PRELIMINARY
miniDSP Ltd, Hong Kong / www.minidsp.com / Features and specifications subject to change without prior notice 31
6 ACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT FOR DIRAC LIVE
The Dirac Live Calibration Tool Stereo for miniDSP (DLCT) needs a set of measurements made in your listening
room so that it can calculate the room correction filters. You will make these measurements using the SHD
Series processor, your computer, and a miniDSP UMIK-1 measurement microphone.
6.1 LOUDSPEAKER AND MICROPHONE POSITIONING
Prior to performing acoustic measurements, optimize your loudspeaker and listening positions. Start with the
recommendations of the manufacturer of your loudspeakers. Loudspeakers designed for home hifi use typically
perform best away from the walls, whereas speakers designed for studio use may be designed for use closer to
walls or other surfaces. With Dirac Live®, you have more freedom with loudspeaker placement, but the best
result will still be achieved if optimal loudspeaker placement is used together with Dirac Live®.
You should also experiment with toe-in – many loudspeakers benefit from pointing directly at the listening
position or even slightly in front. The listening position should be away from the rear wall, as placing the
listening chair or sofa right against the wall will result in increased early reflections and changes in timbre.
A total of nine measurements must be taken, with the microphone located in different positions in the room
and pointed between the two speakers. The first measurement must be taken at the central location of the
listening area, as this location sets the levels and delays of each speaker. While this location will usually be an
equal distance from both speakers, Dirac Live® will adjust in cases where it is not. Eight more measurements are
then taken at locations spread around the listening area and at different heights from the floor.