Description

A New Era in HELIX DSP Performance

The HELIX DSP ULTRA XT marks the new pinnacle of HELIX standalone DSPs. As an ultra-high-end 16-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 – thanks to comprehensive connectivity, state-of-the-art signal processing, and audio performance par excellence, the DSP ULTRA XT sets new standards in high-end car audio. The result is a next-level HELIX processor that redefines the boundaries of high-end sound systems – naturally, Made in Germany.

Maximum Flexibility & Connectivity for Demanding Multi-Channel Upgrades

The HELIX DSP ULTRA XT offers exceptional connectivity for demanding multi-channel upgrades and complex integrations into modern vehicle environments. With 8 RCA inputs, 12 high-level inputs, one optical and one coaxial SPDIF input, one optical SPDIF output, an 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 12-channel high-level input with an input sensitivity of up to 32 V RMS enables the seamless connection of powerful original amplifiers and creates ideal conditions for integration into modern factory sound systems. For high-quality digital signal input, an optical and a coaxial SPDIF input are also available – ideal for the direct connection of digital signal sources such as high-resolution players. The optical SPDIF output also allows the digital transmission of the signal to downstream components.

At the same time, the DSP ULTRA XT acts as a central digital control unit within the vehicle. Internally, its powerful DSP architecture with 12 input channels, 8 virtual channels, and 16 processable output channels provides the foundation for maximum flexibility in signal routing, source integration, and channel management. Additionally, high-resolution audio signals up to 192 kHz / 32-bit can be transmitted losslessly directly to the DSP via the USB-C input using innovative USB PerfectStream technology. Furthermore, AISA measurements and configuration via the DSP PC-Tool 6 can be conveniently performed over 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 Smart Control Port (SCP) completes the package, enabling the connection of remote controls and other accessories, including an integrated power supply. The result is a future-proof DSP platform that combines exceptional system flexibility with state-of-the-art digital connectivity.

High-End Signal Processing with ESS SABRE Technology

The high-end aspirations of the DSP ULTRA XT are particularly evident in the use of premium components. For signal conversion, powerful A/D and D/A converters from ESS Technology with HyperStream® IV architecture, as well as SABRE and SABRE HIFI® technology, are employed. This converter technology enjoys an outstanding reputation in the audio world and forms the basis for exceptionally precise, low-noise, and low-distortion signal processing. The result is exceptionally 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 (THD+N) of < 0.0003%, intermodulation distortion (IMD) of < 0.0008%, and a maximum output voltage of 8 volts, the DSP ULTRA XT demonstrates the highest levels of detail, dynamics, and sonic control. The internal 96 kHz / 32-bit signal processing enables an audio bandwidth of up to 44 kHz and underscores the consistent focus on high-resolution playback. The innovative audio signal path consistently minimizes interference and distortion, while high-quality premium RCA connectors ensure a permanently reliable and mechanically stable signal connection.

High-end down to the smallest component

The exceptional quality standards of the HELIX DSP ULTRA XT extend beyond converter technology, processing power, and connectivity – they are evident in the selection and tuning of individual hardware components. In a signal processor of this class, even a seemingly standard component can have a decisive impact on measurements, noise performance, and sound quality.

Highlights:

16-channel high-end stand-alone DSP for demanding multi-channel sound upgrades

TwinDSP Power – two extremely powerful fixed-point audio DSPs with 64-bit resolution and 2.4 billion MAC operations per second enable extensive sound customization of all processed channels:

12 input channels

8 virtual channels

16 output channels

High-performance ESS Technology A/D converters with HyperStream® IV architecture and SABRE technology, as well as D/A converters with HyperStream® IV architecture and SABRE HIFI® technology for exceptionally pure signal quality, high detail, 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 higher electrical system voltages

Innovative audio signal path for minimized distortion and superior sound quality

Premium RCA connectors for a reliable, mechanically stable signal connection and consistently clean signal transmission

12-channel high-level input With up to 32 V RMS input sensitivity and ADEP.3 circuitry for integration into modern original sound systems

