CYCTEMA — Audio Solutions

Overview

CYCTEMA was an audio solutions business I ran for 5 years until 2024, executing around 5 events a year at its peak, while studying full-time. The work ranged from small venue installs to outdoor events with up to 2,000 visitors. This included full system design, setup, operation and teardown.

The interesting part was designing and tuning systems that had to work given the venue and time limit, the fun part was the pressure.

Systems

• PA systems I ran several systems, including a high-power four-way horn architecture. Multiple entry horns used for single point source designs, accompanied by large tapped horns among others for low frequency amplification. Full system simulation typically done in Hornresp, with measurements and system tuning with REW, SigmaStudio and a DuinoDCX.
• Signal chain Full digital processing: crossovers, limiters, compressors, delays. All tuned to the specific room or outdoor environment.
• Lighting DMX rig design and live operation alongside the audio, providing the full suite of audiovisual services any event typically needs.

Hardware Projects

Running the business led to a couple of side projects.

BeatCyclette & Remork — two modular sound systems built into a cargo bike and a bike trailer under hard physical constraints. Space, power, heat and weight. miniDSP 2x4 HD for crossover and EQ, TI class-D for amps and custom 42V li-ion packs. SolidWorks for the enclosures, and a lot of creative mounting.

Class-D Amplifier — Related to the audio space, a simple class-D amplifier was built as a proof of concept. Schematic in LTSpice, layout in KiCad, measured with a TiePie oscilloscope.

Status

Wrapped up in September 2024 to focus on the master’s degree. The PA system was sold, though I’ve never quite managed to stop; new speakers still get built.