Sound System Design

Bob McCarthy literally wrote the book on “Sound Systems: Design and Optimization," an accessible bible on the behavior of sound systems in the practical world. Bob is a pioneer in the measurement technique that became Smaart while designing and tuning touring PAs for the likes of Metallica and Ed Sheeran.

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Description: In this segment, we delve into various aspects of audio production, from tuning a room to designing sound systems. We also discuss experiences with the Grateful Dead, live immersive audio technologies, and the transition from analog to digital equipment in the touring industry. Tune in for an enlightening discussion!

00:00:00 Intro
00:33:50: What are some good tools or songs to use when tuning a room?
00:39:42: What’s the best approach to maximize intelligibility and Gain Before Feedback for a large line array with subwoofers and a conference room setup?
00:41:18: Can you share some experiences from your time with the Grateful Dead?
00:44:51: What are your experiences with live immersive audio technologies like Meyer Spacemap Go and L’Acoustics L’ISA? Will they gain broader market acceptance in the touring industry?
00:52:11: Can you discuss your approach to time/phase analysis and manipulation in sound system design?
00:54:06: What was the first system you designed?
00:55:33: What are your thoughts on Flat Panel Audio’s DML500 which has a diffuse dispersion?
00:56:04: Will the “holdouts” who are still touring with analog FOH/monitor consoles and outboard equipment finally make the digital leap as parts and service for said equipment get rarer?
00:58:34: How did it work with the loudspeakers being behind the plane of the mics in terms of feedback?
00:59:29: Does MAPP incorporate the reflections of the surfaces in the CAD model of the space?

Tags: Room Tuning, Line Array, Subwoofers, Conference Room Setup, Lav Mics, Intelligibility, Gain Before Feedback, Grateful Dead, Meyer Spacemap Go, L’Acoustics L’ISA, Live Immersive Audio, Time/Phase Analysis, Sound System Design, Flat Panel Audio, DML500, Diffuse Dispersion, Analog FOH/Monitor Consoles, Outboard Equipment, Digital Leap, Loudspeakers, Microphones, Feedback, MAPP, CAD Model, Surface Reflections