Sound System equalization has been evolving for over 100 years...

Many theories and methods exist, each with its strengths and weaknesses. EQ07 will present a comprehensive and holistic approach to sound system equalization, from the drawing board stage of the project through the final commissioning process. It will incorporate methods from the past and present, placing each in its proper context in the equalization process. New methods will also be presented, as well as a look at what is on the equalization horizon.

Who Should Attend?

This workshop is for anyone who designs, installs, or commissions sound reinforcement systems.

Workshop Dates:

July 9 - 11, 2007 Salt Lake City, UT

Price: $ 850 (Register for both “EQ07” and “Hums, Buzzes and Things That Go ZAP!” for $ 1,500)

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Hotel Information

Workshop Outline:

Introduction
Is equalization art, science, or both? Is it objective, subjective or a combination of both? There must always be a reason for the application of a filter.
- Equalization from a Scientific Perspective
- Equalization from an Artistic Perspective

Prerequisites to Equalization
The first step to effective equalization is starting with a system that can be equalized. The process begins at the drawing board of the loudspeaker, array and listening space.
- Anatomy of an Equalizable Loudspeaker
- Anatomy of an Equalizable Array
- The Role of Room Acoustics, Reflections and Critical Frequency
- Small Rooms vs. Large Rooms vs. Outdoors

Signal Processing & Equalizer Formats
Are you confused by the variety of filter types available and claims regarding their use? The characteristics of all major filter types will be examined. The strengths of each can be used to improve system response.
- Shelf Filters, Bell Curve Filters, Graphic vs. Parametric Equalizers, Notch Filters,
Constant Q and Other Filter Responses
- Analog vs. Digital Filters
- FIR vs. IIR Filter Topologies
- Using Delay and Frequency Shading
- Using All-Pass Filters
- Minimum Phase and Group Delay
- DSP Layout for Effective Equalization

Instrumentation
There are a lot of analyzers out there. Learn which methods produce
the best results in the shortest time.
- Instrumentation Microphone Types, Properties & Characteristics
- Data Collection Methods Contrasted
- The Effective Use of Time Windows
- Signal-to-Noise and Time Variance
- The Use of Spherical Loudspeaker Data in Equalization

Techniques
A number of equalization techniques have evolved over the years. Many practitioners have a favorite - others use a combination of approaches. Learn the proper application of each based on the problem that it addresses.
- Direct-Field Only
- Direct / Reverberant Field Discrimination & Combination
- Boundary-Effect Compensation
- Spatial Averaging
- Target Curve Equalization
- Room Mode Compensation
- Equalizing to Maximize Acoustic Gain
- Equalization Methods - The Pros and Cons

Subjective Criteria
Equalization goes beyond what is observed on the analyzer display. Learn how to enhance the technical equalization process using techniques that consider the perception of the human listener.
- Psychoacoustics and Equalization
- Speech Intelligibility and Equalization

Putting It All together
The overall objective of the Workshop is to present a holistic, logical, meaningful, and streamlined approach to system equalization.
- The Equalization Process – A Logical Approach

Meet The Instructors:

	Peter Mapp, Principle, Peter Mapp Associates, an acoustic consultancy which specializes in room acoustics, electro-acoustics and sound system design. He has degrees in Applied Physics and Acoustics and has been responsible for the design and commissioning of more than 500 sound systems.
	Tim Leishman, Professor, Department of Physics & Astronomy at BYU where he also heads the Acoustics Research Group. He has a doctoral degree in Acoustics from Penn State University and brings with him more than 15 years of field experience.
	John Murray started his audio career in 1975 as a contractor. While working with manufacturers, he has been instrumental in the development of electronic and acoustical products. John is a certified TEF, Meyer SIM and SIA SMAART user. Currently he is the president of ProSonic Solutions, an independent manufacturers’ sales representative firm.
	Deward Timothy joined Poll Sound in 1966 and is currently president of the company. He has been actively involved in sound system design, installation and tuning since then. As an avid champion of quality, he is constantly researching new technologies and techniques for improving the performance of sound reinforcement systems and has worked successfully on thousands of projects.
	Pat Brown has worked in the audio industry for 30 years. With a background as a technician, musician, designer and consultant, he is familiar with many aspects of audio. As the president of Syn-Aud-Con, he provides audio training. He also works extensively with electroacoustic and room acoustics testing.