Dale: Yes, when we have a distribution amplifier or some similar device that requires gain stage setting, we will use a scope and signal generator.

CharlieH: Please elaborate on balancing the system with the IE30.

Dale: Once the loudspeakers have been properly EQ'd, we go around the room with pink noise through the system and set the amplifiers so that the volume levels in all the seats are within 1-2dB. We will typically start with the individual clusters and then integrate all
the speakers to make sure there is even loudness throughout the room.

Steve: What about interference?

Dale: There will always be interference if you have more than one loudspeaker. The trick is to aim the interference to the areas where people are not, and to try to minimize it where the people are. This is why the test results put out by the manufacturers is so important.

Dale (continued): If a loudspeaker doesn't perform like the manufacturer says it will, we tend to shy away from them. There are a few out there who do this. No, I won't say who.
Steve: Do you go for coverage over interference? Where and how do you compromise? What gives first?

Dale: I try to get the maximum coverage with the least amount of interference. When music or speech is played over the loudspeaker system it is usually very difficult to hear the interference because it is so random.

Dale (continued): If you are listening with pink noise playing, you can usually hear interference of some frequency just about everywhere in the room. So I tend to put more emphasis on coverage.

GZ: What is acceptable coverage? +/- 2dB?

Dale: It really depends on the program and the room. But generally, yes, +/-2db is what we strive for.

yam4000vca: Have you gone the next step in some of your installs and used a digital console? If so, what types seem to work the best for this type of application?

Dale: Yes, we recently specified three Yamaha digital consoles, the PM1D, for the Potter's House in Dallas. I am currently specifying the Innova-Son compact for a Methodist Church in Plano, TX. I really like the user interface of the Innova-Son but the Yamaha is more powerful and flexible. We have been specifying the Yamaha 01’s & 02R’s for years as sub-mixers

JM: We hear about beam steering and etc., accomplished in the DSP realm. How much of this is really true? Can you really "steer" a beam with DSP?

Dale: It depends on the loudspeaker. If you are using the EAW TD Series low-frequency line arrays in the active mode, yes, you can steer the beam using the DSP and gain controls.