Boston Section

Our September meeting discussed "achieving sonic perfection". Eric and David Blackmer from EarthWorks were our guest speakers and gave a terrific presentation of their new technology called "Zero Distortion Technology". About 25 members witnessed this demonstration of their prototype speakers and conducted some basic listening tests.

The Blackmers use an unusual approach to designing their equipment. They spoke of the importance of "Impulse Response" rather than "Frequency Response" when recording sound of any type. They accompanied their explanation with measurement graphs and the enjoyable audio examples.

Another interesting approach was revealed when the Blackmers discussed how they use a spark as a test sound source which has finite, known characteristics well suited to measuring impulse response. This generated a sidebar conversation on trade secrets and patent protection.

David, who was the inventor of DBX noise reduction technology, spoke of many new EarthWorks products that would have a "zero distortion" design. He also mentioned forthcoming battery operated mics with performance "as good as our current models". When all was said and done some fairly shocking statements had been made regarding EarthWorks' plans to improve products and techniques for capturing sound. I look forward to testing the fruits of this evolution. At the close of the evening the Blackmers entertained questions from the group.

- Jeffrey Rosenberg