EASE 5 Second Edition

EASE 5 Second Edition - The modern approach to electro- and room acoustic simulation

Software

EASE represents the established standard in electro- and room acoustic simulation worldwide. The modern platform of EASE 5 combines a highly precise and proven calculation engine with an intuitive user interface and new tools enabling effective workflows adapted to different usage scenarios.

EASE 5 is the ideal solution for acousticians, consultants, specifying engineers, and installation companies to realize their projects efficiently and present them to their clients in a clear and scientifically based manner and from an acoustic professional’s perspective.

Due to short development cycles, the feature set of the state-of-the-art software is continuously and rapidly expanded. Following an agile approach, the roadmap is based on clearly structured, sequential feature development and on top voted requests from active users providing their feedback. Updates are continuously provided within the time limit of the license, free of charge.

 

Applications

EASE 5 provides wide-ranging applicability from immersive designs in entertainment venues to speech intelligibility in airports and SPL coverage in shopping malls.

It enables time-saving, highly efficient implementation of:

Sound system validation and planning
Straight-forward analysis of SPL coverage and distribution
Evaluation of room acoustics
Easy tuning of absorption and reverberation time
Calculation and optimization of design criteria and metrics
Delay, clarity, speech intelligibility and ISO 3382 parameters at your fingertips
Advanced room-acoustic investigations
Accessible reflection analysis, full-length impulse response calculations and auralization

 

Key Benefits

Modern user interface with efficient workflows

Image
Key Benefit 1

Large and accurate loudspeaker database with line arrays and steerable loudspeakers

Image
Key Benefit 3

Direct and fully interactive optimization of sound system and room acoustic model 

Image
Key Benefit 2

Precise simulation engine that matches real-world measurements

Image
Key Benefit 4

 

Introductions to EASE 5 Second Edition and First Edition

The following videos give a good insight into the principles, the structure and the workflows of EASE 5:

 

Versions & Prices

Starting with EASE

Upgrading from EASE 4

Renewal Costs

   

 

Features

Importing drawings and 3D models

DWG import

EASE 5 allows importing 3D models, or 2D parts of the room, in  DWG format. These can be complete rooms or just the basis for drawing a room in EASE.

  • Import DWG files from CAD tools such as AutoDesk AutoCAD software, Trimble SketchUp Pro or Rhinoceros 3D by Robert McNeel & Associates
  • Supports 3D Polylines, 3D Faces, and Polyface Meshes
  • Supports 2D Polylines, LW Polylines, Arcs, Circles, and Ellipses
  • Supports importing of layers or tags for project organization, acoustic material, creation of audience areas and reflectors or parapets
  • Ensure model consistency using geometrical analysis tools of EASE 5
  • Insert faces in holes and invert wrongly oriented faces to establish a model suitable for acoustic simulation
  • Assign acoustic materials to surfaces and add loudspeakers, audience areas as well as receivers to the model
     
Image
DWG Import

 

Modeling based on drawings

For many projects, only section plans are available for 3D room modeling. In EASE 5, floor plans, front and section views can be loaded as graphics files and used as a reference for drawing the room model.

  • Load various image file formats, such as JPG or PNG
  • Adjust orientation according to section plane
  • Scale drawings based on known dimensions
  • Position drawings in the 3D coordinate system as a reference for entering the room coordinates
  • Use projection functions and constraints to derive coordinates from the drawings interactively while entering surfaces, placing loudspeakers, and defining receivers
  • Hide or delete drawings after the room building is complete
     
Image
Import Image Files.

 

Import and export of EASE 4 projects (.frd file format)

EASE 5 allows importing and exporting EASE 4 project files in FRD format. This makes it easier to get started in EASE 5 by loading existing projects created in EASE 4.4, as well as exchanging EASE data with 3rd parties who are still using EASE 4.4. Since the two software tools are conceptionally different, there are some limitations with respect to the compatibility between them.

Importing projects from EASE 4.4:

  • Faces, loudspeakers, audience areas and listener seats can be imported, objects are not yet supported
  • Coated and two-fold faces are converted automatically to EASE 5 faces
  • SPK speaker models are not supported and some loudspeaker filters settings are not maintained
  • Import log shows all corrections

Exporting projects to EASE 4.4:

  • Faces, loudspeakers, audience areas and listener seats can be exported, section drawings are ignored
  • Face in faces and holes are converted to EASE 4 faces
  • Filters of loudspeakers and processing blocks are combined and exported
  • Audience areas with more than four points are split
  • Selection sets are exported as objects
Image
Import and Export FRD

 

 

DWG export

  • Room geometry, material assignments and loudspeakers can be export as CAD model in DWG format
  • Faces are exported as polyface meshes
  • Materials are converted to layers and respective faces are assigned to the corresponding layer.
  • Loudspeaker case drawings are converted to polylines and grouped and named by loudspeaker. These elements are stored in a separate layer.

 

Creating the 3D model 

To enter 3D models from the scratch or based on drawings, EASE 5 provides a light-weight CAD editor. The editor allows precise entering of coordinates by an intuitive drawing toolset. 

