New low cost DSP for home or auto

[speakertom]

Parts Express has just come out with a new very low cost DSP option that can be used at home or in a car. I will be getting one soon for test. Later this year I will be testing the "eggs" with three scenarios. The first will be using the passive crossover and one amp. The second will be using the passive crossover and one amp but with DSP correction based on the frequency division to the drivers as determined by the passive crossover. The third will be a full tri-amped setup with maximum control of all functions by DSP. At the entry level I will be using the new DSP-408 from Parts Express. At the higher end I will be using my DEQX Express II and hopefully also a Wavelet processor from Legacy Audio. Should be interesting and when I get to the testing point I will need some volunteers. Here is a link to the DSP-408:



www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-dsp-408-4x8-dsp-digital-signal-processor-for-home-and-car-audio--230-500

[clausen]

I am a willing volunteer.

Clausen

[Chris]

I've been looking at this new dsp based device lately. Might be of interest related to your testing?

www.minidsp.com/products/streaming-hd-series/shd-series

[speakertom]

One of the main considerations when working with these processors is their complexity. This device has an 81 page instruction manual and the DEQX manual is 143 pages long. One great feature of the DEQX is that they offer a calibration service called DEQXpert where upon purchase of the unit they have an expert via remote network control of your PC do the calibration of the unit with you moving the speakers and mike to different positions during the process. You also have to send them photos of the room and speakers. It is not free for all models but available for a fee if not included and later available for a fee if you change speakers, rooms, etc. The upside is that they offer unbelievable control of many important parameters associated with the speakers and room.

I haven't read the manual for this device yet but the DEQX and Wavelet both have a feature where early room reflections at lower frequencies can be brought into alignment with the other frequencies. They actually delay the other frequencies from the direct sound to coincide with the major low frequency reflections in the room. I certainly can't explain it all but the web sites for DEQX and Bohmer Audio both have information. There is also a lot of info on the web on wavelet processing in general that generally goes over my head.

[mark]

So, what was the upshot of this investigation? That inexpensive DSP looks like it could be very powerful.

[speakertom]

I was sidelined with back problems for a while but have completed the DEQX calibrations. With holidays coming up it will be difficult to get the other two pieces done before year end. I'll let you know when all are completed and ready for listening.