Helix – Ubiquitous Reference Standard Car Audio
Since its conception in 1990 Audiotec Fischer has evolved from a niche supplier to an internationally recognised leader in innovative audio products. A DIN ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified company, it now delivers its award-winning brands Brax, Helix and Match to more than fifty countries worldwide. To Audiotec Fischer the label "Made in Germany" has always been more than just a designation of origin; it's a promise of quality that everyone at the Schmallenberg site remains committed to. Audiotec Fischer has more than thirty years of experience in the development and manufacture of high-end car and home audio products. From the initial brief through to the finished product; all components are assembled in-house with the sole aim of reproducing acoustic signals as authentically as possible whilst optimizing the sound experience ever further.

Processor Series – The Passion For Perfected Sound
It’s not the components, it’s the environment. Fundamental car audio components are often unfairly blamed for poor aural performance, despite the blame laying elsewhere. See whether you have OEM or enormously expensive speakers your windscreen still reflects, your right leg still absorbs the midrange and you’re still sitting to one side with a whole instrument cluster before you. It’s for this reason that all vehicles require a sound processor. These devices can rectify all negative cabin phenomenon and make even the most rudimentary components sound amazing.

However a questionable quality processor is conducive to headaches aplenty, that’s why you need a Helix device. Helix processors are renown around the globe for being amongst the best processors in history. Trickling technology down through its various processors means even its entry level processor far outperforms all other comers. Whether you’re planning a budget system or one only the Royal Family could afford; Helix has you well covered when it comes to processing it to perfection.

Design Ideologies
Ushering in a new era of signal processing performance, the DSP ULTRA XT marks the latest pinnacle of Helix standalone processors. As an ultra high-end sixteen channel signal processor, it is designed for modern multi-channel sound upgrades with the highest sonic standards; no matter how complex the factory sound system, how diverse the signal sources or how ambitious the requirements. With comprehensive connectivity, state-of-the-art signal processing and audio performance par excellence; the DSP ULTRA XT sets a new benchmark in high-end car audio. The result is a next level processor that redefines the limits of premium sound systems. Made in Germany, of course.

Flexibility And Connectivity Aplenty
The DSP ULTRA XT offers exceptional connectivity for demanding multi-channel upgrades and complex integrations into modern vehicle environments. With eight RCA inputs, twelve high-level inputs, one optical and one coaxial SPDIF input, one optical SPDIF output, the Extension Card 2.0 slot and USB PerfectStream via USB-C, numerous analog and digital signal paths are available. This allows the DSP ULTRA XT to be flexibly connected to a wide variety of sources, factory sound systems and high-end system concepts.

The twelve channel high-level input with an input sensitivity of up to 32 V RMS enables the seamless connection of powerful factory amplifiers and provides ideal conditions for integration into modern OEM sound systems. For high-quality digital signal input, an optical and a coaxial SPDIF input are also available; ideal for directly connecting digital signal sources such as high-res players. The optical SPDIF output also enables digital signal transmission to downstream components.

At the same time the DSP ULTRA XT acts as a central digital hub within the vehicle. Internally its powerful DSP architecture with twelve input channels, eight virtual channels and sixteen processed output channels provides the foundation for maximum flexibility in signal routing, source integration and channel management. In addition, the USB-C input with innovative USB PerfectStream technology allows high-resolution audio signals of up to 192 kHz / 32 Bit to be transmitted losslessly directly into the DSP. AISA measurements and configuration via DSP PC-Tool 6 can also be carried out conveniently via the same connection.

The integrated Extension Card 2.0 slot expands connectivity as needed with additional interfaces such as Bluetooth HD Audio, further analog inputs or future modules. The feature set is complemented by the Smart Control Port (SCP), which enables the connection of remote controls and additional accessories including integrated power supply. The result is a future-proof DSP platform that combines exceptional system freedom with state-of-the-art digital connectivity.

Exemplary Signal Processing Via ESS SABRE Technology
The high-end standard of the DSP ULTRA XT is particularly evident in its use of highest-quality components. Signal conversion is handled by powerful A/D and D/A converters from ESS Technology featuring HyperStream® IV architecture as well as SABRE and SABRE HIFI® technology. This converter technology enjoys an outstanding reputation in the audio world and provides the foundation for exceptionally precise, low-noise and low-distortion signal processing. The result is a particularly pure, detailed and dynamic music reproduction that makes even the finest nuances audible.

