On December 15, senior sound engineer Tran Cong Chi from the Voice of Vietnam (VOV) visited the Institute for Development & Application of Acoustic Materials (DASM). He emphasized the crucial role of DASM in advancing Vietnam’s acoustics industry, aligning it with global standards.
A Pioneer in Acoustic Research and Engineer Training
Born in 1939, Tran Cong Chi studied in East Germany in the 1960s before joining the Radio and Television Committee and later VOV. He played a key role in introducing advanced acoustic technologies, including stereo recording, to Vietnam’s broadcasting industry.
One of his most notable achievements was designing Vietnam’s first anechoic chamber in 1972, used for measuring acoustic parameters of equipment, musical instruments, and speech. He also contributed to national research projects on Vietnamese phonetics, acoustic properties of traditional instruments, and speech clarity measurement.
In 1981, he proposed a specialized 5.5-year sound engineering and directing program with 52 courses, which was officially implemented in 1990.
Impressed by DASM’s Acoustic Testing Facilities
After reading about DASM’s Anechoic Room—Vietnam’s most advanced sound absorption chamber—he arranged a visit with a delegation of experts and university lecturers. The chamber, with a noise level of just 2dB at night and 99% sound absorption, is considered the “quietest room in Vietnam.” Designed and built by DASM using premium materials from Remak, it has received praise from experts involved in VinSmart’s testing facilities.
During discussions with DASM, he raised concerns about the lack of transparency in some acoustic assessment entities, which impact construction quality. He highlighted DASM’s role in providing independent, reliable research and testing solutions.
DASM’s Role in Vietnam’s Architectural Acoustics
The meeting also covered the Ho Guom Theater, the only Vietnamese venue recognized among the “Top 10 Best Opera Houses in the World” by World Travel Awards. The theater extensively used Remak’s acoustic materials, tested and validated by DASM.
Its world-class audio system includes Array and Constellation speakers, with 181 speakers strategically placed throughout the building for optimal sound experience across various music genres. The system, supplied by Meyer Sound Laboratories (USA), eliminates the need for costly physical acoustic modifications.
Trust in DASM and Future Collaborations
Tran Cong Chi expressed strong confidence in DASM’s young, professional, and impartial team. He suggested expanding DASM’s role beyond testing services into specialized acoustic training. Additionally, he aims to facilitate collaborations between DASM and businesses needing acoustic materials and solutions to elevate Vietnam’s acoustics industry.
