The Official Dirac Live Thread: Start w/1,2,3 🙋♂️
Jun 8, 2020 14:57:58 GMT -5
bluescale, richb, and 2 more like this
Post by AudioHTIT on Jun 8, 2020 14:57:58 GMT -5
Acronyms (to lessen the typing load)
ARC : Audio Return Channel
CEC : Consumer Electronics Control
DL : Dirac Live
DLBC : Dirac Live Bass Control
DLART : DL with Active Room Treatment
DRC : Digital Room Correction
EDNIB : Emotiva Dirac Network Interface Box (aka LBB)
eARC : enhanced Audio Return Channel
FAF : Fanily Acceptance Factor
FAQ : Frequently Asked Question
G3P : Any of the latest Emotiva Generation 3 Processors (RMC-1, RMC-1L, XMC-2)
G4P : Any of the upcoming Emotiva Generation 4 Processors (RMC-1+, RMC-1L+, XMC-2+)
HDMI : High Definition Multimedia Interface
HDCP : High-bandwidth Digital Copy Protection
LPS : Low Power Standby (a G3P standby setting that consumes less power)
MLP : Main Listening Position
MSO : Multi Sub Optimizer
OP : Original Post (the first post in a thread, setting the topic and scope of conversation)
OP : Original Poster (alternate, the thread creator, traditionally responsible for keeping the thread ON Topic)
OT : OFF Topic (a post unrelated to the OP)
PCM : Pulse Code Modulation
LPCM : Linear Pulse Code Modulation
TLA : Three Letter Acronym
VRO : Video Remains On (a G3P standby setting with faster startup)
WAF : Wife Acceptance Factor
Dirac FAQ (updated as needed)
Q : What is Dirac?
A : Dirac Live® is an advanced digital room correction technology that utilizes sophisticated analysis of the speakers and the room to correct these colorations. Dirac Live Base Control is an optional add on product to optimize and improve subwoofer performance, it’s features include: Supports unlimited subwoofers, Corrects sound gaps and bass decline, Enhances bass crossover area for smoother reproduction, Utilizes machine learning for phase co-optimization, Bass Control is available as an expansion for users who already have a Dirac Live Room Correction license
Q: What do I need to use Dirac on my G3P?
A : The following are the requirements which will allow you to run the Dirac software, take measurements, and upload filters.
Q: Should I set my Speaker Levels and Distance before running Dirac?
A : Dirac ignores both the level and distance settings when it takes measurements, however there is a User Slot where distance is in effect. You can also make adjustments to the levels after Dirac filters are loaded (for fine tuning or preference). For these reasons it is recommended that you enter the correct distance settings for your MLP, and set all of your speaker levels to 0 (zero) before running Dirac..
Q : What are Dirac Filters?
A: Filters are the results of the measurement, analysis, and correction process, they are uploaded to your G3P to apply the individualized DRC to your system.
Q : How many Dirac filters can my G3P store?
A: The G3Ps have two speaker presets, each preset has four ‘slots’, three of these slots can hold Dirac filters, the fourth can hold a user setting. So the G3Ps can hold a total of six Dirac filters.
Q : Why would I want more than one Dirac filter?
A: Some might want one filter for a ‘Home Theatre’ configuration using surround and possibly immersive speakers, and another filter for a ‘Two Channel’ music setup. It may also be desirable to have separate filters for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, some might even want different filters for various seating locations.
Q : Can I install new Firmware on top of any previous version?
A : Yes
Q : Where do I get the Dirac Live software and what version do I use?
A : You will download it from Dirac via the link above, you will always use the ‘latest’ version, which at this time is 3.3.x
Q : How much does Dirac cost?
A: The base DL Software license is included in the cost of your G3P (or upcoming G4P), so it’s free to you. The DLBC add-on will be $299 for any number of subwoofers
Q : When will Dirac be available for my G3P?
A: Dirac Live is available now for all G3P.
Q : When will the G3Ps support DLBC?
A: No date has been announced, Emotiva has stated that they plan to support DLBC (here)
Q : If I backup my settings with the Menu > Setup > Advanced > Backup option, are my Dirac filters saved?
A: All of your Dirac filters are saved when you do a backup, they are deleted when you do a factory reset, and put back when you do a restore.
Q : How can I take more accurate and repeatable measurements?