With a signal-to-noise ratio of 128 dB, total harmonic distortion of 0.0003 %, an intermodulation distortion of 0.0008 % and a maximum output voltage of 8 volts, the DSP ULTRA XT proves its outstanding detail resolution, dynamics and sonic control. Internal signal processing at 96 kHz / 32 Bit enables an audio bandwidth of up to 44 kHz and underlines its consistent design for high-resolution playback. The innovative audio signal path consistently minimizes interference and distortion, while the use of high-quality premium RCA connectors ensure a reliable, mechanically stable connection and permanently clean signal transmission.

Absolute Quality Down To The Smallest Component
The exceptional quality standard of the DSP ULTRA XT does not end with converter technology, processing power and connectivity. Indeed it is reflected in the selection and tuning of each individual hardware component. In a signal processor of this class, even a seemingly standard component can have a decisive impact on measured performance, noise behavior and sound quality.

The outputs feature coupling capacitors manufactured exclusively for Audiotec Fischer; specifically developed for audio applications and optimised for a minimal dissipation factor. They pass the audio signal as neutrally and losslessly as possible, without sonic coloration or measurable distortion. At critical points in the signal path, tightly tolerated thin-film resistors with a maximum deviation of 0.1 % ensure highest precision. This is an essential prerequisite for the outstanding measured performance of the DSP ULTRA XT.

The power supply of the A/D and D/A converters has also been consistently designed for maximum signal purity. Special linear voltage regulators from ESS Technology create optimal operating conditions for extremely low-noise and low-distortion conversion of even the smallest audio signals. Each of the three A/D converters and both D/A converters are equipped with their own dedicated power supply; mutual interference between the converter channels is thereby structurally excluded.

A newly developed analog input stage with extremely high common-mode rejection effectively keeps unwanted interference away from the audio signal, before it can even reach the signal path. In addition, particularly low-noise and low-distortion SoundPlus™ operational amplifiers from Texas Instruments are used in the input and output stages; consistent engineering on every level.

Twin DSP Power
Computing power can only be replaced by even more computing power, which is precisely why the DSP ULTRA XT is equipped with two of the most powerful 64 Bit audio signal processors currently available from Analog Devices. With incredible 2.4 billion MAC operations per second, they provide the enormous processing headroom required for the extensive sound tuning of all internal channels in combination with the highest quality signal processing. For optimal configuration, the DSP ULTRA XT offers twelve separately processable input channels, eight processable virtual channels and sixteen processable output channels. This enables comprehensive adjustment options and numerous sound features.

Design Features
The Helix engineering department is at the forefront of research pertaining to every aspect of digital sound processing. It’s developed proprietary analysis systems and invested heavily in state-of-the-art manufacturing and testing. The resulting range of products has become widely considered as reference standard, as this ingenious company continues to push the technology envelope further. Let’s take a closer look at some of this tech.

Advanced 32 Bit CoProcessor Platform
Rapid processing power isn’t only required within the signal path. The particularly powerful 32 Bit ACO platform handles all control tasks and provides the decisive speed boost, especially in data communication with the DSP PC-Tool software. It also performs lightning fast switching between up to ten possible sound setups. But ACO offers much more, including fantastic sound effects such as Augmented Bass Processing or RealCenter, dynamic processing such as Dynamic Loudness Control (DLC) or Remote Tone Control (RTC). This in addition to a channel-separated input EQ including Input Signal Analyzer (ISA) for easy analysis and compensation of input signals from OEM radios already containing a sound setup.

Maximum Control With DSP PC-Tool 6
The DSP ULTRA XT can be configured via Helix’s professional yet exceptionally intuitive DSP PC-Tool 6 software. Its numerous adjustment options leave nothing to be desired and enable extremely precise sound tuning, even in highly complex multi-channel configurations. Thanks to extended DSP features, intelligent automation and powerful algorithms such as TuneEQ, TuneToTarget or AISA; the sound tuning process is further supported and made significantly more efficient in practice. At the same time, the optimized user guidance of DSP PC-Tool 6 ensures that every setup can be adapted down to the smallest detail to the acoustic conditions of the vehicle and individual listening preferences. This all equates to a sound experience at the highest level.

Virtual Channel Processing & Modern Signal Routing
During adaptation to modern OEM sound systems via an increasing number of inputs has a significant impact on the complexity of the signal routing inside the amplifier. Especially when several input signals are mixed together and then split again into multi-way systems, conventional routing concepts quickly reach their limits. Audiotec Fischer’s new multi-stage Virtual Channel Processing, in conjunction with the recognized user-friendly DSP PC-Tool software makes it easy to realize even highly complex system configurations. It also allows to freely assign the proprietary FX sound features such as RealCenter or Augmented Bass Processing.

