COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MOSQUE ACOUSTICS QUALITY IN TROPICAL AND NON-TROPICAL CLIMATES: A LITERATURE REVIEW

This study investigates the comparative acoustic performance of tropical and non-tropical mosques, focusing on key parameters including Reverberation Time (RT), Clarity (C_so), Definition (D₅₀), and Speech Transmission Index (STI). Data were collected from multiple case studies, including tropical and non-tropical mosques, to evaluate their suitability for speech-related religious activities. A meta-analysis was conducted using acoustic datasets compiled from 20 mosques in the existing literature. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) multiple linear regression models were constructed for each acoustic parameter to isolate the independent and combined predictive power of the structural variables. The results reveal that tropical mosques generally exhibit lower reverberation times and smaller deviations from recommended values, indicating more controlled acoustic environments. In contrast, non-tropical mosques tend to have higher RT values, often exceeding optimal limits due to large enclosed volumes and reflective materials. In terms of clarity (C_So) and definition (D5o), tropical mosques more frequently achieve values within or near recommended ranges, suggesting a better balance between early and late sound energy and improved speech intelligibility. Non-tropical mosques, however, exhibit greater variability, with several cases showing either excessive reverberation. The STI analysis further demonstrates that tropical mosques have the potential to achieve superior speech intelligibility. Non-tropical mosques generally fall within moderate levels of intelligibility. These differences are primarily influenced by architectural typology, spatial configuration, building volume, material characteristics, and the presence of electroacoustic systems. Tropical mosques, characterized by semi-open layouts and climate-responsive design strategies, inherently facilitate better sound dissipation and acoustic balance. This study concludes that while tropical mosque architecture tends to provide more favorable acoustic conditions, achieving optimal performance requires a holistic integration of architectural design, material selection, and acoustic treatment, regardless of climatic context.