RealTraps Debuts New Line of Bass Traps
 October 2, 2002
RealTraps has introduced a line of
acoustic treatment based on wood panel membrane absorbers. The
centerpiece is a pair of broadband bass traps that greatly reduce low
frequency standing waves. They also feature angled front panels that serve
as diffusers to minimize flutter echoes and ringing. The bass traps are
complemented by absorbers based on rigid fiberglass that tame midrange and
high frequencies.
All traps are offered in two different heights. Models LB7 and HB7 are two
feet wide by 7-1/2 feet high, and together absorb the entire bass range
starting below 20 Hz. Models LB6 and HB6 are six feet high and operate down
to 24 Hz. RealTraps are highly efficient yet less than six inches deep.
They're also portable - the same traps can be moved easily between rooms if
needed, or rearranged within a room to vary the sound.
According to RealTraps co-owner Ethan Winer, "We see a real need for proper
acoustic treatment. Large recording studios have the resources to hire
acoustic consultants and carpenters to design and build custom bass traps
for them. Others cover their walls with foam rubber believing that's good
enough. But foam has very little effect at low frequencies, and you don't
want your rooms to be totally dead anyway. Now, with RealTraps, world-class
acoustic treatment is available off the shelf for a reasonable price." Winer
continued, "Bass traps may not seem as sexy as a new tube preamp or digital
effects box, but adding proper acoustic treatment to a recording or
listening room will probably do more to improve audio quality than anything
else you can buy. Video editing suites, home theaters, churches, and
auditoriums will also benefit greatly from RealTraps."
RealTraps pricing starts at under $3,000 per room. Complete information
is available on the company's web site, including a
detailed explanation of room acoustics and the issues involved in treating
common problems.
RealTraps is owned by Ethan Winer and Doug Ferrara. Ethan is known
throughout the industry for his many technical articles in audio and
computer magazines, and he has engineered and produced several classical
music CDs including a recording of his own cello concerto. Doug is a
professional musician and has produced many CDs for area artists. He has
owned a recording studio for more than twenty years and holds an advanced
degree in engineering from Rensselaer Polytech.
For more information, visit their web site at www.realtraps.com. | 
