Prolight + Sound: NEXT-proaudio To Launch Acoustical Simulation Tool

Audio designer and manufacturer NEXT-proaudio will be launching its new Acoustical Simulation Tool (AST) software, an acoustic simulation software for 2D modelling of either single subwoofer sources or sub-arrays.

With an intuitive and easy-to-use interface, AST software was designed to help NEXT-proaudio users find the best solution for a given venue with multiple sound sources by using a fast and accurate algorithm to predict the acoustical performance of the subwoofers. The simulator allows the user to run simulations in 11 different ISO 266 spacing frequencies (20Hz~200Hz) with a single click.

AST includes NEXT-proaudio’s subwoofer model database, containing sensitivity, Max. Power and subwoofer dimensions. Several different parameters such as orientation and vertical stack (of up to four units) that may be set, and other electronic parameters such as polarity, delay and gain that can be individually configured.

Based on humidity, temperature and altitude, the speed of sound is carefully calculated in order to achieve the maximum soundwave phase calculation precision. The resultant coverage simulation is mapped in a Jet-color graphic with the SPL distribution throughout the entire venue.

AST can also simultaneously provide up to four listening points, also known as probes or “virtual microphones”, which allow users to easily predict the frequency and phase response in a desired location.

Polar plot is also available in AST, with the user only needing to indicate how far the virtual measure needs to be taken before clicking to trace. The polar plot will then be displayed in a separate window with some important information along side it as Q, DI and -6dB angle.

Calculation errors and a long set-up time can be a big problem when inserting subwoofer arrays, but this can be avoided with AST’s “Insert Array” function that allows the user to easily customise an array. The tool also provides a “Virtual Arc” function that performs calculations based on the acoustical beam aperture (0º – 90º) and presents the necessary data (sub location and delay) to include in the DSP audio processor. The function aims to save time taken in setting up subwoofer arrays for shows by calculating subwoofer delays to make a virtually arched array with the desired directivity pattern.

Check out the AST here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMTg6xxnTVI