FAQ
What is the FAR network ?
It is a network of FAR devices driven by a software that pilots the setup and makes interact all the FAR products: the loudspeakers, the lighting, the Matrix, the SurrounDesk.
Using the FAR matrix soundcard, each loudspeaker can have multiple different eq curves and delay values, so that together they have an adequate response at the chosen listening positions.
It allows multiple setups, called scenario, that are stored and can be recalled to fit different uses and users preferences throughout the day, via software and/or remote control.
Can I customize my SurrounDesk ?
Yes :We provide a base structure that is fully functionnal for audio and video work. You can add more sides and top panels to increase the depth, not the width. It can be further painted, varnished, we can machine panels with a top and bottom layer of veneer or laminate.
In the base structure, the fabric of the sides and ceiling is neutral gray (compatible with video and photo edition). We can custom build them using different fabrics in different colors.
Also keep in mind that our lighting solution is for accurate color rendering, but can also be set from 2500 to 6500K white, and one model is also RGB, for ambient lighting. Any request is welcome.
Can you handle the SurrounDesk installation at my place ?
The SurrounDesk has been designed to allow a full installation in about 1 day by a team of 2. It is like a (big) piece of furniture. The FAR network is designed for easy installation and configuration of the audio monitors and the lightning, and guides you through it.If you are stuck and wish for help, send us a mail with some pictures and a description of your need and we will do our best to accompany you.
If you wish nevertheless the confort of having us install your environment, we can. Then a custom quote is needed, please contact us.
Why are your audio monitors not digital anymore ?
During our visits to our customers, we have seen that the vast majority of them simply plugg their monitor in analoge input. It meant that the signal was digital in the soundcard, then analogue, then converted to digital for DSP processing inside the monitor, and finally analogue. The best use for digital monitors is to use the digital input.So we designed very good analogue audio monitors.
Since a DSP is still needed if you wish to delay and eq (as a final step in the response improvement), but not at the cost of multiple analogue-digital conversions, we included it in a FAR product called the Matrix, which is a sound card handling the delay, eq, user preferences, scenario, and all the features that are part of an integrated and remote controlled listening environment (It is a really cool product, no analogue or digital monitor can do that!).
Your computer + the Matrix + the FAR range of audio monitors = the cleanest audio path
Why is it called a modular system ?
Because if your SurrounDesk has the monitors, you can switch from 1.0 up to a 7.1 setup whenever you need it.Because you can add various Surroundesk modules to fit your room or project and extend from the basic 7,5 m² to 20 or 30 m².
Because you can build your super 3 way reference monitor using an M5 and an S10 in stereo mode, and the same S10 pair can be used as the LFE channel in a 5.1 configuration, just via selecting the corresponding scenario.
Because you can do bass management by using an S10 and a pair of M5 or FR5, simply adequately routing the signal in the FAR Matrix.
Because the same SurrounDesk can be configured for various users and uses via the setup and selection of scenarios.
Because you can start with a very basic stereo SurrounDesk, then add center and later surround monitors, colour lighting,..., and every FAR product will be intergated.
What are the limits of the system ?
It does not handle your computer and your video monitors, other that power ON/OFF.You cannot increase the width of the ceiling module, which is fixed for every model. A custom design can be made.
I do not have the budget for the whole solution, where do I begin ?
Buy a pair of M8 audio monitors. It is a bit more expensive than the M5, but chances are those are the only monitors you will ever need if you stick to stereo, and they will be compatible with a 5.1 setup.If you do not have a good sound treated room, you should find or build one, or purchase the SurrounDesk structure. It might be worth it to read our blog.
If you do not have the budget for the SurrounDesk structure, but wish to purchase it in some time, you can purchase the sound treatment options of the SurrounDesk (the bass traps and some sound absorbing products).
When budget comes again for improvement, purchase the Surroundesk structure.
Get a FAR Matrix.
Purchase more audio monitors if you need a surround setup. Begin with the center channel, with a FAR M5 monitor.