A : The following recommendations can help you take better measurements
Q: Are there any known issues with the current Firmware and Dirac?
A : The The latest FW 3.2 and release notes can be found >>> HERE!.
Q: My Dirac Live Hears Voice but not test tones?
A: We have received several reports about an unusual problem when running Dirac Live on Windows 11 computers. The problem manifests itself as a situation where the microphone appears to work, and the meters bounce when you talk, but the microphone DOES NOT respond, or barely responds, to the test tones or to other sounds like finger snaps or tapping the microphone. This problem may also cause the microphone to respond incorrectly to the level of the test tones.
The cause of the problem is activation of a Windows 11 feature that is intended to "enhance voice communications" by basically suppressing any sounds picked up by the microphone other than human voice. Unfortunately, because this feature is implemented slightly differently on computers of different brands, and computers with different brands of sound cards, we cannot offer a single set of instructions to disable it. However we can tell you what to look for - and what settings you want in order for Dirac Live to work correctly. If you are having this problem then you will probably find one or more of these options on your particular computer. Note that the wording or options may vary slightly on your computer. We suggest that you try these in order and, if you find one, try it... and no need to look further if it solves the problem. Note that you may or may not have to select which microphone these settings apply to - and the option may ONLY appear when the microphone is connected.
Also note that we have instructed you to turn off these settings for "all microphones". In many cases it may be possible to change a setting for individual microphones. If so, it may be sufficient to disable the option for just our microphone. You may also find other similar options on other brands of computers. (Note that Windows considers these to be "voice enhancements" or "communications enhancements" - so they will be labeled accordingly.)
1. In Windows - go to: Settings > System > Sound > More Sound Settings > Communications if you see "When Windows detects communications activity" set the option to "DO NOTHING". now go to: Settings > System > Sound > Input > Microphone set "Audio Enhancements" to "OFF"
2. In Windows (on some Lenovo computers) - go to: Settings > System > Sound scroll down to: Advanced click on: All Sound Devices > (our calibrated microphone) scroll down to: Audio Enhancements and click "OFF"
3. In Windows (on some Acer computers) - search for an App named Realtek Audio Console (possibly under Acer Control) on ALL speakers: set "Speaker Noise Cancellation" to "OFF" on ALL microphones: set "AI Noise Reduction" to "OFF"
4. In Windows (on some Windows Computers) - search for an App named Realtek Audio Console select Microphone under Microphone Effects you will probably see several things: possibly "noise suppression", "beam forming", "AEC" switch ALL Microphone Effects "OFF"
5. If you are unable to find any of these then look for some sort of "control panel" or "sound settings app" that goes with the sound card you have installed in your particular computer.
ARC : Audio Return Channel
CEC : Consumer Electronics Control
DL : Dirac Live
DLBC : Dirac Live Bass Control
DLART : DL with Active Room Treatment
DRC : Digital Room Correction
EDNIB : Emotiva Dirac Network Interface Box (aka LBB)
eARC : enhanced Audio Return Channel
FAF : Fanily Acceptance Factor
FAQ : Frequently Asked Question
G3P : Any of the latest Emotiva Generation 3 Processors (RMC-1, RMC-1L, XMC-2)
G4P : Any of the upcoming Emotiva Generation 4 Processors (RMC-1+, RMC-1L+, XMC-2+)
HDMI : High Definition Multimedia Interface
HDCP : High-bandwidth Digital Copy Protection
LPS : Low Power Standby (a G3P standby setting that consumes less power)
MLP : Main Listening Position
MSO : Multi Sub Optimizer
OP : Original Post (the first post in a thread, setting the topic and scope of conversation)
OP : Original Poster (alternate, the thread creator, traditionally responsible for keeping the thread ON Topic)
OT : OFF Topic (a post unrelated to the OP)
PCM : Pulse Code Modulation
LPCM : Linear Pulse Code Modulation
TLA : Three Letter Acronym
VRO : Video Remains On (a G3P standby setting with faster startup)
WAF : Wife Acceptance Factor
Dirac FAQ (updated as needed)
Q : What is Dirac?
