Diffusion vs Absorption in Studio Design

The Balance Question

Every studio needs both diffusion and absorption. Too much absorption creates a dead space. Too much diffusion smears transients.

Absorption

Absorptive materials convert sound to heat. They reduce reflections and control reverb time. Best at first reflection points and corners.

• Porous: Mineral wool, foam — broadband
• Resonant: Helmholtz, membrane traps — targeted

Diffusion

Diffusers scatter sound without removing it. They preserve liveliness while breaking up specular reflections.

• QRD: Quadratic residue — one dimension
• MLS: Maximum length sequence — different pattern
• 2D: Skyline — both horizontal and vertical

Recommended Ratio

Control rooms: 60% absorptive, 40% diffusive on rear wall. Live rooms: 40/60 reversed. Tracking rooms benefit from more diffusion.

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