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If you work or have worked in an office environment, you probably know how bothersome external conversations can be. Sounds like human voices, music, and noise given out by machines can easily distract a person and lower his productivity. As a result, you are most likely to see exhausted employees and a cranky boss.

You can wear headphones to keep away unwanted noise, or you can avail of office sound masking in the office. Offices started using the concept five decades ago and today, improved sound masking technology is enjoyed by many offices. Office sound masking is based on a principle of physics wherein conversations and other noises are "masked" through the addition of a soft background noise. Sound masking systems, usually mounted on the ceilings, can be the solution you are looking for to introduce better privacy and higher productivity in the office.

With sound masking, you can be sure that private dealings remain confidential. It works by "filling in" the sound spectrum surrounding you with low-level noise. The human ear is actually quite good at picking up various sounds simultaneously. It detects language, music, alerting noises, and other "structured sounds. Likewise, it ignores what is described as unstructured sound. Sound masking works by allowing human voice and other noise just fade into the background.

The most effective type of sound masking used today is the direct-field system. Developed around 1998, this type of office sound masking is more economical and easy to install. It uses an ultra-wide-angle speaker that disperses sound at a 170-degree angle. The system is found to be simpler to install compared to older models as it gets rid of complex technological systems and a mix of sound absorbers, reflective materials, and speakers.

Install your office sound masking system where noise is heard and not the area where it comes from. Usually, sound masking is installed in the open office area. There are some cases though when you can have two separate sound masking zones in the office. You can do apply sound masking within offices like human resources where confidential transactions and conversations usually take place.

Remember that sound masking is not the same as sound cancellation. Noise cancellation systems are not yet manufactured on a commercial scale. Military-grade installations that can cancel out sounds are yet too expensive to be sold commercially.

More companies are having sound masking systems installed in their offices. Office sound masking can do wonders for the productivity and overall well-being of employees. Confidential transactions stay private and people enjoy more peace and quiet to be able to perform better at work.