In the world of professional audio, precision is paramount. Whether tuning a large-scale concert arena, calibrating a corporate boardroom, or troubleshooting a church’s feedback issues, engineers rely on tools that provide accurate, real-time data. Among these tools, one name has become synonymous with professional sound system measurement: Smaart. Version 8 of this software, developed by Rational Acoustics, represents the culmination of nearly two decades of development. Smaart V8 is not merely an update; it is a powerful, refined, and surprisingly accessible platform that serves as the industry’s benchmark for dual-channel FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) analysis.
The core of Smaart V8’s utility lies in its dual-mode architecture: Real-Time Mode and Impulse Response Mode. Real-Time Mode is the engineer’s window into the live event. Using a dual-channel FFT analyzer, it compares a reference signal (what is being sent to the system) with a measurement signal (what a microphone picks up in the room). This comparison yields critical data: magnitude (amplitude) and phase (time) response. An engineer can instantly see if a frequency band is feeding back, if a subwoofer array is cancelling out the mains, or if a system’s phase shift is causing audible smearing. This live, visual feedback allows for immediate corrective action, turning a chaotic soundcheck into a methodical optimization process.
While Real-Time Mode is crucial for live troubleshooting, Impulse Response (IR) Mode is where deep system analysis occurs. By measuring how a space responds to a stimulus—like a starter-pistol pop or a swept sine wave—Smaart V8 calculates the venue’s impulse response. From this, the software derives advanced metrics far beyond simple frequency response: Energy-Time Curves (ETC) reveal individual reflections and echoes; Clarity (C50, C80) predicts speech intelligibility and musical definition; and Decay rates (RT60) quantify the room’s reverberation. This mode transforms Smaart from a simple spectrum viewer into a complete acoustical analysis toolkit, empowering engineers to diagnose whether a muddy mix is caused by loudspeaker placement or by a problematic room reflection.
One of the most celebrated features of Smaart V8 is its redesigned user interface. Previous versions, while powerful, were notorious for their steep learning curve and utilitarian, parameter-heavy appearance. Version 8 broke this mold by introducing a clean, customizable, and highly visual workspace. Key features include the Spectrograph, which displays frequency content over time as a scrolling heat map, making intermittent noise issues like wind on a microphone instantly visible. The Phase/Gain plot has been reimagined for clarity, and the new Group Delay trace provides a more intuitive view of time-based problems than raw phase data alone. Furthermore, the software’s multi-window support allows engineers to dedicate one monitor to a wideband system view and another to a detailed subgroup analysis, dramatically improving workflow during high-pressure events.
Connectivity and configuration are often the biggest hurdles in measurement software, and Smaart V8 makes significant strides here. The software’s device handling is robust, supporting virtually any ASIO or Core Audio interface. A key innovation is the Smaart Link protocol, which allows bi-directional communication with networked devices like digital mixing consoles and DSP processors. This means an engineer can, for example, control a console’s parametric EQ directly from within Smaart, applying corrections based on real-time measurement data without switching applications. Additionally, the inclusion of a built-in signal generator with pink noise, sine waves, and band-limited signals ensures that the engineer always has a known test stimulus, independent of the show’s audio source.
Of course, no tool is perfect. Smaart V8’s greatest strength—its depth—can also be a barrier. It is not a “set and forget” RTA (Real-Time Analyzer). To use Smaart effectively, one must understand concepts like coherence, time delay, and FFT size. A novice engineer can easily misinterpret data, for instance, chasing a flat frequency response in a room where a slight downward tilt is objectively more musical. Furthermore, while the interface is cleaner than ever, the software’s power demands a modern computer, and its license management (iLok) can be a nuisance for some users. However, these criticisms are minor when weighed against the software’s capabilities.
In conclusion, Smaart V8 is the definitive tool for the modern audio professional who demands more than a graphic equalizer and educated guesses. It is a sophisticated, dual-domain measurement platform that bridges the gap between subjective listening and objective data. By integrating live real-time analysis with in-depth impulse response measurements, all within a thoughtfully redesigned interface, Rational Acoustics has solidified Smaart’s legacy. For the touring engineer ensuring a flawless show, the system integrator verifying a permanent install, or the acoustician analyzing a concert hall, Smaart V8 is not just a piece of software; it is the lingua franca of sound system optimization—a digital compass navigating the complex physics of sound.
