HELIX NEXT DSP ULTRA XT - 16 Kanal

A New Era of HELIX DSP Performance
The HELIX DSP ULTRA XT represents the new flagship of HELIX standalone DSPs. As an ultra-high-end 16-channel signal processor, it is designed for modern multi-channel sound upgrades that meet 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 limits of high-end sound systems—Made in Germany, of course.


Maximum Flexibility & Connectivity for Sophisticated Multi-Channel Upgrades
The HELIX DSP ULTRA XT offers an exceptional range of connectivity options 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, 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 configurations.


The 12-channel high-level input, with an input sensitivity of up to 32 V RMS, allows for easy connection of high-power factory amplifiers and provides the 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 directly connecting digital signal sources such as high-resolution players. The optical SPDIF output also allows the signal to be passed on digitally to downstream components.


At the same time, the DSP ULTRA XT serves as a central digital hub 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. 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 to the DSP. 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, additional analog inputs, or future modules. The feature set is complemented by the Smart Control Port (SCP), which enables 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 DSP ULTRA XT’s commitment to high-end performance is particularly evident in its use of the highest-quality components. For signal conversion, it employs high-performance 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 excellent reputation in the audio world and forms the basis for exceptionally precise, low-noise, and low-distortion signal processing. The result is an exceptionally pure, detailed, and dynamic music reproduction that makes even the finest nuances audible.


With a signal-to-noise ratio of 128 dB, a total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of < 0.0003%, intermodulation distortion of < 0.0008% , and a maximum output voltage of 8 volts, the DSP ULTRA XT delivers exceptional detail, dynamics, and sonic control. Internal signal processing at 96 kHz / 32-bit enables an audio bandwidth of up to 44 kHz and underscores its consistent design for high-resolution playback. The innovative audio signal path consistently minimizes interference and distortion, while high-quality premium RCA jacks ensure a permanently reliable and mechanically stable signal connection.


High-end down to the smallest component
The HELIX DSP ULTRA XT’s exceptional commitment to quality doesn’t stop at converter technology, processing power, and connectivity—it extends all the way to the selection and tuning of individual hardware components. After all, in a signal processor of this class, even a seemingly standard component can have a decisive influence on measured values, noise performance, and sound quality.


The outputs feature coupling capacitors manufactured exclusively for Audiotec Fischer—specifically developed for audio applications and optimized for a minimal loss angle (tan δ). They pass the audio signal as neutrally and losslessly as possible, without any tonal coloration or measurable distortion. At critical points in the signal path, tightly toleranced thin-film resistors with a maximum deviation of 0.1% ensure the highest precision—an essential prerequisite for the DSP ULTRA XT’s exceptional performance metrics.


The power supply for the AD and DA converters was also systematically designed to ensure maximum signal purity: Special linear voltage regulators from ESS Technology create optimal operating conditions for the extremely low-noise and low-distortion conversion of even the smallest audio signals. Each of the three AD converters and both DA converters has its own dedicated power supply—thereby eliminating any possibility of mutual interference between the converter channels by design.


An innovative analog input stage with extremely high common-mode rejection effectively blocks unwanted interference signals from reaching the audio signal before they can even enter the signal path. In addition, the input and output stages utilize SoundPlus™ operational amplifiers from Texas Instruments, which are particularly low in noise and distortion—consistent engineering at every level.


TwinDSP Power
Computing power can only be replaced by even more computing power—and that’s exactly why the DSP ULTRA XT is equipped with two extremely powerful 64-bit fixed-point audio DSPs. An incredible 2.4 billion MAC operations per second make the extensive sound customization of all processed channels, combined with the highest-quality signal processing, possible in the first place: For optimal configuration, 12 input channels, 8 virtual channels, and 16 output channels are available, enabling a wide range of settings and numerous sound features.


