In Direct Field Acoustic Testing (DFAT), it’s crucial to recognize the depth and breadth of experience that shapes best practices in our industry. While some may claim that DFAN testing has its roots solely in concert audio, this is a grossly overgeneralized and subjective viewpoint that inherently diminishes the credibility of DFAT as an empirical testing method. Rather, cross-pollination of diverse acoustical expertise can only further enhance the art and science of DFAN testing. A well-rounded yet focused approach combines decades of both aerospace and acoustic expertise. We at MSI DFAT know because we blew up millions of dollars of concert speakers while inventing DFAT back in the 90’s. Since then, we innovated by improving on the technology to the current purpose-built DFAT speakers available on the market today (see https://www.msidfat.com/patents for a few examples of our IP).
It is a false dichotomy to differentiate between being an "aerospace company with audio expertise" versus a "concert company with aerospace experience". This oversimplifies the complexities of either industry and incorrectly assumes that a company cannot successfully integrate or apply valuable know-how across both domains. Rather, at MSI DFAT, we have more specialized experience in both live concerts and aerospace environmental testing than any other company on the planet. We’ve played on both sides of the Dark Side of the Moon – from Pink Floyd to Artemis. With over 230 DFATs successfully completed—and counting—our experience is quantitatively unmatched.
Consider the parallels between concert events and the aerospace industry. High-stakes live audio events, such as presidential inaugurations or the ball-drop in Times Square, demand flawless performance and execution. Imagine the disruption and embarrassment if an audio signal were to drop during a speech by the President of the United States or if the audio cut out at the critical moment of the ball-drop countdown on live TV. Fortunately, our reputation is validated by our valued customers who entrust us with such important projects.
As a space program manager tasked with finding a partner for DFAT, you face a critical decision: should you take a chance on a new, uncertain startup for a mission-critical acoustic test? What if they run out of money before they can show up onsite for the test?
Another simple risk that is often overlooked is that large-scale tests (requiring more inventory of loudspeakers) could lead to significant delays due to manufacturing lead times. With the previous years of shipping issues and port congestion, and recent weeks of even more port strikes, this is not a gamble that any aerospace supply chain team or spacecraft program manager should be willing to take. In contrast, MSI DFAT boasts a ready-to-go immediate inventory of over 700 (and counting) purpose-built DFAT speakers immediately available, allowing us to support large-scale acoustic tests, right away. We could even support two simultaneous acoustic test events over 60 feet tall—concurrently. This capability is unmatched and is not something you would want to gamble on with an unproven, risky startup company.
We prioritize immediate test support, significantly enhancing testing efficiency for our customers. Our extensive ready-to-go inventory means large-scale tests can proceed without the delays often associated with manufacturing, which is crucial in today’s high-stakes environments of launching on-time and under-budget. And, rather than manufacturing our loudspeakers overseas with cheap labor and poor quality controls, we manufacture our state-of-the-art loudspeakers right here in the United States in Baltimore, Maryland at our own facility.
Additionally, our commitment to rigorous Quality Management Systems and continuous improvement principles—such as ISO 9001 and AS 9100 certifications—underscores our dedication to excellence. Our focus is not on flashy marketing but on delivering real results grounded in scientific methodology and proven engineering practices. Instead of investing in a sleek website design or hyper-polished gimmicky PowerPoint sales presentations, we allocate our resources to hiring and retaining top industry talent and advancing R&D for DFAT technology. Since our inception, we have integrated Kaizen principles of continuous improvement into our technology, people, and processes, constantly refining our approach.
The logistical complexities of testing—similar to those faced in high-profile live concert events like the presidential inaugurations—require not only technical expertise but also operational insight gained from years of experience in both aerospace and live event management. This unique combination fosters an unparalleled level of preparedness.
We are not merely a concert speaker company. We are not merely an aerospace testing company. We are both! Our background in the concert industry gives us irreplaceable knowledge in managing complex logistics and live testing events with the precision of an F1 mechanics team. Our ongoing R&D initiatives in DFAT for specialized and custom speaker models reflect our forward-thinking approach, ensuring that our products are tailored specifically for the demands of DFAN testing.
Ultimately, our goal is to enhance the safety of personnel and flight hardware. Everyone at MSI DFAT is committed to delivering a quality product and service. Every decision we make is grounded in expertise and quality, prioritizing safety and reliability above all.
Launching things into space?
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