Auditory backward inhibition can ruin a concert hall

The work of von Bekesy and Haas is reviewed to understand the effect of reflected sound in a concert hall. The term "auditory backward inhibition" is explained. A table of acoustic effects of echoes of various timing is presented. The effect of auditory backward inhibition on speech is to cause hearing without understanding. The reason given by von Bekesy for the common opinion "acoustics are better in the balcony" is discussed. The most severe consequence of auditory backward inhibition is the degradation of orchestral ensemble. Conclusions include the opinion that acousticians should be more concerned with the performers than with the audience and that auditory backward inhibition explains the many acoustic disasters of the 20th Century.