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Sounding board

What is sounding board? A clear definition from the acoustics and sound section of our glossary, with 12 related terms and further reading.

Definition of Sounding board

A sounding board, also known as a tester and abat-voix, is a structure placed above and sometimes also behind a pulpit or other speaking platform that helps to project the sound of the speaker. It is usually made of wood. The structure may be specially shaped to assist the projection, for example, being formed as a parabolic reflector. In the typical setting of a church building, the sounding board may be ornately carved or constructed. The term "abat-voix," from the French word for the same thing (abattre (“to beat down”) + voix (“voice”)), is also used in English.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Sounding board?

A sounding board, also known as a tester and abat-voix, is a structure placed above and sometimes also behind a pulpit or other speaking platform that helps to project the sound of the speaker. It is usually made of wood.

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