Perception of low frequency content of amplified music in arenas and open-air music festivals

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether audience perception at large arena shows and music festivals could be improved by the addition of Infra-sub. Infra-sub refers to low frequency audio content below 50Hz, and its presence might help provide a more involving and engaging audience experience at lower sound pressure levels. This paper investigates whether an increase in low frequency content (below 50Hz), both in terms of magnitude and frequency range, affects a listener's preferred listening level. The study was conducted in real-life situations at a number of European indoor arenas using a large format line array system with low frequency extension. It was shown that preferred listening levels were lower when low frequency content (Infra-sub) was increased. The implication of this result suggests that increasing Infra-sub content allows the environmental impact of large arena concerts and music festivals to be reduced whilst maintaining a positive listening experience. Although the study had some limitations in sample size and range of participants, it still underlines the beneficial social, environmental and health implications of the use of Infra-sub, stemming from an overall reduction in sound pressure level at arena concerts and open-air music festivals.