Faces can be created using a range of tools:

  • Insert points directly by mouse click or by snapping to existing points
  • Insert points by entering coordinates in absolute or relative mode
  • Use axis and plane constraints to infer 3D coordinates quickly
  • Snap to mid-points, surfaces and other elements
  • Infer coordinates from section drawings 
  • Derive intersections with room element

 

Image
Use axis and plane constraints to infer 3D coordinates quickly.

    A large set of functions supports the creation and modification of the 3D room model. These functions are consistent with the drawing toolset provided for creating faces and are available for:

    • Inserting loudspeakers, audience areas, listener seats
    • Inserting faces in faces
    • Inserting circles and arcs
    • Moving room elements to a new location
    • Extruding faces to create rooms or 3D bodies
    • Duplicating room elements one or multiple times
    • Rotating parts of the room or the room as a whole
    • Choosing an anchor point anywhere in the model for move, duplicate, rotate and extrude functions
    • Moving vertices and points
    • Adding or combining projects in EASE format or DWG format
    Image
    Inserting faces in face.

      Additional functions supporting the room-building process include:

      • Multi-selection - selecting and modifying multiple items at once
      • Mirror items in X- and Y-direction
      • Create two-sides face configurations
      • Invert the orientation of faces
      • Insert audience areas above faces
      • Status display with context information about the selected element
      • Measurement of distances and delays
      • Previews during editing steps
      • Full undo / redo functionality
      Image
      Duplicated face preview.

        When it comes to finetuning the model, preparing it for the simulation and fixing potential errors, several tools and views help to find potential geometrical problems in the model or acoustically wrong oriented faces.

        • Apply view slices to hide parts of the model
        • Use the x-ray and wireframe views to better understand the 3D structure of the model
        • Switch to parallel perspective to verify model consistency using standard view directions
        • Activate geometrical analysis tools that highlights holes and stacked faces in the model
        • Refer to the calculation results for room volume and surface areas
           
        Image
        Missing faces indicated by the outlines highlighted in red and stacked faces highlighted in yellow.

        For detailed information, please have a look at the hands-on video tutorial Building a room model based on 2D drawings in EASE 5:

         

        Clear software structure and environment 

        Window management

        EASE 5 is structured in a clear and flexible way. The room model, the associated data as well as the results can be accessed in different windows. The software is subdivided into a main program and the calculation modules. The main program offers the following windows:

        • One or multiple 3D views for viewing and editing the room model in 3D
        • Properties window for selected items
        • Configurator window for advanced loudspeaker systems
        • Materials in Use window for managing wall materials
        • Loudspeakers table
        • Filters window
        • Processing blocks window for managing signal processing of loudspeaker groups
        • Acoustic parameters window

          All windows of the main program can be resized, moved, undocked and docked. The window layout is remembered automatically.

          Image
          Example theater in EASE 5 First Edition.
          Image
          Solid Rendering view in the Room Mapping module.

          The calculation modules are linked to the main program and have each their own main window. These modules are:

          • Room Mapping for viewing the room, calculating mappings and reflectograms
          • Ray Tracing for generating reflectograms and response files
          • Probe for analyzing and post-processing reflectograms and response files
          • EARS for auralizing response files

          Additionally, the material editor is available as a module controlled by the main program.

          Views

          The following presentation views and view settings are available for the 3D model:

          • ​​​​Coordinate system indicated by axes
          • Central perspective – narrow and wide view angles
          • Parallel perspective with X, Y, Z and 3D standard view directions
          • Slices in X, Y, and Z planes can be used to hide parts of the model
          • The X-Ray, X-Ray and Wireframe, Wireframe modes allow better understanding of the 3D structure of the room
          • The X-Ray with Orientation mode shows the inside/outside orientation of the surface elements
          • Highlight holes and stacked faces using the Geometry Analysis modes
          • Look from loudspeaker or listener seats
          • Loudspeakers can be displayed as symbols or using their cabinet drawings
          • Faces, loudspeakers, section drawings, audience areas and listener seats can be hidden

          Additionally, the Room Mapping module offers different views providing solid renderings of the 3D model.

          Image
          Slice Z example.
          Slice applied in the Z plane.

          Navigation

          Using the mouse as well as keyboard functions the model can be viewed and navigated according to standard conventions.

          • Zoom in and out at any point using the mouse wheel 
          • Pan the model
          • Rotate the model in any direction
          • Scale-to-fit functions for full view and for zoom on selected room elements
          • Status text shows mouse location and view angles

          Please see the related FAQ in addition.

          Saving Graphics

          The content of each window can be copied to the clipboard for further use in other software. It can also be saved as a graphics file.

          Extensive loudspeaker database

          Largest database of sound Sources, in GLL format

          With EASE you can perform simulations supported by an extensive loudspeaker database including around 2500 data sets from about 140 brands, covering the majority of the world’s renowned loudspeaker manufacturers. Highly accurate loudspeaker data is stored in the GLL format and allows simulation accuracy of up to 1 dB. 

          Additionally, AFMG provides a number of generic loudspeaker models including a line array, several ceiling loudspeakers, a two-way loudspeaker and an omnidirectional source.
           

          Managing the database

          For EASE 5 the loudspeaker databases, sorted by brands, can be downloaded from the AFMG website and then imported via the ribbon menu.

