Electro-Voice has announced a platform-independent software application designed to configure Electro-Voice line array loudspeakers for optimised coverage. Preview software creates visualisations of coverage, SPL, frequency response and mechanical load calculations.
Preview uses a full-colour 3D interface with flexible tools to calculate the configurations and positioning of line arrays, as well as the angles between loudspeaker elements, amplifier drive and delay requirements, and other system design parameters. The software also recommends mechanically valid combinations of loudspeakers and rigging hardware.
The software offers a three-dimensional environment in which objects may be placed and manipulated. The user has complete control over rotation, scaling and translation and can also ‘see through’ any surface that is viewed straight on.
A set of practical tools helps establish the optimal acoustical representation of a real space. Quick Map delivers immediate visualisation of the coverage density. The flexible auto dB range option maps the predicted SPL range across the full available colour range, maximising the visual detail simultaneously in all the displays. Virtual microphone positioning assists in the prediction of frequency response anywhere in the venue.
A spectrogram display presents a vertical frequency response plot for each loudspeaker at the point at which its main geometric axis reaches the audience area. These plots are shown side-by-side, to help assess how evenly the venue is covered in both level and frequency. The software also simplifies creation of subwoofer arrays.
The application also includes a detailed report generation function and a project file database, providing users with detailed acoustical and mechanical information. This allows specifiers, designers and audio engineers to import existing designs and to store new project files, drawings and templates.
The first full public-release version of Preview will support most Electro-Voice touring and install line-array models, including the Electro-Voice X1(i), X2(i), XLC, XLD and XLE, as well as complementary subwoofers. Further models will be added in future versions.
