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Frequently asked questions
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AVAA - General
We recommend a minimum of 2 units to keep symmetry in a room.
The number of units is dependent on the number of locations that need to be treated more than the size of the room.
In practice, the first two units are placed where they are most useful to the listening position, so they will have the greatest impact. Adding other units in different places further reduces the room modes.
5
2
The AVAA C214 and AVAA C20 are very comparable in terms of performance.
The main difference lies in the design and size, which make the AVAA C214 easier to integrate into a room.
What’s more, the AVAA C214 can be individually controlled via a smartphone app to turn it on and off and to adjust the gain.
Gain can be reduced on both models if the device shows signs of instability in its environment (where it is positioned).
On the AVAA C214, it is also possible to increase the gain and make it more efficient.
20
3
The AVAAs are pressure-based absorbers and will therefore be most effective in location where the pressure build-up is greatest. As it is almost impossible to model the acoustic behaviour in a room, the following rules offer a rapid way of find the best positions:
- In the corners.
Corners will generally be most the most effective location as they combine pressure build-up from with lengthwise, width wise and vertical room modes. - Against the most rigid wall.
By definition, flexible walls will move and let sound through. Rigid walls will move less and have greater pressure build-up. - Closest to the source of sound.
If all corners are identical, we have generally observed greater efficiency in corners closest to the source of sound, such as behind the loudspeakers.
And of course, the best result in the listening position is easily achieved after a couple of trials with AVAAs in different positions.
Refer to the user manual for further details.
2
0
A passive bass trap absorbs low-frequency energy using physical materials such as mineral wool, fiberglass, foam, or membrane absorbers.
An AVAA (Active Velocity Acoustic Absorber) uses a microphone, electronics, and a loudspeaker to actively absorb bass energy. Instead of relying on large amounts of material, it creates a low-acoustic-impedance boundary that “pulls” low-frequency energy out of the room.
Which one is more effective?
The answer depends on the frequency range and available space.
Passive bass traps
Advantages:
- No power required
- Maintenance-free
- Broadband absorption
- Effective at mid and high frequencies when designed appropriately
Limitations:
- Require substantial volume to affect deep bass
- Very large traps are needed below about 80 Hz
- Often impractical in small rooms
A passive trap that is effective at 30–50 Hz may need to be extremely thick or occupy a significant room corner.
AVAA
Advantages:
- Highly effective at very low frequencies
- Requires much less physical space
- Can be installed without major room modifications
- Particularly useful in existing studios, living rooms, and rental spaces
Limitations:
- Requires power
- Does not replace all acoustic treatment
- Works best as part of a complete acoustic strategy
Can an AVAA replace passive bass traps?
Not entirely.
AVAA primarily targets low-frequency room modes. Passive treatment still provides benefits at mid and high frequencies and can help control early reflections and reverberation.
In many professional rooms, the best results come from combining:
- Broadband absorbers
- Diffusion
- Bass trapping
- AVAA units
Each addresses different acoustic problems.
Why do AVAAs seem so much smaller than bass traps?
The effectiveness of passive bass trapping is strongly related to volume.
To absorb very low frequencies passively, a large amount of material is required because bass wavelengths are extremely long.
For example:
- 50 Hz wavelength ≈ 6.9 m
- 30 Hz wavelength ≈ 11.4 m
AVAA uses active electronics to create absorption behavior that would otherwise require much larger physical structures.
This is why an AVAA can influence frequencies that would normally require very large passive treatments.
Which solution should I choose?
Choose passive bass traps if:
- You are building a room from scratch
- Space is available
- You want a fully passive solution
- You are already installing extensive acoustic treatment
Choose AVAA if:
- Space is limited
- The room is already finished
- You need better low-frequency control without major construction
- You want to reduce modal ringing below roughly 150 Hz
Choose both if:
- Maximum monitoring accuracy is the goal
- You are building a professional mixing, mastering, or immersive audio room
In many high-performance rooms, AVAA is not viewed as an alternative to treatment but as an additional tool that addresses low-frequency problems that passive solutions alone may struggle to solve economically or practically.
1
0
When the AVAAs are positioned in a high pressure area of a room mode, the room mode resonance time (RT60) is typically reduced by 30% to 50%.
The result is less low frequency ringing, clearer mids and highs with reduced masking effect and better imaging.
1
0
AVAA C20
Yes PSI Audio products will work in all countries.
It is important however that the voltage is set to match the voltage of the mains (i.e. 230 V or 115 V). This is normally done by the importer who will make sure the products are set up for the local network.
