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Focus on Acoustics: Acoustically Integrated Architecture in the LEED Era, Part I

February 1, 2009   
The concept of Acoustically Integrated aRchitecture (AIR – a term coined by Thorburn Associates) is basic enough: AIR is a best practice in which the interface of disciplines (architecture, acoustics, AV engineering, lighting, interior design, etc.) creates spaces that foster
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Focus on Acoustics: The Cocktail Party Effect

December 1, 2008   
We’ve all been to parties – especially around this time of year as we celebrate the holidays – and noticed how noisy these events can become. As the wine runs low, the noise level often runs high, but what’s really
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Great Expectations

November 1, 2008   
Do you know what your client expects from a project? Currently, we’re experiencing life from the client side of the fence, and learning from the experience. Thorburn Associates is expanding its offices in North Carolina. We grew, we ran out
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Product Review: Netwell Noise Control

October 1, 2008   
Minneapolis-based Netwell has been serving the acoustics industry for more than 20 years with a wide range of noise control products. Netwell supplies more than 60 products to the acoustics market and prides itself on cost-effectiveness and small orders. Sound
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Focus on Acoustics: Sound Isolation between Workstations

October 1, 2008   
As with all matters acoustical, things seem to come in waves. The latest revolution of problems to solve: private offices along window walls in office buildings. People have been complaining they hear everything that is said on the other side
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Focus on Acoustics: Acoustically Integrated aRchitecture (AIR)

August 1, 2008   
For years, TA has worked to influence the building and construction trades by advocating for acoustically friendly design, and now we’ve given that practice a name: Acoustically Integrated aRchitecture (AIR). AIR is a holistic best practice which, recognizing that the
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Quiet Curtains: A Product with Potential

February 1, 2008   
Draperies and curtains have long been used as a cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, and adjustable means of acoustic treatment within a room. The thick, heavy fabric provides useful sound absorption and reverberation control, especially at middle and high frequencies. Quiet Curtains
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Focus on Acoustics: ClearSorber Lets the Light In

February 1, 2008   
As acoustical consultants, we incorporate a wide variety of finishes to the walls, floors, and ceiling of a space to meet the design criteria. But what about glazing? Windows, skylights, glass partitions and doors and decorative glazing are all part
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Product Review: LiveWires—Custom Fit In-Ear Monitors

December 1, 2007   
LiveWires, from Earpeace Technologies, is a truly unique holiday gift for the music lover in your life. Because Livewires are custom fit (an impression is made of your ear by an audiologist) these in-ear monitors are amazingly comfortable and produce
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To RT60, or Not to RT60

December 1, 2007   
It’s surprising how often we’re asked to design a space for a specific reverberation time (RT60), when in actuality it is a completely inappropriate criteria for the project. We understand that “reverberation” is just a really fun word to say,