Soft dB - Sound Masking Systems
Silence in an Open-Plan Office Is a Problem
In modern office spaces, background noise levels are generally low. Windows are sealed and often never opened, air-conditioning systems run ever more quietly, and computers are virtually silent. At first glance, such silence is a great environment to work in. However, studies of employee satisfaction and productivity in open-plan offices show otherwise - in such silence, every little sound is audible: every keyboard click and every word of a telephone conversation.
Background music may seem like a solution, but in large offices it is hard to agree on the type of music, which irritates at least some employees. Years of research into employee productivity and satisfaction, on the other hand, show significant improvements when sound masking systems are used.
How a Sound Masking System Works
A sound masking system restores the level of background noise to which we are naturally accustomed by emitting precisely matched noise through a network of sound masking speakers. The signal level is at the limit of audibility and effectively masks quiet but annoying background sounds.
A good system allows the noise characteristics to be freely shaped. The best one additionally responds to ongoing changes in noise levels, is scalable, easy to manage and integrates with building automation systems. This is exactly what Soft dB sound masking systems are like.
The real challenge in any office sound masking project is to generate a masking sound that is perfectly suited to the specific conditions. The size of the room, type of ceiling, wall materials and furniture all have a direct impact on sound dispersion. If the sound masking system is not accurately calibrated to the acoustic parameters of the room, it will be ineffective at best and annoying at worst.
Soft dB - Automatic Calibration and Level Control
The Soft dB sound masking system is unique in that it adapts itself to the characteristics of each working environment. Its patented calibration process (US7460675 B2) uses ceiling sensors to measure the acoustic response of the room and background noise levels. Based on this data, the system automatically shapes the ideal frequency spectrum to generate the perfect background.
The patented volume control system (US 8116461 B2) detects changes in ambient noise levels in real time via acoustic sensors installed in the office ceiling. Advanced signal processing, integrated in all sound masking controllers, automatically adjusts the masking level to the acoustic conditions in the office throughout the day. For smaller spaces, CMS-II compact systems are also available.
Who Uses Soft dB Systems
Soft dB sound masking systems are used worldwide, with the most recognisable customers being Google, Fujitsu, National Bank of Canada, Ubisoft, Cargill, Ernst&Young, Microsoft, PepsiCo, IBM, Cisco Systems, T-Mobile, 3M and Nestle.
Design, On-Site Testing and ROI Calculator
You are welcome to contact us - we will be happy to provide technical details, advise and design a system for a specific location. It is also possible to test the system at the customer's location.
We also encourage you to use our ROI calculator, which calculates the return on investment of a sound masking system.
