Measuring basics - microphone/computer questions

[Bobvin]

From what I can see Jim Smith first determines the seating position that'll be out of room nodes, then places speakers for maximum musicality. My Wilson setup guy has not done this step in the past, but he is still able to get amazing sound in any room. Since I've done the big remodel, I have several feet fore/aft that I can move the listening position and want to avoid nodal peaks. Obviously half-way between the front and rear wall would not be the correct spot! :exciting:

In my room I have computer/DAC. The computer is a custom built small profile fanless design with SSHD. There is no room to add a sound card, I am forced to use the onboard Realtek drivers with a microphone. The computer has a ASUS Gryphon Z97 Socket 1150 Intel mobo.

Can I just get a calibrated USB microphone, load software like Room EQ Wizard, play some pink noise or test frequencies, and be good to go for taking basic measurements? (Most of what I've read says I'd need a dedicated soundcard?) There would of course be some assigning of inputs to get things right, yes?

 

[Mike]

From what I can see Jim Smith first determines the seating position that'll be out of room nodes, then places speakers for maximum musicality. My Wilson setup guy has not done this step in the past, but he is still able to get amazing sound in any room. Since I've done the big remodel, I have several feet fore/aft that I can move the listening position and want to avoid nodal peaks. Obviously half-way between the front and rear wall would not be the correct spot! :exciting:

In my room I have computer/DAC. The computer is a custom built small profile fanless design with SSHD. There is no room to add a sound card, I am forced to use the onboard Realtek drivers with a microphone. The computer has a ASUS Gryphon Z97 Socket 1150 Intel mobo.

Can I just get a calibrated USB microphone, load software like Room EQ Wizard, play some pink noise or test frequencies, and be good to go for taking basic measurements? (Most of what I've read says I'd need a dedicated soundcard?) There would of course be some assigning of inputs to get things right, yes?

Bob - I'm not sure about the soundcard since I've only used what's built in to my Mac, but you have the right idea. The key is time. You will need to work slow and methodical. You will be surprised at how much a foot or two or less can make.

Also, remember, you are looking for the FLATTEST bass response in the room. So below 100hz or so, looking for where it's flattest from 100hz to 20hz or so.

Hold the microphone at ear level and SLOWLY work your way around the room (front to back). And remember, your ideal seating position may change as you move the speakers.