Using Pink Noise and an RTA Microphone for Room Acoustic Analysis

Acoustic analysis is crucial for determining the optimal sound experience in a room, whether you're setting up a home theater, recording studio, or live venue. One of the most effective methods for analyzing a room's acoustic features is to use pink noise and a Real Time Analyzer (RTA) microphone. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of how to pink noise a room with an RTA mic.

What is Pink Noise and an RTA Microphone??

Pink noise is a type of audio signal that has equal energy per octave, which means it contains all frequencies in a balanced manner. This makes it an ideal sound source for analyzing room acoustics, as it provides a consistent and complete frequency range to measure across all possible frequencies.

An RTA microphone is a specially designed microphone that is ultra-linear in its frequency response characteristics, meaning it does not alter the sound it captures. This allows for accurate analysis of the audio spectrum.

Step 1: Set Up Your Equipment

To get started, you'll need a sound system capable of generating pink noise and an RTA microphone connected to either an audio interface or a dedicated analyzer. You can use software like Room EQ Wizard for generating pink noise and displaying the resulting frequency response on a computer.

Position your microphone at the listening position seated at ear level. Try to avoid any obstacles or direct contact with surfaces to minimize interference.

Step 2: Generate and Record Pink Noise

Once your equipment is set up, start playing the pink noise through your sound system at a comfortable volume. The goal is to have the room filled with this noise, allowing you to analyze the effect it has on the room's acoustic response.

Using your RTA microphone, record the pink noise in the room for a few minutes. Your audio analyzer software should display a real-time visualization of the room's frequency response as the microphone captures the sound.

Step 3: Analyze Data and Make Adjustments

Identify any peaks or dips in the frequency response, indicating potential problems with the room's acoustic properties. If the problem areas are within the low-frequency range, consider adding bass traps or adjusting the position of your subwoofers. For issues in the mid or high-frequency range, look into adding more absorption or diffusion panels.

Repeat the process of generating pink noise and recording with your RTA mic to confirm that your adjustments have improved the room's response. Aim for a relatively flat response, indicating a well-balanced sound environment.

Keep in mind that while pink noise and an RTA microphone can provide essential data on a room's acoustic properties, other factors like speaker placement, furniture arrangement, and personal preference also play a role in the perfect sound experience. By experimenting within these parameters and utilizing the analytical power of pink noise, you'll be able to dial in that perfect audio environment.