A : Dirac Live® is an advanced digital room correction technology that utilizes sophisticated analysis of the speakers and the room to correct these colorations. Dirac Live Base Control is an optional add on product to optimize and improve subwoofer performance, it’s features include: Supports unlimited subwoofers, Corrects sound gaps and bass decline, Enhances bass crossover area for smoother reproduction, Utilizes machine learning for phase co-optimization, Bass Control is available as an expansion for users who already have a Dirac Live Room Correction license
Q: What do I need to use Dirac on my G3P?
A : The following are the requirements which will allow you to run the Dirac software, take measurements, and upload filters.
- You’ll need the Dirac Live software which runs on a Windows or macOS computer or laptop. The supported platforms are: Windows 10 & 11, macOS 10.14 or later (including Big Sur/11 & Monterey/12), Ventura/13; This software is only used while you are taking measurements, creating filters, and uploading the filters to your G3P. After that the computer is not needed, unless you make changes or take additional measurements.
- You will also need the EDNIB package delivered by Emotiva, they began to ship on 7/20/2020 in order of purchase, it is now included with the processor.
- You should always use the latest recommended or required Firmware for your G3P, for Dirac to operate you must have at least version 2.0 — you can now download it at the link above.
- While you’re actually running the Dirac Live software, the computer, the G3P, and the EDNIB, must all be on the same logical network (subnet) — with access to the Internet. The EDNIB package will include a small network switch to facilitate this if needed.
- To hook up the Emotiva measurement microphone included with your G3P, the computer needs a USB-A port. Other compatible microphones may have different requirements (the UMIK-1 can use USB-A or C).
- To get the most accurate measurements you should download the calibration file for the microphone you use (Emotiva and UMIK links above).
- A mic stand with boom will help make your measurements more accurate and repeatable
- More details are available in the Emotiva Dirac Owners Manual linked above
Q: Should I set my Speaker Levels and Distance before running Dirac?
A : Dirac ignores both the level and distance settings when it takes measurements, however there is a User Slot where distance is in effect. You can also make adjustments to the levels after Dirac filters are loaded (for fine tuning or preference). For these reasons it is recommended that you enter the correct distance settings for your MLP, and set all of your speaker levels to 0 (zero) before running Dirac..
Q : What are Dirac Filters?
A: Filters are the results of the measurement, analysis, and correction process, they are uploaded to your G3P to apply the individualized DRC to your system.
Q : How many Dirac filters can my G3P store?
A: The G3Ps have two speaker presets, each preset has four ‘slots’, three of these slots can hold Dirac filters, the fourth can hold a user setting. So the G3Ps can hold a total of six Dirac filters.
Q : Why would I want more than one Dirac filter?
A: Some might want one filter for a ‘Home Theatre’ configuration using surround and possibly immersive speakers, and another filter for a ‘Two Channel’ music setup. It may also be desirable to have separate filters for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, some might even want different filters for various seating locations.
Q : Can I install new Firmware on top of any previous version?
A : Yes
Q : Where do I get the Dirac Live software and what version do I use?
A : You will download it from Dirac via the link above, you will always use the ‘latest’ version, which at this time is 3.3.x
Q : How much does Dirac cost?
A: The base DL Software license is included in the cost of your G3P (or upcoming G4P), so it’s free to you. The DLBC add-on will be $299 for any number of subwoofers
Q : When will Dirac be available for my G3P?
A: Dirac Live is available now for all G3P.
Q : When will the G3Ps support DLBC?
A: No date has been announced, Emotiva has stated that they plan to support DLBC (here)
Q : If I backup my settings with the Menu > Setup > Advanced > Backup option, are my Dirac filters saved?
A: All of your Dirac filters are saved when you do a backup, they are deleted when you do a factory reset, and put back when you do a restore.
Q : How can I take more accurate and repeatable measurements?
A : The following recommendations can help you take better measurements
- Use a mic stand, or position your mic/meter so that you don’t have to hold it, but so that you can still take a good reading from the meter or readout. Not holding your mic or meter will also make it more likely you can repeat your measurement (by putting it back in exactly the same place), less likely that your hand doesn’t add noise to the noise (by rubbing on the case), and that it doesn’t move while you take your measurements.
- For setting levels, put your mic, meter, or phone in the MLP, for Dirac follow the described pattern.
