HELIX MK3 DSP Ultra by Audiotec Fischer 12 channel DSP Processor User Manual

HELIX MK3 DSP Ultra by Audiotec Fischer 12 channel DSP Processor

Connectors and control units

1. Low-level line inputs
   point 3

2. Digital inputs (Coaxial & Optical)
   point 5

3. Clipping LED
   point 1

4. Auto Remote switch
   point 6

5. Highlevel speaker inputs
   point 4

6. Power & Remote connector
   point 7

7. Ground lift switch
   point 4

8. Control pushbutton
   point 3

9. Status LED
   point 2

10. USB input
    point 8

11. SCP (Smart Control Port)
    point 5

12. Line outputs
    point 12

Hardware configuration

Configure the HELIX DSP PRO MK3 as follows
Caution: Carrying out the following steps will require special tools and technical knowledge. In order to avoid connection mistakes and/or damage, ask your dealer for assistance if you have any questions and follow all instructions in this manual. It is recommended that this unit will be installed by an authorized HELIX dealer.

1. Setting the input voltage range (“Voltage Range”) of the analog signal inputs
   ATTENTION: When using the high-level input as signal input, it is mandatory to adjust the “Voltage Range” to the output voltage of the signal source before the first start up in order to avoid damage to the signal processor.
   At first, the “Voltage Range” of the highlevel input has to be set inside the device. Dismantle the side panel where the USB input is located by removing the five Phillips screws and pull out the bottom plate sideways. Now you have access to the jumpers (see fig. 1). Each jumper sets the value range for 4 input channels at the same time (J1 – channel A – D and J2 channel E – F).
   If you want to connect a conventional OEM or aftermarket radio as signal source, the jumpers must be set to the voltage range 4 – 11 Volts (H1 – Low Voltage Range). This range is preset by default, see fig. 2.
   If you want to connect a factory-installed amplifier as signal source, we recommend to determine its maximum output voltage previously with a suitable measuring device or to contact your authorized HELIX dealer. If you are not sure, we recommend setting the voltage range to 12 – 32 Volts (H2 – High Voltage Range) to avoid possible damage to the device. Therefore, both jumpers have to be repositioned to the factory unused multi-pin connector, see fig. 3
   Overview jumper plug-in positions:
   Jumper 1 (J 1): Channel A – D
   Jumper 2 (J 2): Channel E – H
   For repositioning a jumper simply pull it upwards and plug it into the desired plug position.
   Make sure that the jumper is reinserted properly and all pins are fully inserted. H1 – “Low Voltage Range” configuration (by default):
   Value range: Highlevel 4 – 11 Volts
   H2 – “High Voltage Range” configuration
   Value range: Highlevel 12 – 32 Volts

2. Presetting the input sensitivity of the analog signal inputs
   ATTENTION: It is mandatory to properly adapt the input sensitivity of the DSP PRO MK3 to the signal source in order to achieve the best possible signal quality and to avoid damage to the signal processor. When using the Highlevel Input, it is also mandatory to adjust its “Voltage
   Range” to the output voltage of your signal source (see page 20, point 1)
   To achieve the best possible signal quality, the input sensitivity can be adjusted to the signal source by using the four slide switches inside the device.
   Input sensitivity is factory set to 11 Volts (high-level) and 4 Volts (RCA / Cinch). This is definitely the best setting in most applications.
   The setting range is 2 / 3 / 4 Volts for the low-level Line Inputs and 4 / 7 / 11 Volts (H1 – „Low Voltage Range“) or 12 / 22 / 32 Volts (H2 – „High Voltage Range“) for the Highlevel Inputs (depending on the adjusted “Voltage Range”).
   If the signal source provides a lower output voltage, the input sensitivity can be increased step by step via the switches.
   If your signal source delivers a higher output voltage – for example, if a factory-installed amplifier serves as signal source – the input sensitivity must be lowered via the switches and the correct configuration of the “Voltage Range” jumpers must be checked.
   If you are not sure regarding the signal sources output voltage, please contact your HELIX specialist dealer. When you have preset the input sensitivity you can reassemble the device.

