Goldhorn DSPA 2416 Ultra 36 Channel DSP | 24 Channel Amplifier

2 × ADAU1463 SigmaDSP Chips - Unprecedented Processing Capacity

Why Dual-DSP Matters: The DSPA 2416 Ultra employs two ADAU1463 chips working in parallel, delivering 36 independent processing channels (vs. 24 channels from single ADAU1463 in DSPA 1616 Ultra, 16 channels from ADAU1452 in lower models). This dual-DSP configuration provides:

• Massive I/O Flexibility: 24 high-level inputs + 2 RCA + optical/coaxial digital → 36 processing channels → 24 amplified outputs + 16 RCA pre-outs = 40 total outputs. Connect factory head units with 20+ speaker outputs (Mercedes, BMW, Audi premium systems), process each channel independently, and route to optimal amplification.
• Zero Processing Bottlenecks: Each ADAU1463 handles 18 channels (vs. 24 channels from single chip in DSPA 1216 Plus/1616 Ultra), meaning lighter DSP load per chip. Result: More headroom for complex processing (31-band EQ + crossovers + time alignment + dynamic processing per channel) without CPU saturation or latency issues.
• Future-Proof Expandability: 36-channel capacity accommodates today's complex systems PLUS tomorrow's expansion. Example: Start with 20-channel OEM integration → Add 8-channel external amplifier via RCA pre-outs → Still have 8 channels of DSP headroom for center/height/atmospheric speakers.
• Professional-Grade Reliability: Dual-DSP redundancy (if one chip fails, system can operate in degraded mode using remaining chip—critical for commercial installations). Automotive-qualified ADAU1463 chips rated for -40°C to +105°C operation (extreme temperature stability).

Technical Specifications per ADAU1463:

• 48-channel I/O capacity (96 total channels across both chips)
• 24k program memory + 80k data memory per chip
• 1600ms digital delay per chip (3200ms total system delay capacity)
• Four serial I/O ports per chip (eight total for extensive routing)
• 192kHz/32-bit processing throughout

Industry-Leading Channel Count with Flexible Power Distribution

Power Configuration:

• Channels 1-20: 80W RMS × 20 @ 4Ω = 1600W
• Channels 21-24: 150W RMS × 4 @ 4Ω = 600W (bridgeable for higher power)
• Total System Power: 2400W RMS @ 4Ω (all channels driven simultaneously)

Strategic Amplification Advantages:

• Active Multi-Way Systems: 24 amplified channels enable extreme active configurations impossible with competitors. Examples: 4-Way Active Front Stage: Tweeters (2ch) + Super Tweeter (2ch) + Midrange (2ch) + Upper Midbass (2ch) + Lower Midbass (2ch) = 10 channels for front only. 3-Way Active Rear: Tweeters (2ch) + Midrange (2ch) + Midbass (2ch) = 6 channels. Center/Height Array: Center channel (2ch) + Front height (2ch) + Rear height (2ch) = 6 channels. Subwoofer System: Independent control of 2-8 subwoofers (remaining 2-8 channels). Total: 24 channels for complete system—no external amplifiers required.
• OEM Integration Powerhouse: Factory premium audio systems use low-powered amplifiers (20-40W per channel). DSPA 2416 Ultra's 80W/150W channels deliver 2x-4x factory power while maintaining OEM head unit, controls, and user interface. Result: Factory convenience + audiophile performance.
• Efficient Class D Technology: 85%+ efficiency generates minimal heat even at 2400W output. Aluminum heatsink maintains <60°C @ sustained listening levels. Eliminates need for forced-air cooling in most installations (convection cooling sufficient).
• Bridgeable 150W Channels: Channels 21-24 can be bridged for higher power output (typically 250-300W bridged @ 4Ω). Use for larger subwoofers or high-power center channels requiring >150W.

3 × AK5558 ADC + 2 × AK4458VN DAC - Professional Studio Quality

Why Converter Quality Matters: In DSP-based systems, audio passes through ADC (analog-to-digital conversion) and DAC (digital-to-analog conversion) stages. Low-quality converters add noise, distortion, and artifacts. The DSPA 2416 Ultra employs professional-grade AKM converters—the same chips used in $10,000+ studio equipment and flagship audiophile products.

