Simulation Techniques: Acoustical Shape Optimization for Vibroacoustics Applications

Having detailed how formal optimization can be used for product design of audio products such as speakerphones and waveguides, in this article René Christensen explores free-form and alternative optimization techniques where the topology of the geometry is given from the outset. Using practical examples, this article addresses shape optimization techniques, identifying useful types of boundaries and challenges to look out for audio product designs. This article was originally published in audioXpress, February 2024.

For ISE 2024, Waterfall Audio is planning the launch of a brand-new range of exclusive glass loudspeakers, expanding the number of solutions from its specialized installation product portfolio. The French speaker specialist from Carcès en Provence will celebrate the 20th edition of the systems integration show with the launch of the Niagara XT range of glass speakers for luxury residential projects, featuring new wood horns and new Jetstream damping technology.

This patent describes, a compact high-fidelity sound reproduction system achieving high efficiency, low distortion, wide bandwidth, and extended low-frequency reach, and which can be used as a sub-bass woofer, bass woofer, mid-bass woofer, and mid-range speaker for residential or commercial large venue applications. The system includes a dynamic driver driven bass horn, a looped resonator duct (ring geometry), which can be folded, and an adjustable feedback duct allowing sound characteristics to be tailored. This article was originally published in Voice Coil, April 2016.

Celestion announced the launch of HornWizard 2.0, the updated and enhanced version of the desktop and mobile application which is a portal to the company’s free powerful horn design software. The updates bring enhanced functionality and now allow users to design horns for Celestion’s 1.4" and 2" exit compression drivers, including the Axi2050, and adds horn length as a primary parameter. It also introduces the possibility to refine and compare multiple up to 3 designs, as well as design horns with Circular or Elliptical mouths.

A design by John Hilliard, Altec Lansing Voice of the Theatre systems originally targeted movie theaters. The entire series was gradually expanded for use in general sound reinforcement and later converted in extreme high-end audio segments for hi-fi home use. Dorsey knows cinema sound inside and out, and in this article he shares his personal thoughts about these highly valued horn designs, and provides valuable tips on how to restore them. This article was originally published in audioXpress, September 2020.

As a leading manufacturer of professional audio drivers for sound reinforcement applications, as well as guitar and bass loudspeakers, Celestion has a long history with horns and horn-loaded transducer design, an area the company continues to explore in new designs and to better support customers projects and requirements. The Celestion engineering team programmed its own tools for horn simulation. Now, Celestion announced HornWizard, a new desktop and mobile application which is basically a portal to the company’s powerful horn design software.