Amplifier with DSP processor Helix V Eight DSP MK2

Amplifier with DSP processor Helix V Eight DSP MK2

Extra speed — thanks to ACO

Faster is better — the powerful 32-bit ACO platform takes over all control tasks and ensures a decisive increase in speed, especially for data communication with the DSP PC-Tool software, but also for lightning-fast switching between up to ten audio presets. ACO offers much more — fantastic audio effects such as Augmented Bass Processing or RealCenter are implemented, as well as channel-separated input EQ, including an Input Signal Analyzer (ISA) for easy analysis and compensation of input signals from OE radios.

New signal converters for optimized sound quality

Instead of a combined codec, the new V EIGHT DSP MK2 uses separate AD and DA converters of the latest generation from Asahi Kasei with native 32-bit resolution. This ensures maximum signal resolution throughout the signal chain from input to output — and thus guarantees optimal sound quality.

Virtual Channel Processing — this is how signal routing works today

Maximum connectivity

More and more cars are equipped with factory-installed sound systems. Most of them include a multi-channel amplifier that cannot be simply replaced by another amplifier. Adapting to such a configuration requires not only many input channels but also an especially wide range of input sensitivity settings. Therefore the V EIGHT DSP MK2 offers both six RCA/Cinch inputs and eight high-level inputs with a maximum input voltage range from 4 V to 32 V. In addition, the V EIGHT DSP is of course also equipped with the latest-generation ADEP.3 circuitry.

Performance in a refined design

Despite its expanded feature set and output power of up to 160 W RMS per channel (@ 2 ohms), the V EIGHT DSP MK2 presents itself in the classic and clean HELIX design, which provides ideal prerequisites for quick and easy integration. High-tech performance hardly looks more refined and elegant!

Main features of the Helix V Eight DSP MK2 amplifier

• Up to 160 W RMS output power per channel into 2 Ω.
• "Pure Class GD" concept for excellent sound quality combined with the best possible efficiency.
• Extremely powerful 64-bit fixed-point audio DSP.
• ACO — advanced 32-bit CoProcessor platform for system and DSP functions.
• ISA (Input Signal Analyzer) and InputEQ for easy analysis and compensation of input signals.
• Sound FX — Augmented Bass Processing, StageXpander, RealCenter & co.
• High-performance 8-channel high-level input with input sensitivity up to 32 V RMS and ADEP.3 circuitry.
• 1-to-1 input/output routing (IOR) — the same number of high-level inputs and amplifier outputs.
• Virtual Channel Processing (VCP) allows even more flexible configurations for highly complex audio systems.
• Slot for HELIX expansion card (HEC) for additional input/output modules such as Bluetooth Audio Streaming, high-resolution audio streaming via USB, etc.
• Compact design with low heat dissipation thanks to exceptional efficiency.

Pure Class GD amplifier technology

Audiotec Fischer's proprietary Pure Class GD concept takes the efficiency of conventional class D amplifiers to the next level. By changing the internal supply voltage depending on the amplifier's input signals, idle losses are significantly reduced and overall efficiency is kept close to the maximum at all times. Heat dissipation is therefore almost negligible, allowing for the smallest heatsinks and the most compact form factors. In addition, the Pure Class GD amplifier surpasses conventional class D designs in terms of sound quality by implementing a fully differential signal path and an improved output filter design.

ACO — advanced 32-bit CoProcessor

The HELIX V EIGHT DSP MK2 contains an exceptionally powerful 32-bit CoProcessor of the latest generation for all monitoring and communication tasks, both internal and external. Unlike older 8-bit predecessors, this MCU achieves much higher speeds for switching settings and data communication with our DSP PC-Tool software. Another major advantage is the integrated native bootloader of the CoProcessor. It allows software updates of all parts of the integrated DSP to adapt the ADEP.3-controlled circuitry, for example, to future diagnostic requirements of factory radios or if the device is expanded with additional interfaces. Thanks to new flash memory, ACO also offers 10 normal memory presets instead of the usual two.

Intelligent high-level input ADEP.3

Modern factory-installed head units include sophisticated options for diagnosing connected speakers. In particular, the latest generation of head units is equipped with additional monitoring functions, so error messages and loss of specific functions (e.g., fader functions) often appear when an amplifier is connected — but not with the V EIGHT DSP MK2. The new ADEP.3 circuit (Advanced Diagnostics Error Protection, 3rd generation) avoids these problems without unnecessarily loading the radio’s speaker outputs at high volumes.

Start-Stop capability

The switched power supply of the HELIX V EIGHT DSP MK2 ensures a constant internal supply voltage even if battery voltage drops to 6 V during engine start.

Power saving mode

Power saving mode is part of the default settings. It allows a significant reduction in the power consumption of amplifiers connected to the HELIX V EIGHT DSP MK2 as soon as no input signal is present for longer than 60 seconds. Please note that in many modern cars with CAN or other internal bus structures, the radio may remain "invisibly" on for up to 45 minutes even after locking and leaving the vehicle. Once power saving mode is active, the remote output and connected amplifiers will be switched off. If an audio signal is applied, the V EIGHT DSP MK2 activates the remote output within one second. It is possible to change the shutdown time from 60 seconds or to completely disable power saving mode using the DSP PC-Tool software.

About the brand

HELIX by Audiotec Fischer is a German brand of high-end car audio equipment that has been among the world leaders in amplifiers and DSP processors for more than 35 years. HELIX is considered a leader in digital signal processors, offering some of the most advanced and highest-quality DSP processors in the world, allowing an experienced technician to tune any audio system to perfection and deliver an authentic hi‑fi experience in the car. The combination of precise German engineering, cutting-edge technologies and innovative design produces a clean, dynamic and detailed sound that has won the favor of audiophiles worldwide. HELIX products are characterized by high efficiency, reliability and perfect integration into modern vehicles. They are the ideal choice for demanding users who require the best possible sound without compromise. Helix, together with Brax and Match, is part of the German manufacturer Audiotec Fischer.

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• Car amplifiers 8-channel car amplifiers
• Car amplifiers Amplifiers with integrated DSP processor
• German sound system manufacturer HELIX