The procedure is explained in our manual:
“Check that the voltage value on the AC power selector is set correctly (according to your local AC power supply). If this is not the case, it will be necessary to adjust the main power supply with the following procedure. Carefully squeeze the two latches on either side of the fuse plug and pull the fuse holder out of its socket. Now replace the fuse for the different voltage setting with the correct value fuse according to the required voltage. The correct value of the fuse is printed next to the OnOff switch of your loudspeaker. Pull out the grey plastic cap which holds the fuse and turn it 180° so it shows the correct voltage setting through the outer window when placed back in its position. Now you can carefully push the complete fuse holder back into its place above the mains connector”
2
0
We recommend a minimum of 2 units to keep symmetry in a room.
The number of units is dependent on the number of locations that need to be treated more than the size of the room.
In practice, the first two units are placed where they are most useful to the listening position, so they will have the greatest impact. Adding other units in different places further reduces the room modes.
5
2
The AVAA C214 and AVAA C20 are very comparable in terms of performance.
The main difference lies in the design and size, which make the AVAA C214 easier to integrate into a room.
What’s more, the AVAA C214 can be individually controlled via a smartphone app to turn it on and off and to adjust the gain.
Gain can be reduced on both models if the device shows signs of instability in its environment (where it is positioned).
On the AVAA C214, it is also possible to increase the gain and make it more efficient.
20
3
The AVAAs are pressure-based absorbers and will therefore be most effective in location where the pressure build-up is greatest. As it is almost impossible to model the acoustic behaviour in a room, the following rules offer a rapid way of find the best positions:
- In the corners.
Corners will generally be most the most effective location as they combine pressure build-up from with lengthwise, width wise and vertical room modes. - Against the most rigid wall.
By definition, flexible walls will move and let sound through. Rigid walls will move less and have greater pressure build-up. - Closest to the source of sound.
If all corners are identical, we have generally observed greater efficiency in corners closest to the source of sound, such as behind the loudspeakers.
And of course, the best result in the listening position is easily achieved after a couple of trials with AVAAs in different positions.
Refer to the user manual for further details.
2
0
A passive bass trap absorbs low-frequency energy using physical materials such as mineral wool, fiberglass, foam, or membrane absorbers.
An AVAA (Active Velocity Acoustic Absorber) uses a microphone, electronics, and a loudspeaker to actively absorb bass energy. Instead of relying on large amounts of material, it creates a low-acoustic-impedance boundary that “pulls” low-frequency energy out of the room.
Which one is more effective?
The answer depends on the frequency range and available space.
Passive bass traps
Advantages:
- No power required
- Maintenance-free
- Broadband absorption
- Effective at mid and high frequencies when designed appropriately
Limitations:
- Require substantial volume to affect deep bass
- Very large traps are needed below about 80 Hz
- Often impractical in small rooms
A passive trap that is effective at 30–50 Hz may need to be extremely thick or occupy a significant room corner.
AVAA
Advantages:
- Highly effective at very low frequencies
- Requires much less physical space
- Can be installed without major room modifications
- Particularly useful in existing studios, living rooms, and rental spaces
Limitations:
- Requires power
- Does not replace all acoustic treatment
- Works best as part of a complete acoustic strategy
Can an AVAA replace passive bass traps?
Not entirely.
AVAA primarily targets low-frequency room modes. Passive treatment still provides benefits at mid and high frequencies and can help control early reflections and reverberation.
In many professional rooms, the best results come from combining:
- Broadband absorbers
- Diffusion
- Bass trapping
- AVAA units
Each addresses different acoustic problems.
Why do AVAAs seem so much smaller than bass traps?
The effectiveness of passive bass trapping is strongly related to volume.
To absorb very low frequencies passively, a large amount of material is required because bass wavelengths are extremely long.
For example:
- 50 Hz wavelength ≈ 6.9 m
- 30 Hz wavelength ≈ 11.4 m
AVAA uses active electronics to create absorption behavior that would otherwise require much larger physical structures.
This is why an AVAA can influence frequencies that would normally require very large passive treatments.
Which solution should I choose?
Choose passive bass traps if:
- You are building a room from scratch
- Space is available
- You want a fully passive solution
- You are already installing extensive acoustic treatment
Choose AVAA if:
- Space is limited
- The room is already finished
- You need better low-frequency control without major construction
- You want to reduce modal ringing below roughly 150 Hz
Choose both if:
- Maximum monitoring accuracy is the goal
- You are building a professional mixing, mastering, or immersive audio room
In many high-performance rooms, AVAA is not viewed as an alternative to treatment but as an additional tool that addresses low-frequency problems that passive solutions alone may struggle to solve economically or practically.
1
0
When the AVAAs are positioned in a high pressure area of a room mode, the room mode resonance time (RT60) is typically reduced by 30% to 50%.
The result is less low frequency ringing, clearer mids and highs with reduced masking effect and better imaging.
1
0
AVAA C214
We recommend a minimum of 2 units to keep symmetry in a room.
The number of units is dependent on the number of locations that need to be treated more than the size of the room.
In practice, the first two units are placed where they are most useful to the listening position, so they will have the greatest impact. Adding other units in different places further reduces the room modes.
