FIRmaker is a universal optimization technology. - Are there any trade-offs?
FIRmaker can be considered a universal optimization solution. It is capable of being used with almost any loudspeaker that is licensed for the technology by its manufacturer. It may differ in its implementation and optimization algorithm from those of proprietary solutions.
What would a typical optimization approach look like?
Two things are needed as a basis for FIRmaker optimization:
How do I get the FIRmaker results into my DSPs?
Support for different DSP platforms is rapidly growing. Currently it is already possible to export CSV and other, general filter types and to save them to files. These can be imported into your DSPs.
More and more DSP manufacturers work together with AFMG to enhance the integration of FIRmaker with their platforms. (Please see "Supported Brands / Supported DSP Platforms" for a comprehensive list.) At a final stage, these implementations will support a direct transfer of system setups and FIR filters between the controller software and FIRmaker.
Does it make sense to use FIRmaker with an array driving two or more loudspeakers with one amplifier?
Many modern arrays and especially column loudspeakers already integrate amplifiers and DSPs directly into the cabinets. For such systems, FIRmaker optimization is tailor made. However, many other existing systems employ amplification and processing in separate components. In many cases an affordable hardware solution will be driving two, three or even four cabinets with one amplifier channel. Consequently, only one DSP channel will be feeding the signal to several cabinets at once.
What are the physical limits of the optimization?
FIRmaker is not magic. It employs straight-forward laws of physics combined with high-end algorithms. Just like with any other physical process, simple limits apply:
Which loudspeaker types can be optimized by FIRmaker?
The FIRmaker algorithm generally supports optimization of basically any array of loudspeakers. Currently, line arrays and steerable column loudspeakers as well as custom loudspeaker clusters are implemented within the tuning approach in EASE Focus 3.
A prerequisite for the optimization of specific types of loudspeakers will be that the manufacturer has purchased a FIRmaker license.
Can I still control the perceived sound quality when FIRmaker optimization is applied?
Yes, absolutely! You might even notice that your applied EQ will produce more consistent results throughout the whole venue than you have been used to before.
The reason for this is simple. FIRmaker is a set of numerical algorithms able to optimize your system's performance. "Optimization", in this sense and within the parameters you set, attempts to tune the system for...
Can all brands of loudspeakers be optimized by FIRmaker?
FIRmaker is a technology, a set of algorithms specifically developed by AFMG to be an open solution available to all loudspeaker manufacturers. AFMG believes that it makes sense to support open platforms instead of every manufacturer developing a costly, proprietary solution by himself. This way, AFMG software is available at very competitive prices or even for free while providing a large set of features and the highest quality simulations available in the market.
What does FIRmaker optimization mean exactly? Why is it so special?
The aim to tune a sound system to a linear frequency response and to direct its output directly into the audience but nowhere else is not new. It is the daily struggle of every sound or system technician.
How do I measure speech intelligibility with EASERA?
In EASERA almost any evaluation and measure can be derived directly or indirectly from loaded or measured impulse response data. The same is true for most of the intelligibility measures.
EASERA allows for calculating STI, STI (Male), STI (Female) as well as AlCons and the equivalent STIPa. Note that these values are all calculated from the modulation transfer function (MTF), which in turn originates in the impulse response.
"EASE 5 is a big step forward. The completely new user interface combined with lots of useful tools and further improved simulation modules allow for much more intuitive and effective workflows."
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