Sound is Powerful

Black and white image of an audio mixing desk

Sound is a powerful component in any live event. Get it right, and it may not be noticed by many, but if you get it wrong… everyone will know!

Poor sound quality or coverage can ruin the live event experience. To combat this, hardware manufacturers have released audio simulation and configuration software packages to assist audio engineers with system design.

Help is at hand

We thought we’d highlight one of our favourites – NEXO’s NS1 package. While it’s been available to use for over a decade, it doesn’t always get much mention outside of tech circles. Here we outline exactly why we encourage our sound designers to make use of it.

NS1 is a powerful free tool that optimises the performance and effectiveness of a NEXO sound system. Sound pressure level (SPL) coverage is a critical aspect of system design. It’s essential that sound is distributed evenly across an entire audience.

Bespoke sound design made easier

The NS1 interface uses simple drag and drop commands to place individual loudspeakers into a 3D venue model. This simulates the SPL coverage and displays it in a user-friendly heat-map. Audio designers can experiment with different loudspeaker configurations to see what kind of setup works best in each individual venue.

As designs are formed, rigging information such as weights, dynamic forces and gravity centres can also be gleaned from the software. This feedback allows the safe development of all setups.

Get involved

NEXO have always take a community approach to NS1. They enable and encourage users to upload and download venue information to and from their online venue library, compiled over many years.

NEXO’s NS1 is one of many packages we like to incorporate into our workflow to help ensure the very best results for our clients.

And, if all is done well, most of the audience won’t even notice our efforts.

Photo Credit: Stephen Niemeier