Shape Sound.
Inspire Performance.
Acoustic shells enhance projection, clarity, and balance by reflecting sound energy in a controlled and predictable manner toward both the performers and the audience.
Whether for a school auditorium, university recital hall, or community performing arts center, acoustic shells transform any stage into an enveloping acoustic environment where every note is heard with warmth, clarity, and depth.
Designed to integrate seamlessly into new or existing facilities, acoustic shell systems combine performance-engineered surfaces, modular flexibility, and architectural aesthetics for exceptional acoustic quality in every performance.
Whether for a school auditorium, university recital hall, or community performing arts center, acoustic shells transform any stage into an enveloping acoustic environment where every note is heard with warmth, clarity, and depth.
Designed to integrate seamlessly into new or existing facilities, acoustic shell systems combine performance-engineered surfaces, modular flexibility, and architectural aesthetics for exceptional acoustic quality in every performance.
Challenges We Help Solve:
- Uneven sound coverage: Musicians and audiences experience inconsistent sound levels (poor balance) throughout the room.
- Poor projection: Sound dissipates or reflects unpredictably without proper focus.
- Limited flexibility: Fixed stages require adaptable shells for multiple performance types.
- Visual integration: Acoustic systems must complement lighting, rigging, and architecture.
- Budget and logistics: Schools and venues need durable, modular designs that can be deployed easily and stored safely.
The Memtech Advantage.
We partner with contractors, facility managers, and performance directors to specify, deliver, and install
complete acoustic shell systems that match your specific project needs.
complete acoustic shell systems that match your specific project needs.
Custom Design & Modeling
Acoustic analysis and modeling, accounting for room geometry, stage layout, and reflectivity balance.
Portable & Modular Systems
Lightweight designs for multipurpose spaces or mobile staging environments.
Architectural Integration
Coordination with architects and contractors to match finishes, rigging, and stage equipment.
Material Specification
Reflective and diffusive panel options in wood, laminate, or composite finishes.
Local Turnkey Implementation
Procurement, delivery, and installation support for a complete acoustic system.
Performance Verification
Optional field measurement and tuning following installation.
Acoustic SHELLS & DIFFUSERS
Ovation
The Ovation Acoustical Reflector and Diffuser is an architecturally integrated overhead reflector for concert halls, auditoriums, performance venues, and worship spaces that need to distribute sound evenly across the audience.
Ovation panels ship flat and are field-bowed to the acoustical consultant's specifications, then suspended on turnbuckle and cable systems that allow precise angle adjustment after installation. Standard panels use a 1/2-inch plywood core finished with a fiber-reinforced gel coat. Premium configurations use a 3/4-inch core with hardwood veneer or laminate finishes.
Ovation panels are typically deployed in 8-foot-by-8-foot minimums for broad-band reflection. Acoustical testing confirms near-zero absorption (approximately 0.10 Sabins per square foot or less), preserving the full energy of the original signal for clarity in large performance spaces.
Ovation panels ship flat and are field-bowed to the acoustical consultant's specifications, then suspended on turnbuckle and cable systems that allow precise angle adjustment after installation. Standard panels use a 1/2-inch plywood core finished with a fiber-reinforced gel coat. Premium configurations use a 3/4-inch core with hardwood veneer or laminate finishes.
Ovation panels are typically deployed in 8-foot-by-8-foot minimums for broad-band reflection. Acoustical testing confirms near-zero absorption (approximately 0.10 Sabins per square foot or less), preserving the full energy of the original signal for clarity in large performance spaces.
Performance & Design Highlights:
- Enhanced Acoustic Reflection: Field-bowed installation with turnbuckle and cable suspension allows the acoustical consultant to tune angles after the panels are hung.
- Modular Tower Design: Freestanding units allow scalable configurations to fit a variety of stage sizes, from small multipurpose spaces to full-stage auditoriums.
- Lightweight Mobility: Locking caster bases enable smooth transport and secure positioning, ideal for facilities with frequent reconfiguration or shared spaces.
- Progressive Performance Levels:
Classic – Premium reflection and presence for large stages and advanced music programs.
Select – Balanced performance and portability for mid-sized venues.
Basic – Essential acoustic enhancement and practicality for smaller stages and rehearsal spaces.
Acoustic SHELLS & DIFFUSERS
HighTones
HighTones Wood Diffusers scatter high-frequency sound above 2,500 Hz using grooved hardwood planks with varying-depth wells, delivering the clarity needed for studios, listening rooms, and worship spaces.
Manufactured from 4-inch wide solid hardwood planks in cherry, maple, oak, or poplar, HighTones panels are available in unfinished, clear-coated, stained, or painted finishes (poplar only) to integrate cleanly with the surrounding architectural design.
