AES Europe 2026

This paper introduces clustered virtual microphone arrays
as a step toward improving listener-level virtual
microphone estimation for live sound. Multiple compact
microphone sub-arrays are placed around a nominal overhead
position. Each sub-array produces a virtual microphone
estimate,; the estimates are fused. The aim is to attack
the estimation problem from multiple viewpoints; reduce
sensitivity to any one array placement or geometry.
The work builds on our earlier paper, “Room Acoustics
Optimisation Using Virtual Microphone Arrays”. That paper
proposed virtual microphones estimated from an overhead
array as a measurement layer for live sound optimisation.
It also highlighted a key limitation: in its initial form,
virtual microphone estimation quality was not yet strong
enough for reliable use across positions. The present paper
targets that limitation. We outline the clustered array
idea; treat cluster count; inter-cluster spacing as
design parameters. Virtual microphones are estimated using
beamforming; combined using simple fusion. Performance
is assessed with objective signal measures, including SNR
; frequency-; phase-related error measures, across
multiple listener-level target positions. The results
support further refinement under more realistic room
conditions; further study of the link between improved
estimation quality; FIR-based correction outcomes.