Do you hear what I hear

Do you hear what I hear?

Church design is so varied a building may sound completely different from the one next door. However, the sound of a building can be changed - and improved - with the help of acoustical consultants. These experts know the science of sound, and they are prepared to tackle any situation, whether it is a new construction or refurbishing of an older building. Regardless of the project, your church will undoubtedly be pleased with the new and improved sound quality.

Where to begin? Nick Colleran, marketing director of Acoustics First Corporation, says, "A church should work with an architect to plan the acoustical design of a building before construction begins." He adds that if you are remodeling, rather than building a completely new structure, it is best that you fix the acoustics before you replace the sound system. He says, "There is very little bad equipment these days, so changing amplifiers, speakers and microphones will have little effect on the sound problem unless the wrong type of equipment was specified initially."

Because a room is active, electronics alone will not "fix a bad room," Colleran says. Instead, he advises that by thinking about acoustics first, any sound system will perform to specifications while using less power and eliminating the harshness that is created when a church tries to use the sound system as compensation for poor sound.

Worship space dictates design The original design of your worship space will dictate the sound quality of various activities, so whether you are retrofitting old space or creating a new facility, acoustics play a key role. Many older churches were designed for choirs and organs, whereas newer churches often feature electronically derived sound, along with a sound system for those speaking. And then there are those churches who do not use music - their acoustic demands will be much different.

Regardless of the situation, an acoustics expert will play a pivotal role in helping your church plan the perfect design. Colleran points out that if the design is not unique, often a staff acoustician will be able to step in apply a solution that worked in a similar structure to yours. However, in other cases, a church will have to involve both architects and acoustical consultants at the building design (or redesign) stage.

Materials vary Acoustics First commonly uses as a sound absorber a 6-7 lb./cubic ft. density fiberglass board covered with acoustically transparent or absorbing fabric wrap. It will also use a polycylandrical diffuser/bass trap to control frequencies below 150 Hz and to disburse upper frequencies. Sound absorbing fabrics are often used below chair rails or as a background material over which panels and traps are mounted. Finally, Schroeder-type diffusers may be used to scatter sound without adding absorption.

Perdue Acoustics in Amarillo, TX, uses mineral wool as a base for its acoustic products. In addition, the company manufactures acoustical panels; Wedge Series absorbers, diffusers and reflectors; gym crash pads; molded diffusers; and industrial panels. Perdue Acoustics also offers E-Z Clip Plates for simple removal if the panels do not need to remain in use at all times.

Amount of planning determines cost While acoustical planners are amenable to answering simple questions free of charge, an in-depth design in conjunction with an architect can cost up to tens of thousands of dollars. Materials budgets range anywhere from $5,000 to $40,000 for a typical church. Colleran says, "We have recently been involved in projects creating worship space in a warehouse ($38,000), retrofitting an acoustically annoying church ($20,000), and polishing an existing facility ($4,000). The cost depends on the starting point and the desired result, including the type of service."

The benefit of an investment in acoustical products is that they last indefinitely. Fiberglass does not deteriorate over time, and as long as the fabric covering is cleaned regularly, signs of age can be prevented. However, Colleran cautions, acoustic foam does not last beyond a few years. It also does not typically pass building codes.

Changeable designs are an added bonus Wall panels, diffusers/traps, and ceiling baffles are easily relocated, allowing for the materials to be recycled for other uses or when a church moves. However, Colleran says, "Having good acoustics from the start helps build the congregation by creating an environment that is not stressful or fatiguing to the listener who wishes to hear the minister and enjoy the musical performances."

Most importantly, Colleran advises, consider the acoustics of your building when you start planning its design or remodel. He says, "It will be a lasting investment that provides dividends by building a congregation, drawing people to church rather than driving them away."

Apr 10, 2004

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