3. Connecting the pre-amplifier inputs
   These eight lowlevel line inputs can be connected to signal sources such as head units /radios using appropriate cables. Each input can be assigned to any output using the DSP PC-Tool software. Input sensitivity is factory‑set to 4 Volts for all channels. But it is possible to optimally adapt the input sensitivity to the signal source inside the device (see page 21, point 2).
   The automatic turn-on circuit does not work when using the pre-amplifier inputs. In this case the remote input has to be connected to activate the HELIX DSP PRO MK3.
   Important: It is strictly forbidden to use the Highlevel and lowlevel Line Input of an individual channel at the same time as this may cause severe damage to the lowlevel line outputs of your head unit/car radio. Nevertheless it is possible to use the Highlevel Input of one channel and the lowlevel Line Input of another channel simultaneously.

4. Connecting the highlevel speaker inputs
   The eight highlevel loudspeaker inputs can be connected directly to the loudspeaker outputs of an OEM, aftermarket radio or factory installed amplifier using appropriate cables (loudspeaker cables with 1 mm² / AWG 18 max.).
   We recommend the following channel assignment if a common car radio will be connected to the signal processor:
   Channel A = Front left
   Channel B = Front right
   Channel C = Rear left
   Channel D = Rear right
   Actually it is not mandatory to use all high-level speaker inputs. If only two channels will be connected we recommend to use the channels A and B. Make sure that the polarity is correct. If one or more connections have reversed polarity it may affect the performance of the signal processor. If this input is used the remote input does not need to be connected as the signal processor will automatically turn on once a loudspeaker signal is received.
   Input sensitivity is factory-set to 11 Volts for all channels. It is possible to optimally adapt the input sensitivity to the signal source inside the device (see page 21, point 2).
   Attention: Solely use the pluggable screw-terminal for the highlevel connector which is included in delivery!
   Important: It is strictly forbidden to use the Highlevel and lowlevel Line Input of an individual channel at the same time as this may cause severe damage to the lowlevel line outputs of your car radio.
   Nevertheless, it is possible to use the Highlevel Input of one channel and the lowlevel Line Input of another channel simultaneously.

5. Connecting a digital signal source
   If you have a signal source with a coaxial or
   optical digital
   output you can connect it to the
   signal processor using the appropriate input.
   The sampling rate must be between 12 and
   96 kHz for the Optical Input and 12 – 192 kHz
   for the Coax Input. The input signal is automatically
   adapted to the internal sample rate.
   In standard configuration the Optical Input is
   activated as well as the manual activation via
   an optional remote control is configured.
   Alternatively you can activate the automatic
   turn-on feature in the DCM menu of the DSP
   PC-Tool software.
   The automatic turn-on circuit does not work
   when a digital input is used. Therefore it is
   mandatory to connect the remote input.
   Important: The signal of a digital audio source normally does not contain any information about the volume level. Keep in mind that this will lead to full level on the outputs of the HELIX DSP PRO MK3 and your connected amplifiers.
   This may cause severe damage to your speakers.
   We strongly recommend to use an optional remote control for adjusting the volume level of the digital signal inputs!
   Note: The HELIX DSP PRO MK3 can only handle uncompressed digital stereo signals in PCM format with a sample rate between 12 kHz and 96 kHz / 192 kHz and no MP3- or Dolby-coded digital audio stream!

6. Configuration of the remote input
   The DSP PRO MK3 will be turned on automatically if the Highlevel Input is used or if a signal is applied to the remote input terminal.
   The Auto Remote switch (page 19, point 4) allows to deactivate the automatic turn-on feature of the highlevel inputs. The feature should be deactivated if there are e.g. noises while switching on / off the signal processor.
   On: Activation via highlevel speaker input is enabled (by default).
   Off: Activation via highlevel speaker input is disabled.
   Note: If the automatic turn-on function is deactivated it is mandatory to use the remote input terminal to power up the signal processor!
   The highlevel signal will be ignored in this case.