          The following functions are available for viewing and selecting from the database

          • Filter database by search function
          • List of speaker models sorted by brand and data file version number
          • Authorization status and data accuracy are indicated
          • Logo embedded in speaker model files
          • Includes Unique ID for reference
          • Supports both GLL- as well as DLL-based speaker models
          • Outdated or invalid speaker models can be removed from the database
          Image
          Searching a brand and selecting a loudspeaker from the database.
            Loudspeaker handling

             

            Image
            Inserting a line array using the drawing toolset of the CAD editor.

            Inserting loudspeakers

            Loudspeakers can be inserted into the model by selecting a speaker model from the database or by duplicating loudspeakers that already exist. 

            • Insert loudspeakers using the drawing toolset of the CAD editor
            • Specifically, loudspeakers can also be placed on surfaces and will be automatically oriented in the direction of the surface element
            • A preview shows the case drawing of the loudspeaker in advance
            • Replace the speaker model by another one using the Replace function

             

            Image
            Loudspeaker properties window and aiming lines.

              Configuring loudspeakers

              The primary properties of a loudspeaker are configured through its properties window.

              • User-defined label
              • Information only: Speaker model and brand as well as additional information
              • Position (X, Y, Z coordinates)
              • Orientation (Hor, Ver, Rot angles)
              • Gain settings (filter configuration)

              Loudspeaker objects are visualized as follows:

              • Case drawing or symbol display
              • Aiming lines in the 3D views
              • Arrows indicating radiation and upward direction

              Loudspeaker configurations can also be copied to other loudspeakers. Predefined configurations (presets) can be selected as well.

               

                Signal processing for loudspeakers

                Signal processing functions can be defined in the Filter Stage window for each loudspeaker as follows:

                • Gain and delay
                • Add and remove one or several filters:
                  • High- and low-shelf
                  • Peak (symmetrical and asymmetrical)
                  • All-pass
                  • High- and low-pass (Butterworth, Linkwitz-Riley and Bessel)
                • Filter functions can be set to bypass or solo mode
                • Graph shows resulting complex filter transfer function
                • Additionally, input configurations and predefined filters as provided by the manufacturers can be selected
                • Loading beam-steering settings and filter configurations from XGLC configuration files
                • Invert polarity, bypass, and reset functions

                All filter functions are also available for each input of a loudspeaker or line array element.

                Image
                Filters window.

                   

                  Processing blocks

                  Processing blocks can be used to group loudspeakers and to assign various signal processing functions similar to individual loudspeakers:

                  • Add and remove loudspeakers using drag & drop
                  • User-defined label
                  • Gain, delay, and filter functions via the Filter Stage window
                  • Attached loudspeakers are automatically highlighted in the 3D view and vice versa
                    Image
                    Processing groups defined.

                     

                    Global EQ

                    The Global EQ can be used to apply signal processing functions to the whole sound system. Gain, delay, and filter functions are available via the Filter Stage window.

                     

                    Loudspeakers Table

                    The loudspeakers table provides an overview of all loudspeakers and their parameters in the model including gain and delay settings. The table can be exported to the clipboard for further use. Loudspeakers can be highlighted and selected in the table.

                    Image
                    Loudspeakers table window.

                    A sound system configuration in XLD text file format can be loaded as a new project or added to an existing project.

                    Configuration of line arrays and clusters

                    The Configurator window of EASE 5 provides configuration functions for advanced speaker models. In the case of DLL-based proprietary speaker models the embedded dialog window can be accessed through the Configurator window. For GLL-based speaker models, line array systems as well as loudspeaker clusters can be built and modified easily.


                    For line arrays, the following functions are available:

                    • Select from available frame types, such as flown or ground stack
                    • Append, insert or remove boxes based on available box types
                    • Adjust splay angles interactively by drag & drop
                    • Set gain per array element
                    • Select input configurations and predefined filters as provided by manufacturer
                    • Define filter settings for each input of each array element
                    • Switch between tuning view and schematic view as well as tabular overview
                    • Indicator shows configuration warnings and errors
                    • Line arrays are automatically preconfigured using the first preset in the GLL file
                    • Make use of different settings for optimal workflows

                    For loudspeaker clusters similar functions are available depending on the definition of the GLL file.

                    In addition to manual setup, a configuration can be loaded also from an XGLC file. These files can be saved from within another software such as AFMG’s EASE Focus or from EASE itself.

                    Line array configurations can also be copied to other line arrays.

                    Image
                    AFMG Line Array Config
                    Image
                    RCF TTL Config
                    Image
                    Y-Series Config
                    Material management

                    Database

                    EASE 5 is delivered with an extensive, reviewed database of materials for ceilings, walls, and floors. These materials are assigned to faces in order to determine the acoustic properties of the face.

                    The database includes a number of categories, namely the materials loaded in the current project, a small generic database designed by AFMG, a large curated database by AFMG and a user-defined database with custom materials. The following functions are available for viewing and selecting materials from the entire database:

                    • Filter database by search function
                    • List of materials sorted by category and name
                    • Material name and description
                    • Reference or source of origin
                    • Curve showing frequency dependent absorption coefficients as well as scattering coefficients
                    • Average absorption coefficient
                    • Search tag
                    • Exporting material as MAT file
                    Image
                    Materials database list.