Smaart v8 is a powerful multi-channel acoustic test and measurement platform used by audio professionals to analyze sound systems in real-time
. Here is a blog-style guide to help you master the software, covering essential shortcuts, practical workflows, and gear requirements. Essential Shortcuts for a Faster Workflow
One of the best ways to improve your efficiency in Smaart v8 is by mastering keyboard shortcuts. These "power moves" can help you manage complex screen layouts during a live show: Verify Inputs : Press play on all inputs and hit the key to quickly verify that Smaart is receiving all signals. Align Traces Shift-click
on any magnitude trace to align all visible traces at a specific frequency. Clear Offsets : If your screen gets cluttered with offset traces, use to clear all offsets on visible traces. Hide Traces Command+Shift+H
to instantly hide all visible saved traces and clean up your workspace. Zoom Presets
: Set custom zoom presets (e.g., 30–400 Hz for subs) and navigate between them using Option+1–5 Key Workflows: Time Alignment
A common use for Smaart v8 is time-aligning main speakers to front-fills or subwoofers. A simple process for aligning mains to front-fills includes: Measure Mains : Solo the main speaker and use the Delay Locator to set the compensation delay. Solo Front-fill : Measure the front-fill and click
in the delay locator to see the "delta delay" (the time difference). Apply Delay
: Put that delta value into your processor for the front-fill and verify that the new delta delay is close to zero. Verify Summation
: Measure both together to ensure they sum correctly at the crossover point. Setting Up Your Gear
To get accurate results, your hardware needs to be as reliable as your software. Experts recommend prioritizing these factors when choosing an audio interface: Driver Stability
: Essential for both Windows and macOS to prevent crashes during measurements. Quality Preamps
: Ensure your interface has high-quality microphone preamps with stable phantom power. Measurement Mic : Use a calibrated measurement microphone, such as the Earthworks M30 , for professional-grade frequency response data. Learning Resources
is the legacy, flagship version of the dual-channel, FFT-based acoustic measurement software developed by Rational Acoustics
. It is widely considered the industry standard for professional sound system alignment, acoustic analysis, and real-time SPL monitoring. Rational Acoustics
While it has been succeeded by Smaart v9, v8 remains a powerful multi-channel tool capable of handling complex measurement environments that require simultaneous data from multiple sources. Rational Acoustics Core Measurement Modes
Smaart v8 operates primarily through three distinct measurement engines: Real-Time Mode
: Used for "live" system tuning. It provides a Spectrum engine for RTA (Real-Time Analyzer) and Spectrograph displays, and a Transfer Function engine to compare an input signal against a reference signal. Impulse Response (IR) Mode
: Focuses on the time-domain behavior of a sound system. It allows for calculating acoustic metrics like Speech Transmission Index (STI) and analyzing reflections and decay.
: A comprehensive sound level monitoring toolset. It can track and log over 14 different metrics simultaneously (e.g., Leq, Peak C) and includes visual alarms for sound level compliance. Rational Acoustics Key Features and Workflow Multi-Channel Architecture
: Unlike the "Di" (Dual-Channel) version, v8 allows for an unlimited number of simultaneous measurement engines and inputs, restricted only by your computer’s hardware. API and Remote Control : Smaart v8 features an
that allows other devices on the same network to view measurement data or control the software remotely using the "Client Window". 10EaZy Integration : Version 8.2 and later natively support
hardware, integrating its Maximum Average Manager (MAM) directly into the Smaart interface for high-precision SPL monitoring. Customizable Interface
: Users can create "View Presets" to quickly switch between different plot layouts (e.g., viewing RTA and Transfer Function side-by-side) using hotkeys. Rational Acoustics System Requirements & Compatibility
What are the system requirements for Smaart v8 / Di v2 / SPL v1?
Smaart v8 is a dual-channel, FFT-based audio analysis software used for real-time spectrum analysis, transfer function measurements, and acoustical impulse response analysis. It is a foundational tool for sound system engineers to measure frequency content, study timing, and optimize system performance. Core Measurement Features
Dual-Channel Transfer Function: Compares a microphone input to a reference signal to analyze frequency response and timing differences across a space.
Spectrum Analysis: Uses multiple measurement engines to visualize the frequency content of audio signals, with options for unique averaging settings per engine.
