# Working with beams

Beams are the means to output sound from a Matrix Array. Each beam type has unique properties and are used for different types of content and use cases.

An array can have up to a total of 13 beams per array: up to 5 Coverage Beams and up to 8 Parametric Beams or Virtual Sources.

<table><thead><tr><th>Beam Type</th><th data-type="number"></th><th data-hidden>No. Beams available per array</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Coverage Beams</td><td>5</td><td>5</td></tr><tr><td>Parametric Beams<br>Virtual Source (front and back) </td><td>8</td><td>8</td></tr></tbody></table>

To create a beam, you will need to first add an array. When an array is added, the contextual menu appears in the viewport where beams can be added.

Here, you will find the number of beam slots available for each beam type of the selected array. If slots are available, the beam that you add will be visible in the active preset panel.&#x20;

If the beam slots are full, the beam will be added to the library. Think of this as an 'overflow' mechanism. Navigate to your selected array in the library to see the beam. If you want to use the beam in another preset, you can add it from the library. You can use this beam in the current active preset by swapping it out for another beam.


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