Modeling

The LAR (Looks About Right) loudspeaker system design method just doesn’t cut it anymore. Numerous moderately priced software packages are available to make basic loudspeaker system predictions and take the guesswork out of the design process. Not only does this help eliminate mistakes, but provides reliable data to demonstrate that the proposed solution meets the customer’s needs.

Key benefits of simulation:

• Insure basic system performance requirements, such as direct sound coverage, and loudness.
• Analyze room reverberation and reflections that can result in poor speech intelligibility (STI), audible echoes, or poor tonal balance.
• Predict and propose acoustical treatments in conjunction with architects and building planners.
• Save time and money by avoiding multiple iterations on site.

Sound System Coverage
The most basic prediction for most software may be in the form of a Direct Field coverage map. This is typically a colorized plot showing how the system distributes direct (line of sight) sound to the listening areas and does not include any effects of the acoustic environment. This is the first and most foundational step of the design process.

Advanced Acoustic Calculations
Several powerful software packages, such as EASE® by AFMG Technologies, or Modeler® from Bose Corporation,  allow advanced and accurate room acoustic simulation. These advanced algorithms facilitate the prediction of room reverberation, reflections, and echoes, and their impact on loudspeaker system performance. Clarity of the spoken word is referred to as speech intelligibility. The Speech Transmission Index or STI is a recognized performance metric that quantifies how well speech can be understood.  While this level of engineering is not always necessary, speech intelligibility is a consideration for any audio system supporting the spoken word.

Acoustic & System Auralization
While technical data is invaluable, there are some scenarios where graphics and numbers don’t effectively portray the information to the non-technical individual. When possible, it is always best to evaluate a proposition using the senses which will be used to judge the end result. To a non-audio person, looking at technical or graphical specifications is like trying to “smell the color nine.” Auralization is the process of creating an audible representation of an acoustic computer model. Bose Auditioner® and AMFG -EARS® are technologies that allow the designer and customer to actually hear a loudspeaker system design with realistic predictions of room reverberation, reflections, and echoes. This capability greatly enhances collaboration during the architectural design process, or when creating acoustic solutions for existing spaces.