Each panel scatters incoming high-frequency energy in multiple directions, preserving room liveness without flattening tonal balance. Pair HighTones with MidTones from the same Kinetics line for full broadband diffusion across the speech and music range.
Manufactured from 4-inch wide solid hardwood planks in cherry, maple, oak, or poplar, HighTones panels are available in unfinished, clear-coated, stained, or painted finishes (poplar only) to integrate cleanly with the surrounding architectural design.
Each panel scatters incoming high-frequency energy in multiple directions, preserving room liveness without flattening tonal balance. Pair HighTones with MidTones from the same Kinetics line for full broadband diffusion across the speech and music range.
Performance & Design Highlights:
- Lightweight, Mobile Design: Each tower moves easily on casters and locks securely into position for quick setup and teardown.
- Balanced Acoustic Reflection: Curved, rigid panels reflect sound toward the audience while reinforcing onstage clarity for performers.
- Simple Deployment: HighTones target frequencies above 2,500 Hz, ideal for taming high-frequency reflections in studios and listening rooms.
- Durable Construction: Engineered composite materials resist damage from frequent handling and storage.
- Customizable Finishes: Available in multiple color and surface options to match existing interiors or stage aesthetics.
- Space-Efficient Storage: Compact nesting design maximizes storage in tight spaces or behind stage curtains.
Acoustic SHELLS & DIFFUSERS
MidTones
MidTones Wood Diffusers scatter mid-frequency sound between 630 Hz and 2,500 Hz, the range that carries speech intelligibility and instrumental clarity in performance halls and worship spaces.
Each MidTones assembly is 18 inches wide and 4-5/8 inches deep, available in standard lengths from 12 to 96 inches and custom lengths up to 120 inches. The deeper wells target lower frequencies than HighTones, making MidTones the workhorse panel for mid-range diffusion.
Hardwood options include cherry, maple, oak, and poplar in unfinished, clear-coated, stained, or painted finishes. Designers commonly specify MidTones alongside HighTones to cover the full musical bandwidth above 630 Hz.
Each MidTones assembly is 18 inches wide and 4-5/8 inches deep, available in standard lengths from 12 to 96 inches and custom lengths up to 120 inches. The deeper wells target lower frequencies than HighTones, making MidTones the workhorse panel for mid-range diffusion.
Hardwood options include cherry, maple, oak, and poplar in unfinished, clear-coated, stained, or painted finishes. Designers commonly specify MidTones alongside HighTones to cover the full musical bandwidth above 630 Hz.
Performance & Design Highlights:
- Portable, Self-Contained Design: Each unit rolls easily on heavy-duty casters and nests compactly for efficient storage.
- Professional Acoustic Reflection: Curved, composite panels distribute sound evenly across the stage and audience for clear, balanced performance.
- Rapid Setup: Designed for quick deployment. No rigging, tools, or specialized labor required.
- Durable Construction: Engineered for frequent use in schools, auditoriums, and touring environments.
- Custom Finishes: Panels and frames can be specified in colors and veneers that complement any stage design.
- Lighting Compatibility: Optional integrated lighting supports full performance visibility without acoustic compromise.
Acoustic SHELLS & DIFFUSERS
ScatterBox
The ScatterBox Acoustical Diffuser delivers hemispherical 2-D diffusion in a solid wood block, ideal for studio control rooms, auditoriums, performance venues, listening rooms, home theaters, and worship spaces.
Built on a quasi-random series of well depths, ScatterBox scatters sound in multiple directions without the visual periodic patterning of a traditional Schroeder diffuser. The result is broad-band diffusion with a clean architectural appearance.
Solid wood construction adds mass and acoustic warmth, making ScatterBox a particularly strong choice for spaces that double as recording or critical-listening environments where reflection character matters as much as scattering performance.
Built on a quasi-random series of well depths, ScatterBox scatters sound in multiple directions without the visual periodic patterning of a traditional Schroeder diffuser. The result is broad-band diffusion with a clean architectural appearance.
Solid wood construction adds mass and acoustic warmth, making ScatterBox a particularly strong choice for spaces that double as recording or critical-listening environments where reflection character matters as much as scattering performance.
Performance & Design Highlights:
- Lightweight, Mobile Design: Each tower moves easily on casters and locks securely into position for quick setup and teardown.
- Balanced Acoustic Reflection: Curved, rigid panels reflect sound toward the audience while reinforcing onstage clarity for performers.
- Simple Deployment: Quasi-random well depths deliver hemispherical (2-D) diffusion without periodic visual patterning.
- Durable Construction: Engineered composite materials resist damage from frequent handling and storage.
- Customizable Finishes: Available in multiple color and surface options to match existing interiors or stage aesthetics.
- Space-Efficient Storage: Compact nesting design maximizes storage in tight spaces or behind stage curtains.
