HELIX DSP MINI MK2 | 6-channel stand alone DSP

The next generation of miniature DSP

The smallest HELIX signal processor gets a worthy successor in the DSP MINI MK2. Like its predecessor, this compact DSP is a true technology package.
A powerful 64-bit audio DSP and Burr-Brown converters, combined with a 96 kHz sampling rate and a high-resolution audio bandwidth of over 40 kHz, ensure exceptional sound quality. The MK2 also boasts top-level performance in terms of measurement technology – a higher maximum output voltage of 6 volts, significantly improved signal-to-noise ratios, and reduced distortion ensure perfect sound. Naturally, the DSP MINI MK2 is based on the ACO platform with a 32-bit coprocessor, which not only handles all control tasks with lightning speed but also enables proprietary sound effects such as Augmented Bass Processing and RealCenter, as well as a channel-separated input EQ and Input Signal Analyzer (ISA). Seamless integration and maximum control even in the tightest spaces. Space for installing sound systems in modern vehicles is becoming increasingly limited. This makes connecting individual components more difficult and puts strain on connectors and cables. The Smart Control Port (SCP) of the DSP MINI MK2 allows for the multifunctional connection of accessory products and now even takes over their complete power supply. The robust construction and locking mechanism guarantee a stable connection and prevent cable damage. Prevents plug damage and thus facilitates space-saving installation concepts.

Everything on board

The equipment package makes it clear that the name of the DSP MINI MK2 refers only to its dimensions. Because when it comes to functionality, compromises are absolutely taboo!
Our intelligent high-level input with ADEP.3 circuitry (Advanced Diagnostics Error Protection, Generation 3), the "Auto Remote" switch, and an optical digital input are standard features, as is the HELIX Extension Card Slot (HEC Slot) for system expansion with, for example, Bluetooth® HD or high-resolution audio streaming via USB.

Features

• Extremely powerful "Fixed Point" audio DSP with 64-bit resolution and 1.2 billion MAC operations per second
• High-resolution audio bandwidth up to over 40 kHz for unsurpassed sound quality
• BurrBrown AD and DA signal converters
• Advanced CoProcessor (ACO) for extended functionality
  • Input Signal Analyzer (ISA) and InputEQ
  • DSP sound effects (SFX) such as "Augmented Bass Processing" for dynamic optimization of the subwoofer's low-frequency reproduction, "StageXpander" for widening the stereo perspective, the "RealCenter" function, which provides a perfectly focused soundstage for both driver and passenger, and much more. 10 internal memory locations for sound setups. Intelligent high-level input with ADEP.3 circuitry and automatic activation. Optical digital input in SPDIF format. Compact, future-proof Smart Control Port (SCP). HELIX Extension Card slot (HEC slot) for system expansions such as Bluetooth® audio streaming, high-resolution audio streaming via USB, etc. Freely definable signal routing with separate matrices for line, SPDIF, and HEC/AUX. Optimal signal routing and power supply for a Excellent sound quality
  • Ground lift switch to prevent ground loops
  • Extremely compact dimensions for easy integration
  • Easiest configuration via the intuitive DSP PC-Tool V4 software

  Special Features:

  96 kHz sampling rate

  The HELIX DSP MINI MK2 offers signal processing with a double sampling rate of 96 kHz. This means the audio bandwidth is not limited to the usual 22 kHz, but allows for an extended frequency response up to over 40 kHz. However, the higher sampling rate places significantly higher demands on the DSP itself, as the number of possible calculations is halved when the sampling rate is doubled. Only the use of the very latest chip generation makes it possible to increase the sampling rate to 96 kHz despite the increased range of functions.

