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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!
sumadoggie

Showing 2 responses by arion

arion's avatar
arion
167 posts
 
Having the listening position against the back wall is not ideal. I assume the OP has no other possible listening position available or perhaps it's a multi-purpose room and there must be a compromise. With that listening position you definitely don't want any reflective surfaces behind you. Diffusers do reflect sound but in a scattered pattern. It's easy to understand why sitting close to a real diffuser isn't ideal. Speak into one that is about 12 inches away and you will know.

What we have recommended before is to use broadband absorbers about 4 to 5 feet wide behind the listening position. Flanking the absorbers can be left reflective but diffusion is better.

arion's avatar
arion
167 posts
 
The treatment of a sound room is not generic. Bass issues are largely determined by the room dimensions and size. Using bass traps (real bass traps) is almost always beneficial. Moving into the mid and high frequencies, the treatment often depends on the speaker placement, type of speakers, wall covering, floor covering and furniture. Real diffusors should not be placed directly behind the listening position. The listening position should not be close to any real diffusors. How close depends on the type of diffusion and possibly room size. Minimum 5 to 6 feet. Place absorbers behind you and avoid over-damping as stated previously.
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