                    Materials in use window

                    All materials used in the project are shown as tiles in the Materials in Use window and provide the following additional information:

                    • Surface area covered with this material
                    • Percentage % of the whole surface area covered with the material
                    • Equivalent absorption area
                    • Data as available in the database, such as description or absorption curve

                    The materials in use can be visualized also as a table, which can easily be exported for insertion in reports.

                    A user-defined color can be assigned to each material used in the project.

                     

                    Image
                    R60 Materials in Use

                     

                    Material Editor

                    In order to create new materials or modify materials of the custom materials database, the material editor can be used to insert or adapt absorption coefficients:

                    • Modify absorption coefficients of materials used in the project to achieve the measured or desired target RT curve
                    • Enter or adjust scattering coefficients of project materials
                    • Define new materials according available measurement data or publications
                    • Import existing material database from EASE 4.4

                     

                    Image
                    Material Editor.

                     

                    Receivers

                    Audience Areas

                    Audience areas represent the virtual planes that are used for mappings and calculations. Audience areas can be inserted into the model manually using the drawing toolset of the CAD editor. They can also simply be added using the Area Above Face function or by duplicating audience areas that already exist. 

                    Audience areas support the following properties:

                    • User-defined name
                    • Ear height setting – for example, for standing or sitting audience
                    • Arbitrary number of points
                    Image
                    Example of audience area and its properties window.

                     

                    Listener Seats

                    Listener seats are used to represent important listening positions or measurement positions. Mapping and auralisation results can be calculated at these specific locations.

                    Listener seats can be manually inserted into the model or by duplicating a listener seat that already exists. 

                    • Insert listener seats using the drawing toolset of the CAD editor
                    • Specifically, listener seats can also be inserted on faces and on audience areas and will be automatically placed at ear height
                    • A preview shows the seat symbol at the listener position in advance

                    The primary properties of a listener seat are configured through its properties window.

                    • User-defined label
                    • Position (X, Y, Z coordinates)
                    • Orientation (Hor, Ver, Rot angles)
                    Image
                    Listener seat selected in the 3D View.
                    Grouping

                    Grouping

                    • Multi-select of room items is available for all modification functions
                    • Loudspeakers can be assigned to processing blocks according to necessary signal processing
                    • Faces can be grouped by their materials
                    • Selection sets can be used to group any selection of items and recall them for viewing and modification
                    Image
                    Multiple items selected.

                    Selection sets

                    • Create, modify and delete sets of selected items with user-defined names
                    • Cross-highlight included items in other windows and vice versa
                    • View properties of included items such as assigned speaker models and acoustic materials
                    • Recall selection for all room modification functions and calculations
                    • Select all items of one type such as all loudspeakers or all faces
                    • Select single items and subsets of items for further use
                    Image
                    Selection Sets Window.
                    Calculation parameters

                    Calculation parameters

                    • Supported frequency range from 100 Hz to 10 kHz
                    • Calculation in bandwidths of 1/3rd octave, 1/1 octave, 3 octave, broadband or user-defined
                    • SPL can be viewed Z-weighted and A-weighted
                    • Supported input signals: Pink noise, speech (IEC 60268-16:2020), music (EIA 426B), program (IEC 60268-1)  
                    • Apply changes to signal level and noise level after mapping calculations and update STI results without recalculation (Std, Pro)
                    • Automatic STI optimization function for determining best signal level at given S/N (Std, Pro)
                    Image
                    Input signal selection.

                     

                    Direct field mapping (JR, Std, Pro)

                    The direct field mapping functions of EASE 5 offer a set of different result outputs that are used to optimize the coverage of the sound system.

                    Image
                    Example of direct SPL mapping.

                    The direct field mapping results include the following mappings:

                    • Direct SPL
                    • Arrival times
                    • Loudspeaker coverage overlap
                    • Initial Time Delay (ITD) Gap
                    • Loudspeaker density (3 dB, 10 dB)
                    • Horizontal angle of direction of localized source
                    Mapping functions (JR, Std, Pro)

                    Generally speaking, mappings can be calculated on faces, audience areas and listener seats. For all mappings the following evaluation functions are available:

                    • Saving and opening mapping files
                    • Result data can be exported in both text and graphic formats
                    • Peek and Print Value mouse modes for reading results at user-defined positions
                    • Distribution statistics including spatial average, standard deviation, minimum and maximum values
                    • Cumulative distribution showing threshold and mean values for top 80%, 85%, 90% and 95% (e.g., for EN 54-32)
                    • Graphs showing corresponding frequency response curves
                      Statistical room acoustics (JR, Std, Pro)

                      Acoustic parameters

                      In EASE 5, the main program provides an overview of all parameters needed for acoustic calculations in one view. These are used also for subsequent calculation and analyses.

                      • Air properties: temperature, pressure and humidity
                      • Volume - with indication for closed and open rooms.
                      • Surface area
                      • Average absorption coefficient
                      • Measured and calculated reverberation time
                      • Assumed or measured noise level and noise spectrum

                      Input values can be modified easily, dependent results are immediately updated and visualized.
                       

