The band's mission involved transforming an old swimming pool into an acoustically balanced rehearsal facility. The greatest sonic anomaly involved early reflections off the plaster walls surrounding the pool, which is kidney shaped with curved walls, making it difficult to predict the angle of reflections. Sound was reflected in every direction with little attenuation due to the hard wall surfaces. Intelligibility of sound sources was almost completely lost, which resulted in hearing/ear fatigue.
"I've used Auralex products with all the bands I've commanded," says Chief Warrant Officer Three, William S. McCulloch, who is the commander and conductor of the 10th Mountain Division Band. "This project started with an email requesting recommendations for acoustic treatment for our "shallow end". I received an immediate response from Auralex, at which point the company provided diagrams and suggestions for absorption and diffusion throughout the space."
Auralex Acoustics recommended several of its 3" StudioFoam Wedge products, which include six 2'X4'X3" StudioFoam wedges in each box.
"As we started adding pieces of 3" foam around the room, positive results were instantly noticed," continues McCulloch. "I've worked with audio for almost 20 years and have studied acoustic treatment techniques, but this was the first time I've gotten to witness the before and after in a large room. When I originally looked at the treatment plan, it didn't seem like enough foam to make a difference. I was simply amazed by the results."
(Jim Evans)