7. Connection to power supply & remote
   Make sure to disconnect the battery before installing the HELIX DSP PRO MK3!
   Solely use the included screw-type terminal to connect the HELIX DSP PRO MK3 to a power supply. Make sure of correct polarity.
   +: Connector for the +12 V power cable. The positive wire has to be connected to the battery’s positive post or a power distribution block. Though the current draw of the HELIX DSP PRO MK3 is rather low (approx. 650 mA) we recommend a minimum wire gauge of 1 mm² / AWG18.
   –: Connector for the ground cable. The ground wire must be connected to the vehicle chassis at a non-insulated point. The cable should have the same gauge as the +12 V wire. Inadequate grounding causes audible interference and malfunctions.
   Remote in: The remote input is used to switch on the DSP PRO MK3 if the pre-amplifier or digital inputs are used. Additionally, this input must be assigned, if the signal source which is connected to the Highlevel Input is not activating the “automatic turn-on” function or if the signal processor shall only be activated / deactivated via a remote signal. The remote wire should be connected to the remote output / automatic antenna (aerial positive) output of the head unit/car radio. This is only activated if the head unit is switched on. Thus the signal processor is switched on and off together with the head unit.
   We do not recommend controlling the remote input via the ignition switch to avoid pop noise during turn on / off.
   Note: This input does not need to be assigned if the Highlevel Input is used. To deactivate the “automatic turn-on” function read the description in point 6 “Configuration of the remote input”.
   Remote out: The remote output is used for turning on / off amplifiers that are connected to the Line Outputs of the HELIX DSP PRO MK3.
   Therefore connect the remote output of the DSP to the remote inputs of your amplifiers to switch them on and off via the DSP without interfering signals. The remote output is activated automatically as soon as the booting process of the DSP is completed. Additionally this output will be turned off during the “Power Save Mode” or a software update process.
   Important: Never use a different signal than the remote output of the DSP to activate connected amplifiers!

8. Connecting the PC & first start-up
   The USB input enables the connection of the DSP PRO MK3 to a personal computer and its free configuration with our DSP PC-
   Tool software using the provided USB cable.
   Please note: It is not possible to connect any USB storage devices.
   Prior to connecting the signal processor to your PC visit our website and download the latest version of the DSP PC‑Tool software.
   We strongly recommend to carefully read the DSP PC-Tool knowledge base before using the software for the first time in order to avoid any complications and failures.
   Important: Make sure that the signal processor is not connected to your computer before the software and USB driver are installed!
   In the following the most important steps how to connect and the first start- up are described:

9. Download the latest version of the DSP PC-Tool software (available on our website www.audiotec-fischer.com) and install it on your computer.

10. Connect the signal processor to your computer using the USB cable that is included in delivery. If you have to bridge longer distances please use an active USB extension cable with integrated repeater.

11. First turn on the signal processor and then start the software. The operating software will be updated automatically to the latest version if it is not up-to-date.

12. Fine adjustment of the input sensitivity
    ATTENTION: In order to avoid damage to the signal processor, it is mandatory to preset the input sensitivity as described on page 21 in point 2.
    The DSP PC-Tool allows to fine tune the input sensitivity across all channels in 1 dB steps, up to a maximum of +6 dB.
    Note: Don‘t connect any amplifiers to the outputs of the signal processor during this setup.
    The Clipping LED (see page 19, point 3) of the DSP PRO MK3 or the Clipping Indicator of the DSP PC-Tool serves as monitoring tool.
    For fine adjustment please proceed as follows:

13. Turn on the signal processor.

14. Start the DSP PC-Tool software.

15. The fine adjustment of the input sensitivity can be found in the “Signal Management” tab of the DCM menu under the item “Main Input → Input Gain”.

16. Adjust the volume of your radio to approx. 90 % of the max. volume and playback an appropriate test tone, e.g. pink noise (0 dB).

17. If the Clipping LED (see page 19, point 3) or the Clipping Indicator (see marking in the following picture) already lights up red, the presetting of the input sensitivity is not correct. In this case, first reduce it using the internal slide switches as described on page 21, point 2. As soon as the Clipping LED / Clipping Indicator turns off, continue with the following point 6.

18. Increase the input sensitivity using the gain control of the DSP PC-Tool Software until the Clipping LED / Clipping Indicator lights up. Now turn the control back until the Clipping LED / indicator turns off again.

