Setup guide

Dirac Theater Setup Guide Version 1.01

Document # 9301H40300V1.01

Introduction

This manual explains the procedure for optimizing the audio in a theater auditorium using Dirac Live

and the Datasat Digital Entertainment AP20 Audio Processor. It contains full instructions for setting up

equipment and software, performing audio measurements, and performing optimization.

One of the most compelling features of the AP20 is the inclusion of Dirac Live

room optimization

technology. Dirac Live

is a state-of-the-art digital room correction technology that improves the listener

experience by correcting for room modes and anomalies using high-resolution filter technology. The

result – improved musical staging, clarity of dialogue and an enhanced listener experience.

Traditionally, cinema processors utilize Third Octave Equalization. Each octave is divided into three

bands, and the gain or cut is adjusted. Newer cinema processors have parametric equalizers, which can

adjust the width as well as the center frequency of the filters.

Using the Datasat AP20 Audio Processor with Dirac Live

represents the next generation product for the

industry. This system features both third octave filters and parametric filters, but also includes

optimization technology based on digital signal processors (DSPs).

Dirac Live

replaces the traditional cinema audio optimization setup with an automated process that no

longer requires the third octave filters or the parametric filters.

Dirac Live

software creates coefficients, each consisting of 20,480 lines that describe a very complex

filter. This filter will correct for the aberrations in frequency and aberrations in time in a loudspeaker. So

if the arrival time coming off the mid-range loudspeaker is not quite lined up with the tweeter (and a lot of

older speakers are, in fact, that way), Dirac Live

will correct that by actually delaying whichever one is

leading. Beyond that, Dirac Live

will actually align the loudspeakers relative to one another in time,

resulting in a much tighter sound. Subtle psycho-acoustic cues like the sound changes that indicate the

performer is walking across the stage, will be more readily detectable when your system is properly

corrected for time and frequency aberrations.

Dirac Live

provides that added value, above and beyond traditional frequency correction, which is what

the third octave and parametric filters were all about.

Most important, the wireless technology enables the theater technician to optimize the audio in a cinema

without maneuvering a lot of wired equipment through the porthole, and around the auditorium.

Installer’s Kit

The Dirac Live® installer’s kit contains these items:

• Dirac Live setup software and hardware security key (dongle) (to be installed on laptop

computer)

• The AP20 Proxy software (to be installed on laptop computer)

• Measurement microphone (connects to preamp) and stand, mic calibration file (see Appendix

A), and mic cable

• USB Pre microphone preamp (plugs into laptop computer)

• Wireless router with power adapter and RJ45 network cable