Array systems Flashcards
Why use array systems in live sound?
Array systems ensure even sound coverage, reduce unwanted reflections, and maintain consistent volume across the audience area.
What are the 3 rules of array systmes
- Establish audience arrangements
- Cover the audience, not the venue
- Maintain a 6dB difference between the quietest and loudest audience areas
What problem does floor-level speaker placement present in large venues?
It makes it difficult to maintain Rule #3 (6dB difference between quietest and loudest areas) without deafening the front row.
How does distance affect sound amplitude in a venue?
Doubling the distance from the sound source results in a -6dB drop in amplitude.
What is a key equation for managing vertical sound coverage in array systems?
2x ≥ y - consistent coverage
How can we solve the problem of floor-level speakers in large venues?
By elevating the speaker to improve vertical coverage and ensure a more even distribution of sound. 2x ≥ y
What does X and Y represent
X = shortest distance (front of audience)
Y + Longest distance (furthest audience members)
What is a common issue with flown arrays?
They can have large vertical coverage but narrow horizontal coverage due to speaker design and positioning.
What is the Inverse Square Law in live sound?
every doubling of distance away from the sound source, the sound will be four times less intense.
How can we improve horizontal coverage in a venue?
Adding a center fill speaker helps cover gaps in horizontal sound distribution, if aesthetics and technical constraints allow.
How does the Inverse Square Law affect audience experience?
Listeners farther from the speakers hear significantly lower volumes, requiring careful speaker placement and additional fills or delays.
Why is the Inverse Square Law important in array system design?
It helps predict volume loss over distance, allowing engineers to position speakers to maintain even sound coverage.
How can sound engineers compensate for the effects of the Inverse Square Law?
By using multiple speakers, delay stacks, and proper array positioning to maintain consistent volume across the audience.
What is the purpose of using sound mapping software in live sound?
It helps predict how sound will be distributed in a space, allowing adjustments before physical setup.
What software is used to configure mapping
Meyer’s Galileo Galixy management app
What are the benefits of using Active Array Speakers?
Active Array Speakers
balanced line-level input: thus reducing noise pickup, eliminating the need for a large rack of amplifiers, making installation more efficient and compact.
What is a disadvantage of using Passive Array Speakers?
require external DSP (digital signal processing) and amplifiers since the cabinet has no power. This leads to heavy, cumbersome speaker cables, increased expense, and difficulty with storage and transport.
What is an Active Array System?
Active Array System has built-in amplifiers and DSP in each speaker, which makes it self-powered. It reduces the need for external amplifiers, simplifies installation, and minimizes space and weight.
What is a Passive Array System?
A Passive Array System requires external amplifiers and DSP because the speaker cabinets don’t have their own power source, making the setup more complex and heavier.
Why should you be careful with DMX over XLR connections?
DMX (lighting control) and XLR (audio) connections should not be mixed, as feeding lighting control data into a PA speaker (or vice versa) can cause malfunction or damage to the equipment.
What is the purpose of 5-pin XLR connections in live sound systems? clue - rms
The 5-pin XLR carries the normal balanced line signal as well as the RMS (Remote Monitoring System) signal, not to be confused with Root Mean Square.
What is LOLER?
LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) governs the safe use of lifting equipment, requiring it to be fit for purpose, properly marked, regularly inspected, and defects reported.
