Studio Acoustics 8 min read Updated: October 2026

Reverb Decay Time (RT60): Sabine Equation Calculator & Optimal Studio Absorption

RT60 is the standard acoustic metric defined as the time (in seconds) required for sound pressure level in an enclosed space to decrease by 60 decibels after the sound source has stopped.

The Sabine Equation

$$\text{RT}_{60} = \frac{0.161 \times V}{A} \quad \text{(metric)} \qquad A = \sum S_i \alpha_i$$

Sabine formula where $V$ is room volume ($m^3$), $S_i$ is surface area, and $\alpha_i$ is absorption coefficient

Optimal Studio RT60 Targets

Control Rooms / Mastering Suites: 0.20s – 0.35s (flat across all frequency bands for critical monitoring accuracy).
Live Tracking Rooms: 0.40s – 0.70s (provides pleasing acoustic warmth for acoustic drums and strings).
Concert Halls / Classical Auditoriums: 1.6s – 2.2s (supports blend and sustain of orchestral instruments).

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