Elegant, Smart And Compact
The DSP ULTRA XT underlines its technological ambition on the outside too. Its distinctive housing design with a cooling-fin look, chamfered edges and high-quality premium RCA connectors makes the exceptional standard of this signal processor visible at first glance. Despite its enormous range of functions, the DSP ULTRA XT offers a compact footprint, making installation and integration practical into any vehicle.

ESS Signal Converters
When every detail matters, conversion has to be reference-grade. That’s why the DSP ULTRA XT features premium A/D and D/A converters from ESS Technology with HyperStream® IV architecture as well as SABRE and SABRE HiFi® technology. These are widely regarded as a gold standard in high-end ADC and DAC design. This creates an exceptionally high-quality foundation for the entire signal processing within the DSP.

The result is precise conversion with high dynamic range and extremely low distortion; preserving fine details, tonal nuances and spatial information with outstanding clarity. For the listener, this means maximum transparency, precise detail reproduction and a natural sound signature from input to output.

USB PerfectStream
USB PerfectStream technology extends the signal processor with a powerful, bidirectional USB audio interface. It enables lossless high-resolution audio streaming with up to 192 kHz / 32 Bit. Thus allowing music content or test signals to be streamed straight from a computer or smartphone into the DSP.

In addition, USB PerfectStream allows audio data from individual DSP channels to be sent back to the computer in real time and high resolution. This makes it possible to process and fine-tune these signals within the Advanced Input Signal Analyzer (AISA), using input processing to correct and optimize them with precision.

Smart High-level Input ADEP.3
Modern, factory-installed car radios incorporate sophisticated methods for diagnosing connected speakers. In particular, the latest generation of car radios is equipped with advanced monitoring functions, which can often lead to error messages or the loss of specific features like fader function when a common signal processor is connected.

The third generation ADEP.3 circuit meets the demands of these advanced OEM systems and ensures seamless integration. Controlled by the ACO platform, the system is future-proof and designed to flexibly adapt to changes in vehicle radio diagnostics. This guarantees maximum compatibility with nearly all factory head units without unnecessarily loading the speaker outputs at high volume levels.

Power Save Mode
The Power Save Mode allows to significantly reduce the power consumption of the sound system when no music signal is detected for a certain period of time. When power save mode is active the remote output is automatically switched off. Once a music signal is detected again, the device returns to normal operation within approximately 2 seconds. The switch-off delay can be adjusted or completely deactivated via the DSP PC-Tool software.

Start-Stop Capability
The switched power supply ensures a constant internal supply voltage even during short voltage drops down to 6 Volts, for example during engine starts, meaning the functionality of the device remains stable and unaffected.

As If That Wasn’t Enough
Now we’ve cover some of the abilities in detail let’s just have a quick recap before we move into some of the software abilities:
– TwinDSP Power – two extremely powerful fixed point audio DSPs with 64 Bit resolution and 2.4 billion MAC operations per second for an extensive sound customization of all processed channels including twelve input channels, eight virtual channels and sixteen output channels.
– High-performance ESS technology A/D converter with HyperStream® IV architecture and SABRE technology, as well as D/A converter with HyperStream® IV architecture and SABRE HIFI® technology. These provide exceptionally pure signal quality, high detail resolution and precise, low-noise and low-distortion signal processing from input to output.
– EV ready. Extended input voltage range up to 18 V for stable operation even in electric vehicles with increased on-board voltages.
– Cutting-edge audio signal path for minimized distortion and unparalleled sound quality.
– Premium RCA / Cinch sockets for reliable, mechanically stable signal connections and permanently clean signal transmission.
– High power twelve channel high-level input with up to 32 V RMS input sensitivity and ADEP.3 circuit for seamless integration into factory sound systems.
– USB PerfectStream technology. This allows for lossless high-resolution audio streaming up to 192 kHz / 32 Bit, Advanced Input Signal Analyzer (AISA) measurement and simultaneous DSP configuration via USB-C.
– Virtual Channel Processing (VCP) offers outstanding flexibility in configuring complex sound systems, thanks to aspects including cross-channel group equalizers that affect several output channels simultaneously, multi-way speaker configuration of DSP sound effects and additional features such as Rear Attenuation.
– ACO Advanced 32 Bit CoProcessor platform for system and DSP features like Advanced Input Signal Analyzer (AISA) and InputEQ for easy analysis and correction of input signals.
– Dynamic Loudness Control (DLC) and Remote Tone Control (RTC) for volume-dependent dynamic adjustment of highs and lows.
– Proprietary TuneEQ function for automated adjustment of the input, virtual and output equalizers.
– Further abilities include Sound Effects (SFX), Augmented Bass Processing and RealCenter.
– Extension Card 2.0 slot for system add-ons like Bluetooth® HD audio streaming, extra analog inputs, or future signal sources.
– Two digital inputs via optical and coaxial are included, as well as one optical digital output in SPDIF format enable a fully digital signal path from the source to the connected component.
– Future-proof Smart Control Port (SCP) for connecting remote controls and accessories.
– Distinctive housing design with heat sink look, chamfered edges and premium RCA / Cinch sockets, visibly underlining the high-end standards and extraordinary performance of the DSP.
– Maximum control functionality with DSP PC-Tool 6. This a professional software suite for precise amplifier configuration and accurate sound tuning in the vehicle.

