EASE 5 - Full data import of sound system configurations
Loudspeaker configuration files in AFMG’s text-based XGLC format are used to exchange the setup information for a line array, steerable column, or multi-way loudspeaker. They include data such as the number of array elements, the cabinet splay angles, the input configurations, as well as any filter settings and auxiliary information.
They are the result of evaluations and optimizations performed for a given venue using sound system setup tools and line array design software. These can be solutions offered by some loudspeaker manufacturers* or EASE Focus - AFMG's brand-independent software solution for loudspeakers and line arrays. This applies particularly to line array configurations created with dedicated EASE Focus plug-ins or FIRmaker filters.**
The first implementation of the import of XGLC files into EASE 5 considered only the mechanical settings stored in them. Subsequently, support for further configuration aspects has been added such as input configurations, internal and external filter settings, as well as related IIR and FIR filters. Since EASE version 5.54, all configurations can be completely imported into EASE 5 and serve as a starting point for further optimizations and adjustments such as
- Sound system simulations in 3D room models,
- Optimization of loudspeaker coverage and overlap,
- STI investigations for which the acoustical behavior of the room needs to be regarded,
- Extension to larger sound systems with comfortable management functions such as for the full signal processing chain, grouping, and copying and pasting.
In addition to XGLC, EASE 5 also supports the XLD format, which allows for the import of sound system configurations as a group of loudspeaker objects. The XLD format describes each loudspeaker object by its speaker model, position, aiming angles, delay, and a 1/3rd octave-based EQ. This makes it especially useful for integrating configurations from third-party manufacturer software or EASE Focus into a room model, where the positioning and detailed setup of multiple loudspeakers need to be managed as a whole system.
The XLD format complements the XGLC format, as the latter deals with individual loudspeaker configurations while the former covers the broader system arrangement. Together, these formats allow for comprehensive sound system designs to be imported and optimized within EASE 5.
In addition to these formats, EASE 5 offers the option to save and load filter settings using the XGFB format. This text-based format enables users to exchange filter configuration data between different AFMG software, such as EASE Focus or SysTune, or to transfer filter settings between filter stages or EASE projects.
Thanks to the straightforward data exchange between purpose-specific aiming software and EASE 5, sound system designers can now very easily take the next step in their work and thus gain more confidence for their project planning and investment!
* For example: d&b audiotechnik “ArrayCalc”, EAW „Resolution“, Harmonic Design, Holoplot Plan 2.0, JBL „LAC 3.6“, Kling & Freitag “ConSequenza“, L-Acoustics “Soundvision”, Martin Audio „Display 2”, Renkus-Heinz “RHAON II”, Steffens Systems
** Manufacturers with dedicated GLL Plug-Ins for EASE Focus: Biamp, D.A.S. Audio, dBTechnologies, RCF, Sony
