HELIX DSP ULTRA S | Digital high-res 12-channel signal processor with SCP

Advanced Technology, Proven Excellence

The HELIX DSP ULTRA S redefines the benchmark for digital sound processors. Targeted optimizations enhance the already outstanding performance of its predecessor for a sound experience that exceeds even the highest expectations. Audiophile precision and innovative engineering, combined in one device – and all of this, of course, Made in Germany.

Audio Performance par Excellence

The HELIX DSP ULTRA S stands for the highest standards in audio performance. A redesigned audio signal path reduces total harmonic distortion to a minimum: At its heart are the renowned AKM Velvet Sound™ 32-bit AD and DA signal converters, as well as new, particularly high-quality operational amplifiers from the legendary TI/BurrBrown "OPA series" with SoundPlus™ Technology, which guarantee the highest sound quality. With its completely redesigned analog input stage, the ULTRA S achieves optimal noise immunity, ensuring unparalleled clarity and detail even under the most demanding conditions, free from external interference. TwinDSP Power: The only way to replace processing power is with even more processing power – and that's precisely why the DSP ULTRA S is equipped with two of Analog Devices' most powerful 64-bit audio signal processors. An incredible 2.4 billion MAC operations per second make the immense number of internal channels, combined with the highest quality sound processing, possible in the first place: eight separately processable input channels, eight processable virtual channels, and twelve processable output channels are available for optimal configuration, enabling extensive adjustment options and numerous sound features. And all this at a sampling rate of 96 kHz, resulting in an audio bandwidth of over 40 kHz.

ACO – Advanced 32-bit Co-Processor Platform

Rapid computing power not only in the signal path – the particularly powerful 32-bit ACO platform takes over all control tasks and provides the crucial speed boost, especially in data communication with our DSP PC-Tool software, but also in lightning-fast switching between up to ten possible sound setups. But ACO offers much more – fantastic sound effects like Augmented Bass Processing or RealCenter, dynamic processing such as Dynamic Loudness Control (DLC) or Remote Tone Control (RTC) are implemented, as well as a channel-separated Input EQ including Input Signal Analyzer (ISA) for easy analysis and compensation of the input signals from OEM radios that already include a factory sound setup. Virtual Channel Processing – Modern Signal Routing: Adapting to modern factory sound systems with an increasing number of signal inputs necessitates increasingly complex signal routing within the processor. Especially when multiple input signals are mixed together and then split into multi-channel systems, conventional routing concepts quickly reach their limits. Audiotec Fischer's multi-stage "Virtual Channel Processing" makes it possible, in conjunction with the award-winning DSP PC-Tool software, to easily map even highly complex system configurations and to freely assign proprietary FX Sound Features such as "RealCenter" or "Dynamic Bass Enhancement".

Connectivity at the highest level

The HELIX DSP ULTRA S is particularly versatile in its configuration thanks to the HEC slot, while our SCP (Smart Control Port) guarantees the optional connection of accessories with integrated power supplies as well as exceptional operational reliability.

These upgrades allow for even more flexible customization and expansion of your sound system to meet the individual needs and desires of every audiophile user. For easy adaptation to existing factory radios or multi-channel OE sound systems, the DSP ULTRA S is not only equipped with the latest generation ADEP.3 circuitry, but also features an exceptionally wide input sensitivity adjustment range. The enormous range of 1-8 volts (RCA) or 4-32 volts (high-level) enables seamless adaptation to virtually any conceivable analog signal source, even with powerful OE amplifiers. Elegant, smart, and compact. As impressive as the functionality of the new HELIX DSP ULTRA S is, its streamlined and timeless design remains compact – ideal for easy installation. The sum of its features makes the HELIX DSP ULTRA S the perfect tool for every uncompromising, audiophile music lover with the highest demands. Features: TwinDSP Power – two extremely powerful fixed-point audio DSPs with 64-bit resolution and 2.4 billion MAC operations per second enable extensive sound adjustment of all processed channels: Eight input channels, eight virtual channels, twelve output channels, innovative audio signal path for minimized distortion and highest sound quality, AKM Velvet Sound™ 32-bit AD and DA signal converters, high-quality TI/BurrBrown OPA series operational amplifiers with SoundPlus™ Technology, optimized analog input design for particularly high Interference immunity

Intelligent 8-channel high-level input with ADEP.3 circuit

ACO – Advanced 32-bit CoProcessor platform for a variety of innovative system and DSP features such as:

• ISA (Input Signal Analyzer) and InputEQ for easy analysis and compensation of input signals
• DLC (Dynamic Loudness Control) and RTC (Remote Tone Control) for dynamic, volume-dependent adjustment of treble and bass
• Proprietary TuneEQ function for automated adjustment of input, virtual, and output equalizers
• SFX sound effects – Augmented Bass Processing, RealCenter & Co.

