HEAD acoustics Increases Audio Measurement and Analysis Flexibility with ACQUA 5.0.100 Software

ACQUA 5.0.100 is the first iteration of the new generation of the well-established measurement and analysis software ACQUA from HEAD acoustics. ACQUA's significantly reworked software structure provides even greater flexibility for voice and audio quality evaluation, while paving the way for future expansions. Designed for the requirements in applications as diverse as communication systems, Bluetooth, ANC headphones, or smart speakers, ACQUA now supports faster hardware configuration, perceived loudness analysis, and MDAQS audio quality evaluation.

Brüel & Kjær Sound & Vibration Measurement is promoting a set of recommendations for smart speaker testing, putting focus on the importance of realistic testing when developing and incorporating voice recognition functionalities into consumer products. The Danish sound and vibration specialist recommends the use of its high-frequency HATS Type 5218 and Mouth Simulator Type 4227 systems with human voice characteristics for realistic speech and sound testing of voice-operated devices.

In this article for audioXpress, Hans W. Gierlich, managing director of HEAD acoustics, explains how to test the different performance parameters of smart speakers and smart home devices under real-life conditions, how to deal with the challenges of optimizing systems for voice and audio quality, how to simulate environmental conditions, user behavior, and test the performance of the various functionalities. This article was originally published in audioXpress, January 2019.