What is Sound Diffusion?

-See the WIKI definition here.

Why have you raised your prices? 

- Well, what can I say? 2019 is upon us and it was time for the introductory prices to yield.  It has been a fun run getting the product out there.  However, it just isn't worth every moment of my life in doing so.  I'm sure the artist/professional in you understands the scenario. Most likely they will fluctuate over time.

How do I calculate square footage?

- Multiply the height by the length or use this handy website for the square footage calculator.

How many in a typical order?

- You can order as many as you like.  A common order is 8 to 12 panels.  This can be used on one wall or in a few areas.  More panels can be ordered if needed.  Of course blanket coverage of a wall is nice, but it's not always necessary.

Have many been sold?

- Diffuser City has built and sold approximately 400-700 panels since 2010.  Business has been growing steadily in the past year.

Any feedback from sales?

-Yes, please see the Ebay, Etsy, or the Amazon account pages for plenty of comments from satisfied customers.

Can you do custom orders?

-Yes, custom orders are welcomed.  If you have an idea, send it in and we can crunch some numbers.

Are returns accepted?

-Yes. Just pay return postage.

What types of wood are used?

- Since the wood is reclaimed, there are a variety in every panel.  Solid Pine, Oak, Red Oak, Cherry, and, Birch plywood are most common.

Any thoughts on the QRD style diffusor vs the Skyline type diffusor?

- Both have their uses.  The QRD will give you more control of direction, however, the Skyline is more of a spread.   Diffuser City has a design that is a combination of the two called the Unpainted Montreal.  It has fins and fingers.  Other panels (either QRD or Skyline) types can be added later for finer tuning. Diffuser City uses the RPM design.

What is the RPM design?

- The QRD and MLS diffuser designs are made famous by tech geeks all over the globe right? Diffuser City uses elements of both randomly.  The result has nicknamed the RPM (random placement method).  It is actually just that.  Random elements of QRD and MLS type construction placed is an artistic triangulated method.  

Do you have technical data like the bigger companies do?

- I wish to one day have all the technical data needed to gag a horse.  However, at the moment all I have is 100's of satisfied customers.  Technical feedback received has been favorable.  The usual room analysis used SPL Meter Apps like the SPLnFFT Sound Meter with tone generators like that on the Audio Check site.   Other favorable feedback has referred to the room aesthetic and how it lends itself to a creative space. 

How can I test my room?

-One way is to install the diffusion.  Downlaod a SPL Meter App like the SPLnFFT Sound Meter.  Log on to a tone generator site like Audio Check.   Play the files on the site for each frequecny.  Check the meter as you play them.  Tweek your monitors or EQ (audiophiles) to untill you see the meter go to zero.  

How are the panels hung?

- The panels can be hung either with the French cleat provided or with a standard picture wire (not included).  Just mount one cleat to the wall and drop the mate on top.  Gravity holds the two pieces (cut at 45 degree angles) in place.  See the "How To Hang Them" page for a downloadable PDF.  

Do they move around with vibration?

- Heavy bass is always an issue with wall treatments.  If they do move, simply use museum wax (available at art supply stores) on the back side corners to secure it to the wall.  Other options are 3M gum, rubber feet, or double back tape.  Tip on layout: If the panels are grouped together they tend to support each other from moving.

Any tips on stain?

- Water based or low VOC stains are recommended.  Although oil based stains tend to be richer and look the best, they are often thinned with paint thinner for a consistent look.  The thinner naturally destroys the integrity of the glue used in construction of the panels.  If this happens, you can glue the pieces back together after the stain dries.  Stick to a water based stain or paint wash and you will avoid the potential problem.

- Diffuser City now offers Finish option.  Clear Coats and Road Worn type paint Finishes are the specialties.  Prices vary depending on model.  For the most part they run $25 per square foot for Clear, and $50 for Paint or Stain.  Paint and Stain include Clear Coats as well.

How long will my order take?

- A typical order takes 1-2 weeks to process.  Orders are put in queue once payment is received. All panels are built to order.

Is this snake oil?

- No, of course not! There are better ways to rip someone off.

Is this a full time business or a part time hobby?

- For several years it was a full time functioning side business.  Now it is a full time gig!  It's still a one-man show.  However, it's an artist's business so there can really only be one. 

How do you ship?

- Shipping is done for the most part through Fed Ex Ground and USPS’s standard mail.  LTL freight is an option for larger loads.  

Do you ship internationally?

- No, due to the commodity type (wood) they are not accepted through Customs abroad. Unless, it’s Canada (our cousins to the North).

Do you ship to Canada?
-Yes,  but the shipping calculator will not not tally the order due to Customs forms. So you have to get in touch and drop an email.

If you would like to check into shipping to your area.  A common measurements would be 14" x 14" x 24" (holds 4 panels) and 20" x 20" x 36" (holds approx 10) from US zip code 32803.

How well do the panels ship?

- For the most part OK.  A few panels have had small pieces fallen of during shipping.  Because of this, a conscience effort has been taken to make sure it doesn’t happen again by using more glue and fasteners.  They are packed as well as possible, however, sometimes thing happen during shipping.  If  a piece does come loose (apologies in advance), simply glue the piece back in place.  Any household glue will do.  Returns are also accepted, if necessary.

What about flame retardant for commercial facilities, home, or the like?

- I am no expert on the subject of building codes in every city around the country, that is for sure.  However, for the most part the panels are considered sculptures or art, and therefor do not require flame proofing.  It is up to the customer to paint or treat with fire retardant (FR)  as per local code, if needed.  I was pointed to the product Roscoe WD for wood, if needed per code.  Please note that after coating the panel with any FR product, the finish coat (paint or stain) has to be compliant with the product used, so please check labels.  If you have any questions or concerns about your local codes, just ask your local contractor, engineer, or city council.  Diffuser City does not offer FR treated panels at the moment. The panels are sold “as-is raw” ready for the finish of your desire (if needed).

Cleaning?

- Treat it like furniture keeping it clean.  In the event that it gets too dusty. Use a compressed can of air (like used on a computer keyboard) and/or aerosol lemon Pledge or something greener.