SOUND MASKING FOR OFFICES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Trying to stay focused in an open office? Worried your conversations might be overheard during meetings?

Modern office layouts are designed for collaboration but often neglect acoustics. That’s where sound masking systems and white noise machines for office use come into play. These tools help reduce distractions, improve speech privacy, and support overall workplace productivity.

In this guide, we’ll explore what sound masking is, how it works, and how tools like cloud-managed sound masking platforms, Atlas in-ceiling speakers, and Shure commercial speakers can make a noticeable difference in your work environment.

WHAT IS SOUND MASKING AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Sound masking isn’t about making things quieter; it’s about making disruptive sounds less noticeable. It introduces a consistent, ambient background sound that masks sudden noises like phone calls, conversations, and keyboard tapping.

The result? Improved focus, better privacy, and a more comfortable acoustic environment.

IS SOUND MASKING THE SAME AS WHITE NOISE?

Not quite. While they’re similar, sound masking is engineered specifically to target human speech frequencies. Basic white noise machines might help in small rooms, but professional sound masking systems are designed for larger, more complex environments.

WHY CLOUD-MANAGED SOUND MASKING IS GAINING POPULARITY

More companies are turning to cloud-managed sound masking systems to control and fine-tune audio across the office. These platforms allow teams to manage settings remotely and make real-time adjustments for different zones.

BENEFITS OF CLOUD-MANAGED SYSTEMS:

• Remote sound control across multiple zones

• Zoning for open areas, private rooms, or break zones

• Scalability to grow with your business

• Real-time adjustments without onsite maintenance

Vivo Technologies can deploy a wide range of acoustic management platforms depending on your workplace needs. We always prioritize flexibility, adaptability, and effectiveness.

PLAYING MUSIC IN THE OFFICE WITH PANDORA

While Pandora isn’t a sound masking solution, it’s a great tool for playing curated music and playlists in your workspace. With cloud-based control, teams can easily manage stations and moods across different office zones. Whether it’s instrumental music in quiet zones or energizing playlists in collaborative areas, Pandora offers an easy-to-use interface that helps shape the sonic atmosphere of your workplace.

WHY SPEAKER QUALITY MATTERS FOR SOUND MASKING SYSTEMS

Your sound masking system is only as good as the speakers behind it. For proper coverage and clarity, you need high-performance speakers with wide dispersion and full-spectrum sound.

ATLAS IN-CEILING SPEAKERS – A GO-TO SOLUTION

The Atlas Coaxial In-Ceiling Speaker is one of Vivo's go-tos in our commercial environments. It offers:

• Even sound coverage across open offices and meeting areas

• Discreet, clean design that integrates with ceiling tiles

• Clear, natural masking sound without distortion

• High compatibility with cloud-managed sound systems

These Atlas commercial speakers are ideal for consistent, unobtrusive sound masking in shared spaces or open-plan offices.

JBL CEILING SPEAKERS – HIGH-QUALITY, RELIABLE SOUND

The JBL Control 16C/T Coaxial Ceiling Speaker brings professional-grade sound masking to a variety of environments, delivering:

• Wide 110° conical dispersion for uniform sound coverage

• High sensitivity (91 dB) for efficient performance

• 6.5" two-way design with a soft-dome tweeter for rich sound clarity

• Support for 8 Ohm and 70V/100V systems

• Durable, UV-resistant baffle and easy installation

Whether you choose Atlas, JBL, or any of our other great options, Vivo ensures your system is custom-tailored and expertly installed for optimal acoustic performance.

TOP REASONS TO INSTALL SOUND MASKING IN YOUR OFFICE

1. IMPROVES SPEECH PRIVACY IN THE WORKPLACE
   Essential for HR offices, finance departments, and healthcare settings.

2. REDUCES OFFICE DISTRACTIONS
   Minimizes the impact of background noises like laughter, typing, or ringing phones.

3. SUPPORTS COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS
   Contributes to secure verbal communication for HIPAA, GDPR, and internal policies.

4. CREATES A MORE PRODUCTIVE ENVIRONMENT
   Enhances focus and employee satisfaction in open-plan layouts.

WHAT MAKES A SOUND MASKING SYSTEM SUCCESSFUL?

STRATEGIC SPEAKER PLACEMENT

Even sound coverage, no hot spots or dead zones, depends on:

• Ceiling height

• Room dimensions

• Furniture layout

• Type of work being done

Vivo’s AV experts carefully design each deployment to ensure proper coverage.

ACCURATE VOLUME CONTROL

If it’s too quiet, it won’t work. Too loud, and it becomes distracting. Cloud-based platforms allow for precise remote adjustments, customized for each office zone.

INTEGRATED OFFICE ACOUSTIC DESIGN

Pairing sound masking with other acoustic solutions—panels, sound-absorbing materials, quiet rooms, creates the most effective and comfortable workspace.

BEST PLACES TO USE SOUND MASKING IN AN OFFICE

• OPEN OFFICE AREAS – Reduces conversational distractions and improves focus.

• CONFERENCE ROOMS – Keeps sensitive conversations private and prevents sound bleed.

• QUIET ZONES/FOCUS ROOMS – Supports deep work and concentration.

• COMPLIANCE-DRIVEN WORKSPACES – Protects verbal privacy in healthcare, finance, or legal settings.

HOW VIVO TECHNOLOGIES DESIGNS OFFICE SOUND MASKING SYSTEMS

At Vivo Technologies, we don’t just install a sound masking system we deliver a full acoustic strategy tailored to your workflow and office layout.

HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:

1. ACOUSTIC ASSESSMENT
   We evaluate your current noise challenges and layout.

2. CUSTOMIZED EQUIPMENT SELECTION
   From Atlas and JBL speakers to Shure commercial solutions.

3. PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION
   Calibrated by experts for consistent coverage.

4. ONGOING SUPPORT
   Maintenance and updates as your space evolves.

IS A SOUND MASKING SYSTEM RIGHT FOR YOUR OFFICE?

Whether you're looking to reduce distractions, increase privacy, or support productivity, we’ll tailor a solution that fits your layout, goals, and budget.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discover how Vivo can help you collaborate better.