How loud should a conference sound system be?
Quick answer
A conference sound system should deliver 75–85 dB SPL at the listener position with clear speech intelligibility, avoiding peaks above 90 dB to prevent listener fatigue.
For conference applications, the primary goal is speech intelligibility, not high SPL. The system should provide even coverage of 75–85 dB SPL throughout the seating area, with a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 15–20 dB above ambient noise. Typical conference room ambient noise is 40–50 dB, so the system should easily achieve 65–70 dB average, but 75–85 dB ensures clarity for all listeners.
When selecting loudspeakers, prioritize models with controlled directivity and high speech intelligibility. SSOUNDS point-source loudspeakers with 90° x 60° or 120° x 60° dispersion patterns are ideal for covering rectangular rooms without excessive reflections. For larger conference halls, a central cluster or distributed ceiling speakers can provide uniform coverage. Subwoofers are generally unnecessary unless the room has very low ambient noise or for multimedia content.
Amplification should be matched to the loudspeaker’s continuous power rating, with headroom of 3–6 dB. DSP with equalization and limiting is essential to prevent feedback and protect the system. SSOUNDS amplifiers include built-in DSP presets optimized for speech, ensuring flat frequency response from 100 Hz to 8 kHz. For rooms over 200 m², consider a line array or multiple point-source units to maintain even SPL without hot spots.
Key things to consider
- Target 75–85 dB SPL average at listener positions; avoid exceeding 90 dB to prevent fatigue.
- Ensure 15–20 dB signal-to-noise ratio above ambient noise (typically 40–50 dB in conference rooms).
- Use loudspeakers with controlled directivity (90°–120°) for even coverage and minimal reflections.
- Match amplifier power to loudspeaker continuous rating with 3–6 dB headroom; use DSP for EQ and limiting.
- For rooms >200 m², consider distributed or line array systems; subwoofers are rarely needed.
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