[Rob S.]

Hi,
    I'm wanting to hear from those that have tried both diffusion and absorption at the 1st reflection points in my stereo room.  I have done, I think, an adequate job of bass trapping with 10 panels around the room in the recommended places, 4 ceiling tile bass traps, and lots of room perimeter fiberglass stuffing above the drop ceiling. Still need to do some upper corners, I'm sure.    And I'm putting a large diffusor on the back wall. 

What are the differences that you've found in side wall use of diffusors?

Thanks,

Rob S.

[Mariusz]

More focus, separation with absorbers. Narrower soundstage tho.
Very wide, spatial soundstage but less focus/image with diffiusion.  Sound beyond the side walls. A bit to busy, chaotic presentation for my taste.
When I cover diffusors with 1" Auralex absorbers it balanced things up quite nicely.
For me and my room it prove to be the best solution.
Front wall is mainly absorptive with bass traps (Phase4) and 80% covered with 0.25" cork tiles.
Back is also cork tiled but extensive shelving and books provide pleasant, natural diffusion.

Cheers
Mariusz

[Ethan Winer]

I'm with Marius. I've tried both (of course), and to me absorption was far, far better. I do like diffusion on the rear wall behind me.

--Ethan

[arthurs]

+ another...absorption/bass trapping on the front wall and first reflection points...my room took a very nice and very noticeable step forward when i added diffusion across the back wall....can't remember the name of the company that makes them but it's run by some crazy guy named Ethan...   

[Mariusz]

I might also add that my findings don't necessary apply to "your" room.
Room is simply an acoustic space - some are better , some are worst.
Approach should be an individual affair since no two rooms are alike.

My room is not your ordinary "listening room" by any means.
"L" shape, high (11 feet) ceiling, french and tarrace doors, large window and smallish in size is
not the easiest environment to work with.

I realize that optimal results can never be achieved but that is the hand I was dealt and trying to make it work is my biggest concern.

While looking at members' systems/rooms almost makes me cry from envy.
Room is a big part of the system......doesn't matter how you slice it.

Cheers
Mariusz

[bpape]

Personally, I prefer absorption on the side wall reflections.  I do though prefer diffusion on the ceiling reflection points.

Bryan

[Mariusz]

Personally, I prefer absorption on the side wall reflections.  I do though prefer diffusion on the ceiling reflection points.

Bryan

I agree with diffusion on the ceiling .......at least that is what works very well in my listening room. It might be even more beneficial in rooms with low ceilings. YMMV

Mariusz

[satfrat]

I dunno if it's because I have a small room but I personally like diffusion, diffusion, diffusion. I have Furutech "Room Tuning" diffusion panels on my 1st reflection side walls and ceiling and for my system, this increased my soundstage depth by lots. I'm sure if I had a larger room, I'd feel differently tho.

Cheers,
Robin

[mmakshak]

  I guess it would be called diffusion, but Acoustic Arts(Synergistics Research) uses a forged carbon-fiber bowl(or cup) that seemed to open things up nicely-even though one side had a big opening.