                      Image
                      Acoustic Parameters window.

                      Mapping of room acoustic results

                      The Standard Mapping function allows a large number of simulations to be performed based on the diffuse field assumptions of statistical acoustics. Standard Mapping makes use of Eyring statistical formula to generate RT figures that will be used to calculate acoustical parameters, such as STI (Speech Transmission Index) and Total SPL. Measured RT data can also be used for this type of mapping.

                      Image
                      STI mapping example.

                      In addition to the direct field results the following room acoustic results are provided using Standard Mapping functions:

                      • Total SPL – Sum of direct + reverberant sound field
                      • Speech intelligibility measures: STI according to IEC 60268-16:2020, RaSTI, ALCons
                      • D/R Ratio (Direct/Reverberant ratio)
                      • Critical Distance
                      • Clarity and Definition Measures: C7, C50, C80, C-Split
                      • Sound Pressure Levels: L7, L50, L80, L-Split
                      • Privacy Index, Articulation Index
                      • S/N Ratio

                      The same evaluation functions as for the direct field mapping are available for these mappings, as well.

                      Ray-tracing and reflection analysis (Std, Pro)

                      Standard Mapping with Reflections, Local Decay Time

                      Standard mapping results based on statistical acoustics can be extended by including early, specular reflections using simple ray-tracing functions. Using this combination, the same room acoustic quantities are calculated in a mapping format. 

                      • Total SPL – Sum of direct + reverberant sound field
                      • Speech intelligibility measures: STI according to IEC 60268-16:2020, RaSTI, ALCons
                      • D/R Ratio (Direct/Reverberant ratio)
                      • Critical Distance Clarity and Definition Measures: C7, C50, C80, C-Split
                      • Sound Pressure Levels: L7, L50, L80, L-Split
                      • Privacy Index, Articulation Index
                      • S/N Ratio
                      Image
                      Standard mapping with reflections menu option.

                      Additionally, the Local Decay Time mapping allow analyzing local reverberation times with respect to selected positions in the room.

                      The same evaluation functions as for the direct field mapping are available for these mappings, as well.

                       

                      Reflection patterns

                      Using the Ray Tracing module, reflection patterns can be calculated, analyzed, and visualized in order to find, e.g., audible reflections, focusing effects, and flutter echoes. They can also be used to aim loudspeakers and reflectors. The following functions are available for this purpose:

                      • Control ray tracing process by cut-off criteria (reflection order, time) as well as number of rays
                      • Select loudspeakers of interest as ray sources
                      • Optionally, select faces that should be considered for reflections
                      • View results in the 3D model as rays or as sound particles, at fixed points for time or animated
                      • Color coding for different conditions and parameters
                      • Save and recall result files
                      Image
                      Viewing reflections over a selected face.

                      Reflection analysis

                      The Ray Tracing module also calculates response functions for user-defined locations in the room. These so-called reflectograms contain precise information about each reflection, such as its arrival time, level, frequency response, and direction given a listener seat or measurement position.

                      In combination with the Probe module and the 3D wireframe view of the Ray Tracing module, the reflectograms can be analyzed interactively in many different ways:

                      • Step through all reflections found and highlight each one in the 3D view and in the Probe reflectogram
                      • Select individual reflections in the Probe reflectogram view to identify and investigate the paths of audible echoes
                      • Use the Movie function to view an animation of sound particles moving through the room in 3D
                      • Use the 3D hedgehog display to obtain an impression which directions important reflections come from
                      • Look at reflection points and level losses along the propagation path of the ray
                      Image
                      Selecting individual reflections in the Probe reflectogram view.

                      Measurement Probe

                      The Probe module of EASE 5 is used to view and analyze response files and reflectograms calculated primarily using ray-tracing methods. It works similar to a measurement suite and offers many different views and evaluation methods.

                      A number of displays are available, including:

                      • Reflectogram
                      • Impulse Response (IR) and Energy Time Curve (ETC)
                      • Waterfall
                      • Frequency Response (for sound sources and even for each reflection)
                      • Sound Pressure Levels (Direct SPL, L7, L50, L80, Total SPL, L-Split)
                      • 3D Hedgehog (Direction and Relative Level – Horizontal, Vertical or 3D)
                      • Phase Angles
                      • Reverberation Times including Schroeder RT, Eyring RT and tolerance ranges
                      • Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), Speech Transmission Index (STI) according to IEC 60268-16:2020
                      • Clarity and Definition Measures (C7, C50, C80)

                      If the response is not the result of a full-length ray tracing simulation using AURA, it can be extended by a predicted tail to obtain an approximately complete impulse response.

                      Further editing and analysis functions include the ability of activating or deactivating parts of the response:

                      • Loudspeakers
                      • Reflection orders
                      • Single reflections

                      The response file can be transferred to the EARS module for auralization (Pro feature level only).

                      Full-length mapping and response analysis (Pro)

                      Full-length analysis with scattering (AURA module)

                      The AURA module provides advanced ray-tracing functions. They make use of a 64-bit engine and multi-threading in order to calculate accurate, full-length echograms and impulse responses including scattering effects and without tail estimates. This allows deriving all important acoustic quantities according to ISO 3382 and IEC 60268-16 with high accuracy.

