Car News

JL Audio Intros DSP Amplifiers

Press Release (edited):

JL Audio unveiled the VXi car amplifier line today, which consists of eight models, all equipped with an integrated Digital Signal Processor (DSP).

JL Audio collaborated with AKM, known for its digital micro-devices. AKM created a triple-core DSP with filter blocks optimized for the VXi project.

[See www.facebook.com/ceoutlook for a video live from KnowledgeFest in Indianapolis explaining the new amplifiers]

Because of the powerful onboard DSP, the amplifiers offer the following features on each amplifier channel: signal routing and mixing, parametric equalization, delay in 0.01 ms increments, all-pass filter (phase correction), polarity, and precise level control in 0.1 dB increments. All processing is done at 24 bits/96 kHz.

All tuning and adjustment of the parameters is done via external devices running JL Audio’s TüN software.

With the launch of the VXi, also announced new software so more devices can control the amplifiers. This includes TüN 3.0 for PC and Mac OS, TüN Mobile for Android and iOS Tablets, and TüN Express for Android and iOS Smartphones. TüN 3.0 and TüN Mobile offer full control of the entire DSP feature set, while TüN Express delivers a simplified experience for quick setups.

JL Audio VP of Electrical Engineering, Dr. Stephen Leigh said: “The VXi project has been in the works for three years and combines the efforts of multiple
JL Audio engineering teams – electrical, DSP, firmware, software, and mechanical. The goal was to deliver true high-fidelity amplifiers with integrated, full-featured DSP tuning capabilities. Our engineering team is thrilled with the end result and we are very excited to be launching these products into the marketplace.”

JL Audio said VXi amplifiers offer sophisticated and flexible input sections, beginning with differential-balanced, analog input stages with matched gain blocks and high-perforamnce AKM analog-to-digital converters.

Also on-board each amplifier is an optical S/PDIF digital input, capable of receiving up to 24 bit/192 kHz signals. All inputs are configurable and mixable via TüN software. VXi amplifiers also provide both analog, and digital, pre-out channels. The analog pre-outs offer a full set of the same powerful DSP features as the amplified channels, permitting the tuning of a second non-DSP amplifier. An optical, digital pre-out at 24 Bit/96 kHz is also provided. This digital pre-out can be level-controlled and equalized, if desired.

VXi also marks the debut of the second generation of JL Audio’s core Class D amplifier technology, dubbed NexD2. With NexD2 the full-range amplifier channels are fed by high-performance AKM DAC’s and are fully synchronized by the AKM DSP, to improve fidelity and audio performance. VXi’s advanced amplifier designs employ DirectFET™ technology and place capacitor banks right at the outputs, greatly reducing loop area to further refine audio quality.

In addition to the complete lineup of DSP-enabled amplifiers, JL Audio has also introduced several peripheral pieces to simplify the installation process. A BLUETOOTH® communicator – VXi-BTC – for wireless connectivity from mobile devices, a network hub – VXi-HUB – to network up to 5 amplifiers, and a digital remote controller with dual-concentric rotary control, plus push-button preset selection function – DRC-205.

“The VXi amplifier lineup has been designed to simplify the process of achieving great audio results by offering control full control of all aspects of system tuning, from one device. We are incredibly excited to release these amazing products and are looking forward to working with our authorized dealers to deliver great audio experiences to our customers.” said Manville Smith, VP of Marketing.

VXi Models:

VX600/1i Class D, Monoblock Subwoofer Amplifier with Integrated DSP

Rated power @ 14.4V, <1% THD+N:
400W x 1 @ 4 ohms, 500W x 1 @ 3 ohms, 600W x 1 @ 2 ohms

MSRP USD: $799.99

VX1000/1i Class D, Monoblock Subwoofer Amplifier with Integrated DSP