Measurement-based Auralisation to Predict Room Acoustics Quality of a Large Mosque with a Pyramid-Shaped Ceiling in Bandar Lampung

Abstract

Acoustic standards in mosques are available, but most people have a lack of understanding of these measures. Auralisation is an audio technology that uses impulse responses, dry sounds and convolution software to create authentic auditory experiences. In Indonesia, objective room acoustic parameters are still unknown and the potential of auralisation is underexplored. The study aims to predict acoustic quality and people's preference for auralisation in a pyramid-shaped ceiling using field measurements and subjective ratings. The methodology includes pre-survey, RIR measurement, dry sound recording, auralisation, and subjective surveys. Background noise, T30, D50, and C80 were measured, while auralised samples of lectures and Quran recitations were evaluated. Respondents' preferences generally correlated with T30, especially D50 (47%) for lectures and C80 (44%) for Quran recitations. In conclusion, the study demonstrates the interplay between subjective preferences and objective measurements and suggests that these parameters can predict acoustic quality in pyramid-shaped dome mosques, paving the way for better design practices and improved listening experiences.