Can single loudspeakers be optimized with FIRmaker?

This depends on the type of loudspeaker. FIRmaker can optimize the coverage of a column loudspeaker, or any other single loudspeaker that has multiple drivers operating in the same frequency region.

Theoretically it would be possible to use the FIRmaker algorithm as a simple tool to generate FIR-based crossover filters for conventional loudspeakers. However, FIRmaker was originally not intended as an optimization tool for a loudspeaker with only one, or very few, drivers operating in the same pass band (frequency range).

How do I get the FIRmaker results into my DSPs?

Support for different DSP platforms is rapidly growing. Currently it is already possible to export CSV and other, general filter types and to save them to files. These can be imported into your DSPs.

More and more DSP manufacturers work together with AFMG to enhance the integration of FIRmaker with their platforms. (Please see "Supported Brands / Supported DSP Platforms" for a comprehensive list.) At a final stage, these implementations will support a direct transfer of system setups and FIR filters between the controller software and FIRmaker.

Does it make sense to use FIRmaker with an array driving two or more loudspeakers with one amplifier?

Many modern arrays and especially column loudspeakers already integrate amplifiers and DSPs directly into the cabinets. For such systems, FIRmaker optimization is tailor made. However, many other existing systems employ amplification and processing in separate components. In many cases an affordable hardware solution will be driving two, three or even four cabinets with one amplifier channel. Consequently, only one DSP channel will be feeding the signal to several cabinets at once.

Which loudspeaker types can be optimized by FIRmaker?

The FIRmaker algorithm generally supports optimization of basically any array of loudspeakers. Currently, line arrays and steerable column loudspeakers as well as custom loudspeaker clusters are implemented within the tuning approach in EASE Focus 3.

A prerequisite for the optimization of specific types of loudspeakers will be that the manufacturer has purchased a FIRmaker license.

Can I still control the perceived sound quality when FIRmaker optimization is applied?

Yes, absolutely! You might even notice that your applied EQ will produce more consistent results throughout the whole venue than you have been used to before.

The reason for this is simple. FIRmaker is a  set of numerical algorithms able to optimize your system's performance. "Optimization", in this sense and within the parameters you set, attempts to tune the system for...

Can all brands of loudspeakers be optimized by FIRmaker?

FIRmaker is a technology, a set of algorithms specifically developed by AFMG to be an open solution available to all loudspeaker manufacturers. AFMG believes that it makes sense to support open platforms instead of every manufacturer developing a costly, proprietary solution by himself. This way, AFMG software is available at very competitive prices or even for free while providing a large set of features and the highest quality simulations available in the market.

Ahnert Feistel Media Group

Located in Berlin, Germany, AFMG® Technologies GmbH has created the industry standards EASE and EASERA software for acoustic simulation and measurement as well as their related products EASE Focus, AFMG SysTune, EASE Address and EASE SpeakerLab.

In cooperation with our partner company SDA Software Design Ahnert GmbH we develop and distribute software for:

Electro-acoustic and
room-acoustic modeling
Electronic and acoustic
measurements
Applications in
engineering and physics
RF and infrared
simulation
  • Jannik Enders

    "EASE 5 is a big step forward. The completely new user interface combined with lots of useful tools and further improved simulation modules allow for much more intuitive and effective workflows."

    Jannik Enders, Akustik Bureau Dresden
  • Jeroen Geraerts

    “We are currently using EASE 4 in our company and I must say I'm very happy with the changes in EASE 5. The workflow is much faster and more intuitive.”

    Jeroen Geraerts , Solufak BV
  • Luis Pique

    “EASE 5 provides swift simulation preparation, seamless integration with SketchUp, and visually stunning results, which make it perfect for creating high-quality reports. Its user-friendly design ensures a seamless experience for beginners and professionals, making it a valuable asset for your acoustic simulation needs.”

    Luis Pique, PK and Associates LTD
  • Brad Lyons

    “EASE 5 is a game changer offering easy to use, intuitive tools and modern workflows. Not only is the ability to import a 3D DWG into EASE 5 out of Vectorworks Spotlight a huge time-saver, but it keeps the consistency throughout all of my engineering programs and allows me to deliver stunning visual content of acoustics and loudspeakers analysis alike, in both 2D and 3D, that every one of my clients can easily understand.“

    Brad Lyons, HOWAVL
  • Maxence Castelain

    “Thanks to the AFMG Team for being “agile” with this new version of EASE. It’s reassuring to see that AFMG is taking the user’s feedback into account and continuously upgrades its software with top voted remarks. There has been a lot of new upgrades in few months since the first version that I get, and everything is going on the good direction!”

    Maxence Castelain , Arbane Group
  • Janko headshot

    “Congratulations to the AFMG team for excellent work on EASE 5 so far! The new technology and approach is highly appreciated, visualization and UX is great!”

    Janko Vodopija, MODO d.o.o.
  • M. Ziska, Graner Partner Ingenieure GmbH

    “EASE 5 makes it easy to create audience areas and align loudspeakers. You can easily orientate yourself in the model at any time, which not only helps when working on the project but also enables a clear presentation for customers.”

    Melanie Ziska, Acoustics engineer
  • Benedikt Kühne

    “We’re happy to rely on EASE 5 as efficient tool for standard-conform STI and RT calculations. This is how we support the technical planners and architects in an efficient and cost-saving way.”

    Benedikt Kühle, Ingenieurbüro Ostendorf & Partner GmbH & Co. KG
  • Kylan Bowden

    “EASE 5 greatly simplifies the process of creating and navigating around a 3D model. I was able to quickly learn the new interface and create predictions to help us design a system, and help the customer visualize the end-product.”

    Kylan Bowden, Canfield Systems Inc.