Rational Acoustics announces Smaart v9

Rational Acoustics has announced that Smaart v9, the next major release version of the Smaart acoustic test and measurement software platform, will be released on September 27th, 2022.

Smaart v9 brings new features, useability enhancements, and performance improvements as well as introducing new feature-based editions of Smaart and a new subscription licensing option.

“With the release of v9, Smaart is moving from its old version-based product structure to a new, more cohesive edition-based one.” says Rational Acoustics President, Jamie Anderson. “This means that instead of maintaining multiple separate products, each at different release versions like we've had with Smaart v8, Smaart Di v2, and Smaart SPL v1, there will now be only one version of Smaart, available in several different editions.”

The four editions of Smaart available with the release of v9 are:

Smaart Suite:
The “Suite” Edition is the full-featured, flagship, edition that includes all three of Smaart’s measurement modes (Real-Time, Impulse Response, and SPL) with no functional limitations. Smaart Suite is the analog to the comprehensive functionality currently found in Smaart v8 and is designed for professional users who require Smaart's full feature set across all three measurement modes.

Smaart RT
The “Real-Time” Edition which is Smaart Suite's Real-Time Mode in a stand-alone format. It comprises all the traditional core multi-engine FFT-based measurement capabilities: RTA, Spectrograph, Transfer Function and Live Impulse Response measurements. While it does include Live IR measurement and basic single-channel SPL monitoring capabilities, Smaart RT does not include Suite’s acoustic analysis focused Impulse Response Mode or the fully featured SPL monitoring tools of SPL Mode. Smaart RT is designed for users who simply require the complete advanced functionality of the Real-Time Mode.

Smaart LE
The “Light” Edition featuring a simplified, streamlined version of Smaart's Real Time Mode in which many of the advanced settings and adjustments for Spectrum, Transfer Function and Live IR measurements are pre-set and fixed – in effect, just like operating RT on its default measurement settings. Although it does not include many of the advanced user functions included in Suite and RT, it does allow for Smaart’s unlimited multi-engine, multi-input measurement configurations and contains the core, essential functionality for Smaart’s spectrum and frequency response measurements. It is reportedly targeted at users new to the Smaart platform, students, and those who want quick, simple measurement functionality.

Smaart SPL
The “SPL” Edition delivers the functionality of Smaart Suite’s SPL mode in a stand-alone format. Smaart SPL includes all the multi-channel, remotely monitorable, SPL metering and logging features found in Smaart Suite, in a simplified, purpose-focused package. Smaart SPL is meant for applications that do not require any of the Real Time or Impulse Response measurement functionality found in other editions of Smaart.

Another major change is that, for the first time, Smaart will be available in an annual subscription licensing format. “We are pleased to offer a new Annual Subscription License option for the Suite, RT and LE editions of Smaart v9” says Karen Anderson, Rational Acoustics CEO. “The subscription licensing option does not replace the traditional Perpetual License model, which will still be offered for all v9 editions. But different customers come with different needs, different budgets, and different preferences. Offering a choice of both perpetual and subscription licensing allows our users the flexibility to purchase Smaart the way that works best for them.”

The primary new feature additions in Smaart v9 include a multi-output signal generator, signal generator presents, a timer macro, measurement pause behavior and auto-set delay tracker functionality, as well as improvements to the transfer function engine, larger FFT settings and plug & play device support. An updated user interface provides for more intuitive measurement configuration and major “under-the-hood” enhancements add speed and improve overall performance, says Rational.

Pricing and Availability
Smaart v9 will be available for purchase starting September 27th, 2022. Perpetual Licenses (new and upgrades) can be purchased via the Rational Acoustics online store or from any authorized Rational Acoustics distributor or dealer. Annual Subscription Licenses are available only through the Rational Acoustics online store.

From September 27th to December 31st, 2022, special introductory discounts are available for both new licenses and upgrades. And anyone who purchased Smaart v8 or Smaart Di v2 after June 1st, 2022, will receive a free upgrade to an edition of Smaart v9 upon its release. Pricing can be found at https://www.rationalacoustics.com/pa...art-v9-pricing