ACO – Advanced 32-Bit Coprocessor Platform
Blazing-fast processing power—not just in the signal path. The exceptionally powerful 32-bit ACO platform handles all control tasks and delivers a decisive speed boost, especially during data communication with our DSP PC-Tool 6 software, but also during lightning-fast switching between up to ten possible sound setups. But ACO offers much more: fantastic sound effects such as Augmented Bass Processing or RealCenter, dynamic processing such as Dynamic Loudness Control (DLC) or Remote Tone Control (RTC) are all included, as is a channel-separated InputEQ with AISA (Advanced Input Signal Analyzer) for easy analysis and compensation of input signals from OE radios that come with a factory-set sound configuration.


Maximum Control with DSP PC-Tool 6
Of course, the HELIX DSP ULTRA XT can be configured using our professional and exceptionally intuitive DSP PC-Tool 6. The numerous adjustment options leave nothing to be desired and enable extremely precise sound tuning, even in highly complex multichannel configurations

Thanks to advanced DSP features, intelligent automation, and powerful algorithms such as TuneEQ, TuneToTarget, and AISA, sound tuning is further enhanced and becomes significantly more efficient in practice. At the same time, the optimized user interface of DSP PC-Tool 6 ensures that every setup can be tailored down to the smallest detail to the acoustic conditions and individual listening preferences—for a sound experience of the highest caliber.


Virtual Channel Processing – Modern Signal Routing
Adapting to modern factory sound systems requires an increasing number of signal inputs, making increasingly complex signal routing within the processor essential. Especially when multiple input signals are mixed together and then split back into multi-channel systems, conventional routing concepts quickly reach their limits. Audiotec Fischer’s multi-stage Virtual Channel Processing, in combination with the award-winning DSP PC-Tool 6 software, makes it possible to easily map even highly complex system configurations and freely assign proprietary SFX sound features such as RealCenter or Dynamic Bass Enhancement.


Next-Level Technology with a High-End Look
Even from the outside, the HELIX DSP ULTRA XT underscores its technological excellence. The new, striking enclosure design—featuring a heat sink-style appearance, chamfered edges, and high-quality premium RCA jacks—makes the exceptional standards of this DSP evident at first glance. Despite its enormous range of features, the DSP ULTRA XT offers a compact form factor, which facilitates practical integration.



Highlights:

• 16-channel high-end standalone DSP for sophisticated multichannel 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 level of 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 on-board voltages
• Innovative audio signal path for minimized total harmonic distortion and the highest sound quality
• Premium RCA jacks 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 factory-installed sound systems
• USB PerfectStream technology – lossless high-resolution audio streaming (up to 192 kHz / 32-bit),AISA measurement (Advanced Signal Input Analyzer), and simultaneous DSP configuration via the USB-C port
• VCP (Virtual Channel Processing) allows for even more flexible configuration of highly complex sound systems through:
• Cross-Channel Group Equalizer
• Multi-path Configuration ofDSP Sound Effects (SFX)
• Additional features 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 volume-dependent dynamic adjustment of treble and
  • bassProprietary TuneEQ function for automated adjustment of input, virtual, and
  • output equalizersSFX sound effects—Augmented Bass Processing, RealCenter, and more
• Extension Card 2.0 slot for integrating additional interfaces such as Bluetooth HD Audio, additional analog inputs, or future features
• Two digital inputs (optical and coaxial) and one optical digital output in SPDIF format enable a fully digital signal path from the source to the downstream component
• Compact, future-proof SCP (Smart Control Port) for connecting remote controls and other accessories
• A new, striking enclosure design featuring a heat-sink-style appearance, beveled edges, and premium RCA jacks, which visibly underscores the DSP's high-end credentials and exceptional performance
• Maximum Control with DSP PC-Tool 6—Professional Software for Precise Configuration and Sound Tuning in Your Vehicle
  
  
  
  

Special Features

ESS Converter Architecture
The HELIX NEXT DSP ULTRA XT relies on high-quality A/D and D/A converters from ESS Technology featuring HyperStream® IV architecture as well as SABRE and SABRE HIFI® technology for signal conversion. This converter technology enjoys an excellent reputation in the audio world and provides a particularly high-quality foundation for all signal processing within the DSP

Thanks to the precise conversion of audio signals, the wide dynamic range, and the extremely low-distortion operation, subtle details, timbres, and spatial information are preserved with exceptional clarity. The result is pure, detailed, and natural music reproduction from input to output.