Acoustic SHELLS & DIFFUSERS
Geometric Diffusers
Geometric Diffusers from Kinetics Noise Control deliver multi-directional sound scattering across a broad frequency range using deep offset-pyramidal or radius profiles, ideal for auditoriums, performance halls, lecture rooms, and worship spaces.
Available in radius diffusers (2'x2', 3'x3', 2'x4', 3'x4', 4'x4', 3'x6', and 4'x6' nominal sizes) and offset pyramidal diffusers (2'x2', 2'x4', and 4'x4' nominal sizes), Geometric Diffusers are molded in white thermo-formed copolymer with optional painted or fabric-faced finishes.
Designed for 15/16-inch standard ceiling grids (or factory-modified for 9/16-inch grid), Geometric Diffusers integrate cleanly into ceiling layouts and pair naturally with Kinetics acoustic wall panels to combine diffusion with absorption in the same architectural assembly.
Available in radius diffusers (2'x2', 3'x3', 2'x4', 3'x4', 4'x4', 3'x6', and 4'x6' nominal sizes) and offset pyramidal diffusers (2'x2', 2'x4', and 4'x4' nominal sizes), Geometric Diffusers are molded in white thermo-formed copolymer with optional painted or fabric-faced finishes.
Designed for 15/16-inch standard ceiling grids (or factory-modified for 9/16-inch grid), Geometric Diffusers integrate cleanly into ceiling layouts and pair naturally with Kinetics acoustic wall panels to combine diffusion with absorption in the same architectural assembly.
Performance & Design Highlights:
- Portable, Self-Contained Design: Each unit rolls easily on heavy-duty casters and nests compactly for efficient storage.
- Professional Acoustic Reflection: Curved, composite panels distribute sound evenly across the stage and audience for clear, balanced performance.
- Rapid Setup: Designed for quick deployment. No rigging, tools, or specialized labor required.
- Durable Construction: Engineered for frequent use in schools, auditoriums, and touring environments.
- Custom Finishes: Panels and frames can be specified in colors and veneers that complement any stage design.
- Lighting Compatibility: Optional integrated lighting supports full performance visibility without acoustic compromise.
Acoustic SHELLS & DIFFUSERS
TAD Panels
TAD Panels (Tuned Absorber Diffuser) combine low-frequency tuned absorption with high-frequency diffusion in a single fabric-finished panel, eliminating the need for separate absorption and diffusion treatments on the same wall.
Each TAD Panel uses an absorptive fibrous core covered with a variable-impedance laminate. Openings in the laminate are sized and spaced to optimize low-frequency absorption while preserving random mid- and high-frequency reflective surfaces between openings, with thicker cores (2 to 4 inches) available for increased low-frequency absorption.
Fabric finishes integrate visually with existing wall systems, and the dual-function design saves wall area in venues where absorption and diffusion would otherwise compete for the same real estate, such as multipurpose worship spaces and live-record studios.
Each TAD Panel uses an absorptive fibrous core covered with a variable-impedance laminate. Openings in the laminate are sized and spaced to optimize low-frequency absorption while preserving random mid- and high-frequency reflective surfaces between openings, with thicker cores (2 to 4 inches) available for increased low-frequency absorption.
Fabric finishes integrate visually with existing wall systems, and the dual-function design saves wall area in venues where absorption and diffusion would otherwise compete for the same real estate, such as multipurpose worship spaces and live-record studios.
Performance & Design Highlights:
- Lightweight, Mobile Design: Each tower moves easily on casters and locks securely into position for quick setup and teardown.
- Balanced Acoustic Reflection: Curved, rigid panels reflect sound toward the audience while reinforcing onstage clarity for performers.
- Simple Deployment: Hybrid absorber-diffuser eliminates the trade-off between low-frequency control and high-frequency liveness on the same wall.
- Durable Construction: Engineered composite materials resist damage from frequent handling and storage.
- Customizable Finishes: Available in multiple color and surface options to match existing interiors or stage aesthetics.
- Space-Efficient Storage: Compact nesting design maximizes storage in tight spaces or behind stage curtains.
Common Applications
Acoustic shells are essential wherever sound clarity, projection, and performance quality matter.
Technical Highlights
Acoustic shells deliver exceptional acoustic performance through engineered geometry, durable materials, and a modular design that adapts to virtually any stage.
Wide Variety of Designs
Numerous performance capabilities designed to suit varying venue sizes, budgets, and storage requirements.
Panel Design
Curved or flat composite panels engineered for optimal sound reflection and projection across stage and audience areas.
Frame Construction
Rigid aluminum framing with reinforced connection points for long-term durability and smooth mobility.
Mobility & Storage
Freestanding towers on locking casters; units nest compactly for minimal storage footprint and fast transitions between events.
Height Range
Adjustable configurations to accommodate different stage layouts and ensemble heights.
