Can Technology Replace Good Acoustic Architecture?

Traditional acoustic architecture depends on the physical design of the building, including the shape of the room, the building materials, and sound-absorbing structures, to control the propagation of sound. Environmental acoustic engineers work with the transmission, reflection, absorption, and diffusion of sound in the building or interior environment from concert halls to transportation facilities (e.g., subway announcements). Since then, the evolution of advanced audio technologies has raised questions about if digital signal processing (DSP) technology can completely replace the conventional interior acoustic design.

New approaches to acoustic control for sound management are state-of-the-art acoustic technologies, including digital signal processing, adaptive spatial audio systems (smart speakers), and smart acoustic materials. These systems are able to characterize the acoustic environment in real time and adapt the output sound to attenuate the undesired noise or to improve the audible speech intelligibility. These new technologies can create a more controllable sound environment without major architectural or interior structural changes, thus illustrating their significance in today’s society.

Nevertheless, these electronic acoustic devices mostly control sound after it is made, whereas good acoustic architecture prevents or shapes the way sound propagates right from the start. In open spaces, technologies of acoustic electronic devices are undoubtedly the leading tool for sound control. But in indoor spaces with bad acoustic quality, complex and costly acoustic technologies may be needed to reach an acceptable sound quality. This means that a well-designed building or interior can provide long-term acoustic benefits at lower daily energy consumption and maintenance costs.

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