NAMM is looking to further improve sound control levels and enhance attendee and exhibitor experiences on the show floor at the next global gathering in Anaheim.

“We take sound levels very seriously at our shows,” says NAMM on its website. “Our goal is for every exhibitor, partner and attendee to have the most business-focused and positive experience possible. That’s why at The 2018 NAMM Show, there are new ways we are reducing sound levels to enhance your experience.”

The trade show floor has been re-organised to maximise buyer time, with product segments now closer together. The tools and technology are being incorporated to reduce the sound of product demos, resulting in a better experience for all.

Special consideration has been given to all communities including grouping product categories together to optimise everyone’s experience. Percussion will be in one area, string and bow in another, as well as sections of guitars, keyboards, pianos, pro audio, event technology and more. This will allow for targeted demo options, and will allow buyers to find their desired products faster.

NAMM will be adding additional sound patrol to distribute citations to those breaking sound rules. Demos are only permitted for up to five minutes for buyers and may not exceed a decibel level of 85. The NAMM Floor Management team tests sound levels throughout the day and will give verbal and written warnings. If necessary, NAMM will take action, including removing badges and closing booths for the remainder of the day or even shutting down a display for the duration of the show.

The organisers will also offer more demo rooms on the show floor for exhibitors to use throughout the show at no cost. In addition, NAMM has worked with Freeman to create cost-effective demo rooms available for rent in a booth, starting at $895. All demo rooms contain lighting, integrated ceiling, and installation/dismantling service with furniture, décor and air conditioning upgrades.

New this year, NAMM will be pioneering sound-buffering aisle signs and panels located throughout the show floor at the ACC and ACC North. Manufactured by the sound absorption specialists at GeerFab Acoustics, the design of the aisle signs features a two-inch thick fiberglass substrate wrapped in an acoustically transparent fabric that is custom printed with NAMM aisle sign graphics – two discrete graphics per sign. These custom-made signs are designed to help reduce sound levels across The NAMM Campus. In addition, thirty 48" x 96" MultiZorbers are being installed in each of the two Live Sound Demo Rooms.

NAMM exhibitors are able to use GeerFab’s MultiZorber panels for their own booth signs or in the construction of their exhibit to contribute to the absorption of sound in the exhibit hall. Custom graphics and sound-blocking materials can be incorporated with sufficient lead time. If you are interested in using this technology, contact Joe Pestka with Freeman at joe.pestka@freeman.com to develop a sound-absorbing solution for your exhibit. To learn more about these products, visit http://www.geerfab.com/.