How does diffusion work?

Diffusers break up the sound pressure waves and scatter their energy. This is done by reflecting part of each wave earlier or later than other adjacent parts, causing them to be scattered out of phase with the source waves and other reflected waves.

Why do people use absorption?

In studio design, diffusion and absorption is employed together whereby absorption tightens up the room while diffusion creates a sense of more air. Absorption tends to be the 1st treatment as it is usually more affordable.

What is live end dead end?

LEDE (live-end, dead-end) is a popular design concept that usually employs absorption at the transmit end of the room and diffusion at the receive end of the room. This give the room a live end (receive) and dead end (transmit) in which more definition in the monitors is achieved in conjunction with a more diffuse field.

I thought RPG had a patent on diffusion?

No. Dr. Peter D'Antonio is without a doubt a leader in the area of diffusion and should be credited with popularizing the concept. Diffusion sequences and calculations such as the Quadratic diffusion we employ with the Razorblade follow developments from physicists such as Schroeder who paved the way for RPD and Primacoustic.

I have seen plastic diffusers.Do they work?

Yes, but only at much higher frequencies. Unless the diffuser is heavy (lots of mass), bass frequencies and lower-midrange will travel right through these lighter materials. This is why we use multiple layers of sheetrock to build studio walls. In fact, diffusers work in reverse to speakers. This is why speakers are made with heavy, rigid materials. This ensures the maximum energy is transferred from the driver into the air. If the speaker cabinet were to vibrate, much of the energy would be lost due to the vibrations. A diffuser works exactly the same way by reflecting the energy back into the room albeit by disrupting the phase relationship of the sound waves. If the diffuser vibrates, the energy is no longer reflecting back, but is being transformed into vibration and or heat. Bottom line: For best results, the diffuser must be extremely rigid and heavy.

What is the difference between single dimensional and multi-dimensional diffusers?

The Razorblade is a single dimensional diffuser that scatters energy horizontally across the stereo field when mounted with the wells in a vertical position, scatters energy horizontally across the stereo field. You may also mount these horizontally for vertical diffusion. Diffusers that look like checkerboards with different depths provide horizontal and vertical diffusion simultaneously, while three-dimensional diffusers combine wells and peaks with angles. Quadratic diffusers like the Razorblade tend to be the most popular due to their ability to diffuse a broad frequency range across the stereo spectrum and because they tend to provide greater value for the money.

Can the Razorblade be painted?

Yes. The Razorblade is currently available in a black lacquer finish. We do not recommend painting inside the wells unless you have access to a fine airless spray system. A typical roller across the front, sides, top and bottom is all that is needed. Please consult your local paint store before selecting your paint. Painting will not affect the Razorblade's performance.

How is the Razorblade shipped?

Razorblade comes shipped in a heavy cardboard box with protective ends and is poly-bagged to keep out moisture during transit. Usually, one will employ several Razorblades for a typical studio. As such, we normally ship these on a pallet as this provides maximum protection against freight damage.

Can I mess up the sound of my room if I do not install these properly?

No, this very unlikely. Razorblades are easy to install and will benefit any room. You will however notice a change to your room once installed akin to bringing in a new set of monitors. This means that it will take you a few mixes to get used to your new surroundings. You will however enjoy a greater sense of depth of field, less listening fatigue, and more natural sounding mixes.

Will using Razorblades help the sound in a church or a venue?

Yes. Many audio engineers have finally figured out that installing a new PA system in a church or hall will not solve problems such as standing waves or primary reflections. The only solution is to fix the room. Diffusion is becoming popular because it will not reduce the natural decay (reverberant field) of the room, which can make a performance listless.

Where can I buy Razorblade?

Razorblade is available from (Primacoustic) dealers throughout Canada and the USA and through (Primacoustic) distributors worldwide. Most major studio supply stores are authorized to sell Primacoustic products. For a dealer near you, please send us an email or call our order desk.