Critical Distance

Denoted as dc. The distance from a directional sound source at which the sound pressure level of the direct sound exactly equals that of the reverberant sound. Dc is dependent on the geometry and absorption characteristics of the space in which the sound waves propagate such that a highly reverberant space has a relatively short dc, whereas a dry-sounding room has a long dc. Critical distance is important in determining where to locate microphones to achieve a desired perspective.