SPL Measurement and Logging: Features an integrated SPL toolset for monitoring volume levels, including logging capabilities and compliance weighting (e.g., OSHA and NIOSH).
Signal Generator: Includes an internal stimulus generator for creating pink noise or sweeps to be used as reference signals. Advanced Operational Capabilities Webinar: Keeping an Eye on Volume, Smaart v8 SPL Toolset
Smaart v8 by Rational Acoustics is a multi-channel, tab-based acoustic measurement software designed for real-time analysis, Transfer Function, and Impulse Response, supporting both Windows and macOS. It offers enhanced features like touchscreen capability, a built-in API, and integrated SPL logging. For more details, visit Rational Acoustics audioXpress Smaart V8
Smaart v8 (System Measurement Acoustic Analysis Real-time Tool) is the industry-leading, dual-platform audio analysis software developed by Rational Acoustics. It utilizes advanced Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) algorithms to help sound engineers analyze frequency content, measure sound system responses, and perform complex room acoustics analysis.
Whether you are tuning a massive live concert PA system or a critical recording studio environment, Smaart provides real-time, data-driven insights to align and optimize your equipment. 🚀 Core Measurement Modes
Smaart v8 is divided into three primary operational environments tailored to specific audio engineering tasks: 1. Real-Time Spectrum Mode
Used to analyze the frequency content of incoming signals directly.
RTA (Real-Time Analyzer): Shows active audio frequencies in banded or line views.
Spectrograph: Displays frequency over time using color gradients, perfect for finding acoustic feedback or tracking system decay. 2. Transfer Function (Dual-Channel) Mode
Compares a reference signal (original audio fed into a sound system) with a measurement signal (what the microphone hears in the room).
Magnitude: Shows the actual frequency response changes caused by the system or room.
Phase: Visualizes timing differences across frequencies, critical for aligning subwoofers to main speakers.
Coherence: Acts as a quality metric, showing how much of the measured sound is directly related to the source rather than background noise and reflections.
Live IR (Impulse Response): Helps pinpoint system delays quickly. 3. Impulse Response (IR) Mode
Focuses directly on the time domain, mapping how sound propagates in a physical space.
Ideal for analyzing energy-time curves (ETC), late reflections, and calculate speech intelligibility parameters (like STI). 🛠 Key Features in Version 8
Smaart v8 introduced radical workflow upgrades over its predecessor, making it highly scalable and flexible:
Tab-Based Interface: Create and cycle between multiple isolated workspaces without opening separate application windows.
Multi-Window Capability: Drive multiple windows across several displays, effectively allowing you to run multiple measurement sessions simultaneously.
Command Bar: Features large, touch-screen friendly custom buttons for operations frequently conducted on tablets.
Broadband Metering: Continuously monitor input levels, SPL, and LEQ across all devices at once.
Smaart-to-Smaart API: Allows one computer to capture the audio inputs while a second computer reads and operates the measurement data remotely over a network.
MTW (Multi-Time Window): A proprietary FFT process that utilizes shorter time windows for higher frequencies, helping you automatically ignore destructive room reflections. 📋 System Requirements & Compatibility
To run Smaart v8 effectively, ensure your system meets these parameters: Smaart v8 User Guide, Release 8.1 - Dje-Audio
Smaart V8: The Industry Standard for Live Sound Analysis and Tuning
Smaart V8 (Sound Measurement Acoustical Analysis Real-time Tool) is widely considered the industry standard for professional audio engineers to measure and analyze sound systems in real-time. Developed by Rational Acoustics, this powerful software provides the data-driven insights needed to align loudspeakers, tune rooms, and monitor sound pressure levels (SPL) during live performances. Core Measurement Capabilities
Smaart V8 operates primarily through two distinct measurement modes, each serving a specific role in the audio engineering workflow:
Real-Time Mode: This is the most common use case for live sound. It allows engineers to view a system's frequency response (RTA and Spectrograph) and Transfer Function (Magnitude and Phase) in real-time. By comparing a reference signal (the dry audio) with a measurement signal (captured by a microphone), Smaart calculates exactly how a sound system is altering the audio.
