In the pandemic, companies reduced office space as remote workers expanded. Then the companies wanted the people back, but to a now-smaller space. Staff left their comfy, quiet home offices to share space with others at folding tables and hot-desking. More people share less space, reducing privacy while increasing noise and distractions. Sure, you have headphones (joy), but others can listen with an ANC button click. Call centers and other businesses have the same issue.

One solution is reducing ambient noise with the Contemporary Research SMG-40 Sound Masking Generator. The SMG emits a low-level background hiss that your brain cancels out, reducing office noise as well. As a result, workers don’t need headphones full-time, and makes conversation more private.

Integration is easy. Install a few 4/8 Ohm or 25V speakers, or RJ45-wired emitters. Masking audio level, bass, and treble can be tweaked. Music or announcement audio can be mixed, and the output can be turned off with a contact closure.