Amplifier with Helix V Eighteen DSP processor

Helix V Eighteen DSP Amplifier with DSP Processor

Multifunctional amplifier

This 18-channel amplifier, following the Pure Class GD concept, combines exceptional sound quality and high power—delivering an impressive musical experience even for the most demanding audiophiles. In addition, the HELIX V EIGHTEEN DSP offers the same number of 18 high-level inputs with input sensitivity up to 32 V RMS, enabling 1:1 routing of inputs and outputs. Especially when replacing existing components is not possible and only expansion via an additional amplifier is feasible, the V EIGHTEEN DSP with its extensive adaptation capabilities is an ideal solution. Two extremely powerful fixed-point Audio DSPs with 64-bit resolution together with the unique DSP PC-Tool manage an impressive twenty (20!) independent DSP channels.

Virtual Channel Processing – how signal routing works today

Adapting to modern OE sound systems through an increasing number of inputs significantly impacts the complexity of signal routing inside an amplifier. Especially when several input signals are mixed together and then redistributed into multi-directional systems, conventional routing concepts quickly reach their limits. Audiotec Fischer’s new multi-stage Virtual Channel Processing, combined with the well-known user-friendly DSP PC-Tool software, simplifies implementation of highly complex system configurations. It also allows free assignment of proprietary FX sound functions such as RealCenter or Augmented Bass Processing.

Fast computational power – thanks to ACO

Of course, the HELIX V EIGHTEEN DSP is equipped with its own 32-bit ACO platform, which not only takes over all control tasks with ultra-high speed but also offers a range of advanced audio functions—such as effects like Augmented Bass Processing or RealCenter. An 18-channel input equalizer including an Input Signal Analyzer (ISA) is also available, enabling easy analysis and compensation of input signals from factory radios that already include sound settings from the factory.

Perfect sound without compromise

Main features

• 20 DSP channels for maximum flexibility in multi-channel sound enhancement.
• 18-channel amplifier with Pure Class GD concept combining exceptional sound quality with high power.
• High-performance 18-channel high-level input with input sensitivity up to 32 V RMS and ADEP.3 circuitry.
• 1:1 IOR (Input-to-Output Routing) – the same number of high-level inputs and amplifier outputs.
• Output power up to 160 W RMS per channel into 2 Ω.
• TwinDSP Power – two extremely powerful fixed-point Audio DSPs with 64-bit resolution.
• VCP (Virtual Channel Processing) enables even more flexible configurations for highly complex sound systems.
• 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 effects SFX – Augmented Bass Processing, StageXpander, RealCenter & co.
• Compact, forward-looking SCP (Smart Control Port) for connecting remote controls and accessories.
• HEC slot for system add-ons such as Bluetooth HD Audio Streaming, High Resolution Audio Streaming via USB, etc.
• Optical digital input in SPDIF format and two processed signal outputs.
• Start-Stop capable power supply with extended input voltage range up to 18 V – ideal for modern EVs.
• Automatic remote turn-on.
• Compact design with low heat dissipation thanks to exceptional efficiency.

GD-class amplifier technology

Audiotec Fischer’s proprietary Pure Class GD concept advances the efficiency of conventional class D amplifiers to a new level. By varying the internal supply voltage according to the amplifier’s input signals, idle losses are significantly reduced and overall efficiency is kept close to maximum at all times. This makes heat dissipation almost negligible, allowing for the smallest heatsinks and the most compact forms. In addition, the Pure Class GD amplifier surpasses conventional class D designs in sound quality by implementing a fully differential signal path and an improved output filter design.

ACO – advanced 32-bit CoProcessor

The HELIX V EIGHTEEN DSP includes an extraordinarily powerful next-generation 32-bit coprocessor for all monitoring and communication tasks, both internal and external. Unlike the previous 8-bit generation, this MCU achieves much higher speeds for switching settings and data communication with the DSP PC-Tool software. Another significant advantage is the integrated native CoProcessor bootloader, which enables software upgrades of all DSP components to adapt the microcontroller-controlled ADEP.3 circuit, for example when future changes occur in the diagnostic systems of factory radios or when the unit is expanded with additional interfaces. Additionally, thanks to new flash memory, the ACO offers 10 memory slots for audio settings instead of the usual two.

Intelligent high-level input ADEP.3

Modern factory-installed car radios include sophisticated options for diagnosing connected speakers. In particular, the latest generation of radios is equipped with additional monitoring functions, so connecting a conventional amplifier often triggers error messages and loss of specific functions (e.g., the fader function)—but not with the V EIGHTEEN DSP. The new ADEP.3 (Advanced Diagnostics Error Protection, 3rd Generation) circuit avoids all these issues without unnecessarily burdening the OE radio’s speaker outputs at high volume.

Start-Stop capability

The switched power supply of the HELIX V EIGHTEEN DSP ensures a constant internal supply voltage even when battery voltage drops to 6 volts during engine cranking.

Power save mode

The power save mode is part of the basic settings. It allows a significant reduction in power consumption of amplifiers connected to the HELIX V EIGHTEEN DSP as soon as no input signal is present for longer than 60 seconds. Please note that in many modern vehicles with CAN (or any other internal bus architecture), the radio can remain “invisibly” on for up to 45 minutes even after locking and leaving the vehicle! Once Power Save Mode is active, the remote output—and thus connected amplifiers—are switched off. If a music signal is detected, the V EIGHTEEN DSP will reactivate the remote output within a second. It is possible to either adjust the shut-off time to 60 sec. or completely disable Power Save Mode using the DSP PC-Tool software.

About the brand

HELIX by Audiotec Fischer is a German brand of premium car audio technology 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, enabling a skilled technician to tune any audio system to perfection and bring an authentic hi‑fi experience into the vehicle. The combination of precise German engineering, cutting-edge technologies and innovative design delivers 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 perfect choice for demanding users who require the best possible sound without compromise. Helix, together with the brands Brax and Match, falls under the German manufacturer Audiotec Fischer.

Product comments

Evaluation

• Car amplifiers
• Car amplifiers 18-channel car amplifiers
• Car amplifiers Amplifiers with integrated DSP processor
• German sound system manufacturer HELIX

Product assembly

BMW 4 (G22)Skoda Octavia 4 RS