New Book on Audio Engineering for Sound Reinforcement
 June 24, 2002
After two years of writing, refinement and
editing, authors John Eargle and Chris Foreman have introduced JBL Audio
Engineering for Sound Reinforcement. With sections on audio basics,
components, system design and various applications, this fills the need for
a reference guide that covers the range from basic information to the latest
technologies of line arrays and digital signal processing. The book, which
is distributed by Hal Leonard Corporation, is now available.
"Following in the footsteps of classic audio books by Don Davis and Gary
Davis, we feel this reference work by Chris and John will become the new
standard for audio professionals, educators and enthusiasts," stated Michael
MacDonald, President of JBL Professional. "John and Chris have over seventy
years of audio experience between them. They pass along their knowledge in
a way that is very deep and technical, but still readable and easy to
understand."
The 29-chapter book falls into four broad sections. Section One
"Fundamentals" discusses the basics of acoustics, psycho-acoustics,
electrical concepts and digital processing. The information in this section
supports the topics in later sections.
Section Two, "System Components" is concerned with the equipment used,
including microphones, consoles, amplifiers, signal processing and
loudspeakers. This section is also the first in a book such as this to cover
computer-based system control.
Section Three "System Design" is about the technical as well as practical
sides of system design. System layout, specifications, analysis and design
are covered as well as how to develop comprehensive customer-based analysis
of their goals and expectations.
"Applications" Section Four ties it all together with detailed descriptions
of several types of sound systems for tour, houses of worship, auditoriums,
sports facilities and other usages. Six appendices follow this chapter.
"When JBL asked us to write a comprehensive book on modern sound systems,
Chris and I were honored and daunted," stated author Eargle. "In fairly
short order, we had outlined the structure and chapter headings, then with
help from many people, this very extensive book was written and refined. In
the end, I was amazed that we held it down to 450 pages."
John Eargle is Senior Director of Product Development and Application for
JBL Professional. He is the author of several books on audio and recording.
Eargle received a Grammy Award in 2001 and a Scientific and Technical Award
in 2002 from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.
Chris Foreman is Vice President of Marketing for Electronic Contracting. He
has over thirty years of experience in pro audio as a sound contractor,
consultant and manufacturer. He is widely published and a former editor of
Sound & Communications magazine.
JBL Audio Engineering for Sound Reinforcement (ISBN 0-634-04355-2) is
available at music and bookstores nationwide, or through Music Dispatch
(www.musicdispatch.com).
For more information, visit their web site at www.jblpro.com. | 
