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Absorb or Diffuse Behind Listening Position?

Hey All. Starting to finally treat my listening room. My listening position is up against the rear wall (head probably being spaced about 12" from the wall when sitting down). I’m putting 2’x4’x2" absorbing panels behind the speakers, but what should I choose for behind the listening position? Diffusion or absorption?

There are al lot of windows in the room, with horizontal louvered shades which act as pretty decent diffusion; and a big built-in bookshelf on one side wall also helping with diffusion. On either side of the wall behind the listening position are a pair of glass French doors, untreated at this point, and the room sounds a lot better when they are left open to the big room on the other side of the wall. I haven’t tackled the ceiling yet either. Thanks!
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mike_in_nc
1,153 posts
 
To answer the question you actually asked -- I repeat -- try something like the ASC Matrix Panel or RPG BAD panel. They are made for the application. The GIK Alpha line might work, too, but I’ve not tried it in that application (very close to the listener).

Unlike "real" diffusers, you can speak right into these products and not get phasey or unpleasant sound. And unlike broadband absorbers, they don’t create acoustic dead spots. If you are going to sit near the back wall, I don’t think you will do better.
sumadoggie's avatar
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sumadoggie OP
62 posts
 
Check on the Matrix and BAD panels.  Visited their websites.  Look great.  Thanks.
miguelperes
1 posts
 
Hello,

i'm seating near the rear wall. i don't have other option really. My ears are about 30cm from the back wall. So i read here some comment's about using an absorver panel (fiberglass) so i went for that but...after i put the panel in the back wall the voices turn out flat instantly, so that is no solution.
Any ideas please?
Thank You
rego
378 posts
 
In fact it could be either one dependent upon the rest of the room.
From the description absorption is needed on the side walls when it is possible to fit a panel in.
Start at the front end of the room then experiment at the back wall for the type that works. Do keep the listening position away from the wall.
Again it depends on how the room sounds at this position.
Definitely use the French Doors to adjust the balance as well.
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scar972
225 posts
 
I would absorb the back wall behind the listening position, you're sitting too close for diffusion to work properly. Bass trap corners if you're in a dedicated room and diffuse everywhere else especially first reflection. It's trial and error and no two rooms are exactly the same so you just got to experiment. Listening preference differs also. Good luck on your journey!
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