Finish Options
High-pressure laminate and woodgrain veneers available in standard or custom finishes to complement architectural aesthetics.
Low Maintenance
Low-maintenance design with durable surfaces that resist scuffs, impact, and humidity-related deformation.
Technical Data &
Product Literature
TAD Panels
Product Data Sheet
Geometric Diffusers
Product Data Sheet
ScatterBox
Product Data Sheet
MidTones
Product Data Sheet
HighTones
Product Data Sheet
Support Beyond the Product
Installation assistance available for Michigan and Great Lakes region clients
Engineering consultation to ensure proper material selection
Custom sizing and integration with other Memtech acoustic systems
Replacement panels and parts available for future reconfiguration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does an acoustic shell do?
An acoustic shell reflects and projects sound from the stage toward the audience and back to performers, enhancing clarity, projection, and tonal balance during live performances. Acoustic shells work by using curved or angled reflective panels to redirect sound energy that would otherwise be absorbed by stage curtains, fly systems, or open ceilings. Memtech Acoustics provides engineered shell systems designed to optimize sound distribution for orchestras, choirs, bands, and spoken word events in auditoriums, theaters, and worship spaces.
Can acoustic shells be customized to match my venue?
Yes. Memtech Acoustics designs acoustic shells with tailored panel shapes, heights, and finishes to match a venue's architecture and acoustic goals. Options include wood veneers, laminate surfaces, and composite finishes in a range of colors. Shell configurations can be scaled from small portable setups to full-stage permanent installations, and panel geometry can be tuned to optimize sound reflection for specific room dimensions and performance types.
How durable are acoustic shell systems?
Acoustic shells from Memtech Acoustics are built with composite and laminate panels on aluminum frames, engineered to withstand frequent setup, teardown, and transport in demanding environments like schools and touring productions. Panels resist warping, fading, and impact damage, while reinforced frame connections and locking caster systems maintain structural integrity over years of use.
Can shells improve both music and speech clarity?
Yes. Properly designed acoustic shells improve both music projection and speech intelligibility by reinforcing natural sound reflection patterns. For music, shells project ensemble sound toward the audience while providing acoustic feedback to performers on stage. For speech, the reflective surfaces help voices carry further with less amplification, reducing the need for extensive sound reinforcement in lectures, ceremonies, and theatrical performances.
What maintenance do acoustic shells require?
Acoustic shells require minimal maintenance. Regular dusting and periodic inspection of hinges, casters, and rigging hardware are typically all that's needed. The composite and laminate panel surfaces used in Memtech Acoustics shell systems resist warping, fading, and impact damage, so refinishing or panel replacement is rarely necessary. Proper storage (nesting towers in a clean, dry area) extends the life of the system.
Does Memtech Acoustics provide turnkey acoustic shell installation?
Yes. Memtech Acoustics offers full-service turnkey delivery that includes acoustic measurement, engineering analysis, design consultation, shell fabrication, delivery, on-site installation, and post-installation performance verification. This end-to-end approach ensures the shell system is optimized for the specific venue rather than relying on generic placement, and it eliminates the need for separate contractors for design, procurement, and installation.
What is the typical lead time for acoustic shell delivery?
Lead times vary by project scope and customization. Large, custom acoustic shells typically take 8 to 16 weeks to fabricate and deliver after design approval. Smaller or standard-configuration shells can be ready in 4 to 6 weeks. Memtech Acoustics coordinates the full timeline from initial measurement through final installation, so project managers receive a clear schedule at the start of the engagement.
What is the difference between acoustic shells and acoustic panels?
Acoustic shells and acoustic panels serve different purposes. Acoustic shells are large, curved reflective structures placed on or around a stage to project sound toward the audience and back to performers. They enhance projection and balance during live performances.
Acoustic panels, by contrast, are typically mounted on walls or ceilings to absorb sound and reduce reverberation in a room. Many performance venues use both: shells on stage for projection and panels in the audience chamber for clarity and echo control. Memtech Acoustics provides both product types and can design integrated solutions.
Acoustic panels, by contrast, are typically mounted on walls or ceilings to absorb sound and reduce reverberation in a room. Many performance venues use both: shells on stage for projection and panels in the audience chamber for clarity and echo control. Memtech Acoustics provides both product types and can design integrated solutions.
What size acoustic shell do I need for my stage?
The right acoustic shell size depends on your stage dimensions, ceiling height, ensemble size, and the room's acoustic characteristics. As a general guideline, shell towers should span the full width of the performance area and rise high enough to reflect sound over the ensemble, typically 12 to 18 feet for most auditoriums. Memtech Acoustics conducts on-site acoustic assessments to recommend the optimal configuration, including the number of towers, panel height, and ceiling canopy requirements for your specific venue.
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