Impulse Response (IR) Mode: Used primarily for system alignment and acoustic analysis. It provides a detailed view of a signal's arrival time, helping engineers time-align different speaker components (like subs and tops) or identify problematic room reflections. Recent updates have added advanced controls for IR spectrographs and user-defined filters for more granular analysis. Key Features and Workflow Enhancements
Smaart V8 was built to handle the complexities of modern, large-scale touring environments. Notable features include:
Multi-Channel Architecture: Unlike basic analysis tools, Smaart V8 can handle multiple simultaneous measurement inputs. This allows an engineer to monitor different locations in a venue (e.g., front of house, balcony, and front-fills) from a single interface.
Advanced SPL Monitoring: Beyond simple tuning, Smaart includes a robust SPL toolset for logging and monitoring decibel levels over time. This is critical for staying within local noise regulations while maintaining high-impact dynamic range for the audience.
Acoustic Environment Insights: Beyond live music, the software is used in architectural acoustics to study how worship spaces or studios influence emotional and auditory experiences. Why Professionals Use Smaart
The software is a staple for major world tours, such as the U2 360° World Tour, where it is used to ensure consistent audio quality across massive, complex speaker arrays. It provides the objective data required to:
Identify Feedback Frequencies: Quickly spot ringing frequencies before they become a problem.
EQ Systems Accurately: Make precise adjustments to a system's tonal balance based on visual data rather than just ear.
Optimize Time Alignment: Ensure that sound from every speaker arrives at the listener's ear at the exact same time for maximum clarity.
Whether you are an independent sound tech or a lead systems engineer for a global tour, Smaart V8 offers the essential toolkit for turning subjective listening into objective, actionable data.
Smaart RTA Version 1.5 Update and Pricing Options - Facebook
Understanding Smaart V8: The Industry Standard for Audio Analysis Smaart V8: The Industry Standard for Sound System
Smaart V8, developed by Rational Acoustics LLC, is widely considered the premier software tool for professional audio engineers, system integrators, and acoustic researchers. Short for "Sound Measurement Analysis Real-Time Tool," it provides the essential data needed to optimize sound systems and understand acoustic environments in real time. Core Functions of Smaart V8
At its heart, Smaart V8 is a dual-channel, FFT-based analyzer. It allows users to view the behavior of an audio system across two primary domains:
Real-Time Analyzer (RTA): Provides a visual representation of frequency energy over time. It is used to identify feedback, monitor tonal balance, and observe the frequency content of a live mix.
Transfer Function: Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Smaart, this compares an input signal (the reference) to an output signal (the measurement). By analyzing the difference between what goes into a system and what comes out, engineers can pinpoint phase issues, timing misalignments, and frequency response anomalies. Key Features and Interface Improvements
Smaart V8 introduced several significant workflow enhancements over previous iterations to handle the complexity of modern touring and installation environments:
Multi-Measurement Capability: Unlike earlier versions, V8 allows users to run multiple measurements simultaneously. This means you can view RTAs, Spectrographs, and Transfer Functions from various microphones throughout a venue at once.
Tabbed Interface: To manage the wealth of data, the software utilizes a "tab-based" organization system. This allows engineers to switch rapidly between different "views" or venue zones without losing their place.
Simplified Data Logging: The software is designed for high-stakes environments where decisions must be made quickly. Features like the API for third-party integration (e.g., with Lake Processing) allow Smaart data to be superimposed directly onto system DSP control screens. Applications in the Field
While often associated with concert sound, Smaart V8 is a versatile tool used across many disciplines:
Live Sound Reinforcement: Used to "tune" P.A. systems so they provide consistent coverage and tonal balance across every seat in the house.
Acoustic Research: Researchers utilize the software for tasks such as testing active noise control systems for urban traffic noise.
Studio Design: Essential for identifying room modes and timing issues in critical listening environments to ensure accurate monitoring.
Installation & Integration: Used in houses of worship and corporate offices to optimize speech intelligibility and background music systems. Why Professionals Choose Smaart
The longevity of the Smaart platform is due to its reliability and the rigorous educational ecosystem surrounding it. Rational Acoustics offers global certification courses to ensure operators can accurately interpret the complex data the software provides. Whether you are a touring FOH engineer or an acoustic consultant, Smaart V8 remains an indispensable part of the modern audio toolkit.
