Brax DSP – CORE Model – Black

Brax DSP – CORE Model – modular 192 kHz high-end signal processor

Version: CORE Model – Black

The BRAX DSP is the most advanced digital signal processor in the Audiotec Fischer programme and the first DSP to wear the BRAX logo. The CORE Model is the base configuration of this processor: a fully assembled DSP with heatsink, an integrated stereo SPDIF input and blank side panels for unused module slots, ready to be equipped with the analog or digital input and output modules the installation requires. At least one output module is needed before the unit can be operated.

Its processing core combines three fixed-point 64-bit audio DSPs of the Sigma350 series, delivering 3.6 billion MAC operations per second, with the entire system running natively at 192 kHz so that the audio bandwidth extends to 80 kHz. A 32-bit ACO CoProcessor supervises the system and adds functions such as ISA/InputEQ, Dynamic Loudness Control and TuneEQ, while the modular concept allows current Asahi Kasei and ESS Technology converters to be integrated. The power supply section uses 55 voltage regulators so that each stage is cleaned and stabilised separately.

Key Features

• Three Sigma350 DSPs: 64-bit fixed-point processing with a combined 3.6 billion MAC operations per second (3 × 295 MHz).
• Native 192 kHz sample rate: Audio bandwidth up to 80 kHz; frequency response 5 Hz – 80 kHz.
• 32-bit converters: Asahi Kasei “Velvet Sound” A/D and D/A converters with native 32-bit resolution; ESS converters available on output modules.
• Modular 8-in / 12-out concept: Up to 4 input modules and 6 output modules, each a stereo module, in analog or digital form.
• Integrated SPDIF input: Stereo SPDIF input as standard on the CORE Model, selectable as optical or coaxial.
• Two BEC slots: BRAX Extension Card slots for optional modules such as Bluetooth audio streaming or USB high-resolution audio streaming.
• DiSAC volume control: DiSAC with the BRAX MATRIX MX4 PRO and DiSAC 2.0 with the BRAX REVELATION RX2 PRO (requires the amplifier’s digital input module).
• ACO 32-bit CoProcessor: Platform for ISA/InputEQ, Dynamic Loudness Control with Remote Tone Control, TuneEQ and SFX sound effects; also handles communication with the DSP PC-Tool and the optional CONDUCTOR and DIRECTOR remotes.
• VCP: Virtual Channel Processing available in 96 kHz mode.
• Power supply with 55 regulators: Every stage of the supply is filtered and stabilised separately.
• High-end construction: Aluminium housing, eight-layer main PCB, massive heatsink and RCA jacks milled from solid material; analog signals are handled only on the in/output modules.

Inputs & Outputs

• Standard on the CORE Model: 1 × stereo SPDIF input (optical 12–96 kHz / coaxial 12–192 kHz), 1 × Remote In, 1 × remote control input, 1 × Remote Out, 1 × SPDIF Link.
• Optional input modules: up to 8 × RCA plus 8 × high-level inputs, or up to 4 × stereo SPDIF inputs.
• Input sensitivity with analog modules: RCA 1–8 V, high-level 3.5–30 V; high-level inputs feature ADEP.3 circuitry.
• Optional output modules: up to 12 × RCA outputs, or up to 6 × stereo SPDIF outputs (48 / 96 / 192 kHz).
• Analog output voltage adjustable to 2, 4 or 8 V RMS; output muting by relays with gold-plated contacts.

DSP & Sound Tuning

• TuneEQ: Automated frequency-response correction: one measurement per channel or channel pair with a suitable microphone adjusts the parametric EQ to a reference curve.
• RealCenter: Proprietary algorithm that derives the centre signal from both front channels; if only one front channel carries a signal, the centre stays silent.
• Augmented Bass Processing: Combines Dynamic Bass Enhancement, which adapts low-frequency gain and the subsonic filter to the input signal, with SubXpander, which adds subharmonics between 50 and 100 Hz.
• Dynamic Loudness Control: Includes Remote Tone Control via the ACO platform.
• ISA/InputEQ and SFX: Input-side processing and sound-effect functions provided by the CoProcessor.
• Measured performance: SNR 122 dB (digital input), 130 dB with ESS / 116 dB with AKM converters (analog input); THD+N below -108 dB digital and -104 dB analog.

Installation & Connectivity Notes

• The CORE Model is delivered without analog input or output modules; at least one output module must be installed before use.
• Operating voltage 10.5–16 V (for max. 5 s down to 6 V), current draw 2400 mA, remote output up to 500 mA.
• Ground lift switch, auto remote switch and control input on board.
• Operating temperature -40 °C to +70 °C.
• Dimensions (H × W × D): 310 × 200 × 56 mm.
• Available in black and silver.

Technical Specifications

Scope of Delivery

1 x High-end signal processor BRAX DSP CORE Model – black
1 x BRAX T-shirt
1 x USB cable
2 x Allen key
1 x Certificate

Note: The CORE Model includes a fully assembled DSP with a heatsink and blank side panels for each slot that is not configured with a module. Please note that to use the DSP, the CORE Model must be equipped with at least one output module.