DSP processor Helix DSP Pro MK3

6-channel DSP processor, inputs: 6 x RCA, 6 x Hi-level, 1x optical SPDIF, 1x coaxial SPDIF, outputs: 8 x RCA
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Helix DSP Pro MK3 DSP Processor

Proven design — a revolution hidden inside. The successor to the DSP PRO arrives in Helix’s renowned, elegant design but is equipped with the latest technology. Unrivalled high-resolution sound quality is the result of twice the processing power of the previous generation thanks to the ACO platform. This powerful architecture enables an extended feature set such as VCP (Virtual Channel Processing), which significantly simplifies the configuration of even very complex audio systems. In addition, revised high-level inputs with three-stage input sensitivity adjustment and an extended voltage range up to max. 32 V, plus an extremely compact and robust Smart Control Port, are included. One thing is certain: with all these cutting-edge technologies, the DSP PRO MK3 unquestionably belongs on the A-list of signal processors.

State-of-the-art technology and TwinDSP performance for perfect high-resolution sound

The DSP PRO MK3 is equipped with two of Analog Devices’ most powerful 64-bit audio signal processors. Incredible processing power of 2.4 billion MAC operations per second combined with a high sampling rate of 96 kHz (resulting in an audio bandwidth above 40 kHz) and AKM Velvet Sound A/D and D/A converters deliver outstanding high-resolution sound.

ACO – Advanced 32 Bit CoProcessor Platform

The DSP PRO MK3 now features the proprietary 32-bit ACO platform, which not only takes over all control tasks ultra-fast but also handles many audio functions. Advanced audio effects such as Augmented Bass Processing or RealCenter are fully integrated into the system. Additionally, a channel-separated input equalizer (Input EQ) is implemented together with the Input Signal Analyzer (ISA), which enables easy analysis and compensation of input signals from OEM radios — especially those that already include factory audio adjustments.

Everything you need for optimal connectivity

With a wide range of inputs and outputs — 8x high-level, 8x RCA, 1x optical, 1x coaxial, 1x HEC slot and 10x line outputs — the DSP PRO MK3 offers everything needed for easy integration into existing factory radios or multichannel OE audio systems. The extended voltage range also allows combination with almost any conceivable source of analog signal, including high-power OE amplifiers.

DSP PC-Tool 5 feat. TuneEQ – powerful functions for perfect sound

The Helix DSP PRO MK3 can of course be easily configured using the new, professional and exceptionally intuitive DSP PC-Tool 5. Proven and extensive adjustment options together with advanced audio processing features meet even the most demanding expectations. They ensure extremely precise tuning even in challenging installation conditions. Additionally, the new proprietary TuneEQ function for automatic frequency-response correction saves substantial time during acoustic optimization.

Key features

TwinDSP Power – two extremely powerful 64-bit fixed-point audio DSPs with 2.4 billion MAC operations per second.
State-of-the-art 32-bit A/D and D/A converters from AKM.
ACO – Advanced 32-bit CoProcessor platform for an extended feature set.
ISA (Input Signal Analyzer) and InputEQ for easy analysis and compensation of input signals.
Proprietary TuneEQ function for automatic adjustment of output equalizers.
SFX (DSP Sound Effects) – advanced bass processing, RealCenter & more.
VCP (Virtual Channel Processing) enables even more flexible configurations for highly complex audio systems.
HEC slot for system add-ons such as Bluetooth HD Audio Streaming, High Resolution Audio Streaming over USB, etc.
Intelligent 8-channel high-level input with ADEP.3 circuitry.
Start-stop capability down to 6 V supply voltage.
“Ground lift” switch to prevent ground loops.
Separate channels, three-stage input sensitivity adjustment (high-level up to max. 32 V, RCA/Cinch up to max. 4 V).
Compact, future-proof SCP (Smart Control Port) for connection of remote controls and accessories.
Time correction with delays up to 20 ms per channel enables precise spatial tuning.
A backward time correction is also available for phase-correct summing of input signals.
Freely definable signal routing with separate matrices for line, SPDIF and HEC/AUX.
Inputs: 8x RCA/Cinch, 8x Highlevel, 1x optical SPDIF and 1x coaxial SPDIF.
Outputs: 10x RCA/Cinch with max. output voltage of 8 V.
Easiest configuration using the intuitive DSP PC-Tool 5 software.

TwinDSP Performance

The Helix DSP PRO MK3 contains two of Analog Devices’ most powerful 64-bit audio signal processors with an outstanding total processing performance of 2.4 billion MAC operations per second. The TwinDSP Power concept enables twelve separately processed channels and numerous new audio features in combination with the extended sampling rate of 96 kHz (resulting in an audio bandwidth of more than 40 kHz).

