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INTEGRATED DSP IS CHANGING
INSTALLATIONS , SERVICES & BUSINESS MODELS
By Brian Pickowitz
The use of integrated DSP technology in pro audio has been evolving for some time . With considerable advances in chip processing power over the years and the current adoption and acceleration of cloud computing and device connectivity , DSP has become a must-have standard for audio installations .
In today ’ s consumer and professional audio environments , DSP technology is found inside everything from earbuds and smartphones to car systems and live performance equipment . DSP is the process of directing an audio signal through computer-based processing algorithms to alter the characteristics of the signal ’ s timing , unique traits , frequency , magnitude , or phase .
Essentially , by using DSP , system designers , installers , and users no longer need to simply hope that their audio system will sound good . DSP electronics can compensate for a vast range of system shortcomings and venue challenges — on-site and in real-time . Using professional audio amplifiers with built-in DSP has become the standard practice for many AV system installers . While fully-analog amplifiers do serve a purpose , there are countless benefits to designing and installing systems with DSP-based amplifiers at the core .
A Smaller , Smarter Footprint From a purely physical point of view , DSPpowered equipment can do more with less , and therefore installers don ’ t need to buy , mount , and maintain dedicated DSP equipment . Integrated DSP frees up critical rack space and reduces system weight . All the input routing , room tuning , speaker tuning , and limiting are built into the amplifier , so the previous generation of multiple rack units is greatly reduced or no longer needed . Equipment racks everywhere are smaller , lighter , and cleaner thanks to integrated DSP .
To extend the benefits further , there is no longer the need to use physical cables in designing a signal chain . By using a digital input router , technicians can route any input to any output . And with the integration of an audio network , as with Dante , it ’ s all just an ethernet cable away . In addition to signal routing , there is a complete range of DSP audio processing available within professional amplifiers today :
• Digital delay for correcting audio timing issues between speaker zones that span across a distance , ensuring that the audio signals all meet the listeners ’ ears at the same time .
• Crossover technology splits the source audio signal into multiple frequency bands ( hi , mid , low , sub ) that are then routed to the appropriate speaker elements and types . This results in a clearer and well-defined listening experience with less noise and distortion .
• Compressors are used to limit the overall dynamic range of an audio signal , ensuring that the signal will never dip below a specific listenable range and also never go beyond a peak range where potential damage could result .
• Limiters are often used in tandem with compressors where the compressor provides the initial signal roll-off , and the limiter is set to be the last line of defense against signals that may peak and cause unwanted distortion .
• Signal generators create pink noise , white noise , and sine waves so AV installers can identify problematic frequency ranges within their installs and test their systems before the input source is hooked up .
• Equalization allows users to achieve the desired frequency response and tonal balance . Even though in many ways , we have only just begun to scratch the surface of DSP ’ s possibilities in professional audio amplifiers , we can clearly see the added benefits to system installations and expanded business opportunities .
New Tech , a New Business Model DSP and connectivity technologies — including the huge benefits of cloud computing — are opening up more markets and business models for the AV integrator by offering a wide range of unique , scalable , and flexible solutions . System connectivity offers audio professionals the ability to introduce recurring revenue models to their service contracts that can significantly impact their success .
By selecting network-ready , cloud-enabled devices and by offering remote capabilities to service contracts , a wide range of services become available , including 24 / 7 system monitoring , remote configuration , remote system updates ( firmware ), system data storage , and more . By adding these line items to existing service contracts , integrators ensure peace of mind for the customer and their business .
One of the most widely-adopted ways to improve recurring revenue is to offer service and support agreements . Customers pay a monthly fee to ensure that they will receive technical help whenever their AV system encounters a problem .
This is a critical change to the industry . Connectivity can virtually eliminate commuting costs , travel time , scheduling conflicts , and reduce the amount of time technicians spend supporting past installations , which leaves them more free time on new installations . Being able to remotely manage an installation can reduce or eliminate the need to send a technician onsite , which saves time and also the travel-related expenses of sending a technician to the venue .
From the client ’ s perspective , they get the benefit of continuing their daily business uninterrupted . That means little-to-no system downtime , reduced maintenance calls , less costly repairs , and the company ’ s ability to provide proactive maintenance by identifying a problem before the customer does .
Today ’ s pro audio systems are strikingly different from those just 10 years ago ; today ’ s integrators and end-users are more tech knowledgeable , and they expect much more from every component .
Brian Pickowitz is the Vice President of Marketing at amplifier and technology company LEA Professional . Pickowitz has over 15 years ’ experience in the pro audio industry , having previously served in senior positions at Harman Professional and Crown International .
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