Smaart RTA Version 1.5 Update and Pricing Options - Facebook
Smaart V8 is the latest major iteration of Rational Acoustics’ real-time audio analysis software. While V7 was already a benchmark, V8 refines the workflow, adds modern features, and lowers the learning curve without dumbing down the depth professionals rely on.
This view shows you the energy in the room over time. In Smaart V8, the IR mode lets you see reflections. If you send a click or use a swept sine wave, the IR view will show the direct sound from the speaker (the main spike) followed by smaller spikes from walls, ceilings, or floors. You can literally "see" the echo.
Smaart V8 is not a revolution, but a mature, thoughtful evolution. If you’re on V7, the upgrade ($299) is worth it for the Spectrograph mode and EQ assistant alone. If you’re new to system tuning, rent it for a month first – but once you learn it, you’ll wonder how you tuned without it.
Verdict: Essential tool for pros. Overkill for everyone else.
Alternatives: Open Sound Meter (free, good for basic alignment), SysTune (better for complex acoustics), Rational Acoustics Smaart Suite (adds networked multi-mic).
Title: Smaart V8: A Comprehensive Sound System Analysis and Measurement Tool
Introduction:
Smaart V8 is a professional sound system analysis and measurement tool developed by Rational Acoustics. It is widely used in the audio industry for commissioning, testing, and optimizing sound systems. Smaart V8 provides a comprehensive set of tools for sound system design, measurement, and analysis, making it an essential software for sound engineers, acousticians, and system integrators. This paper provides an overview of Smaart V8's features and capabilities, its applications, and the benefits it offers to sound system professionals.
History and Development:
Smaart has a long history dating back to the 1990s, when it was first developed as a sound system measurement tool. Over the years, the software has evolved to keep pace with advances in audio technology and changing user needs. Smaart V8 is the latest version of the software, which offers a range of new features and improvements over its predecessors.
Key Features and Capabilities:
Smaart V8 offers a range of tools and features that make it an essential software for sound system professionals. Some of its key features include:
Applications:
Smaart V8 has a wide range of applications in the audio industry, including:
Benefits:
Smaart V8 offers a range of benefits to sound system professionals, including:
Conclusion:
Smaart V8 is a powerful sound system analysis and measurement tool that offers a comprehensive set of features and capabilities. Its applications range from sound system commissioning and optimization to acoustic analysis and loudspeaker development. The software provides a range of benefits to sound system professionals, including improved system performance, increased efficiency, enhanced productivity, and better decision making. As a leading tool in the audio industry, Smaart V8 continues to evolve and improve, offering users the latest technology and features to help them achieve their goals.
References:
Smaart v8, developed by Rational Acoustics, is a professional-grade, dual-channel FFT-based software platform used globally by audio engineers for real-time sound system measurement, analysis, and optimization. It provides the tools necessary to analyze the frequency content of audio signals and study the timing and frequency response of electro-acoustic systems. Core Measurement Modes
Smaart v8 operates primarily through three specialized modes designed for different stages of system tuning: Real-Time Mode (Spectrum & Transfer Function):
Spectrum Analysis: Provides single-channel RTA (Real-Time Analyzer) and Spectrograph views to monitor the frequency content of specific signals.
Transfer Function (TF): Compares a reference signal (the input) to a measurement signal (the output from the speakers) to calculate magnitude, phase, and coherence. This is critical for aligning crossovers and EQing systems for transparency. Overview Smaart V8 is the latest major iteration
Impulse Response (IR) Mode: Used for time-domain analysis, allowing engineers to measure room acoustics (like RT60 and STI) and find precise delay times for system alignment.
SPL Mode: A powerful logging and monitoring tool for tracking Sound Pressure Levels over time. It can generate detailed SPL Reports for event compliance. Getting Started with Smaart for System Tuning
Introduction
Smaart V8 is a professional audio analysis and measurement software developed by Rational Acoustics. It's widely used in the audio industry for sound system design, commissioning, and optimization. Smaart V8 offers a comprehensive set of tools for measuring and analyzing audio signals, including FFT analysis, RTA (Real-Time Analysis), and more.