5
2
The AVAA C214 and AVAA C20 are very comparable in terms of performance.
The main difference lies in the design and size, which make the AVAA C214 easier to integrate into a room.
What’s more, the AVAA C214 can be individually controlled via a smartphone app to turn it on and off and to adjust the gain.
Gain can be reduced on both models if the device shows signs of instability in its environment (where it is positioned).
On the AVAA C214, it is also possible to increase the gain and make it more efficient.
20
3
The AVAAs are pressure-based absorbers and will therefore be most effective in location where the pressure build-up is greatest. As it is almost impossible to model the acoustic behaviour in a room, the following rules offer a rapid way of find the best positions:
- In the corners.
Corners will generally be most the most effective location as they combine pressure build-up from with lengthwise, width wise and vertical room modes. - Against the most rigid wall.
By definition, flexible walls will move and let sound through. Rigid walls will move less and have greater pressure build-up. - Closest to the source of sound.
If all corners are identical, we have generally observed greater efficiency in corners closest to the source of sound, such as behind the loudspeakers.
And of course, the best result in the listening position is easily achieved after a couple of trials with AVAAs in different positions.
Refer to the user manual for further details.
2
0
A passive bass trap absorbs low-frequency energy using physical materials such as mineral wool, fiberglass, foam, or membrane absorbers.
An AVAA (Active Velocity Acoustic Absorber) uses a microphone, electronics, and a loudspeaker to actively absorb bass energy. Instead of relying on large amounts of material, it creates a low-acoustic-impedance boundary that “pulls” low-frequency energy out of the room.
Which one is more effective?
The answer depends on the frequency range and available space.
Passive bass traps
Advantages:
- No power required
- Maintenance-free
- Broadband absorption
- Effective at mid and high frequencies when designed appropriately
Limitations:
- Require substantial volume to affect deep bass
- Very large traps are needed below about 80 Hz
- Often impractical in small rooms
A passive trap that is effective at 30–50 Hz may need to be extremely thick or occupy a significant room corner.
AVAA
Advantages:
- Highly effective at very low frequencies
- Requires much less physical space
- Can be installed without major room modifications
- Particularly useful in existing studios, living rooms, and rental spaces
Limitations:
- Requires power
- Does not replace all acoustic treatment
- Works best as part of a complete acoustic strategy
Can an AVAA replace passive bass traps?
Not entirely.
AVAA primarily targets low-frequency room modes. Passive treatment still provides benefits at mid and high frequencies and can help control early reflections and reverberation.
In many professional rooms, the best results come from combining:
- Broadband absorbers
- Diffusion
- Bass trapping
- AVAA units
Each addresses different acoustic problems.
Why do AVAAs seem so much smaller than bass traps?
The effectiveness of passive bass trapping is strongly related to volume.
To absorb very low frequencies passively, a large amount of material is required because bass wavelengths are extremely long.
For example:
- 50 Hz wavelength ≈ 6.9 m
- 30 Hz wavelength ≈ 11.4 m
AVAA uses active electronics to create absorption behavior that would otherwise require much larger physical structures.
This is why an AVAA can influence frequencies that would normally require very large passive treatments.
Which solution should I choose?
Choose passive bass traps if:
- You are building a room from scratch
- Space is available
- You want a fully passive solution
- You are already installing extensive acoustic treatment
Choose AVAA if:
- Space is limited
- The room is already finished
- You need better low-frequency control without major construction
- You want to reduce modal ringing below roughly 150 Hz
Choose both if:
- Maximum monitoring accuracy is the goal
- You are building a professional mixing, mastering, or immersive audio room
In many high-performance rooms, AVAA is not viewed as an alternative to treatment but as an additional tool that addresses low-frequency problems that passive solutions alone may struggle to solve economically or practically.
1
0
When the AVAAs are positioned in a high pressure area of a room mode, the room mode resonance time (RT60) is typically reduced by 30% to 50%.
The result is less low frequency ringing, clearer mids and highs with reduced masking effect and better imaging.
1
0
Studio monitors
Yes PSI Audio products will work in all countries.
It is important however that the voltage is set to match the voltage of the mains (i.e. 230 V or 115 V). This is normally done by the importer who will make sure the products are set up for the local network.
The procedure is explained in our manual:
“Check that the voltage value on the AC power selector is set correctly (according to your local AC power supply). If this is not the case, it will be necessary to adjust the main power supply with the following procedure. Carefully squeeze the two latches on either side of the fuse plug and pull the fuse holder out of its socket. Now replace the fuse for the different voltage setting with the correct value fuse according to the required voltage. The correct value of the fuse is printed next to the OnOff switch of your loudspeaker. Pull out the grey plastic cap which holds the fuse and turn it 180° so it shows the correct voltage setting through the outer window when placed back in its position. Now you can carefully push the complete fuse holder back into its place above the mains connector”
2
0
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