Bass traps close to monitors

[Tom Higgins]

Another question...

I'm looking to put absorption panels at the side reflection points. However, I can't really do this on the walls (see picture). I was thinking I could build stands for the broadband absorbers (stands aren't shown on picture). BUT I'm wondering if having absorbers close to my monitors would affect stereo imaging somehow?

I feel as though the sound would have a narrower new room/space to travel down so the stereo image would be less wide?!

I bet I sound crazy

[Ben B]

Originally Posted by Tom Higgins

Another question...

I'm looking to put absorption panels at the side reflection points. However, I can't really do this on the walls (see picture). I was thinking I could build stands for the bass traps (stands aren't shown on picture). BUT I'm wondering if having bass traps close to my monitors would affect stereo imaging somehow?

I feel as though the sound would have a narrower new room/space to travel down so the stereo image would be less wide?!

I bet I sound crazy

If you're using OC 703 FRK, the FRK facing can cause mid and high frequency reflections that can certainly skew your stereo image. Broadband absorption might be a better choice in those locations.

-Ben B

[Tom Higgins]

Hi,

I'd be using Rockwool (RWA45) with a gas flow resistivity of 17 kPa.sm-2, which, from my readings, shouldn't be very reflective. Also, at 6" (perhaps only 4"), it would be more of a broadband absorber. I think I should change the title...

[boggy]

Originally Posted by Tom Higgins

.......
I bet I sound crazy

No you don't sound crazy at all, but you are a two or three steps from soffit mounting... and that is a much better solution.

Cheers

Boggy

[Tom Higgins]

Originally Posted by boggy

No you don't sound crazy at all,

I'm glad

Originally Posted by boggy

but you are a two or three steps from soffit mounting... and that is a better solution.

Hmm, can't quite do that yet. Maybe when I move to a bigger, dedicated room

[Tom Higgins]

So is this idea approved?

[John White]

I can't see how you can lose. Worst case scenario you can place the absorption in other effective locations.
I've found absorption at the side reflection points to have the single most significant benefit towards clear stereo imaging.

Good luck on the stands.


Posted via the Gearslutz iPhone app

[Tom Higgins]

Thanks all.

[stella645]

In a similar situation to you except window one side & a door to the bathroom the other.

I put 2 bb absorbers on stands either side of my desk (splayed out slightly) plus one over the top as a pseudo cloud.

I'm really pleased with the results for a totally unscientific "there's nowhere else to put it" configuration.
Would recommend a cloud of you can do it...I really notice the difference with this in/out. Pic below is a bit dark but you get the idea...the hideous fabric that makes the overhead absorber look like a children's mattress was a very bad desicion based on cost! (you can actually see a 4th absorber in the same material tucked behind this but this isn't it's intended resting place & it doesn't make much difference there)

Try to make the absorbers open backed & stand them a few inches away from the walls if you can squeeze the space....though it looks a bit tight from your pic.

[Tom Higgins]

Stella645:

Thanks for talking about your experience. I'm planning broadband absorbers for straddling corners, as well as a cloud, but didn't put it in for the sake of this question.

Also, yes, it does look quite tight in there. There may be a little more space in reality. Trying to get the large wardrobe out the way though. If I can, I can then put reflection point absorbers on the wall!

[Aof]

Can I ask what software did you use for drawing the room?

[Tom Higgins]

Google SketchUp. Free program. Commonly used here

[Gdupproductions]

Originally Posted by Tom Higgins

Another question...

I'm looking to put absorption panels at the side reflection points. However, I can't really do this on the walls (see picture). I was thinking I could build stands for the broadband absorbers (stands aren't shown on picture). BUT I'm wondering if having absorbers close to my monitors would affect stereo imaging somehow?

I feel as though the sound would have a narrower new room/space to travel down so the stereo image would be less wide?!

I bet I sound crazy

I've once did this wiith a rockwool panel just set it next to the speaker.
Man what did that speaker sound so dricketly and louder then the other not in the sense off LOUd but dominating.

I think you can't do anything wronge with it as i have a very small room im forced to do almost the same.

[Arksun]

The one problem you might have is dealing with the lowest room mode frequencies given that your speakers aren't symmetrical distance to the side walls, which could cause an imbalance or some wierd phase cancellation issues in the listening position. Only one way to find out though, setup and measure/listen.

[Tom Higgins]

Originally Posted by Arksun

....your speakers aren't symmetrical distance to the side walls, which could cause an imbalance or some wierd phase cancellation issues in the listening position.

In the space that I'm in, should I have my speakers/listening position centered between the two side walls or between the (left) side wall and wardrobe?

Either way, I will make sure they are centered when I get some (or build some) stands...

Originally Posted by Arksun

Only one way to find out though, setup and measure/listen.

O'course!