Enhancing Audio Precision with four PSI Audio's AVAA C214

Achieving pristine audio quality in any listening environment requires meticulous attention to room acoustics. Low-frequency resonances, or room modes, often pose significant challenges, leading to muddied bass and compromised sound clarity. In our latest project, we integrated four PSI Audio's AVAA C214 active bass absorbers to address these issues effectively.

Integration of PSI Audio AVAA C214 Units

To tackle low-frequency anomalies, we strategically positioned four PSI Audio AVAA C214 units in the room’s high-pressure zones. These active bass absorbers operate between 15 Hz and 160 Hz, effectively reducing standing waves and room modes without the need for extensive passive treatments. Their compact design offers an absorption efficiency equivalent to much larger passive absorbers, making them ideal for spaces where aesthetics and performance are priorities.

Strategic placement of PSI Audio AVAA C214 units in the front wall corners and rear corners of the room. This configuration ensures optimal low-frequency absorption, reducing room modes and enhancing overall clarity in the listening space.

Real-World Testing and Results

We conducted a series of tests using four AVAA C214 units to evaluate their impact:

1️⃣ Pink Noise Analysis – By toggling the four AVAA C214 units on and off during pink noise playback, we observed a significant smoothing of the frequency response, confirming their ability to mitigate room-induced low-frequency issues.

AVAA performance frequency range 15-160Hz

AVAA in off position

AVAA in on position

Notice the reduction in spatial variance between the loudest and lowest points

Smoother frequency response after 4 x AVAA C214

2️⃣ Graphical Data – Post-treatment measurements with four AVAAs showcased a noticeable reduction in low-frequency peaks and nulls, validating their effectiveness in real-time.

3️⃣ Sub Cal Frequency 30-80Hz Pink Noise Analysis Test

AVAA off

AVAA on

4️⃣ Musical Playback Test – When comparing four AVAA C214 units ON vs. OFF during a real song, we noticed tighter bass, improved midrange clarity, and a more controlled overall response. The bass no longer masked other frequencies, and the kick drum sounded more focused and punchy instead of smeared.

Watch it on YouTube here

The AVAA Effect: Tighter Bass, Clearer Mix, Better Depth

🔴 "Bass feels overpowering, masking the clarity of other instruments"

🔴 "Low frequencies sound boomy and less defined"

🔴 "Kick drum lacks focus, sounding smeared in the mix"

🔴 "The snare reverb effect sounds short and somewhat closed off"

🟢 "Bass is more controlled, sitting naturally in the mix"

🟢 "Low-end tightens up, improving overall clarity"

🟢 "Kick drum becomes more focused and punchy"

🟢 "Reverb sounds more natural and alive, with a longer, fuller decay"

Conclusion

The implementation of four AVAA C214 units significantly transformed the acoustic environment, reducing excessive low-frequency buildup and improving overall clarity. By actively controlling room modes, the AVAAs allowed the bass to sit naturally in the mix, enhancing the balance between frequencies without masking midrange and high-frequency details. The result is a tighter low end, a more focused and punchy kick drum, and an improved sense of space with more natural reverb decay.

This test confirms that precision acoustic treatment goes beyond passive solutions, actively reshaping the listening experience for greater accuracy and immersion. Whether in a HiFi setup, a mixing environment, or a dedicated studio, the AVAA C214 proves to be an invaluable tool for achieving controlled, high-fidelity sound.

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