19. Configuration of the DSP
    The general DSP settings should be conducted with the DSP PC-Tool software before using the signal processor for the first time.
    Now you are able to configure your DSP PRO MK3 with our intuitive DSP PCTool software. Useful hints for the correct setting can be found in our knowledge base at www.audiotec-fischer.com.
    Caution: We highly recommend to set the volume of your car radio to minimum position during first start-up. Additionally no devices should be connected to the signal processor.
    Especially if the DSP PRO MK3 will be used in fully active applications, a wrong setup can destroy your speakers right away.

20. Analyzing the input signal
    Check the input signal for factory-set equalizing and all-pass filters using the Input Signal Analyzer (ISA) of the DSP PC-Tool software. Information about the ISA can be found in the extensive Knowledge Base on our website www .audiotec-fischer.com.
    Caution: We highly recommend to set the volume of your car radio to minimum position during first start-up. Additionally no devices should be connected to the signal processor until general settings in the DSP PC-Tool software have been made. Especially if the DSP PRO MK3 will be used in fully active applications, a wrong setup can destroy your speakers right away.

21. Connecting the Line Outputs
    The ten pre-amplifier outputs (Line Output) can now be connected to the pre- amplifier / lowlevel / RCA inputs of the external amplifiers using appropriate cables (RCA / Cinch cables).

22. Sound tuning Now you can create your sound setup.
    Information about sound tuning can be found in our extensive knowledge base at audiotec-fischer.com or contact your local HELIX dealer.

Additional functions

1. Clipping LED
   The Clipping LED indicates if one of the Line or Highlevel Inputs is overdriven.
   On (red): One of the analog signal inputs is overdriven. Reduce the input sensitivity using the four internal slide switches until the LED goes out.
   How to reduce the input sensitivity is described on page 23 under point 9.
   Off: The input sensitivity is optimally adapted to the signal source.
   Note: The LED has no function when using one of the digital inputs.

2. Status LED
   The Status LED indicates the operating mode of the signal processor and of its memory.
   Green: DSP is ready for operation.
   Orange: Power Save Mode is activated.
   Red: Protection Mode is active. This may have different root causes. The HELIX DSP PRO MK3 is equipped with protection circuits against over- and undervoltage as well as overheating. Please check for connecting failures such as short circuits or other wrong connections. If the DSP is overheated the internal temperature protection switches off the remote and signal output until it reaches a safe temperature level again.
   Red / green slow flashing: No operating software installed. Connect the signal processor to the DSP PC-Tool software and confirm the automatic update of the operating system. You will find the latest version of the DSP PC-Tool software at www.audiotec-fischer.com.
   Red / green fast flashing: The currently selected sound setup memory is empty. A new setup has to be loaded via the DSP PC-Tool software or switch to a memory position with existing sound setup.

3. Control pushbutton
   The DSP PRO MK3 provides 10 internal memory locations for sound setups. The Control pushbutton allows the user to switch between two memory positions. These can be defined in the DSP PC-Tool. In addition a device reset can be made by pressing the button for a longer period.

4. Setup switch: Press Control pushbutton for 1 second. The memory locations one and two are defined by default. Switching is indicated by a single red flash of the Status LED. Alternatively, the optional URC.3 remote control can be used for switching. To switch between all internal memory locations, optional accessories like the DIRECTOR display remote control or CONDUCTOR are required.

5. Device reset: Press pushbutton for five seconds. This completely erases the internal memory and is indicated by a continuous red glowing and constant green flashing of the Status LED.
   Attention: After erasing the setups from memory the DSP PRO MK3 will not reproduce any audio output until the device is updated via the DSP PC-Tool software.

6. Ground Lift switch
   The signal ground of the HELIX DSP PRO MK3 is galvanically decoupled from the power ground. In many cars this setup is the best way to avoid alternator noise.
   Nevertheless, there are use cases where it will be necessary to directly connect input and output ground or to tie both grounds together via a resistor. Therefore the Ground lift switch has three positions:
   ISO: Input and output ground separated.
   GND: Input and output ground tied together.
   200Ω: Input and output ground connected via 200 Ohms resistor.

