Enter the volume of the room (ft^3) and the total area of absorption (sabins) into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Reverberation Time.
Reverberation Time Formula
RT = .049 * (V/A)
Variables:
- RT is the Reverberation Time (sec)
- V is the volume of the room (ft^3)
- A is the total area of absorption (sabins)
To calculate Reverberation Time, divide the volume of the room by the total area of absorption, then multiply by .049.
How to Calculate Reverberation Time?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Reverberation Time.
- First, determine the volume of the room (ft^3).
- Next, determine the total area of absorption (sabins).
- Next, gather the formula from above = RT = .049 * (V/A).
- Finally, calculate the Reverberation Time.
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
the volume of the room (ft^3) = 500
the total area of absorption (sabins) = 7.5
Frequently Asked Questions
What is reverberation time and why is it important?
Reverberation time is the measure of the time it takes for sound to decay by 60 decibels in a room. It’s important because it affects how sound is perceived in a space, impacting clarity, loudness, and the overall acoustic quality of the environment.
How does room size affect reverberation time?
Room size directly impacts reverberation time; larger rooms typically have longer reverberation times due to the greater volume of space for sound to travel and decay. Adjustments in absorption materials can help manage reverberation in larger spaces.
Can reverberation time be too short?
Yes, if the reverberation time is too short, a room can feel acoustically ‘dead’ and lack warmth. This can make a space feel uncomfortable for speech or music performance, as some reverberation is necessary for sound to blend and project effectively.
What materials can affect the total area of absorption in a room?
Materials such as carpets, curtains, furniture, and acoustic panels can increase the total area of absorption in a room. Different materials absorb sound at different frequencies, so the choice of materials can be tailored to the specific acoustic needs of a space.