                      Important calculation parameters for calculating full-length mappings and room responses can be adjusted by the user, including:

                      • Time length (cut-off time)
                      • Number of particles
                      • Scattering curve including the so-called S-curve
                      • Number of threads
                      • Loudspeakers in use
                         
                      Image
                      STI simulation in a stadium with AURA Mapping.

                      Full-length mapping

                      The AURA Mapping function provides the following results in a mapping format:

                      • Direct SPL
                      • Arrival Time
                      • Total SPL
                      • Signal-to-Noise Ratio
                      • Clarity and Definition Measures (D, C50, C80)
                      • Center Time
                      • Reverberation Times EDT, T10, T20, T30
                      • Lateral Fraction LF and LFC
                      • Sound Strength G
                      • STI (according to IEC 60268-16:2020) and ALCons
                      • Echo Criteria for Music and Speech
                      Image
                      Theatre - T30 simulation by AURA.

                      The same evaluation functions as for the direct field mapping are available for these mappings, as well.

                      For each receiver position the following data is additionally available:

                      • Echograms for all frequencies
                      • Histogram
                      • Integration curves for echo criteria
                      • Forward energy sum, Schroeder backward integral and intensity integral
                         

                      Full-length response analysis

                      The AURA Response function calculates full-length response files in the following formats:

                      • Response (RSP) files for detailed analysis in Probe module
                      • Binaural (BIR) files for auralization in EARS module
                      • B-Format (WAV) files for auralization in Ambisonics setups

                      The same Probe evaluation functions as for specular ray-tracing results are available for AURA Response results.

                      Image
                      Full-length reflectogram computed with AURA.png
                      Full-length auralization (Pro)

                      Auralization is the process of simulating and making audible the effects of playing a known reference sound, such as program material, through a defined loudspeaker system in a particular space. It allows listening to the room before it is even built and therefore allows adding subjective impressions to the design process.

                      The EARS module of EASE 5 provides the means to perform auralizations. These can be based on the direct sound response only or on the results of specular ray-tracing runs with or without a predicted tail. However, the most accurate listening results are achieved using the output of AURA Response calculations.

                      Many different effects can be made audible using the EARS auralization module:

                      • Listener vs loudspeaker location and orientation
                      • Level differences and directions
                      • Localization of sources
                      • Colorations
                      • Flutter echoes
                      • Slap-back reflections
                      Image
                      EARS Convolver Window Open.

                      Additionally, the following main features are provided by the EARS module:

                      • Creation of BIR filter files using selected HRTFs
                      • Display of BIR files as binaural impulse response or frequency response
                      • Auralization using BIR files and dry signal input files (WAV) or from a live source (real-time convolution)
                      • Stereo convolution and mixing
                      • Built-in signal generator
                      • Batch processing for preparing multiple auralizations
                         

                       

                      Supported Brands & Database

                      Supported Brands Table

                      Several manufacturers provide loudspeaker data files for AFMG software. The table below provides an overview of all the companies who have provided loudspeaker data, and for which products they are available.

                      To download these data files, please refer to Loudspeaker Databases, from our Resources page.

                      Please Note:
                      Some manufacturers distribute the loudspeaker data only through their website or upon request. If you are missing a particular brand in the software, please contact the respective company directly.

                      GLLs for loudspeakers, line arrays and clusters available for EASE 4 can be used also for EASE 5. The same applies to latest-generation DLLs. Speaker models based on SPK files are not supported in EASE 5.

                       

                      Please contact the manufacturer for loudspeaker data
                      Loudspeaker data available through AFMG

                       

