Acoustic research and development firm REDIAcoustics has announced Niro (Non-Cuboid Iterative Room Optimizer) a groundbreaking SaaS (software as a service) program designed to optimise critical listening environments and aid in their acoustic design.
The program was developed by REDIAcoustics partners, Dr Peter D’Antonio founder of RPG Diffusor Systems Inc, and John Storyk, founding partner of global architectural acoustic consulting and design firm WSDG. It is the first software to allow iterative optimisation of any shaped room, while simultaneously considering source and listening positions. Its accuracy has been verified by real world acoustical measurements of several test case rooms.
Niro evaluates precise numerical models of small room audio production/listening environments via a series of calculation modules. By conceptualising an amalgam of architecture, acoustics and audio, it iteratively optimises critical listening environments across the entire audio spectrum. The process guides the design of acoustically neutral environments by providing a blank acoustical canvas that enables the end user to tailor the response to suit personal taste using audio processing.
Niro addresses several forms of acoustic distortion that exist in rooms, including the low-frequency response and its temporal decay, Speaker-Boundary Interference Response (SBIR) due to the proximity of the speakers to a hard boundary, the spatial and temporal Reflection Free Zone (RFZ) surrounding the mix position, and the Diffuse Field Zone (DFZ). To correct these physical problems, the room shape, listener, and loudspeaker positions are simultaneously optimized, by specific acoustic treatments applications.
The software uses Geometry, Damper and Reflection modules, which can be engaged individually or in series depending on the client’s needs. The Geometry Module simultaneously optimises the geometry and positions of loudspeakers and listeners by obtaining the flattest modal response and minimising the SBIR. It uses a wave-based approach that accurately evaluates rooms of any shape and optimizes their variables through a genetic algorithm. The Damper Module designs and applies low-frequency treatments at precise frequencies to control the room modes and their temporal decay. All Acoustical Parametric Equalizers (APEQs) designed in the Damper Module are tested in a proprietary impedance tube to verify performance. Finally, the Reflection Module uses geometric acoustics to minimise interfering reflections in the RFZ and ensure the reflection density of the DFZ, through optimal placement of reflection phase grating diffusers, which provide an ambient, enveloping experience.
Niro can be integrated into the design process of studio designers, acousticians, system integrators and architects. It can also serve as a valuable design service to end users looking to upgrade or design their project studios.
More: www.rediacoustics.com