7. SCP (Smart Control Port)
   This multi-functional input is designed for HELIX DSP PRO MK3 accessory products like a remote control which allows to adjust several features of the signal processor. Depending on the type of remote control, at first its functionality has to be defined in the “Device Configuration Menu” of the DSP PC‑Tool software.
   Attention: If the accessory product does not have a NanoFit connector solely use the NanoFit adaptor which is included in delivery for connection.

Virtual Channel Processing (VCP)

In addition to standard routing, the HELIX DSP PRO MK3 offers Virtual Channel Processing (VCP), a multi-stage signal processing concept that enables the perfect configuration of complex sound systems, opening up completely new possibilities for sound tuning.

The VCP extends the previous scope of the device by an additional layer of processed channels, which is located between the inputs and outputs. A total of eight additional processed virtual channels and ten processed output channels are available.
This virtual channel layer offers several advantages, especially in complex system configurations.

The main advantages of this concept are:

• Cross-channel group equalizers that affect several output channels simultaneously
• Multi-way speaker configuration of DSP sound effects (SFX)
• Additional features such as Rear Attenuation

For further information about the VCP and its configuration, please refer to our Knowledge Base at www.audiotec-fischer.com.

Configuration of a subwoofer remote control

In order to configure a subwoofer remote control, specific settings have to be made in the DSP PC-Tool. First, the appropriate remote control must be activated in the “Extended Features” tab in the DCM menu of the DSP PC-Tool software and configured, depending on the model.

If the VCP is not activated, the subwoofer remote control of the DSP PRO MK3 is permanently assigned to the output channels I and J. In this case it does not matter which output is named “Subwoofer” in the IO routing matrix.
In the “Outputs” menu you can also see to which outputs the SubRC (subwoofer remote control) is tied:

When VCP is activated, the subwoofer remote control is tied to the output channels that are supplied with one of the two virtual subwoofer signals (“Subwoofer 1” or “Subwoofer 2”) in the “Virtual to Output Routing” matrix. This can be any combination of output channels.

In the following example these are the pre-amplifier outputs I and J:

Note: Please note that an input signal must be assigned to the two virtual subwoofer signals “Subwoofer 1” and / or “Subwoofer 2” in the other routing matrices.

Afterwards, the subwoofer control is also displayed in the “Outputs” menu next to the name of the channel [SubRC]:

ACO platform features

Beside the unique DSP sound effects the DSP PRO MK3 provides a bunch of new system and DSP features.
In the DCM menu of the DSP PC-Tool software individual settings can be made for several of these system features.

Turn On & Off Delay
This function allows to determine the delay time with which the DSP is switched on and off. The factory setting is 0.2 seconds. The delay time should only be modified if there are e.g. noises while switching on / off the signal processor.

URC Setup Switch Configuration
The ACO provides ten internal memory locations for sound setups instead of the common two.
By using an optional URC remote control or the Control pushbutton (see page 25) it is possible to toggle between two of the ten memory locations.
These two memory locations can be determined in the “URC Setup Switch Configuration”. The memory locations one and two are preassigned by default. To switch between all internal memory locations, the optionally available remote controls DIRECTOR and CONDUCTOR are recommended.

Remote Output Configuration
This function controls if the remote output (which switches on and off the connected amplifiers) will be temporarily deactivated during a sound setup switch. This function is activated (ON) by default.

ADEP.3 Configuration
If the DSP PRO MK3 is connected to an OEM radio via the highlevel inputs it may happen that the ADEP.3 circuit has to be adapted to the diagnostic mode of the radio if the latter is equipped with a so-called “class SB” output stage”.
In the “ADEP.3 SB compatibility mode & Advanced
Noise Suppression” section, an adjustment should be made if there are e.g. distortions occur in the upper volume range.
The compatibility mode is disabled by default.

HELIX Extension Card slot (HEC slot)

It is possible to extend the functionality of the HELIX DSP PRO MK3 by inserting an optional HELIX Extension Card (HEC) – for example a High Definition Bluetooth ® Audio Streaming module, a High Resolution Audio USB soundcard etc.
To install a HELIX Extension Card it is necessary to remove the side panel of the DSP PRO MK3 and replace it by the new side panel that comes with the HEC module.

