Cover photos (clockwise from top): © Emily O’Brien; © Halkin Mason Photography; © Emily O’Brien | This page: © Hotshot Photography3
We work with clients to create environments conducive to teaching, learning, working,
creating, performance, research, living, and enjoyment. Acentech’s multi-disciplinary
team brings extensive experience to critical areas of design - architectural acoustics, mechanical systems noise and vibration
control, environmental noise, product sound quality, audiovisual and multimedia systems, security systems, and wired and
wireless voice and data networking.
This page: © Peter Vanderwarker Opposite (clockwise from left): © Andy Caulfield; © Alan Karchmer; © Feinknopf; © CADOT
About Us
Acentech offers consulting in architectural acoustics, audiovisual design, environmental noise and vibration control, and security system and information technology design to clients across the US and beyond. As a pioneer in the fields of acoustics and audiovisual consulting, Acentech is one of the largest and longest standing consulting firms currently serving architectural, engineering, institutional, commercial, education, and cultural clients.
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Acentech’s work enables communication, enriches the beauty of the aural experience, and controls sound. Our designs connect people, enliven our sonic environment, and make the world a quieter place. We listen carefully to the needs of our clients and the future users of our project environments. Acentech provides consulting and design services collaboratively in order to develop functional and sustainable spaces and products that people love to use.
Our Mission
AcousticsAV/IT/SecurityVibration
This page: © Emily O’Brien | Opposite (clockwise from left): © Chuck Choi; © Bruce T. Martin; © Robert Benson Photography; © Howard Doughty
AcousticsGood acoustics is not an accident; it requires flexibility and creativity informed by broad expertise. Acentech couples the most diverse experience of any acoustical consulting firm with a thoughtful and nimble approach. We collaborate to ensure success on even the most complex projects, and we identify and address challenges with practical, cost effective, and aesthetically appropriate solutions.
Mechanical System Noise and Vibration
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Acoustics often determines whether or not a space is successful.
Sound Isolation
Room Acoustics
Control sound transmission between spaces and from the outside
• Partition Types
• Floor/Ceiling Assemblies
• Doors and Windows
Design how sound behaves within a space
• Room Sizing
• Room Shaping
• Finish Materials
Provide suitable background noise levels, inside and out
• Equipment Noise
• HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing Systems
• Community Noise
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Above (from left): © Anton Grassl/Esto; © Halkin Mason Photography; © Wenger Corp. Opposite: Acentech Auralization Image ;© Alan Karchmer
ACOUSTICS SERVICES
Mechanical System Noise Attenuation
Architecturally Sensitive Recommendations
Background Sound Level Criteria
Environmental Noise
Remote Sound Level Monitoring
Community Noise
Acoustical Finishes and Materials Recommendations
Needs Assessment and Programming
Quiet Mechanical System Design
Benchmarking
Existing Conditions Evaluation
Room Shape and Size
3-D Acoustics Modeling
Design and Specification of Variable Acoustics Systems
Interior and Envelope Sound Isolation
Sound Isolation – Acoustical Privacy
Auralization (Acoustics Simulation)
Sound Masking Specification
Orchestra Shell Design
Equipment-Specific Sound Isolation
An auralization is an immersive three-dimensional sound simulation that can demonstrate the effects of acoustical designs for a space that is yet to be built. Auralizations play an important role in the design process of many projects. It is a tool we use to help develop designs, shape a space, inform decisions, and give project owners and building users the opportunity to hear the effects of different design features and to choose the acoustical properties that fit their goals.
Music Facilities
Laboratories and Research Facilities
Theaters
Common Corridors
Atria
Campus Centers
Residential Halls
Houses of Worship
Convention Centers
Multi-Function Rooms
Performance Halls
Classrooms/Lecture Halls
Auralization Hear It Before It’s Built
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AV/IT/SecurityWith the dramatic increase in the demand for sophisticated and intuitive communication systems, Acentech is an ideal partner to aid in the conceptualization and design of technology-rich environments. Our consultants utilize current engineering and project management tools to effectively communicate with design teams and project stake holders. We partner with our clients to guide them through the project process, anticipate hurdles, and provide design solutions that will meet the needs of the user for the present and future.
This page: © Peter Aaron/OTTO for RAMSA | Opposite (clockwise from left): © Thomas Mayer; © Tom Crane; © Peter Vanderwarker, Courtesy ARC; © John Horner
Information Technology
SecurityAudiovisualExpert guidance for your security system
• Video Surveillance
• Access Control
• Command Centers
Identify and meet the technology project goals of today’s facilities with an eye towards the future
• WiFi Network Design and Predictive Modeling
• Telecommunications Structured Cabling Systems
• Campus Master Planning
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Technology and design is an evolving interaction.
