Frequently Asked Questions
How does sound masking work?
A discrete, low level, background sound is introduced into the workspace by means of a sound masking generator and emitters (speakers).
The emitters are usually flush-mounted into the ceiling tiles or located out of sight, in the ceiling void. We have different mounting techniques for exposed ceilings and drywall ceilings.
Occupants become naturally less aware of the unwanted noises such as co-workers’ conversations, business machines, keyboards, telephones, air conditioning units, and so on, leading to significant improvements in concentration and productivity and in turn reducing distractions and stress levels.
Does sound masking really work?
Yes. Several independent studies have proven the benefits of effective speech privacy. These studies conclude that our sound masking systems give genuine improvement in concentration and production levels, speech privacy, and acoustic comfort.
Following some fairly minor investments in acoustic treatments such as sound masking, the studies noted the following improvements:
- Focus: the ability of office workers to focus on their tasks improved by 48%
- Distractions: “conversational distractions” decreased by 51%
- Error-Rates: performance of standard “information-worker” tasks (measured in terms of accuracy [error-rates] and short-term memory) improved by 10%
- Stress: when measured in terms of the actual physical symptoms of stress, stress was reduced by 27%.
Aren't sound masking systems expensive?
No. To achieve the same effect as sound masking by using conventional materials and/or building changes would cost many times more and compromise other building design and use considerations. In fact, most systems have an ROI of less than 2 months! Reach out to us for a quote to learn more about the cost and savings sound masking can provide.
Do you have a sample of the sound masking on your website?
We haven’t provided an audio file on our website because we can’t ensure the quality of the playback. All computer speakers are different and most would poorly reproduce the masking sound.
Is this white noise?
Kind of. While sound masking is often referred to as “white noise” or “pink noise,” our sound masking systems have a sound frequency spectrum that is different from white noise or pink noise. Our system is specifically engineered to cover over as much human speech as possible and in order to do this, we blend white noise and pink noise frequencies to give the best overall result.
With this said, if you are seeking a white noise system or pink noise system for your workspace, you are looking at the right product!
Is this noise cancellation?
No. “Active noise cancellation” or “sound elimination” devices do not exist on the market for large commercial spaces as the cost would be astronomical. These technologies do exist for small, localized applications like headphones, however, cost considerations and the principles of physics prevent a large-scale noise-canceling system from being a viable option in any workspace.
With that said, our sound masking solutions are the ticket to reducing unwanted noises in your commercial workspace. They are designed to cover over as much speech as scientifically possible which will in turn reduce distractions and improve privacy.
Does sound masking go in conference rooms?
Sometimes. For ensuring privacy for the conversations that take place inside conference rooms, sound masking emitters are installed outside of conference rooms to prevent people in the hallway or adjoining rooms from overhearing potentially confidential conversations.
If you don’t want to be distracted by outside noises during a meeting, then we recommend treating inside conference rooms as well.
