Oct 4, 2007

Direct Sound and Indirect Sound

Sound can be classified by its acoustic behavior; for example, direct sound vs. indirect sound. Direct sound travels from the sound source to the listener in a straight line (the shortest path). Indirect sound is reflected by one or more surfaces before reaching the listener (a longer path). Since sound travels at a constant speed, it takes a longer time for the indirect sound to arrive, and it is said to be “delayed” relative to the direct sound. There are several kinds of indirect sound, depending on the “acoustic space” (room acoustics).

(from Audio System Guide for Houses oh Worship, Shure Educational Publication)