Technology to support the space’s mission
• Distance Learning and Class Capture
• Unified Communications Conference and Collaboration
• Mass Notification Systems
AV/IT/SECURITY SERVICES
Above (from left): © EF | Education First; © Robert Benson Photography; © Warren Patterson Opposite: © Robyn Ivy; Acentech Predictive Modeling Image
Media Storage and Distribution
Digital Video and Film Production
Ultra High Resolution Display Solutions
Control Systems Design and Integration
Digital Signage
Video Broadcast Production
Speech and Music Reinforcement
Command and Control Centers
ADA-Compliant Assistive Listening Systems
On-Site Commissioning, Evaluation, and System Testing
BMS Integration
Access Control Systems
Video Surveillance Systems
Telecommunications Structured Cabling Systems
Large Distributed Sound Systems for Athletic Fields
Ultra High Resolution Display
Revit® Documentation
Production Communication Systems
Simultaneous Interpretation Systems
Artificial Reverberation and Acoustical Enhancement
When designing a sound reinforcement system for a given space, the main evaluation criteria are uniform coverage, dynamic range, and speech intelligibility throughout the listening area. While coverage and output are generally associated with loudspeaker selection and placement, speech intelligibility in a given space will also be determined by room size and materials. As an example, a larger space will typically have a relatively long reverberation time which can reduce intelligibility by masking the desired speech signal. To establish achievable design goals, a predictive model is created to determine acoustic finishes and loudspeaker location.
Lecture Halls
Classrooms
Convention Centers
Houses of Worship
Atria
Transportation Terminals
Performance Halls
Music Facilities
Theaters
Stadiums
Arenas
Multi-Function Rooms
Predictive Modeling See How Your Systems Will Perform
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VibrationIssues related to noise and vibration are often complex and unique, requiring a high level of expertise and experience to resolve. With world renowned leaders in the field, decades of diverse experience, and a cultural thirst for challenges, Acentech is uniquely positioned to ensure the success of projects ranging from the routine to the very complex. We pride ourselves in our ability to work with our clients to rapidly develop practical, cost-effective, and successful solutions.
This page: © Robyn Ivy | Opposite (clockwise from left): © Andrew McKaskle; © Shutterstock; © Robyn Ivy; © Acentech
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Vibration Evaluation
Includes noise and vibration inside or outside of industrial facilities, as well as energy and transportation-related noise
• Assessment and Prediction
• Mitigation Strategies
• Structureborne or Groundborne Noise and Vibration
Environmental Noise and Vibration
Appliances, consumer products, and medical devices
• Improve Sound Quality
• Noise Reduction
• Quiet Product Design
Product Sound
Noise and vibration issues are often complex and unique.
Innovative ResearchGovernment and commercial clients
• Research and Development
• Underwater Acoustics
Determine suitability for equipment or occupants
• Building and Structural Dynamics
• Long-Term Monitoring of Noise and Vibration
VIBRATION SERVICES
Above (from left): © Acentech; © Warren Jagger; © Robert Benson Photography Opposite (from left): © Shawmut Construction; © Wilson Architects
Vibration-Based Machinery Diagnostics and Signal Processing
Expert Witness Services
Vibration Mitigation Analysis and Design
Product Noise Analysis, Quiet Product Design, and Sound Quality Improvement
Sound and Vibration Propagation Modeling
Underwater Acoustics
Research and Development in Acoustics and Vibration
Environmental, Industrial and Transportation Noise Assessments and Control
Noise and Vibration Measurements and Surveys
Noise Mitigation Analysis and Design
Remote and On-Site Long-Term Monitoring of Vibration and Noise
Structural Dynamics
Building Vibration Control
Structureborne Sound Analysis
Noise and Vibration
Acentech’s remote monitoring systems provide administrators, managers, contractors and researchers with real-time notification and continuous access to critical vibration and noise information. Using an Internet connection, monitors can not only be viewed, controlled and data downloaded remotely, but can also send email and text alarm messages when pre-set limits are exceeded. These capabilities allow interested parties to anticipate problems, mitigate activities, schedule operations and document potential impacts and events.
Allows for Rapid Response to Noise/Vibration Issues
Real-Time Automatic Notification
Monitors Adherence to Criteria and Regulations Documentation
Allows Construction to Coexist with Noise/Vibration Sensitive Receivers
Live Data Feed
Anticipate Problems in Critical Situations
Assess Mitigating Actions and Planning
Benefits of Remote Monitoring
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Remote Monitoring of
Acentech’s Studio A creates world class acoustics and audiovisual systems for the performing arts. Performance spaces and performing arts education facilities demand specialized designs to ensure good function, both aesthetically and pedagogically. Studio A provides essential expertise in acoustics, audiovisual systems, and noise and vibration control to performing arts projects worldwide.
ACOUSTICS AUDIOVISUAL SYSTEMSPerformance and Rehearsal Spaces
Room Shape, Size, and Finish Recommendations
Needs Assessment and Programming
Auralization and Acoustical Modeling
Sound Isolation
Quiet Mechanical System Design
Sound Reinforcement, Recording, and Playback
Video Projection and Recording
Assistive Listening and Display Systems
Production Intercom and Backstage Monitoring
Broadcast Monitoring
Indoor and Outdoor Displays
Design of Wiring and IT Infrastructure
Digital Cinema
COMMUNITY NOISE & VIBRATIONVibration Assessment and Mitigation
Base-Building Vibration Isolation
Remote Sound Monitoring
ACOUSTICS VIBRATION
acentech.com
AV/IT/SECURITY
Opposite (from left): © Chuck Choi; © Acentech; © Acentech; © Peter Vanderwarker; © Chuck Choi Above (from left): © Acentech/Jeff Fullerton; © Anton Grassl/Esto; © Robyn Ivy
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Boston / HQ33 Moulton StreetCambridge, MA 02138617 499 [email protected]
Los Angeles601 South Figueroa StreetSuite 4050Los Angeles, CA 90017213 330 4237
acentech.com
Philadelphia8 Interplex DriveSuite 218Trevose, PA 19053215 245 8244