Virtual Channel Processing (VCP) enables even more flexible configuration of highly complex sound systems

HEC slot for system expansions such as Bluetooth®, HD audio streaming, high-resolution audio streaming via USB, etc.

Start-stop capability down to 6V supply voltage

Ground lift switch to prevent ground loops

Stepless adjustment of input sensitivity (high-level up to max. 32 volts, RCA up to max. 8 volts)

Compact, future-proof SCP (Smart Control Port) for connecting remote controls and other accessories

Time alignment with up to 20 ms delay time per channel, plus input time alignment for time-correct summation of the inputs

Freely definable signal routing with separate matrices for line, SPDIF and HEC/AUX

Inputs: 8 x RCA, 8 x high-level, 1 x optical SPDIF and 1 x coaxial SPDIF

Outputs: 12 x RCA with a maximum output voltage of 8 volts

Easiest configuration via the intuitive DSP PC-Tool 5 software

Note: The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Audiotec Fischer GmbH is under license. Other trademarks and trade names belong to their respective owners.

DSP Features

TuneEQ

TuneEQ is an extremely flexible and particularly easy-to-use function for automated frequency response correction. A single measurement per audio channel or channel pair with a suitable measurement microphone (such as our MTK1) is sufficient for TuneEQ to automatically and precisely adjust the equalizers to the desired reference curve. TuneEQ utilizes the full range of functions of the parametric equalizer, including the center frequency, Q factor, and gain. And because the highly complex calculations required for this take place in the background, you also save a lot of time when tuning your sound with TuneEQ.

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 system 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 delivering 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 – optimal for both driver and passenger! The disadvantages of a conventional center channel, such as an intrusive, narrow spatial sound representation, are finally a thing of the past.

Augmented Bass Processing

Audiotec Fischer's proprietary "Augmented Bass Processing," consisting of two revolutionary sound features: "Dynamic Bass Enhancement" and "SubXpander." These have been specially developed to dramatically improve the bass response of subwoofers. "Dynamic Bass Enhancement" ingeniously combines maximum deep bass foundation and high maximum sound pressure level – regardless of the music genre or radio sound settings. Depending on the input signal, "Dynamic Bass Enhancement" amplifies the lower frequency range and also 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 to be even deeper and "blacker," the "SubXpander" can also be activated. Here, subharmonic tones are added to the fundamental tones in the frequency range between 50 and 100 Hz.

Technical Data

Inputs	8 x RCA 8 x High-level speaker input 1 x Optical SPDIF format (12 - 96 kHz) 1 x Coaxial SPDIF format (12 - 192 kHz) 1 x Remote In
Input Sensitivity	RCA 1 - 8 volts High-level 4 - 32 Volt
Outputs	12 x RCA 1 x Remote Out
Output voltage	8 Volt
Frequency range	10 Hz - 44,000 Hz
DSP resolution	64 bit
DSP Computing power	2 x 295 MHz (2.4 billion MAC operations/second)
Sampling rate	96 kHz
DSP type	2 x audio signal processor
Signal converter	A/D: Asahi Kasei 32 Bit D/A: Asahi Kasei 32 Bit
Signal/ Signal-to-noise ratio digital input	117 dB (A-weighted)
Signal-to-noise ratio analog input	111 dB (A-weighted)
Total harmonic distortion (THD+N) digital input	< 0.0004 %
Tonal harmonic distortion (THD+N) analog input	< 0.0008 %
Intermodulation distortion digital input	< 0.0015%
Intermodulation distortions analog input	< 0.003%
Crosstalk	> 90 dB
Operating voltage	9.6 - 17 volts (max. 5 seconds down to 6 volts)
Power consumption	DC 12 V ⎓ 1.1 A max.
Current consumption	550 mA
Max.Remote output current	500 mA
Ambient temperature range for operation	-40°C to +70°C
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 170 mm

Scope of delivery

1 x HELIX DSP ULTRA signal processor S
1 x USB data cable
1 x mounting hardware
1 x user manual