Jefferson Mixing & Mastering Studio: Speaker & Multi-Sub Optimization with Dual AVAA C214 for Superior Low-Frequency Control

Jefferson Studio: Speaker & Multi-Sub Optimization with Dual AVAA C214 for Superior Low-Frequency Control

At CORSINI Acoustic Solutions, we recently completed an intricate sound optimization project at Jefferson Mixing & Mastering Studio. This session focused on refining speaker placement, implementing a four-subwoofer setup, and calibrating two PSI Audio AVAA C214 units for precise low-frequency control. Working within an asymmetrical and uniquely shaped room presented challenges that required strategic use of large custom absorbers and extensive acoustic analysis. By fine-tuning the system, we transformed the space to achieve a balanced and immersive sound experience, minimizing room modes and enhancing spatial consistency.

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Step 1: Conducting Room Mode Analysis

Room mode analysis in action! We're fine-tuning the space for optimal speaker and subwoofer placement, with AVAA C214 calibration to achieve perfect low-frequency control.

Conducting a detailed room mode analysis and pressure study to optimize speaker setup, listening position placement, and multi-sub alignment. Using precision tools to calibrate the AVAA C214 units, we ensure a balanced and immersive acoustic environment. Each adjustment is tailored to eliminate resonant issues and improve overall sound quality.

Step 2: Optimizing Speaker Placement and Toe-In

Optimizing speaker placement and toe-in for perfect soundstage and imaging! Fine adjustments make all the difference. Step 2 in our acoustic setup journey!

Step 2: Fine-tuning the speaker placement and adjusting the toe-in angle to ensure the best possible stereo imaging and soundstage. This step is crucial for achieving precise localization and an immersive listening experience.

Step 3: Speaker Depth and Soundstage Adjustment

Here, I’m fine-tuning the precise distance between the speakers, carefully evaluating depth and ensuring a well-defined central image to optimize the soundstage.

Here, I’m fine-tuning the precise distance between the speakers, carefully evaluating depth and ensuring a well-defined central image to optimize the soundstage.

we meticulously refined the speaker-to-speaker distance and adjusted toe-in angles. This process allowed us to achieve a perfect balance between depth and central focus in the soundstage, ensuring that every musical element is precisely positioned and well-defined for optimal listening immersion.

Step 4: Subwoofers Setup and Calibration

Subwoofer 1 is strategically placed in the front left corner to ensure even bass distribution and minimize low-frequency buildup in this asymmetrical room.

Subwoofer 2 is positioned along the right wall, where its placement helps in mitigating room modes by spreading out bass energy more uniformly across the space.

Subwoofer 3 is also located on the right wall, reinforcing our multi-sub setup to smooth out nulls and peaks in bass response, especially in challenging areas.

Subwoofer 4 is vertically mounted in the back wall, which further breaks up any remaining standing waves and provides a balanced, immersive low-end experience throughout the room.

Reasoning for Multi-Sub Setup

We adopted this multi-subwoofer configuration to address the unique acoustical challenges presented by the asymmetrical and unorthodox shape of the room. By distributing four subwoofers across specific locations, we aimed to reduce spatial amplitude variations, minimize standing waves, and achieve smoother low-frequency response. This setup ensures that bass is evenly distributed, eliminating areas with excessive boom or weak bass and providing consistent sound quality for both the mixing engineer and listeners.

Step 5: Acoustic Treatment Setup

Due to the highly asymmetrical and unconventional layout of the room, we conducted extensive testing to optimize the placement of large custom absorbers. This was crucial to effectively control reflections and ensure a well-balanced acoustic environment, despite the challenges presented by the unique room shape.

In this step, we carefully installed a combination of large custom absorbers and strategically positioned diffusers to fine-tune the room’s acoustics. Our goal was to manage reflections, reduce reverberation, and achieve a well-balanced sound field. By addressing both high and low-frequency issues, we ensured clarity in the audio, making it suitable for critical listening and precise mixing decisions. The absorbers effectively minimized unwanted room modes, while the diffusers maintained a sense of spaciousness and natural sound. This comprehensive acoustic treatment allowed the room to perform at its best, enhancing overall sound quality.

Step 6: Dual AVAA C214 Low-Frequency Control

In this final stage, we're setting up two AVAA C214 units to fine-tune the low-frequency response of the room. This ensures precise control of bass decay and optimizes the overall acoustic performance.

In this final step, we integrated two PSI Audio AVAA C214 active bass traps to tackle low-frequency room issues. These units were strategically placed to reduce standing waves and control bass resonances, significantly improving the low-frequency response and decay times. By using the AVAAs, we achieved tighter and more accurate bass, providing a stable foundation for the entire frequency range. This setup ensures that low-end clarity and definition are maintained, essential for both mixing precision and an enjoyable listening experience.

Frequency Response Results and Comparison

Initial frequency response of the client's setup.

The original frequency response of the client's setup shows significant peaks and dips, especially in the lower frequency range, leading to an uneven sound experience. Noticeable variations indicate room-induced issues and suboptimal speaker placement.

Enhanced frequency response after Corsini setup.

The Corsini setup introduces 4 optimized subwoofers and 2 AVAA C214 units. The result is a smoother, more balanced frequency response, with notable improvements in the consistency of the lower and mid frequencies. The overall sound clarity and bass response have been significantly enhanced.

Comparative analysis of client vs. Corsini setup.

This comparison highlights the differences between the client's original setup (red) and the Corsini optimized setup (yellow). The Corsini setup reduces prominent peaks and fills in the deep nulls, achieving a more even and natural frequency response.

Large spatial amplitude variation in the client's setup.

The spatial amplitude variation in the client's setup shows a peak-to-null difference of 18.5 dB, indicating severe room mode issues and significant frequency response inconsistencies.

Reduced spatial amplitude variation with Corsini's setup.

After optimization, the spatial amplitude variation is minimized to 9.3 dB, demonstrating a much more controlled and even response. This reduction greatly enhances the room's acoustic performance and listening experience.

Final Thoughts

Our multi-sub setup, strategic use of the AVAA C214 units, and precise acoustic treatment have transformed the room's audio performance. The client’s initial setup had significant frequency response issues, but through meticulous analysis and adjustments, we achieved a balanced and smooth sound that enhances listening enjoyment. This project showcases the impact of professional acoustic optimization.

These final images capture the finished setup, showcasing our comprehensive acoustic treatment, precise speaker and subwoofer placement, and the integration of AVAA C214 units. The room now not only looks polished but also delivers an exceptional sound experience.

Learn more about the AVAA C214

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