Frequency Response

A measurement of how a system or room responds across the audible frequency spectrum.

Frequency response describes how a system (speaker, microphone, room, or any audio device) treats different frequencies. It's typically displayed as a graph showing level (dB) versus frequency (Hz), ideally spanning 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

A "flat" frequency response means all frequencies are reproduced at equal levels, the ideal for monitoring equipment. Deviations appear as peaks (frequencies emphasized) or dips (frequencies attenuated).

In room acoustics, frequency response is affected by: • Room modes (causing peaks and dips at low frequencies) • Boundary interference from nearby surfaces • Speaker/listener positioning • Acoustic treatment (absorption and diffusion)

Frequency response is measured using test signals (pink noise, sine sweeps) and analysis software. Room frequency response varies significantly with position. The response at one seat may differ dramatically from another just a few feet away.

Target curves for room frequency response often include a gentle high-frequency rolloff and slight bass boost to sound natural.

Practical Example

Measuring control room response

Pink noise + measurement mic → analysis software shows ±3 dB 50 Hz-16 kHz

±3 dB is excellent for a treated room. Peaks/dips greater than 6 dB indicate problems needing treatment.

Standards: IEC 60268-5

Related Terms

Room Modes · SPL · RT60

术语表 · 扩散器设计器

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