System Design & Optimization | Derby, UK | March 2026

09:30- 17:30

This course explores the principles of loudspeaker system design, focusing on the physics, prediction, measurement, and optimization techniques used in professional sound reinforcement. Participants will apply these concepts using Meyer Sound loudspeakers, MAPP 3D system prediction software, and the Galileo GALAXY processor platform.

Modern tools like prediction software and affordable analyzers make system design more accessible than ever. But true mastery requires understanding the science behind the tools. Without it, troubleshooting and adapting to real-world challenges becomes guesswork.

Through a structured approach grounded in acoustic principles, this course trains attendees to make informed design decisions, validate them with measurement, and avoid missteps caused by misunderstood data. Emphasis is placed on optimizing multi-zone systems by managing level and phase relationships to ensure consistent, high-quality coverage.

Participants will develop critical listening skills alongside technical analysis—connecting what they hear with what they measure. The result is not just proficiency with tools, but a mindset of intentional, predictive, and verified system design.

By the end, attendees will be equipped to design systems with confidence and purpose, ensuring every listener experiences the performance as intended.

• Apply knowledge and understanding of physics of sound and concepts of frequency and phase to design, install, and calibrate/verify/optimize loudspeaker systems.

• Understand sound sources interaction to inform approaches to design, installation, and calibration of loudspeaker systems.

• Implement strategies for designing and executing loudspeaker systems including effective low frequency directivity and control.

SDO is eligible for 18 AVIXA CTS, CTS-D, CTS-I RU.

The registration fee includes training materials, AVIXA CTS RU, Eventbrite fees, coffee + pastries

After studying studio recording and jazz piano at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague, Merlijn started his career at the Dutch Broadcast Company doing sound engineering for TV shows such as “Big Brother.” He also worked 10 years at Harlekijn, Holland where he annually mixed more than 150 live performances throughout Europe and internationally before deciding to start his own education program in gratitude for the willingness of others to share their knowledge and experience.

He has developed several calculators to aide in the process of teaching including the Subwoofer Array Designer. Until recently, he was also principal teacher for sound reinforcement at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague for the "Art of Sound" under-and post-graduate program.

Merlijn is moderator of the "test & measurement" board of the ProSoundWeb LAB forums. He provided ongoing aid and support to the 3rd edition of Bob McCarthy’s book “Sound Systems: Design & Optimization.”Merlijn’s articles are published regularly in Live Sound International magazine.

Based in Germany, Merlijn joined Meyer Sound’s global education leadership team in 2018. Merlijn hosts education webinars and roundtable discussions as well as does design work.

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