DSP Features Explained
All Helix digital sound processors posse and extraordinary amount of technology. With said technology comes terms and acronyms aplenty. We’ll explain some of them below thenceforth.

TuneEQ
TuneEQ is an extremely flexible and particularly easy-to-use function for automated frequency response correction. A single measurement per audio channel or channel pair with a suitable measurement microphone such as the MTK1 is sufficient for TuneEQ to independently and precisely adjust the equalizers to the desired reference curve. TuneEQ uses the full function set of the parametric equalizer including center frequency, Q-factor and gain adjustment. And since the highly complex arithmetic operations required for this run in the background, you also save a lot of time when optimizing your sound with TuneEQ.

RealCenter
The RealCenter feature is an algorithm developed by Audiotec Fischer that emphasizes the music information which is present in both the left and right front channel to create an unique centre signal. In contrast to common procedures, in which only the channels are summed up; the intensity of the centre signal is also dynamically controlled by the stereophonic informational content of the left and right channel.

Sounds complicated but this effect is astonishing: That means if solely the left or right channel delivers an audio signal, the centre channel will not reproduce a signal. In the case of common algorithms the volume level of the centre channel is only reduced by 6 dB. Audiotec Fischer’s RealCenter allows a unique, broadened sound staging for both driver and co-driver at the same time! Therefore, the disadvantages of a conventional center channel such as an intrusive, small sound stage, are things of the past.

Augmented Bass Processing
Audiotec Fischer’s proprietary augmented bass processing consists of the two revolutionary sound features called Dynamic Bass Enhancement and SubXpander. These have been especially developed to dramatically improve the bass reproduction of subwoofers. The dynamic bass enhancement ingeniously combines maximum deep bass and highest sound pressure regardless of the music style or the tone controls in the head unit. Depending on the input signal, the dynamic bass enhancement gains the lower frequency range and varies the cut-off frequency of the subsonic filter. The result is a significantly more powerful and deeper bass response at low and medium volume levels without the risk of overloading the subwoofer neither mechanically nor electrically at high volume levels. It is simply fascinating how much subbass performance is suddenly possible.

If you want an even lower and darker bass reproduction, the SubXpander can be additionally activated. In doing this, subharmonic tones are added to the fundamental tones in the frequency range between 50 and 100 Hz.

Electrical Specifications
– Nominal configuration: sisxteen channel digital sound processor
– Frequency response: 10 Hz – 44000 Hz
– Total harmonic distortion: 0.0008 %
– Signal-to-noise ratio: 116 dB

Physical Specifications
– Length: 256 mm
– Width: 170 mm
– Height: 40 mm
– Weight: 1.15 kg

Documentation
– Software download
– User manual

Important Disclaimers
Given the dynamic nature of electronics industries these days; below are listed some very important specifics you need to be aware of.

Brand Authorization And Stock Sourcing
We are a fully authorised Australian dealer of this brand and all stock is sourced through legitimate channels. It therefore enjoys full Australian warranty, backing and support.

Pricing Structure
Whilst we endeavor to offer the best price possible, we ask that if you do find a better price elsewhere from an authorised dealer; please contact us. Also be aware that we regularly conduct group buys and sales, therefore pricing can sometimes be subject to change without notice.

Stock Structure
Being a dynamic store is conducive to our inventory constantly changing. We list only a small portion of our stable online, usually products most popular. Aside from these we also stock numerous other variants and configurations of these products, hence if you don’t see what you’re after please contact us.

Shipping
All our products are shipped with registered and insured postage. Upon ordering you’ll be issued with a receipt, a consignment note via which you can track your order, and we’ll also SMS you photos of the package for identification purposes.

Technical support
This last one we cannot emphasise enough! Please contact us if you require any further information or assistance with the setup and use of this product, especially pertaining to aspects more technical. As we want you to get the very best from this product.