3
Diffuse Sound
In a movie theater, a diffuse surround sound
field is created by using an array of surround
speakers around the sides and rear of the
theater. Since this is not practical in the home,
a diffuse-field speaker achieves the same effect
with a single pair of speakers.
When a conventional direct-radiating speaker
is used for surround, sound is aimed directly at
the listener. Because the listener can localize
the sound, the surround effect is dramatically
reduced (above right).
The VRS Micro contains two drivers, operating
with opposite polarities—one speaker pushes
out and the other pulls in. This directs most of
the sound sideways (right). The VRS Micro gen-
erates a “figure 8” pattern above 350Hz along
the walls of the room. The sound is then reflect-
ed from the end walls, ceiling and floor before
returning to the listener as diffuse sound, which
comes from all around the listener.