                      A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

                      [A]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      1 Sound    
                      ACE      
                      acoustic line SEEBURG      
                      Active Audio  
                      Adamson Systems Engineering  
                      AD Systems    
                      Admark    
                      AIMLINE      
                      Alcons Audio    
                      Alpha Acoustics      
                      ALTEC LANSING      
                      ALTEC LANSING PRO      
                      Amadeus  
                      Amate Audio  
                      Ambient System      
                      AMINA    
                      Apart Audio
                      Apia    
                      APG  
                      APL      
                      APOGEE      
                      ATLAS    
                      AtlasIED  
                      ATLAS+FYNE  
                      Attack Audio System  
                      Audac
                      Audience Delight    
                      AUDIOCENTER    
                      AUDIOFOCUS    
                      AUDIO PERFORMANCE    
                      Aura Audio    
                      Australian Monitor  
                      Avante Audio    
                      [B]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      B&C      
                      Bag End Loudspeakers    
                      Belisle Acoustique      
                      Beta Three    
                      beyerdynamic      
                      BGM  
                      Biamp
                      BIEMA    
                      Bosch Security Systems  
                      Bose Professional
                      Bouyer  
                      [C]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      CAF    
                      Canon      
                      Carvin  
                      CDK      
                      CELESTION      
                      Celto Acoustique    
                      CERWIN-VEGA      
                      CES Audio      
                      Clair Brothers      
                      Clair Global    
                      C-MARK    
                      CODA Audio    
                      Community Professional Loudspeakers
                      Cooper Notification    
                      Cornered Audio  
                      COTINA  
                      Craaft Audio GmbH  
                      Crest Audio    
                      Crestron  
                      CVR    
                      [D]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      d&b    
                      D.A.S Audio    
                      Danley Sound Labs    
                      DAP    
                      DAudio      
                      DBR    
                      db Technologies    
                      Desfine      
                      Devialet    
                      DS Proaudio    
                      DMIX  
                      DS Proaudio    
                      dsp    
                      DSPPA    
                      DUKANE      
                      DURAN AUDIO      
                      DYNACORD    
                      [E]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      EATON  
                      EAW  
                      ECLER  
                      Electro-Voice
                      Elettronica Montarbo    
                      Elko Schmid Electronic  
                      EM Acoustics    
                      EMX      
                      ENNE    
                      Equipson      
                      ESAudio    
                      ESS AUDIO    
                      Extron Electronics  
                      Extron    
                      ezacoustics    
                      [F]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      FBT  
                      fdB  
                      Fidek    
                      Flare Audio    
                      Fohhn Audio AG      
                      FONESTAR    
                      Fourjay      
                      FRAZIER      
                      Fulcrum Acoustic  
                      Fulgor    
                      Funktion One      
                      FZ Audio  
                      [G]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      GALAXY AUDIO      
                      GENTEX    
                      Go Audio    
                      [H]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      Harmonic Design    
                      Heinrich Limited    
                      HH Electronics  
                      HiVi    
                      HK Audio  
                      Honeywell Audiovisuals  
                      Honeywell    
                      HUSHAN  
                      [I]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      iBO    
                      ic audio    
                      IDEA Pro Audio    
                      itc  
                      [J]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      JAH Audio, Corp.    
                      James Loudspeaker  
                      Jazzpro audio    
                      JBL Professional
                      JBL Professional
                      [K]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      K-array    
                      KEF Audio    
                      KEVIC    
                      Klein+Hummel      
                      KLING&FREITAG      
                      Klipsch  
                      KME      
                      KS AUDIO    
                      KV2 Audio  
                      [L]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      L-Acoustics      
                      LAX-PRO  
                      LD Systems
                      LDA Audiotech    
                      LEEM    
                      Leon Speakers    
                      Listen Audio    
                      Logic Systems    
                      Lotusline France    
                      Loud Professional    
                      Lowell Manufacturing      
                      LS Audio    
                      LXN  
                      [M]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      MacPherson      
                      MAG Audio    
                      Maga Engineering    
                      Martin Audio  
                      MARC AUDIO    
                      MASTERS    
                      Master Audio      
                      McCauley Sound      
                      MDC  
                      Medianet      
                      MERIDIAN      
                      Meyer Sound    
                      Minelec    
                      MONACOR  
                      Monitor Audio  
                      Montarbo    
                      Multistar    
                      musikelektronic geithain      
                      MZ Audio    
                      [N]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      NAW Performance Audio    
                      NEXO      
                      NEXT-proaudio  
                      NTi Audio    
                      [O]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      OAP      
                      Ocean Way Audio    
                      ODIN Audiosystems    
                      OHM      
                      One Systems  
                      Origin Acoustics  
                      Outline    
                      [P]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      PAL    
                      Pan Acoustics GmbH    
                      Panasonic / RAMSA      
                      PAS      
                      PEAVEY      
                      Penton      
                      Pioneer Professional Audio    
                      PK Sound    
                      Poeschel    
                      POL-AUDIO    
                      ProAudio Technology    
                      Pro DG Systems    
                      PROEL S.p.A.    
                      Prophon    
                      Proso      
                      ProTone    
                      PSE Audio    
                      [Q]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      QANON AUDIO      
                      QPRO Audio Germany      
                      QSC
                      Quam      
                      Quint Audio    
                      [R]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      RAULAND      
                      RCF
                      Renkus-Heinz    
                      REYN AUDIO    
                      RMS-ACOUSTICS    
                      RUIFENG intell    
                      [S]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      SE Audiotechnik
                      SEEBURG acoustic line    
                      Shure Incorporated
                      SIEMENS    
                      Silver Acoustic      
                      Simplex    
                      SLS Loudspeakers    
                      Sonance  
                      SONBS  
                      Sound Advance Systems      
                      SoundBarrier    
                      Soundking  
                      Soundprojects      
                      SOUNDSPHERE      
                      SoundTube  
                      Spottune    
                      Srite    
                      STS Touring Series    
                      Studiomaster      
                      Studt-Akustik    
                      SY    
                      SYNQ      
                      System Sensor    
                      [T]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      T&M      
                      TAIDEN    
                      Taigar System    
                      TANNOY
                      T.D taichee    
                      Technomad      
                      Tecnare  
                      Theory Professional  
                      ThorCorp    
                      TOA
                      TonyLee    
                      TU Berlin      
                      Turbosound    
                      TW AUDiO  
                      [U]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      University Sound      
                      UTC Fire & Security      
                      [V]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      VA    
                      Vellez    
                      VERITY AUDIO    
                      Voice-Acoustic    
                      Void Acoustics    
                      VOKON  
                      VOLTA      
                      VTC Pro Audio    
                      VUE Audiotechnik  
                      [W]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      WestLab Audio    
                      Wharfedale Pro  
                      White Acoustics    
                      WHD      
                      WORK Pro    
                      Worx Audio    
                      [X]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      XSWY Audio    
                      XYCAD Audio    
                      [Y]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      YAMAHA
                      Yenissey    
                      YME SYSTEMS    
                      YORKVILLE      
                      [Z]  Brand EASE EASE Evac EASE Address EASE Focus
                      ZSOUND    
                      ZINGALI ACOUSTICS S.p.A.      
                      Loudspeaker Database

