Auralization as a tool for acoustical design of single family residences

Acoustical requirements play an increasing role in residential building design. In an effort to understand these changes USG Corp., a manufacturer of building materials and developer of acoustical solutions for residential and commercial markets, engaged Acentech Inc. to develop aural demonstrations, or auralizations, of common acoustical issues in single family residences. Using computer modeling and audio processing techniques, a number of convincingly realistic simulations of familiar residential scenarios were developed. These auralizations allowed USG to better understand acoustical issues and recommend appropriate products and systems. This paper shares the experience of this project.