Benjamin Wolf, INCE Bd. Cert. is a Senior Acoustical Consultant, in Portland, Oregon with a Master of Science in Architectural Acoustics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He specializes in analysis and recommendations for the spaces and structures needed to provide acoustically effective and comfortable environments. As part of his master’s thesis, he modeled accurate acoustical representations of several famous music performance venues allowing musicians to hear their performance simulated in those spaces, in real time, as if they were standing on stage. Ben serves in leadership as the Membership Secretary for the ASTM Committee E33 on Building and Environmental Acoustics. The committee currently has jurisdiction of 55 standards, published in the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. Ben is also the technical contact for the E336 standard (noise isolation testing). In his spare time, Ben plays bass trombone with a wide variety of local groups. He enjoys web design and recording live sound.
Resilient channel (RC) is a popular option in acoustic design and construction. While RC promises a huge positive effect on the acoustical performance of a wall, facade, or floor/ceiling, the reality can be disappointing, even failing to meet code.
Acoustical engineers discuss the basic principals of open office acoustics. How absorption, blocking, and covering affects cubicle farms and open offices.