- Take your measurements at a moderate level, 75 to 85 SPL dBC is a good range. While you can go lower, at some point background noise may influence your measurements, 60 db might be a good minimum. Too loud and distortion or resonance may influence your readings (not to mention you patience), 90 dB might be a good top end level.
- Use ‘C Weighting’. Weighting curves filter the output of the microphone and reduce frequencies at the extremes of the audible spectrum. C weighting filters the least of the common weighting scales (A, B, C), and is considered the standard for home theatre measurements.
- If you’re using a meter (mechanical or electronic), set the range so that the reading is in the upper/middle end of the scale, typically around zero, preferably above -10 dB. Not only is the meter more accurate in this part of its range, it’s also easier to take an accurate reading. Digital meters typically don’t have ranges.
- Use the ‘Slow’ function or mode, this reduces the erratic and quick movements of the meter or readout, and somewhat averages the reading over time. You might also consider using the ‘Max’ level if available, this captures the loudest sound encountered over the measurement period and holds it, if you choose to try this, I’d suggest increasing your measurement time.
- Setup your room similarly to how you normally watch or listen to your system. If you have a ladder out to change a light bulb put it away, if you normally have pillows arranged on your sofa put them out, etc.
- Keep your body out of the measurement path, and minimize your movements while taking measurements.
- Try to turn off anything that might make noise; HVAC, phones, clocks, washing machines.
- If you want to compare your measurements with past or future measurements, write them down, date them, and include any special notes (equipment changes, new furniture, etc.). A spreadsheet might be a good way to take notes..
Q: Are there any known issues with the current Firmware and Dirac?
A : The The latest FW 3.2 and release notes can be found >>> HERE!.
Q: My Dirac Live Hears Voice but not test tones?
A: We have received several reports about an unusual problem when running Dirac Live on Windows 11 computers. The problem manifests itself as a situation where the microphone appears to work, and the meters bounce when you talk, but the microphone DOES NOT respond, or barely responds, to the test tones or to other sounds like finger snaps or tapping the microphone. This problem may also cause the microphone to respond incorrectly to the level of the test tones.
The cause of the problem is activation of a Windows 11 feature that is intended to "enhance voice communications" by basically suppressing any sounds picked up by the microphone other than human voice. Unfortunately, because this feature is implemented slightly differently on computers of different brands, and computers with different brands of sound cards, we cannot offer a single set of instructions to disable it. However we can tell you what to look for - and what settings you want in order for Dirac Live to work correctly. If you are having this problem then you will probably find one or more of these options on your particular computer. Note that the wording or options may vary slightly on your computer. We suggest that you try these in order and, if you find one, try it... and no need to look further if it solves the problem. Note that you may or may not have to select which microphone these settings apply to - and the option may ONLY appear when the microphone is connected.
Also note that we have instructed you to turn off these settings for "all microphones". In many cases it may be possible to change a setting for individual microphones. If so, it may be sufficient to disable the option for just our microphone. You may also find other similar options on other brands of computers. (Note that Windows considers these to be "voice enhancements" or "communications enhancements" - so they will be labeled accordingly.)
1. In Windows - go to: Settings > System > Sound > More Sound Settings > Communications if you see "When Windows detects communications activity" set the option to "DO NOTHING". now go to: Settings > System > Sound > Input > Microphone set "Audio Enhancements" to "OFF"
2. In Windows (on some Lenovo computers) - go to: Settings > System > Sound scroll down to: Advanced click on: All Sound Devices > (our calibrated microphone) scroll down to: Audio Enhancements and click "OFF"
3. In Windows (on some Acer computers) - search for an App named Realtek Audio Console (possibly under Acer Control) on ALL speakers: set "Speaker Noise Cancellation" to "OFF" on ALL microphones: set "AI Noise Reduction" to "OFF"
4. In Windows (on some Windows Computers) - search for an App named Realtek Audio Console select Microphone under Microphone Effects you will probably see several things: possibly "noise suppression", "beam forming", "AEC" switch ALL Microphone Effects "OFF"
5. If you are unable to find any of these then look for some sort of "control panel" or "sound settings app" that goes with the sound card you have installed in your particular computer.
I miss the calls with my Indian colleagues and miss the trips even more. But when I changed jobs and was WFH all the time (even before Covid) I found I could do Dirac calibrations during Webex meetings very effectively as long as I muted during the actual sweeps. Made the days so much more interesting 
