Reverb Time Calculator
Calculate room reverb time (RT60) using the Sabine equation.
Optimize room acoustics for music, podcasts, and studios.
Reverb Time (RT60)
RT60 is the time it takes for sound to decay by 60 dB (become inaudible). It is the standard measure of room reverb.
Sabine Equation:
RT60 = 0.161 × V / A
Where:
- V = Room volume in cubic meters
- A = Total absorption in sabins (sq meters)
- 0.161 = constant (for metric units)
In imperial units:
RT60 = 0.049 × V / A
Where V is in cubic feet and A is in sabins (sq ft).
Ideal RT60 by room purpose:
- Recording studio: 0.3–0.5 seconds
- Podcast/voiceover: 0.2–0.4 seconds
- Home theater: 0.4–0.6 seconds
- Concert hall: 1.5–2.5 seconds
- Church/cathedral: 2.0–5.0+ seconds
- Classroom: 0.5–0.7 seconds
Common absorption coefficients:
- Concrete/glass: 0.02–0.05 (very reflective)
- Drywall: 0.05–0.10
- Carpet: 0.20–0.50
- Acoustic panels: 0.60–0.90
- Heavy curtains: 0.40–0.60