This depends on the type of loudspeaker. FIRmaker can optimize the coverage of a column loudspeaker, or any other single loudspeaker that has multiple drivers operating in the same frequency region.

Theoretically it would be possible to use the FIRmaker algorithm as a simple tool to generate FIR-based crossover filters for conventional loudspeakers. However, FIRmaker was originally not intended as an optimization tool for a loudspeaker with only one, or very few, drivers operating in the same pass band (frequency range).

FIRmaker can be considered a universal optimization solution. It is capable of being used with almost any loudspeaker that is licensed for the technology by its manufacturer. It may differ in its implementation and optimization algorithm from those of proprietary solutions.

Two things are needed as a basis for FIRmaker optimization:

• FIRmaker enabled, high-resolution loudspeaker data "GLL"
• The definition, "model" of the venue to optimize the setup to.

The loudspeaker data is provided by your loudspeaker manufacturer. The model of the venue is defined by you. - AFMG provides the EASE Focus 3 software for this purpose. Different criteria can be defined in your setup. Mainly, these will be audience areas to aim the sound to and exclusion areas that FIRmaker will try to avoid sound from going to.

Support for different DSP platforms is rapidly growing. Currently it is already possible to export CSV and other, general filter types and to save them to files. These can be imported into your DSPs.

More and more DSP manufacturers work together with AFMG to enhance the integration of FIRmaker with their platforms. (Please see "Supported Brands / Supported DSP Platforms" for a comprehensive list.) At a final stage, these implementations will support a direct transfer of system setups and FIR filters between the controller software and FIRmaker.

Many modern arrays and especially column loudspeakers already integrate amplifiers and DSPs directly into the cabinets. For such systems, FIRmaker optimization is tailor made. However, many other existing systems employ amplification and processing in separate components. In many cases an affordable hardware solution will be driving two, three or even four cabinets with one amplifier channel. Consequently, only one DSP channel will be feeding the signal to several cabinets at once.

FIRmaker is not magic. It employs straight-forward laws of physics combined with high-end algorithms. Just like with any other physical process, simple limits apply:

The FIRmaker algorithm generally supports optimization of basically any array of loudspeakers. Currently, line arrays and steerable column loudspeakers as well as custom loudspeaker clusters are implemented within the tuning approach in EASE Focus 3.

A prerequisite for the optimization of specific types of loudspeakers will be that the manufacturer has purchased a FIRmaker license.

Yes, absolutely! You might even notice that your applied EQ will produce more consistent results throughout the whole venue than you have been used to before.

The reason for this is simple. FIRmaker is a  set of numerical algorithms able to optimize your system's performance. "Optimization", in this sense and within the parameters you set, attempts to tune the system for...

FIRmaker is a technology, a set of algorithms specifically developed by AFMG to be an open solution available to all loudspeaker manufacturers. AFMG believes that it makes sense to support open platforms instead of every manufacturer developing a costly, proprietary solution by himself. This way, AFMG software is available at very competitive prices or even for free while providing a large set of features and the highest quality simulations available in the market.

The aim to tune a sound system to a linear frequency response and to direct its output directly into the audience but nowhere else is not new. It is the daily struggle of every sound or system technician.