Resources

"Methods and Limitations of Line Source Simulation", paper presented at the 125th AES convention, San Francisco, CA, USA, 2-5th of October 2008.

Link to the paper in the AES Online E-Library. (You have to be a member of the AES online library. Please note that subscription costs are low.)

Stefan Feistel, Wolfgang Ahnert
AFMG Technologies, Berlin, Germany

Ambrose Thompson
Martin Audio, High Wycombe, Bucks, UK
 

Abstract
Although line array systems are in widespread use today, investigations of the requirements and methods for accurate modeling of line sources are scarce. In previous publications the concept of the generic loudspeaker library (GLL) was introduced. It is shown that on the basis of directional elementary sources with complex directivity data finite line sources can be simulated in a simple, general, and precise manner. Measurement requirements are derived, and the limitations of this model are discussed. In addition, a second step of refinement is presented, namely, the use of different directivity data for cabinets of identical type based on their positions in the array. All models are validated by measurements. The approach presented is compared with other proposed solutions.

Practical benefits:
This paper shows that modeling line array sound radiation in an efficient and highly accurate way is no longer a problem considering today's computer processing power. Based on such modern approaches, software like EASE SpeakerLab, EASE Focus and EASE are available for loudspeaker manufacturers building line array or cluster systems, as well as for those working in the field of acoustic design and installation.