Knowledge Centre · Event Noise
Why can I hear concerts from so far away?
Large outdoor events can often be heard many kilometres from the venue, particularly when low-frequency sound is involved.
Read time
1 minute
Relevant to
Residents, event organisers and councils near event venues
It travels further than you might expect
Large outdoor events can often be heard many kilometres from the venue, particularly when low-frequency sound is involved.
Low-frequency sound:
- Travels much further than higher-frequency sound
- Bends around buildings and terrain more easily
- Is less affected by atmospheric absorption
Weather conditions such as temperature inversions and favourable winds can also contribute to sound travelling unexpectedly long distances.
Understanding these effects is an important part of modern event noise management.
Related reading
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