ACO – Advanced 32-bit coprocessor

The Helix DSP PRO MK3 includes an exceptionally powerful next-generation 32-bit coprocessor for all monitoring and communication tasks, both internal and external. Unlike the predecessor 8-bit generation, this MCU achieves much higher speeds for parameter switching and data communication with the DSP PC-Tool software. Another major advantage is the integrated native CoProcessor bootloader, which enables software upgrades of all DSP components to adapt the ADEP.3 circuit controlled by the microcontroller for future adjustments/changes in factory radio diagnostic systems or if the device is expanded with additional interfaces. Furthermore, thanks to new flash memory, ACO offers 10 memory slots for sound presets instead of the usual two.

Intelligent high-level input ADEP.3

Modern factory-installed car radios include sophisticated diagnostic possibilities for connected speakers. Especially the latest-generation radios are equipped with additional monitoring features, so when a signal processor is connected, error messages and loss of specific functions (e.g. fader function) can frequently occur — but not with the DSP PRO MK3. The new ADEP.3 (Advanced Diagnostics Error Protection, 3rd Generation) circuitry avoids all these issues without unnecessarily loading the factory radio’s speaker outputs at high volume.

Start-stop capability

The switched-mode power supply of the Helix DSP PRO MK3 ensures constant internal supply voltage even if the battery voltage drops to 6 volts during engine cranking.

Power save mode

Power save mode is part of the default settings. It allows a significant reduction in power consumption of amplifiers connected to the Helix DSP PRO MK3 when no input signal is present for more than 60 seconds. Please note that in many modern vehicles with CAN or any other internal bus structures, the radio can remain “invisibly” active for up to 45 minutes even after locking and leaving the vehicle. Once Power Save Mode is active, the remote output and thus the connected amplifiers are switched off. The Helix DSP PRO MK3 reactivates the remote output within one second as soon as an audio signal is present. It is possible to adjust the shutdown time from 60 seconds or to completely disable Power Save Mode using the DSP PC-Tool software.

Automatic detection of digital signal

The Helix DSP PRO MK3 enables signal-controlled switching between analog inputs and the digital input. As soon as an input signal is detected on the optical input, the processor automatically switches to this input. This function can be disabled in the DSP PC-Tool software. Alternatively, an optional remote control can be used for manual switching between analog and digital inputs.

TuneEQ

TuneEQ is an extremely flexible and particularly easy-to-use function for automatic frequency-response correction. A single measurement on an audio channel or channel pair with a suitable measurement microphone (e.g. MTK1) is enough for TuneEQ to independently and precisely adjust the equalizers to the desired reference curve. TuneEQ uses the full set of parametric EQ functions including center frequency, Q-factor and gain settings. Because the complex arithmetic operations required for this background process are handled automatically, TuneEQ also saves a great deal of time during sound optimization.

RealCenter

The “RealCenter” function is an algorithm developed by Audiotec Fischer that emphasizes musical information present in both the left and right front channels to create a distinct center signal. Unlike common methods that simply sum channels, the intensity of the center signal is dynamically controlled by the stereo information content of the left and right channels. It sounds complex, but the effect is stunning: if only the left or right channel provides audio, the center channel will not reproduce that signal. With conventional algorithms the center channel level is only reduced by 6 dB (= half the perceived loudness). Audiotec Fischer’s RealCenter enables a unique, expanded soundstage for driver and passenger simultaneously! The disadvantages of conventional center channels — such as a small, distracting soundstage — are therefore a thing of the past.

Advanced bass processing

Audiotec Fischer’s proprietary “Augmented Bass Processing” technology, consisting of two revolutionary sound functions — “Dynamic Bass Enhancement” and “SubXpander” — was specially developed to significantly improve subwoofer bass reproduction. Dynamic Bass Enhancement cleverly combines maximum deep bass and highest acoustic pressure regardless of music genre or tone controls in the head unit. Depending on the input signal, Dynamic Bass Enhancement extends the lower frequency range and adjusts the cutoff frequency of the subsonic filter. The result is significantly stronger and deeper bass response at low and medium volume levels without risking mechanical or electrical overload of the subwoofer at high volume levels. The bass performance that becomes possible is simply fascinating. If you want even lower and “deeper” bass, SubXpander can be additionally activated. This adds subharmonic tones to the fundamental tones in the frequency range between 50 and 100 Hz.

About the brand

HELIX by Audiotec Fischer is a German brand of premium car audio equipment that has been among the world leaders in amplifiers and DSP processors for more than 35 years. HELIX is regarded as a leader in digital signal processors, offering some of the most advanced and highest-quality DSPs in the world, enabling 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, state-of-the-art technologies and innovative design produces a clean, dynamic and detailed sound appreciated by audiophiles worldwide. HELIX products are known for high efficiency, reliability and perfect integration into modern vehicles. They are the ideal choice for demanding users who expect the best possible sound without compromise. Helix is part of Audiotec Fischer alongside the brands Brax and Match.