Acoustic effects of elevated platforms for standing audiences in an indoor music venue

The live music industry has grown significantly over the last decade, making live music not only an important component of the cultural scene but also a major economic engine. There is little research or guidance regarding acoustic design for amplified music venues, especially for improvements in the design of the indoor standing audience area. This investigation aimed to determine the acoustic effects and potential benefits to the audience, of elevated platforms in an indoor music venue. Objective parameters such as reverberation (T30), Early Decay Time (EDT), Clarity (C80), Definition (D50), and Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) were analysed through computer simulations for twelve platform arrangements of different platform heights and audience densities. Results from all possible combinations were compared and evaluated for improved acoustical and sound quality. It was shown that the use of elevated platforms reduced reverberation time parameters and increased C80 and D50. These changes in acoustic parameters appeared also to be dependent on audience density. It is expected that the novel information and guidance provided by this research will assist acoustic designers, sound engineers, and other relevant decision-makers to improve the audio-visual experience of standing audiences.