Diffuser question

[RickW]

I just acquired some difussers that came from the Hit Factory closing. My question is this: has anyone ever seen diffusers made from ceramic? I'm familiar with wood and plastic, but have never run across ceramic ones - and that's what these are! If they used them, then I shouldn't have a problem using them. Anyway, there are some chips broken off some corners of these units and I'll probably reglue what I can piece together and possibly build an outer frame to help support them. They're heavy! But I'm sure I'll be able to utilize them. Plus, it's kind of a kick having a small piece of insignificant recording history in my studio. I really am curious about the ceramic though - that's actually a new one on me...and these seem pretty old.

[RICK FITZPATRICK]

Diffusers have been used since the 30's. They've been made from wood, glass, plastics, brick, concrete and metal. What form do the ones you've aquired take? Do they have wells? Or are they polycylindricals? I would think the use of ceramics make for better reflections because of the rigid mass. In essence, thats what diffusers do is reflect. It is HOW they reflect that differentiates the different types.

[RickW]

Originally Posted by RICK FITZPATRICK

Diffusers have been used since the 30's. They've been made from wood, glass, plastics, brick, concrete and metal. What form do the ones you've aquired take? Do they have wells? Or are they polycylindricals? I would think the use of ceramics make for better reflections because of the rigid mass. In essence, thats what diffusers do is reflect. It is HOW they reflect that differentiates the different types.

Thanks, Rick. I can always count on you for knowledgable answers.

These are well types. The wells themselves are fairly big (probably close to 3 inches each square) and the whole unit is about 6" deep X 2' square. They are fairly heavy so I'd have to come up with a good way of mounting them...I don't know how they were mounted originally. Now that you mention it, it's possible they could be concrete, but I'm prone to thinking they're ceramic. Wouldn't concrete be extremely heavy? I'll try to get pix of them. Thanks again.