  ACO – Advanced 32-bit CoProcessor

  The HELIX DSP MINI MK2 uses a particularly powerful, latest-generation 32-bit coprocessor for all internal and external control and communication tasks. In contrast to the previously used 8-bit processor, this results in significant speed advantages, not only when switching between different sound setups but especially in data communication with our DSP PC-Tool software. Another significant advantage is the coprocessor's integrated, native bootloader. This enables software upgrades for all DSP components, allowing, for example, the microcontroller-controlled ADEP.3 circuit to be adapted to future changes in factory radio diagnostic systems or to expand the device with additional interfaces. Furthermore, thanks to the new flash memory, the ACO offers space for 10 sound setups instead of the usual two. Intelligent high-level input ADEP.3 Modern, factory-installed car radios are becoming increasingly intelligent in terms of diagnosing connected speakers. The latest generation, in particular, is equipped with additional monitoring functions, so connecting an additional signal processor can trigger error messages or even malfunctions. The new ADEP.3 circuit (Advanced Diagnostics Error Protection Generation 3) prevents these problems without unnecessarily straining the radio's speaker outputs at high levels. Start-Stop Capability: The power supply in the HELIX DSP MINI MK2 ensures a stable internal voltage supply even during brief drops down to 6 volts. This guarantees that the HELIX DSP MINI MK2 remains fully functional even when the engine is started. Power Save Mode: The Power Save Mode is activated in the basic settings of the DSP PC-Tool software. It allows the power consumption of the amplifiers connected to the signal processor to be drastically reduced when no input signal is present for more than 60 seconds. It should be noted that many vehicles today are equipped with CAN or similar internal bus systems that keep the radio switched on "invisibly" for up to 45 minutes, even if the user has left and locked the vehicle. As soon as the "Power Save Mode" is active, the remote output and thus the connected amplifiers are switched off. The HELIX DSP MINI MK2 reactivates the remote output within one second as soon as a music signal is present at one of its inputs. It is also possible to vary the switch-off delay or to completely deactivate the "Power Save Mode" using the DSP PC-Tool software. Automatic Digital Signal Detection: The HELIX DSP MINI MK2 allows signal-controlled switching between the analog and digital inputs. As soon as an audio signal is detected at the optical input, the signal processor switches to this input. In the DSP PC-Tool software, this function can be activated, or alternatively, manual control via an optional remote control can be selected. Note: The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of these marks by Audiotec Fischer GmbH is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners. DSP Features: RealCenter: The "RealCenter" function is a proprietary algorithm from Audiotec Fischer that emphasizes the monaural information of the left and right front channels to create a unique center signal. Unlike conventional methods that simply sum the channels, this method also dynamically controls the center signal based on the stereo information content of the left and right channels. This means that the center channel does not reproduce a signal if only the left or only the right channel is supplying an audio signal. With conventional algorithms, the center channel would only be 6 dB quieter in this case. Audiotec Fischer's "RealCenter" thus enables a unique, wide soundstage – and is equally optimal for the driver and passenger! The disadvantages of a conventional center channel, such as an intrusive, narrow spatial sound reproduction, are finally a thing of the past. Augmented Bass Processing Audiotec Fischer's proprietary "Augmented Bass Processing" consists of two revolutionary sound features: "Dynamic Bass Enhancement" and "SubXpander." These have been specially developed to dramatically improve the bass reproduction of subwoofers. "Dynamic Bass Enhancement" ingeniously combines maximum deep bass foundation and high maximum sound pressure – regardless of the music genre being listened to or the sound settings on the radio. Depending on the input signal, "Dynamic Bass Enhancement" amplifies the lower frequency range and simultaneously varies the cutoff frequency of the subsonic filter. The result is significantly more powerful, deeper bass reproduction at low and medium volumes without the risk of mechanically or electrically overloading the subwoofer at high volumes. It's simply fascinating what kind of bass performance is suddenly possible. For those who want the low frequencies even deeper and "blacker," the "SubXpander" can also be activated. This adds subharmonic tones to the fundamental frequencies in the 50 to 100 Hz range. StageXpander: Depending on the speaker arrangement in the vehicle, a more or less wide stereo image can be created for the front seats. If a center speaker is also installed, it can sometimes further limit the spatial imaging of the music. This is where Audiotec Fischer's new "StageXpander" comes into its own – a sound feature that seems to dissolve acoustic boundaries, thus enabling a significantly wider stereo base without negatively impacting the precision of voice or instrument localization. The effect can be adjusted to personal taste in four stages. ClarityXpander: Want more transparency and substance in the treble reproduction? Audiotec Fischer now offers just the right tool with the "ClarityXpander." When used correctly (and therefore selectable in three stages), it gives the overtones additional brilliance – particularly useful if the original speakers lack the necessary sparkle in the high frequencies. This extra treble boost is available not only for the two front channels but also separately adjustable for the center channel. And because even a tiny bit too much of the latter, especially in combination with music rich in overtones, can tire the ear, an automatic, dynamic control of the additional overtone content can even be activated here.

  Technical Data

  Inputs	4 x RCA 4 x High-level speaker input 1 x Optical SPDIF format (12 - 96 kHz) 1 x Remote In
  Input sensitivity	RCA 2 - 4 volts High level 5 - 11 volts
  Outputs	6 x Cinch 1 x Remote Out
  Output voltage	6 Volt
  Frequency range	10 Hz - 44,000 Hz
  DSP Resolution	64 Bit
  DSP computing power	295 MHz (1.2 billion MAC operations/second)
  Sample rate	96 kHz
  DSP type	Audio signal processor
  Signal converter	A/D: BurrBrown D/A: BurrBrown
  Signal/noise ratio digital input	112 dB (A-weighted)
  Signal/noise ratio analog input	107 dB (A-weighted)
  Tonal harmonic distortion (THD+N) digital input	< 0.0008 %
  Tonal harmonic distortion (THD+N) analog input	< 0.002%
  Intermodulation distortion digital input	< 0.003%
  Intermodulation distortion analog input	< 0.005%
  Crosstalk	> 90 dB
  Operating voltage	9.6 - 17 volts (max. 5 seconds down to 6 volts)
  Power consumption	DC 12 V ⎓ 3 A max.
  Current consumption	< 480 mA
  Max.Remote output current	500 mA
  Additional features	HEC Slot, Ground Switch, Smart Control Port, 32 Bit CoProcessor, ADEP.3 Circuit, Auto Remote Switch
  Dimensions (H x W x D)	40 x 177 x 104 mm

  Scope of Delivery

  1 x Signal Processor DSP MINI MK2
  1 x Control Input-to-SCP Adapter
  1 x USB Cable
  1 x Mounting Hardware
  1 x User Manual