What is the main focus of an acoustical engineer?

The primary role of an acoustical engineer is centered around the understanding and control of sound and vibration in a variety of environments. This includes not only noise control in environments such as industrial sites, but also in urban planning, architectural design, and environmental impact assessments. The responsibility of determining noise controls involves identifying sources of unwanted noise and developing strategies to minimize its impact on health and well-being, ensuring compliance with regulations, and enhancing acoustical quality in different settings.

While designing soundproof buildings is certainly a function that an acoustical engineer might engage in, it is a subset of the broader task of determining and implementing effective noise control measures. Monitoring sound frequencies aligns with the technical aspects of acoustics but does not encompass the comprehensive focus on noise control strategies. Creating musical instruments is a specialized area that may intersect with acoustical engineering principles but does not represent the core mission of an acoustical engineer. Hence, the emphasis on determining noise controls captures the central focus of the profession.