USB PerfectStream
USB PerfectStream technology enhances the signal processor with a high-performance, bidirectional USB audio interface. It enables lossless high-resolution audio streaming at up to 192 kHz / 32-bit, allowing music content or calibration test signals to be streamed directly from a computer or smartphone into the DSP. Furthermore, USB PerfectStream also offers the ability to route the audio data from individual DSP channels directly to the computer so that it can be processed in high resolution and in real time in our Advanced Input Signal Analyzer and corrected and optimized using input processing.


ADEP.3 Smart High-Level Input
Modern, factory-installed car stereos are becoming increasingly intelligent when it comes to diagnosing connected speakers. The latest generation, in particular, is equipped with additional monitoring functions, which means that connecting an additional signal processor can trigger error messages or even cause malfunctions. The ADEP.3 circuit (Generation 3) meets the latest requirements of modern OEM car radios and ensures error-free integration. Controlled via the ACO platform, the system is designed to be future-proof and can flexibly adapt to future changes in the diagnostic systems of factory-installed radios. This ensures maximum compatibility with virtually all factory-installed radios—without placing any unnecessary strain on the speaker outputs at high volume levels.


Power Save Mode
Power Save Mode is designed to reduce the sound system’s power consumption when no music signal is detected for a certain period of time.
When Power Save Mode is activated, the remote output automatically turns off. If a music signal is detected again, the device returns to normal operation within approximately 2 seconds.
Using the DSP PC-Tool software, you can adjust the shutdown delay or disable it completely.


Start-Stop Capability
The power supply in the HELIX NEXT DSP ULTRA XT ensures the internal power supply remains stable even during brief voltage dips down to 6 volts. This ensures that the signal processor remains fully functional even during engine startup.





DSP Features

TuneEQ
TuneEQ is an extremely flexible and exceptionally easy-to-use feature for automated frequency response correction. A single measurement per audio channel or channel pair using a suitable measurement microphone (such as our AMI Tuning Kit) is all that’s needed for TuneEQ to automatically and precisely adjust the equalizers to the desired reference curve. TuneEQ utilizes the full range of features of the parametric equalizer, including center frequency, Q-factor, and gain. And because the highly complex calculations required for this take place in the background, sound tuning with TuneEQ also saves a lot of time.


RealCenter
The “RealCenter” function is a proprietary algorithm developed by Audiotec Fischer that emphasizes the monaural information from the left and right front channels to generate a unique center signal. Unlike conventional methods, which simply sum the channels, this approach also includes dynamic control of the center signal based on the stereo information content of the left and right channels. This means that the center channel does not reproduce any signal if only the left or only the right channel is providing an audio signal. With conventional algorithms, the center channel would simply be 6 dB quieter in this case. Audiotec Fischer’s “RealCenter” thus enables a unique, wide-ranging soundstage—and it’s equally optimal for both the driver and front-seat passenger! The drawbacks of a conventional center channel, such as an intrusive, narrow spatial sound image, are finally a thing of the past.


Augmented Bass Processing
Audiotec Fischer’s proprietary “Augmented Bass Processing,” consisting of two revolutionary sound features: “Dynamic Bass Enhancement” and “SubXpander.” These have been specifically developed to dramatically improve bass reproduction from subwoofers

"Dynamic Bass Enhancement" ingeniously combines maximum low-frequency bass response with high peak sound pressure—regardless of the music genre you’re listening to or the radio’s sound settings. Depending on the input signal, “Dynamic Bass Enhancement” boosts the lower frequency range while simultaneously adjusting the cutoff frequency of the subsonic filter. The result is significantly more powerful, deeper bass reproduction at low and medium volume levels without the risk of mechanically or electrically overloading the subwoofer at high volumes. It’s simply fascinating to see what kind of bass performance is suddenly possible. 

If you want the low-frequency range to be even deeper and “darker,” you can also enable the “SubXpander.” This feature mixes subharmonic tones into the fundamental tones in the frequency range between 50 and 100 Hz. 

Technical Specifications:

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