SOUND
ADVICE
By Bob Snelgrove
INTRODUCING THE AES75-2022
In March 2022 , the Audio Engineering Society ( AES ) introduced AES75-2022 , a standardized way of measuring and specifying the maximum linear sound pressure level of a loudspeaker . Currently , every manufacturer of loudspeakers quotes the maximum SPL of their products using a variety of different methods , some proprietary . This makes independent performance verification and comparisons of maximum SPL between different products impossible . The adoption and use of AES75 by manufacturers not only provides a valuable development tool in the research and development of better loudspeakers but makes third-party verification and product comparison possible . To do this the AES75 standard incorporates two key innovations . The first is Music-Noise , a dense new noise source that , for the first time , emulates the key power spectrum and crest factor of music . For the testing of loudspeakers expected to reproduce music , using Music-Noise as the test signal delivers a measurement result that is “ real world ”.
The second innovation is the step-bystep use of features found on commonly available transfer function analyzers to specify maximum SPL under standardized limits of loudspeaker power compression and distortion . Prior to AES75 maximum SPL ratings could be specified while ignoring distortion or the effects of power compression . Using the AES75 procedure ensures that the maximum SPL of the loudspeaker is stated under sustainable , comparable and repeatable conditions with the loudspeaker operating within its linear , low distortion range .
Bob Snelgrove is President of GerrAudio Distribution . He can be reached at
bob @ gerr . com .
By Richard Chycki
THE ARRIVAL OF ATMOS
As a music producer and engineer , I have been fortunate to witness the evolution of music technology firsthand . And I must say , the recent advancements in audio technology have been nothing short of revolutionary . In particular , the advent of ATMOS technology has been a gamechanger for the music community .
For those who may be unfamiliar , ATMOS technology allows for immersive , threedimensional audio experiences . It enables sound engineers and producers to create music that envelops the listener , providing a more realistic and dynamic experience . In simpler terms , it makes music sound like it is coming from all around you , rather than just from a few speakers .
The benefits of ATMOS technology for music are numerous . For one , it provides a more immersive and engaging listening experience . It allows listeners to feel as though they are engaged in the middle of the music , rather than sitting on the sidelines , simply listening to it .
This heightened sense of immersion can be especially powerful for live concert recordings , where the listener can feel as though they are in the crowd , re-living the music performance in real-time .
ATMOS technology also allows for greater creative freedom for producers and engineers . With the ability to create threedimensional soundscapes , the possibilities for creative expression are virtually endless . Producers can place instruments and vocal tracks in specific locations around the listener , creating unique and innovative soundscapes and experiences that were impossible to achieve previously .
In addition , ATMOS technology provides a more accurate vision of the artist ’ s music . Traditional stereo sound can often challenge some of the nuance and detail of a recording . But with ATMOS technology , every element of the music can be placed optimally and be heard more clearly , providing a more engaging experience .
But perhaps the most significant benefit of ATMOS technology for the music community is its potential to reinvigorate the industry . With the rise of streaming services , the way people consume music has changed dramatically . ATMOS technology offers a new and exciting way to experience music that is best replicated through a discrete multispeaker playback system . BUT … Dolby ’ s ATMOS Rendering software also outputs an impressive binaural 2-channel representation of the ATMOS format listening experience that targets billions of phone users to experience ATMOS with little change to the original listening hardware .
ATMOS creates a unique selling point for music , offering an experience that cannot be found through other mediums . This is leading to increased interest and demand for high-quality music recordings , providing a much-needed boost to the industry .
Of course , as with any new technology , there are challenges that must be overcome . One of the biggest hurdles for ATMOS technology is its accessibility . The technology is still relatively new and expensive , meaning that it is not yet widely available to the average music consumer . However , as the technology becomes more commonplace , we can expect to see more affordable options becoming increasingly available .
ATMOS technology represents a major breakthrough for the music industry . It provides a more immersive , engaging , and authentic listening experience while also offering producers and engineers greater creative freedom . And with the potential to reinvigorate the industry , ATMOS technology could prove to be a game-changer for the music community .
So , fellow music lovers , let ’ s embrace this new era of audio technology with open arms . Let ’ s explore the endless possibilities of three-dimensional soundscapes and create music that surrounds us , moves us , and inspires us . The future of music is looking brighter than ever and I , for one , cannot wait to see what comes next .
56 PROFESSIONAL SOUND