The product development team at ARC Audio has been hard at work developing a new collection of digital signal processors called the Pro-Series. This new family of processors includes the flagship stand-alone PS8-PRO, the PS8-50 DSP-equipped eight-channel amplifier rated at 50 watts per channel and the IPS8.8 DSP upgrade module for the new two-, four- and six-channel ARC Series amplifiers. All processors have the exact same connectivity and feature sets and only change in their output features. Let’s look at what makes the new Pro-Series processors unique.
Inputs, Outputs and Basic Features
Designed by industry veteran Robert Zeff and the product development experts at ARC Audio, the new Pro-Series DSPs are based around a 32-bit processor that makes calculations at a 24-bit sampling depth and 96 kHz sampling rate for impressive accuracy and excellent noise floor performance. Each processor is equipped with eight analog inputs. A TOSLINK digital connection is provided for integration with popular OEM integration solutions like the iDatalink Maestro AR and NAV-TV ZEN processors.
Seamless OEM Integration with iDatalink Maestro AR
When used with a Maestro AR, volume control and tone adjustment commands from a factory-installed radio are sent directly to the DSP so it acts just like the preamp in the factory amplifier. The Pro platform can mix any amount of signal from any channel, including the digital inputs, together to an input mixer (integration mixer) for advanced OEM integration. The input mixer allows for routing to the integrated upmixer or direct to the eight outputs. Navigation ducking and automatic signal detection features allow the system to adjust levels or change presets as required to mimic the functionality of OEM sound systems when Bluetooth calls are in process or warning chimes and navigation prompts are provided.
Each signal input channel has a 12-band parametric equalizer with all-pass filter options and signal delay options up to 11.04 mSec built into the integration portion of the DSP. A series of voltage dividers on each input are selectable from the input mixer in ranges of up to 0.5, 2, 8 and 32 volts to further simplify connectivity with factory-installed amplifiers and source units.
Accurate and Detailed Signal Processing Features
Your installer can configure any of the eight output channels independently of all the others for maximum flexibility in terms of crossovers, signal delay, equalization and output level. To expedite the process, function grouping options in the setup software make it easy to apply global adjustments to the channels that the person tuning the system chooses.
Crossover slopes include Linkwitz-Riley, Butterworth, Bessel, Variable-Q and three Chebychev alignments and are adjustable from 10 Hz to 20 kHz in 1 Hz steps with slopes up to 48 dB/octave per filter slope. The signal delay for each of the eight channels will max out at 30 milliseconds and is adjustable in 0.01 mSec steps for impressive accuracy. Each channel has 31-band graphic or parametric equalization at any frequency from 20 Hz to 20 kHz in 0.1 Hz steps with a maximum boost of 20 dB or cut of -24 dB. Finally, output levels are adjustable in 0.01 dB steps to perfect the imaging and staging in the client’s vehicle. Level meters integrated into the setup software let the person tuning the system monitor the input, post mixer, post EQ and output stages to optimize levels and prevent potential clipping situations.
Customizable Operation
The Pro-Series DSP platform includes two analog preset selection inputs that can be connected to switches for quick access to any of the four system presets. Alternatively, the optional PSC controller provides full access to all system functions except the input mixer and signal routing options to make it easy to fine-tune the system after installation. The installer can lock out the DSP adjustments from the setup menu so consumers can’t accidentally damage speakers or alter tuning settings. ARC Audio includes a jack for an optional analog remote level control called the LR1 that can be assigned to any channel(s) in the system. The LR1 can function as a subwoofer level, rear fill level or center-channel level control or even as a master volume control, depending on the system design. Looking for all the control without being connected by a cable? The optional AXP Wi-Fi module gives users a wireless experience to any Wi-Fi-enabled device equipped with the Pro-Series software.
Pro-Series DSP Options
Dozens of additional and unique features are found in the new Pro-Series DSP from ARC Audio. Your local authorized mobile enhancement specialist would be happy to explain everything available and design a car audio system upgrade that will transform your next commute into an amazing listening experience. If you are interested in additional information, check out the ARC Audio website, their Facebook page or follow them on YouTube or Instagram.
