The purpose of noise masking systems is, simply, to mask noise. In the quiet, nonreverberant office spaces, conversations can be unintentionally overheard, invading privacy and mechanical or man-made noise can become disruptive to the work effort. When properly installed and balanced, the noise masking system makes these noises less noticeable. This can increase efficiency of the workforce as well as privacy.
Direct sound, so important for speech intelligibility in paging or reinforcement systems, is undersirable in masking systems. Loudspeakers, completely separate from paging loudspeakers, are throughtout the area. They are sometimes oriented horizontally to improve dispersion and avoid a spatial concentration of volume. When used properly, employees will not notice the installation at all, just that distruptive noise seem to be less noticable