                      Several manufacturers have provided their licensed EASE data to AFMG for distribution. The loudspeaker speaker data can be downloaded as a whole package or sorted by manufacturer from the list below.

                      How to install:

                      • From within EASE 5 (Loudspeaker Ribbon -> Import GLL) import ZIP, GLL or DLL files.
                      • The files will be stored in an internal database and will be available for use in any EASE 5 project

                      Please note:

                      • Some manufacturers distribute the loudspeaker data only through their website or upon request. If you are missing a particular brand in the software, please contact the respective company directly. For an overview of all the supported brands for all AFMG products, please refer to our Supported Brands list.
                      • AFMG is not responsible for this data. If you have questions regarding accuracy, completeness or up-to-dateness please consult the manufacturer.
                      • GLLs for loudspeakers, line arrays and clusters available for EASE 4 can be used also for EASE 5. The same applies to latest-generation DLLs. Speaker models based on SPK files are not supported in EASE 5.

                       

                      All Brands 'A-Z'

                      EASE 5 Complete Loudspeaker Database (4.3 GB)

                      Brands 'A'
                      Brands 'B'
                      Brands 'C'
                      Brands 'D'
                      Brands 'E'
                      Brands 'F'
                      Brands 'G'
                      Brands 'H'
                      Brands 'I'
                      Brands 'J'
                      Brands 'K'
                      Brands 'L'
                      Brands 'M'
                      Brands 'N'
                      Brands 'O'
                      Brands 'P'
                      Brands 'Q'
                      Brands 'R'
                      Brands 'S'
                      Brands 'T'
                      Brands 'U'

                       

                       

                      Brands 'V'
                      Brands 'W'
                      Brands 'X'
                      Brands 'Y'
                      Brands 'Z'
                      Brands '1-9'

                      1 Sound

                           

                           

                          • Jannik Enders

                            "EASE 5 is a big step forward. The completely new user interface combined with lots of useful tools and further improved simulation modules allow for much more intuitive and effective workflows."

                            Jannik Enders, Akustik Bureau Dresden
                          • Jeroen Geraerts

                            “We are currently using EASE 4 in our company and I must say I'm very happy with the changes in EASE 5. The workflow is much faster and more intuitive.”

                            Jeroen Geraerts , Solufak BV
                          • Luis Pique

                            “EASE 5 provides swift simulation preparation, seamless integration with SketchUp, and visually stunning results, which make it perfect for creating high-quality reports. Its user-friendly design ensures a seamless experience for beginners and professionals, making it a valuable asset for your acoustic simulation needs.”

                            Luis Pique, PK and Associates LTD
                          • Brad Lyons

                            “EASE 5 is a game changer offering easy to use, intuitive tools and modern workflows. Not only is the ability to import a 3D DWG into EASE 5 out of Vectorworks Spotlight a huge time-saver, but it keeps the consistency throughout all of my engineering programs and allows me to deliver stunning visual content of acoustics and loudspeakers analysis alike, in both 2D and 3D, that every one of my clients can easily understand.“

                            Brad Lyons, HOWAVL
                          • Maxence Castelain

                            “Thanks to the AFMG Team for being “agile” with this new version of EASE. It’s reassuring to see that AFMG is taking the user’s feedback into account and continuously upgrades its software with top voted remarks. There has been a lot of new upgrades in few months since the first version that I get, and everything is going on the good direction!”

                            Maxence Castelain , Arbane Group
                          • Janko headshot

                            “Congratulations to the AFMG team for excellent work on EASE 5 so far! The new technology and approach is highly appreciated, visualization and UX is great!”

                            Janko Vodopija, MODO d.o.o.
                          • M. Ziska, Graner Partner Ingenieure GmbH

                            “EASE 5 makes it easy to create audience areas and align loudspeakers. You can easily orientate yourself in the model at any time, which not only helps when working on the project but also enables a clear presentation for customers.”

                            Melanie Ziska, Acoustics engineer
                          • Benedikt Kühne

                            “We’re happy to rely on EASE 5 as efficient tool for standard-conform STI and RT calculations. This is how we support the technical planners and architects in an efficient and cost-saving way.”

                            Benedikt Kühle, Ingenieurbüro Ostendorf & Partner GmbH & Co. KG
                          • Kylan Bowden

                            “EASE 5 greatly simplifies the process of creating and navigating around a 3D model. I was able to quickly learn the new interface and create predictions to help us design a system, and help the customer visualize the end-product.”

                            Kylan Bowden, Canfield Systems Inc.

                          Related Products