Kerscher, M: Compact Spherical Loudspeaker Array

Spherical beamforming using spherical loudspeaker arrays is a relatively new technique in audio engineering. It can provide variable sound-radiation in all spatial directions. It is for example used to achieve a more adequate reproduction of complex instrument sounds, in room acoustics and also in musical and artistical performances. In his book, the author Michael Kerscher first describes a new possibility of constructing such an array. The implemented array is not based on the Platonic solids - as most other systems are - but uses 16 loudspeakers. Subsequently he demonstrates how the radiation properties of the array can be pre-estimated with an appropriate simulation. The two final chapters deal with an over-all system control. The author therefore explains necessary acoustical measurements and how to obtain a suitable algorithm. Finally he shows how to stabilize the dynamics of the filters with a filterbank. The book contains the complete implementation of a spherical beamforming system including its construction, simulation and control. Thus it is suitable for both beginners and experts.