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FAQ
What is the FAR digital network ?
It is a network of FAR devices driven by a software that pilots the setup and makes interact all the SurrounDesk elements: the loudspeakers, the lightning, the users, the optional hardware remote.
It allows multiple setups, called scenarios, that are stored and can be recalled to fit different uses and users preferences throughout the day.
A loudspeaker setup allows each loud-speaker to have a different eq curve and delay values so that together they have an adequate response at the listening po-sition. Once you have entered your posi-tion, the loudspeakers position and plugged the delivered usb calibrated mic, the process is automatic. You can always alter the results manually to fit your preference.
Why is it called a modular system ?
Because you can use the SurrounDesk in a 2.0 up to a 7.1 setup.
Because you can add various Surroundesk modules to fit your room or project and extend from the basic 7,5 m² to 20 or 30 m².
Because you can build your super 3 way reference monitor using an M5 and an S10 in stereo mode, and the same S10 pair can be used as the LFE channel in a 5.1 configuration, just via selecting the scenario in the FAR digital network command.
Because an S10 can digitalize an FR5 pair and you can use the setup in 2.0 and 2.1 with bass management.
Because the same SurrounDesk can be configured for various users and uses via the setup and selection of scenarios.
Can I customize my SurrounDesk? ?
Yes. We provide a basic structure that is fully functionnal, including for working with colours, but raw, to keep the cost low. It can be further painted, varnished, with a top layer of veneer or laminate. In the basic structure, the fabric protective sides, rear and roof can be ordered in white, cream, grey, black. We can custom build them using different fabrics in different colours. Also keep in mind that our lightning solution is for accurate colour rendering, but can also be set from 2500 to 6500K for ambient lightning. Any request is welcome.
What are the limits of the system ?
You can have bass management in a 2.1 setup, but not in 3.1, 5.1 and 7.1, where the S10 can only be used as a LFE.
It manages the environment, from the monitor audio line inputs, digital and analogue. So you will be able to manage the input selection, but you have to configure your sequencer and soundcard output as the FAR network does not command them.
If you install your outstanding FAR audio reference monitors in a poorly sound treated environment, chances are you will get a poor sound too at your listening position.
Can you handle the SurrounDesk installation at my place ?
The basic SurrounDesk has been designed to allow a full installation in about 1 day by a team of 2. It is like a (big) piece of furniture. The FAR network is designed for easy installation and configuration of the audio monitors and the lightning, and guides you through it.
If you are stuck and wish for help, send us a mail with some pictures and a description of your need and we will do our best to accompany you.
If you wish nevertheless the confort of having us install your environment, we can. Then a custom quote is needed, please contact us.
I have purchased another FAR audio monitor, how do I integrate it in the Surroundesk?
Thank you for your new purchase!
you switch all devices off, install your new element, connect it to the FAR network, that is connected to your computer. Launch the setup software. Your new device should be visible under the correct name. Write where it is located, hit the save button. The delay will be ok already. If you wish the auto eq, plug your usb mic at your listening position, select the new monitor, launch the auto eq routine. Fine tune if needed-desired. Save. Enjoy!
What is a DSP and what are the differences with full analogue ?
A digital signal processor...processes the digital signal. Once the audio has been digitalsed, in your workstation-sequencer-soundcard-console, or just after the analogue input in your monitor, it is fed to the DSP. Just like analogue processing, the signal is split and filtered to be fed to the transducers that are able to reproduce a determined range or frequencies (woofer, mid, tweeter). But it can also easily handle the delays needed for time alignment of the transducers. This is a lot harder in a full analogue design.
You can do simple eq with an analogue design, like a low shelf for boundary compensation, or high shelf. A DSP can do that, and a lot more eq, so much that you can tune your monitor for an optimized frequency and delay response at your listening position (sound physics still apply).
At FAR, we go several step further, using the DSP to recognize the other monitors connected to the network, and automatically reconfigure the signal splits, filter and delay, efficiently allowing the modularity. The DSP also manages the user's preferences, scenarios, and all the features that are part of an integrated and remote controlled listening environment. No analogue monitor can do that.
I do not have the budget for the whole solution, where do I begin ?
If you do not have a good sound treated room, you should first find or build one, or purchase the Surroundesk structure.
If you do not have the budget for the SurrounDesk structure, but wish to purchase it in some time, you can purchase the acoustic treatment of the SurrounDesk. You will later fit it in your structure. Place it behind your speakers, above your head, on the left and right side walls (to tame the first reflexions), and behind your listening position. Do not expect the same results as with the total structure. Keep the speakers you already have.
Then, when budget comes again for improvement, purchase the Surroundesk structure with the complementary sound treatment, even without the fabric protection, and at least 2 FAR FR5 audio monitors. You will not have the DSP functions, but you will have a very good stereo listening environment already.
If you need a 5.1 setup, the minimum is 3 x FAR FR5 and 1 x S10, + 2 of your older monitors for surround use. Your soundcard/sequencer will be your listening manager.