We believe that successful acoustical design is the balance of creating solutions to meet both the client’s expectations and their budget. By working with our clients to understand the intended use of a space, we are able to determine the driving factor of the design. Our background in performing arts and recording facility design allows us to work on large and multifaceted projects – where complex design, advanced acoustical measurement and modeling techniques are crucial to the success of the project.

Through effective communication, we provide acoustical designs that are well aligned with the proposed use. By using advanced measurement and modeling techniques, we provide solutions based on accurate predictions to achieve the ultimate design solution, which also allows us to remain budget conscious. Criterion Acoustics is committed to designing tailored solutions on a per project basis. We avoid reusing standard designs as this leads to over-designing and increased cost. We remain current on new electro-acoustic solutions including active noise cancellation technology and digital signal processing for effective noise control. By considering both architectural and electro-acoustic solutions, we achieve better results with a well-rounded approach.

David Kotch

President

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David Kotch has worked in nearly every facet of the audio industry. From 1998 to 2004, he designed and optimized live sound systems for Broadway Theater and live concert tours. After 2004, David focused his energy on acoustical consulting through work with several high profile acoustical consulting firms. David has expertise in sound and vibration isolation, acoustical measurement, systems optimization and design, and computer aided acoustical modeling. His extensive industry experience and multifaceted approach allow him to deliver creative solutions for a wide variety of unique situations. David’s areas of interest include performing arts, recording studio design, hospitality, education, fitness, and broadcast facilities. David graduated with honors in Architecture from Lehigh University. He has been invited to speak at several national AES conferences and teach for AIA CES credits. He was awarded the Pro AV Spotlight Award in 2010 for his work on the Dolan Studios at NYU. David is a member of the Audio Engineering Society (AES), Acoustical Society of America (ASA), Institute of Noise Control Engineering (INCE) as well as an approved noise consultant with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP).

Some notable projects David has worked on included:

• Major League Baseball Broadcast Facility / Sound Stage
• National Hockey League Broadcast Facility
• Sony Music Entertainment Recording Studios (NY & Nashville)
• Warner Music Group (DTLA) Offices & Recording Studios
• University of Las Vegas Dolby Atmos Screening Room & Theater

Andy Swerdlow

Senior Acoustical Engineer

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An acoustic consultant and designer for over a decade, Andy entered the industry based on his experience computer modeling, as a musician and audio engineer. Before becoming an acoustic consultant, he earned his B.S. in Physics and developed computer modeling and laboratory skills from UMBC (Baltimore).  After school, he developed skills working in analytical chemistry for the pharmaceutical industry and computer modeling for a financial litigation consulting firm.  After working in music studios, Andy joined Walters-Storyk Design Group as an intern in 2014, eventually becoming a partner in 2018. Andy joined Criterion Acoustics in 2022.

Some notable projects Andy has worked on included:

• Spotify At Mateo Headquarters (155,000 sf headquarters including performance venue, music and podcast studios, and offices)
• Merriweather Post Pavilion (40 acre site admitting 19,000 to the venue; Columbia, MD)
• Brooklyn Mirage (80,000 sf nightclub; Brooklyn, NY)
• El Mocambo (Nightclub; Toronto, Ontario)
• MGM Music Hall at Fenway (5,000 capacity music venue)
• Google W 15th St. Offices (not yet completed)
• Epic Games (Cary, NC)

Sam Palmer

Senior Acoustical Engineer

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Sam has 10 years of experience in the field of acoustics. His experience ranges from audio engineering to acoustical consulting to writing software. Sam graduated from Princeton with an Architecture Degree and migrated into the field of acoustics. He joined Acoustic Distinctions in New York in 2013 and Criterion Acoustics in 2021.

His strengths are in complex acoustical modelling, measurements and developing solutions.

Some notable projects which Sam has completed are:

• Apple Music broadcast studios
• Sikelia Productions screening room (Martin Scorsese’s screening room)
• Time Warner Bleacher Report offices and production spaces
• NBC Saturday Night Live audio mix room

Sharan Moses

BIM Manager

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After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry, Sharan pursued his passion for the intersection of music and architecture by enrolling in the acoustics program at The Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University.

Following a brief tenure at Walters-Storyk Design Group, Sharan joined Criterion Acoustics in 2022. He brings a unique blend of skills in room shaping, space planning, acoustic modeling and construction detailing, ensuring a seamless balance between architectural intent and acoustic performance across a wide range of projects. 

Some projects Sharan has contributed to include:

• MGM Music Hall at Fenway
• Montgomery County Community College Auditorium
• Cincinnati Public Radio
• Elevation Church Studios
• Ultra Music Recording Studios, LA
• Theory One Studios

Nicolas Soto

Digital Media Specialist

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Nicolas earned a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design from the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) bringing a dynamic and versatile skill set to the team. With a strong foundation in 3D modeling, digital marketing and graphic design, Nicolas blends technical knowledge with creative vision to deliver innovative and impactful solutions.

Passionate about digital marketing, Nicolas excels in crafting strategic campaigns that engage audiences and drive results. His experience in social media marketing, combined with a deep understanding of content creation, allows them to develop cohesive and visually compelling materials that strengthen brand identity and enhance online presence.