CE Pro May 2024 - 15

INTERVIEW
Audio+Video
Steve Haas
CEO & Principal Consultant,
SH Acoustics
How should custom integrators view today's
auto calibration tools?
I think the word " tool " is very appropriate, and it takes more
than one tool to build a precision vehicle. Acoustically designed
treatment layouts and constructions are a " tool " that
establish an optimal sonic canvas (in coordination with the
aesthetics of the space); proper quantity, type and placement
of speakers and subwoofers are a " tool " to ensure that
all audio formats are replicated in the best possible manner;
and, of course, audio calibration led by someone experienced
enough to know how to blend manual and (where
needed) automatic techniques to get the best overall sound
quality is that final " tool " in the toolbelt to achieving the
real value for the integrator's clients.
I've always been one of the strongest proponents of
the inseparable relationship between audio delivery and
acoustic environments and have made this the foundation
of my company over the last 25 years. I've also proven many
times that trying to address one without the other at a high
level leads to compromises that, in some cases, may not be
immediately obvious to everyone.
What does SH Acoustics do to ensure whole-house
entertainment meets its full potential beyond
home theater?
A number of our private clients don't even have a true
dedicated theater, but they still appreciate actively listening
to great sound throughout key areas of their homes or
condos. The same principles apply to both taming the interior
acoustics of and containing sound to/from great rooms, family
rooms, jam rooms, studios, home offices and other residential
spaces. Beyond that, there are proven health and wellness
benefits in having a home that just sounds more controlled
and free from disturbing noise. We work regularly with the
homeowners and their architects/builders to ensure that all
acoustic upgrades are tailored to their exact needs.
What is work like in commercial audio,
where you also provide acoustical design?
I have taught my engineering team how to flip the mentality
between working for a private homeowner vs. a large
institution like the Smithsonian or even the NFL, as we must
do so several times daily. The key to success is being able
cepro.com
to bring unique design techniques and technologies that
we implement on one side to the other; but with a strong
and measured understanding of which design elements from
the commercial world would apply on a high-end home and
what would be completely impractical.
" I have taught my
engineering team how to
flip the mentality between
working for a private homeowner
vs. a large institution like the
Smithsonian or even the NFL. "
Can integrators scale your system designs
to help meet a range of price points?
We witness all the time how thrilled customers are - both
in their home theaters and the rest of their homes - to have
a high level of control over the sound of their environments.
Compared to the construction and finish of most affluent
homes, even global acoustic upgrades might only account for
5%-6% of the total construction cost at the high end.
Having said that, we regularly get brought into new or
existing homes where there are just one or two " hot button "
issues that need to be addressed from a sound quality or
noise mitigation factor, including exterior noise (pickleball
court noise is the latest trend in affluent communities that
seems to find benefit from our service). Fees and implementation
costs for something like this can be relatively modest
if it's a straightforward problem and solution.
Can you briefly explain the live entertainment
solution you are bringing to market?
I [recently] spearheaded a new service and technology
called Maestro, which offers virtual, live 2-way interactive
performance events between a single artist and household.
Maestro will allow our private clientele to book top quality
musicians, actors, comedians, DJs, luminaries, and more for
an unforgettable event experience that they will truly appreciate
without leaving their homes. We have been successfully
beta testing concerts with our completed tech platform
and will be launching it to qualified customers next year.
May 2024 CE Pro | 15
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CE Pro May 2024

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