What it means
Small emitters are installed above the ceiling and tuned to produce a steady sound that blends into the background. The sound is set to levels and frequencies that cover speech without being annoying. It is not music.
Sound masking works with good acoustic design, which includes walls that reach the structure above, sealed penetrations, absorbent finishes and suitable layouts.
Why it matters
In open offices and in rooms with thin or ceiling-high walls, conversations carry. That affects concentration and privacy, and in some settings, such as medical, legal and financial offices, privacy is important to clients as well.
Masking is often cheaper than extensive construction changes, but it works best when planned at the start of a project.
How HSM handles it
Adam Mason's low voltage team installs and tunes sound masking systems for HSM. Our interior systems team builds the walls and ceilings that support good acoustics, and our electricians provide the power. Because these crews are all ours, the design considers walls, ceilings and masking together.
After installation, the system is tuned zone by zone and checked with you. We can adjust it later if the layout changes.
What to plan for
Tell us which rooms need privacy, such as boardrooms, counselling rooms or exam rooms. We can then recommend where masking, extra insulation or both is worthwhile.
Visit a space with masking installed before you decide. Hearing it in person is the best way to judge whether it suits your team.