USB PerfectStream technology – lossless high-resolution audio streaming (up to 192 kHz / 32-bit), AISA (Advanced Signal Input Analyzer) measurement, and simultaneous DSP configuration via USB-C input

VCP (Virtual Channel Processing) allows for even more flexible configuration of highly complex sound systems through:

Output channel-spanning group equalizer

Multi-way configuration of DSP sound effects (SFX)

Additional functions such as rear attenuation

ACO – Advanced 32-bit CoProcessor platform for system and DSP features:

AISA (Advanced Input Signal Analyzer) and InputEQ for easy analysis and correction of input signals

DLC (Dynamic Loudness Control) and RTC (Remote Tone Control) for dynamic, volume-dependent adjustment of treble and bass

Proprietary TuneEQ function for automated adjustment of input, Virtual and output equalizer

SFX sound effects - Augmented Bass Processing, RealCenter & Co.

Extension Card 2.0 slot for integrating additional interfaces such as Bluetooth HD Audio, further analog inputs, or future functions

Two digital inputs (optical & coaxial) and one optical digital output in SPDIF format enable end-to-end digital signal transmission from the source to the downstream component

Compact, future-proof SCP (Smart Control Port) for connecting remote controls and other accessories

New, striking housing design with a cooling fin look, beveled edges, and premium RCA jacks, visibly emphasizing the high-end aspirations and exceptional performance of the DSP

Maximum control with DSP PC-Tool 6 - professional software for precise configuration and sound tuning in the vehicle.

.

Technical Specifications:

• Inputs: 8 x RCA
• 12 x High-Level Speaker Inputs
• 1 x Optical SPDIF (24 - 96 kHz)
• 1 x Coaxial SPDIF (24 - 192 kHz)
• 1 x Extension Card 2.0
• 1 x USB PerfectStream (44.1 - 192 kHz)
• Input Sensitivity: RCA: 1 - 8 volts
• High-Level: 4 - 32 volts
• Outputs: 16 x RCA
• 1 x Optical SPDIF (96 kHz)
• 1 x Remote Out
• Output Voltage: 8 volts
• Frequency Range: 10 Hz - 44,000 Hz
• DSP Resolution: 64-bit
• DSP Processing Power: 2 x 295 MHz (2.4 billion MAC operations/second)
• Sampling Rate: 96 kHz
• DSP Type: 2 x Audio Signal Processors
• Signal Converter: ADC: ESS Technology ES9841Q with HyperStream® IV architecture and SABRE technology
• DAC: ESS Technology ES9081Q with HyperStream® IV architecture and SABRE HIFI® technology
• Signal-to-noise ratio digital input (A-weighted
• @ 1 kHz) 128 dB
• Signal-to-noise ratio analog input (A-weighted
• @ 1 kHz) 116 dB
• Total harmonic distortion (THD+N @ 1 kHz) digital input ≤ -110 dB / 0.0003%
• Total harmonic distortion (THD+N @ 1 kHz) analog input ≤ -108 dB / 0.0004%
• Intermodulation distortion
• @ 1 kHz digital input ≤ -102 dB / 0.0008%
• Intermodulation distortion
• @ 1 kHz analog input ≤ -102 dB / 0.0008%
• Crosstalk @ 10 kHz > 100 dB
• Operating voltage 9.6 - 18 volts (max. 5 sec. down to 6 volts)
• Power consumption DC 12 V ⎓ 1.2 A max.
• Current consumption 800 mA
• Max. remote output current 500 mA
• Operating temperature range -40 °C to +70 °C
• Additional features: Extension Card 2.0 slot, ground switch, Smart Control Port, 32-bit coprocessor, ADEP.3 circuit, auto remote switch, USB-C, USB PerfectStream
• Dimensions (H x W x D) 55 x 255.6 x 170 mm

.

Package contents:

1 x HELIX NEXT DSP ULTRA XT signal processor

1 x USB-C cable with USB-A adapter

1 x Mounting hardware

1 x User manual