brilliance

acoustics

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June 22, 2026

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In acoustics, "brilliance" refers to the reverberation time at low frequencies relative to higher frequencies. Specifically, a room is considered more brilliant if the reverberation time increases less at low frequencies compared to higher frequencies, with the reverberation time remaining consistent above approximately 500 hertz. This is distinct from "warmth," which is created when the reverberation time increases at low frequencies. Brilliance, along with other acoustic qualities like liveness, intimacy, fullness, clarity, texture, and blend, are important considerations in architectural acoustics, particularly for auditoriums and performance spaces. These characteristics help define the perceived quality of sound for listeners.1

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acoustics
Acoustic criteria
“Warmth” and “brilliance” refer to the reverberation time at low frequencies relative to that at higher frequencies. Above about 500 hertz, the reverberation time should be the same for all frequencies. But at low frequencies an increase in the reverberation time creates a warm sound, while, if…
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“Warmth” and “brilliance” refer to the reverberation time at low frequencies relative to that at higher frequencies. Above about 500 hertz, the reverberation time should be the same for all frequencies. But at low frequencies an increase in the reverberation time creates a warm sound, while, if…
Read More