engineered on the Helmholtz resonance principle, the precision slot-and-hole structure specifically targets the 250Hz–1000Hz mid-low frequency standing waves that dominate large performance spaces. The system achieves an overall NRC of 0.90 for balanced full-band sound absorption and uniform sound field coverage. Custom light oak wood veneer finishes match the solemn, elegant architectural style of the campus academic building.
Results
Post-renovation acoustic testing confirmed that reverberation time falls within the optimal range for both speech and live music performance. Speech intelligibility improved by over 45%, and musical performances present clear layering, full dynamics and controlled low-frequency resonance. The auditorium now reliably supports diverse events from academic lectures to professional theatrical performances. The project passed educational building acoustic acceptance with excellent results and has become a benchmark acoustic renovation case for regional campus facilities.
