Utilizing Web Resources for Designing Distributed Sound Systems
Conference rooms, classrooms, restaurants, office buildings, and other commercial facilities use "Distributed Sound Systems" as an efficient means to distribute sound. Configuring these systems can be a little confusing if you don’t have the right tools and information. Thankfully, there are many useful resources on the Web for helping you select the right components for a Distributed Audio System.
We went through the basics of Distributed Audio Systems in our May 2007 Pro Audio Update. These systems are easy to configure and offer
an economical solution for many applications. They allow large numbers of speakers to be chained together in parallel, and there is no need to calculate impedance- just total power.
So…If you need to setup a music and/or paging system in your facility, don't be intimidated; simple configurations can be tackled without taking a graduate course in Audio engineering. Think of B&H Pro Audio as the "Home Depot" of Distributed Audio Systems, we want to help you do this yourself.
As a quick reminder- Distributed Sound Systems are made up of the following Basic Components:
2. Mixer & Amplifier- These provide input selection, signal control, and the power to drive speakers |
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3. Speakers – Two types of speakers are commonly used for fixed installations: Surface-Mount (external) & Ceiling-Mount (internal) |
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4. Speaker Wire - Most installations use 18-gauge, 20 conductor,stranded, jacketed wire. (There is no need for a shield) |
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Ok…now that we've taken a look at the hardware you will need, let's take a look at a Basic System Illustration, and some of the Software Tools and Resources that will help you find the best solution for your application.
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Basic 70-volt Distributed Speaker System Illustration |
TOA Resources
JBL Resources
Ceiling System Design Software
This free utility program helps select the proper JBL ceiling speaker to use for various applications, based on desired music level (for music systems) or background noise level (for paging systems).
Click her to download the program
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Distributed Speaker Systems 101
Ceiling Speaker Calculator Sheet
Bogen Resources
70V System Design Guide
How-to Guide walks you through all of basics including a helpful "Site Survey Check List"
Click here to view the pdf |
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Designing Better-Sounding In-Ceiling
Business Music Systems
Atlas Resources
Electro Voice Resources
The B&H Pro Audio Website
If you have any questions about Distributed Audio, or maybe you are ready to configure and install your first system, feel free to contact us on the phone, online, or in person at our superstore in New York City.
Feel free to speak to one of our Pro Audio experts at 1-800-416-5090 or visit www.bhproaudio.com today!
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Recording | Desktop Audio | Keyboards & Synths | ENG, EFP & Broadcast | Live Sound & PA Accessories
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