Aural space

Aural space, also known as "auditory space" or "acoustic space" is a term sometimes used by soundscape designers to describe moments when listeners are hearing a "space" - that is, a lack of noticeable sound. Quite often, there is sound present in these moments, but it is a background hum (which may or may not be deliberate on the part of the designer).

Most soundscape designers will deliberately include moments of aural space in a soundscape for a variety of reasons, such as redirecting the listener's attention, heightening tension or ensuring the listener is not overwhelmed by continuous sound.

The term "aural space" can also be used to describe moments when speakers are producing "space" or white noise - such as telephone speakers during moments between connections, or when a person is "on hold" without some kind of recording to fill the space.

The acoustic environment in which sound is heard is often called "aural space". This is characterized by the interaction between sound and a room, either by absorption, reflection, or diffraction by the walls.