Room diffusion is not required for perceived spaciousness

Evidence

Diffusion can be improved by using sound scattering or dispersing objects, irregular, curved and angled surfaces, and specially designed devices, called diffusers. Perceptually, the relatively diffuse sound field in a concert hall sounds spacious and enveloping. However, a diffuse sound field is not a requirement for the perception of spaciousness and envelopment. Section 7.2 explains that much simpler sound fields created in multichannel sound reproduction can deliver sounds to the ears that are perceived to have those spatial qualities. In that situation, the listening space becomes a secondary factor. — Toole, Floyd E, Sound reproduction- the acoustics and…, 1255

Categorization

• XREF: Connects to multichannel spatial audio design where the program signal, not the room, creates envelopment.