BOSTON, MA--Technomad Associates has upgraded to the GLL (Generic Loudspeaker Library) format to measure and present its loudspeaker design specifications to the pro audio industry. GLL format data gives Technomad design engineers, consultants and contractors more options in positioning and simulating loudspeakers in large sports, entertainment and other venues that require array or clustered installations. Technomad is one of several loudspeaker manufacturers that encompass the first wave of GLL supporters in the pro audio industry.
GLL is a new standard for measuring and storing loudspeaker performance data that is now part of the EASE software suite, which provides simulated creations of a room's 3D acoustic model and sound system. The GLL format provides highly accurate technical detail about the loudspeaker design and driver output so consultants and design engineers can more accurately position loudspeakers in various environments compared to simulated point source formats such as SPK or CLF.
Technomad recently visited NWAA Labs, an independent, vendor-neutral laboratory that provides uniform product testing of loudspeakers. Led by Ron Sauro, Owner and Chief Scientist of NWAA Labs, Technomad's range of IP56-rated weatherproof loudspeakers underwent GLL testing for the first time. The GLL testing system created by NWAA Labs uses a system of accurately-calibrated microphones positioned every five degrees in a four-meter arc to collect data in a highly consistent manner, with the loudspeakers immersed in an anechoic chamber to eliminate reflected acoustic artifacts. The process more accurately collects loudspeaker data than the traditional way of physically moving the position of a single microphone to record measurements at different angles and is much faster.
The tests officially quantify Technomad loudspeakers as GLL-ready, with results and measurements available for download and usage with the new EASE 4.2 software program.
"GLL testing is a critical step forward in accurate data collection for loudspeaker design engineers, particularly those specifying a venue that will include clusters of multiple loudspeakers," said Sauro. "Engineers and consultants who download the GLL files can more accurately predict what will happen in a room or facility when multiple cabinets are used, and also predict and better understand the interaction between all the cabinets and drivers in the loudspeakers. The GLL format provides a very accurate resolution of phase that is superior to how we previously measured and presented data."
Sauro added that manufacturers like Technomad benefit from GLL testing through physically assembling loudspeakers in a "virtual reality" or simulated environment, measuring the drivers without crossovers or digital signal processing, and making design changes that are instantly noticed. This improves the speed and accuracy of developing the loudspeaker.