System Requirements
Before installing Smaart V8, ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements:
Installation and Licensing
User Interface
The Smaart V8 user interface is divided into several sections:
Basic Operations
Measurement Types
Smaart V8 offers several measurement types:
Analysis Tools
Smaart V8 Features
Some notable features in Smaart V8:
Tips and Best Practices
Troubleshooting
Common issues and solutions:
It was a typical Friday evening at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, with a sold-out crowd eagerly awaiting the start of the highly anticipated concert. The audio team, led by veteran sound engineer, Rachel, had been setting up the sound system all day. As the opening act took the stage, Rachel and her team were busy fine-tuning the system to ensure perfect sound quality for the headlining act.
That's when Rachel reached for her trusty Smaart V8 software. She had used it on countless shows before, but she knew it was essential for getting the sound system dialed in just right. With Smaart V8, Rachel could accurately measure and analyze the sound system's performance, making adjustments on the fly to optimize the sound.
As she launched Smaart V8 on her laptop, Rachel connected it to the sound system's control surface. The software quickly got to work, generating a detailed analysis of the system's frequency response, phase response, and other critical parameters.
Rachel's team had been struggling to get the low end just right, with the bass sounding a bit muddy. Using Smaart V8, Rachel was able to identify the problem areas and make precise adjustments to the EQ settings. She also used the software's powerful FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) analysis tools to pinpoint specific resonances and cancellations in the system.
With Smaart V8's intuitive interface, Rachel was able to quickly navigate through the various measurement and analysis tools. She used the software's spectrogram display to visualize the sound system's frequency response over time, making it easy to spot any issues.
As the headlining act took the stage, Rachel and her team were confident that the sound system was optimized for perfect sound quality. The crowd erupted in cheers as the music began, and Rachel's team breathed a collective sigh of relief. The sound was crystal clear, with tight, punchy bass and crystal-clear highs.
Throughout the show, Rachel kept a close eye on the Smaart V8 measurements, making occasional adjustments as needed to ensure the sound system performed flawlessly. The show was a huge success, with the crowd and the artists alike praising the incredible sound quality.
As the night drew to a close, Rachel and her team packed up their gear, exhausted but satisfied with a job well done. Smaart V8 had played a critical role in getting the sound system sounding its best, and Rachel knew she could rely on it for every show. With its powerful analysis and measurement tools, Smaart V8 had once again helped her deliver an unforgettable sonic experience for the audience.
Smaart v8 is a premier computer-based acoustic measurement and analysis platform developed by Rational Acoustics. Released as a highly scalable dual-channel FFT software, it has served as the industry standard for professional live sound reinforcement, system alignment, and acoustic analysis.
Whether you are aiming to analyze frequency content or perfectly time-align a complex stadium PA system, Smaart v8 provides the deep, multi-channel capabilities required to get the job done. 🛠️ Core Measurement Modes
Smaart v8 breaks down its operations into three primary modes, each designed to give sound engineers precise visibility into their audio systems:
Real-Time Spectrum Mode: RTA (Real-Time Analyzer) and Spectrograph displays provide a visual representation of frequency content over time. It is vital for identifying feedback frequencies, observing system response, and checking background noise levels.
Transfer Function (TF) Mode: This mode measures the relationship between a reference signal (like the output of a digital mixing console) and a measurement signal (captured by a microphone). It provides magnitude, phase, and coherence data to perfectly calculate how a sound system is altering the original audio.
Impulse Response (IR) Mode: Tailored for acoustic analysis, this mode measures a system's response in the time domain. It is used to analyze early decay time, RT60, speech intelligibility, and to find accurate delay times for multiple speakers. 🚀 Key Features and Innovations
Smaart v8 brought massive improvements over its predecessor, focusing on user customizability and multi-channel efficiency: Smaart v8 Operation: 12 - Spectrum Applications
Smaart’s core strengths shine in measurement accuracy and flexibility.
The software supports both impulse and swept-sine measurements; swept-sine combines excellent signal-to-noise ratio with robust deconvolution, which many engineers find indispensable.
Smaart V8 features a hardware-accelerated graphics engine. This means smoother scrolling, faster zooming, and a higher refresh rate for the spectrograph. The Phase Display was also overhauled, wrapping phase traces at ±180 degrees to eliminate messy "unwrapped" lines, making group delay and driver alignment visually obvious.
To run Smaart V8 smoothly, ensure your computer meets these specs:
Important: Smaart V8 is end-of-life. Rational Acoustics has moved on to Smaart v9. However, V8 remains in widespread use because it is extremely stable and licenses are still active for previous purchasers.