Emma Rice

STEM - 3
September 25, 2020

Individual Decision Matrix

Evaluation Concept 1 Concept 2 Concept 3

Criteria
Weight Val1 W * V1 Val2 W * V2 Val3 W * V3

Amplification 0.30 9 2.7 9 2.7 9 2.7

Equalization 0.30 7 2.1 8 2.4 5 1.5

Portability 0.25 4 1 7 1.75 8 2

Adaptability 0.15 5 0.75 7 1.05 6 0.9

Total 1 25 6.55 31 7.9 28 7.1

Group Decision Matrix

Evaluation Concept 1 Concept 2 Concept 3

Criteria
Weight Val1 W * V1 Val2 W * V2 Val3 W * V3

Amplification .4 8 3.2 7 2.8 9 3.6

Equalization .3 7 2.1 9 2.7 4 1.2

Portability .2 5 1 8 1.6 7 1.4

Adaptability .1 7 .7 8 .8 6 .6

Total 1 27 6.1 32 6.9 26 6.8

Below are descriptions and corresponding colors of the concepts that we have developed thus
far in the design process. After tallying the scores, we found that ​Concept 2 ​was the one with
the highest score and the concept that we as a group plan to pursue.

1. Preamp fader, parametric EQ, carrying case, quarter inch adapter

We chose this design primarily because of the parametric EQ function. Parametric EQ is the
most flexible choice for balancing sound because it allows the control of all the factors of
equalization (amplification, bandwidth/Q, center frequency). While it will be more difficult to learn
for amateur musicians, it’ll open up more opportunities as a result. The carrying case allows for
portability and the quarter inch adapter will allow it to connect to amplifiers without an XLR port
and electronic instruments. Lastly, the preamp fader will allow for controllable amplification of
the overall sound and a clear projection.

2. Volume fader, tilt EQ, cylinder shape, XLR connector

We chose this design, as we believe that it encapsulates the very idea of a human centered
design. A fader would allow us to changeth evolme of the channel signals. ​This is a simple
control which varies the amount of resistance and therefore the signal level. The tilt EQ would
be a one knob system and help balance out the audio in a simpler form since it is one
appliance. The cylinder shape is something we are drawn to, as we believe it would be a more
unique and compact shape to design our product after. It is easy to store, and would be easy to
transport or hold. The XLR connector would also be ideal in a product, as it is a common
connecting system and would allow more people to use it on the output end. It is also a great
alternative for balancing audio.

3. Preamp knob, EQ map, compact overall structure, USB adapter

The volume knob is more intuitive both because of its simple left right functionality and its use of
volume as opposed to level. An EQ Map, although much trickier to assemble and taking up
more room would be very helpful for visual representation of the amplitude at certain
frequencies. Compact overall structure is important for both the use and target audience that we
pin pointed in market research because amatuer musicians need something portable. A USB
adapter would be useful for any sort of amatuer recording using a personal laptop or PC.