Attention: Install the HEC module only in the designated device and its specific slot. Using the HEC module in other devices or slots can result in damage of the HEC module, the signal processor, the head unit / car radio or other connected devices!

Read in the following the steps how to install a HEC module:

1. First disconnect all cables from the device.

2. Dismantle the side panel where the USB input is located by removing the five Phillips screws.

3. Pull out the bottom plate sideways.

4. Prepare the module for installing it into the device.
   Any further mounting information will be found in the instruction manual of the respective HEC module.

5. Insert the HEC module into the specific slot of the device which is marked in the following picture.

6. Make sure that the HEC module is installed properly and all pins are fully inserted into the socket.

7. Reinsert the bottom plate and fix the new side panel which is delivered with the HEC module with the five Phillips screws.

8. Bolt the HEC module to the side panel. Precise mounting information will be found in the instruction manual of the respective HEC module.

9. Reconnect all cables to the device.

10. Turn on the signal processor. The HEC module is automatically detected by the device and the Status LED of the HEC module lights up green.

11. Now you are able to configure the HEC module in the DSP PC-Tool software.

Technical Data

Inputs…………………………………………………………………. 8 x RCA / Cinch
8 x Highlevel speaker input
1 x Optical SPDIF (12 – 96 kHz)
1 x Coax SPDIF (12 – 192 kHz)
1 x Remote In
Input sensitivity……………………………………………………. RCA / Cinch: 2 / 3 / 4 Volts
Highlevel: 4 / 7 / 11 Volts or 12 / 22 / 32 Volts
Outputs………………………………………………………………. 10 x RCA / Cinch
1 x Remote Out
Output voltage…………………………………………………….. 8 Volts
Frequency response…………………………………………….. 10 Hz – 44,000 Hz
DSP resolution…………………………………………………….. 64 Bit
DSP power…………………………………………………………. 2 x 295 MHz (2.4 billion MAC operations/sec.)
Sampling rate……………………………………………………… 96 kHz
DSP type……………………………………………………………. 2 x Audio signal processor
Signal converters…………………………………………………. A/D: AKM Velvet Sound 32 Bit
D/A: AKM Velvet Sound 32 Bit
Signal-to-noise ratio (A-weighted)………………………….. Digital input: 116 dB
Analog input: 111 dB
Total harmonic distortion (THD+N)…………………………. Digital input: < 0.0005 %
Analog input: < 0.001 %
IM distortion (IMD)……………………………………………….. Digital input: < 0.002 %
Analog input: < 0.004 %
Crosstalk……………………………………………………………. > 90 dB
Operating voltage ………………………………..9.6 – 18 Volts (max. 5 sec. down to 6 Volts)
Power rating……………………………………………………….. DC 12 V 3 A max.
Current draw……………………………………………………….. 650 mA
Max. remote output current…………………………………… 500 mA
Additional features……………………………………………….. HEC slot, Ground lift switch,
Smart Control Port, 32 Bit CoProcessor,
ADEP.3 circuit, Auto Remote switch
Dimensions (H x W x D)……………………………………….. 40 x 177 x 150 mm / 1.58 x 6.97 x 5.91”

Warranty Disclaimer

The warranty service is based on the statutory regulations. Defects and damage caused by overload or improper handling are excluded from the warranty service. Any return can only take place following prior consultation, in the original packaging together with a detailed description of the error and a valid proof of purchase.

Technical modifications, misprints and errors excepted!
We accept no liability for damage to the vehicle or device defects caused by the incorrect operation of the device. This product has been issued a CE marking. This means that the device is certified for use in vehicles within the European Union (EU).

Note: “The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Audiotec Fischer GmbH is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.”

Audiotec Fischer GmbH
Tel.: +49 2972 9788 0 · Fax: +49 2972 9788 88
E-mail: helix@audiotec-fischer.com
Internet: www.audiotec-fischer.com

References

• High-End Car Hifi & Audio - Made in Germany | Audiotec Fischer
• High-End Car Hifi & Audio - Made in Germany | Audiotec Fischer

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