A select group of leading technologists, scientists, developers, and users in the sound reinforcement industry will gather to discuss the latest innovations in sound amplification and control systems for live performance, to share their insight on current and advanced techniques and technologies, and to present their visions for the future of the industry.
The program will include tutorials, papers, and workshops covering topics of practical approaches to system design; case study analysis; and the measurement, optimization, installation, and testing of sound systems. Topics to be addressed include Sound Reinforcement in Arenas, Stadiums, Theaters, Houses of Worship and Auditoriums; Bass Frequency Control; Active Array Techniques; Measurement Techniques & Equipment; Sound System Optimization; Audio Control Systems & Networks; Hearing & Hearing Conservation; Case Histories; Assistive Listening Installations & Technology; Wireless Technology; Electronic Architecture & Reverberation Enhancement; Advances in Transducer and Component Technologies; and more.
Meanwhile, the AES has announced Meyer Sound’s Director of System Optimization, Bob McCarthy, as the keynote speaker for the 59th International AES Conference. Known as an international authority on sound system design and optimization, McCarthy is also an educator and published author. His keynote speech, “Sound Systems Tuning and Optimization Made Simple and Affordable,” will take place on the first day of the conference, Wednesday, July 15, at 2:00 PM.
McCarthy has been a pivotal figure in the development of all three generations of Meyer’s Source Independent Measurement system (SIM) and a leading educator in sound system measurement and tuning. McCarthy's book, Sound Systems: Design and Optimization (Focal Press), is considered a definitive work in the field. McCarthy has designed countless systems around the world of all scales and types and has optimized systems for many of the most prestigious designers, including more than 10 Cirque du Soleil productions and seven productions of Wicked.
“Bob McCarthy’s keynote presentation should not be missed by anyone who strives for excellence in live sound reinforcement," says Professor Wieslaw Woszczyk of McGill University, co-chair of the 59th AES Conference.
Additionally, a special presentation hosted by Fraunhofer IDMT has recently been added. Taking place July 16 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm EDT, the event is called “Spatial Sound Reinforcement: Hands on!” High-quality acoustics that enhance performances and support localization of audio sources are a key factor for classical concerts, operas or theater performances. Sound reinforcement systems designed for such events should aim not only to achieve an excellent sound amplification, but also to recreate the most similar spatial and acoustical impression.
Under this premise, Fraunhofer IDMT has developed its “SpatialSound Wave” 3D audio system based on their ten years of experience collaborating with different opera festivals, and the long time development of Wave Field Synthesis. Richard King of McGill University, workshops co-chair for the conference, states, “The latest addition to this jam-packed program is an interactive 3D experience, for which attendees are encouraged to bring in their own multi-track files for a truly unique ‘spatial mixing’ session.”
www.aes.org/conferences/59/
