Helix DSP ULTRA S 12 Channel Digital Signal Processor with 64 Bit Audio DSP

The Helix DSP ULTRA S is a 12-channel digital signal processor featuring dual 64-bit audio DSPs, a 96kHz/32-bit signal path, eight inputs and twelve RCA outputs, made in Germany. It sits at the top of the Helix DSP range and is designed for audiophile and complex OEM-integrated car audio installations.

Key specifications

• Inputs: 8 x RCA, 8 x high-level, 1 x optical SPDIF (12–96kHz), 1 x coaxial SPDIF (12–192kHz)
• Outputs: 12 x RCA, 8V max output voltage
• DSP: 2 x 64-bit audio signal processors, 2.4 billion MAC operations per second
• Sampling rate: 96kHz
• Converters: AKM (Asahi Kasei) 32-bit A/D and D/A
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 117dB digital input, 111dB analogue input (A-weighted)
• Frequency response: 10Hz to 44kHz
• Operating voltage: 9.6 to 17V (down to 6V for max. 5 seconds)
• Dimensions: 40 x 177 x 170mm (H x W x D)

Features

• TwinDSP Power: two 64-bit "fixed point" audio DSPs with 2.4 billion MAC operations per second, processing eight input channels, eight virtual channels and twelve output channels
• Cutting-edge audio signal path for minimised distortion and outstanding sound quality
• AKM Velvet Sound™ 32-bit AD and DA signal converters
• High-quality operational amplifiers from the TI / BurrBrown "OPA series" with SoundPlus™ technology
• Revised analogue input stage for outstanding noise immunity
• Smart 8-channel high-level input with ADEP.3 circuit
• ACO (Advanced 32-bit CoProcessor) platform including:
  • ISA (Input Signal Analyzer) and InputEQ for analysis and compensation of input signals
  • DLC (Dynamic Loudness Control) and RTC (Remote Tone Control) for volume-dependent dynamic adjustment of highs and lows
  • Proprietary TuneEQ function for automated adjustment of input, virtual and output equalisers
  • SFX (DSP Sound Effects): Augmented Bass Processing, RealCenter and more
  • VCP (Virtual Channel Processing) for flexible configuration of highly complex sound systems
• HEC slot for system add-ons including Bluetooth® HD Audio Streaming and High Resolution Audio Streaming via USB
• Start-Stop capability down to 6V supply voltage
• "Ground lift" switch to avoid ground loops
• Continuously adjustable input sensitivity: high-level up to 32V, RCA/Cinch up to 8V
• Compact SCP (Smart Control Port) for connecting remote controls and accessories
• Time alignment with up to 20ms delay per channel, plus reverse time alignment for in-phase summation of inputs
• Freely definable signal routing with separate matrices for line, SPDIF and HEC/AUX
• Configured via DSP PC-Tool 5 software

Audio performance

The DSP ULTRA S uses AKM Velvet Sound™ 32-bit AD and DA converters alongside TI / BurrBrown "OPA series" operational amplifiers with SoundPlus™ technology. The fully revised analogue input stage delivers optimum interference immunity for outstanding clarity even under demanding conditions.

TwinDSP Power

Two of the most powerful 64-bit audio signal processors from Analog Devices provide 2.4 billion MAC operations per second. This drives eight input channels, eight virtual channels and twelve output channels simultaneously at 96kHz, giving an audio bandwidth of over 40kHz. If you need fewer channels, the Helix DSP.3S offers 8 channels with the same 64-bit architecture.

Virtual Channel Processing: modern signal routing

OEM sound systems increasingly use complex multi-input configurations that push conventional routing to its limits. Audiotec Fischer's multi-stage VCP (Virtual Channel Processing), managed through DSP PC-Tool software, handles highly complex system configurations with ease. It also allows proprietary FX features such as RealCenter and Augmented Bass Processing to be freely assigned across channels.

Elegant, smart and compact

Despite its extensive feature set, the DSP ULTRA S measures just 40 x 177 x 170mm, keeping installation straightforward. It is the ideal processor for uncompromising audiophile installs with the highest demands on sound quality and system flexibility.