Triple AK5558 ADC (192kHz/32-bit Analog-to-Digital Converters):

• 3 × AK5558 Configuration: Each AK5558 handles 8 channels (24 total input channels: 3 chips × 8 channels = 24). This dedicated ADC-per-channel-group architecture prevents crosstalk and maintains isolation between input groups.
• 192kHz/32-bit Resolution: Captures high-resolution audio from factory head units, aftermarket sources, or digital inputs. 32-bit depth provides 192dB theoretical dynamic range (vs. 96dB from 16-bit CD quality)—preserves subtle details in complex musical passages.
• 123dB Dynamic Range: Among the highest SNR specs in automotive ADCs. Enables clean conversion of factory speaker-level signals (which can be noisy from switching amplifiers) into pristine digital audio for DSP processing.
• Low-Jitter Clock Design: Precision clock circuitry eliminates timing errors during conversion, preserving stereo imaging and soundstage depth.

Dual AK4458VN DAC (768kHz/32-bit Digital-to-Analog Converters):

• 2 × AK4458VN Configuration: Each DAC handles 12 channels (24 total output channels: 2 chips × 12 channels = 24 amplified outputs). Balanced processing load ensures optimal performance.
• 128dB Dynamic Range: Competition-grade SNR eliminates noise floor—critical for judges' evaluation in SQ competitions or critical listening in luxury vehicles. Silent backgrounds reveal micro-details in recordings (breath sounds, room ambience, decay trails).
• 768kHz/32-bit Support: While automotive audio sources typically output 44.1-96kHz, the DAC's 768kHz capability provides massive oversampling headroom. AKM's digital filter algorithms upsample input signals, reducing quantization errors and improving transient response.
• Ultra-Low Distortion: THD+N <0.0017% @ RCA outputs (10x better than typical automotive DACs at 0.01-0.05%). Eliminates audible distortion artifacts, delivering transparent reproduction.
• MC33078 Op-Amp Output Stage: Premium operational amplifier provides low-noise, high-current drive for both amplifier stages and RCA pre-outputs (5.6Vrms = enough voltage to drive external amplifiers to full power without clipping).

24 High-Level + 2 RCA + Digital + Bluetooth - Universal Compatibility

Input Configuration (Industry-Leading):

• 24 High-Level Inputs: The most high-level inputs available in any integrated DSP/amplifier. Designed specifically for luxury OEM integration—vehicles with 18-24 speaker factory systems (Mercedes Burmester 3D/4D Surround: 23-31 speakers, BMW B&W Diamond: 20-30 speakers, Audi B&O Advanced: 19-23 speakers). Tap every factory speaker output, process individually, and re-amplify with 2400W of clean power. Accepts 2-75V speaker-level signals (compatible with all factory amplifiers from low-power 20W to high-power 100W+ OEM systems).
• 2 × RCA Stereo Inputs: Aftermarket head unit integration. Shielded inputs with software-adjustable gain (0dB to -40dB) accommodate various source levels. Use for adding aftermarket sources (DSP, media player, Bluetooth receiver) to supplement factory head unit.
• Optical Input (TOSLINK): 24-bit/192kHz digital input for maximum fidelity from compatible sources (aftermarket head units with optical output, Apple TV, gaming consoles, laptops). Bypasses ADC stage entirely—source digital signal → DSP processing → DAC → amplification. Zero analog noise injection.
• Coaxial Input (S/PDIF): 24-bit/192kHz digital input (alternative to optical). More robust than TOSLINK in vibration-prone automotive environments (optical cables can develop micro-fractures from road vibration). Same audio quality as optical.
• Bluetooth 5.0 (Qualcomm Chip): Multi-codec support for wireless streaming: aptX HD (24-bit/48kHz, 576kbps bitrate, near-lossless quality), aptX (16-bit/48kHz, 352kbps), AAC (Apple device optimization for iPhone/iPad), SBC (universal fallback codec). Bluetooth input useful for: Tuning (stream test tracks from phone during setup), Passenger entertainment (streaming from rear-seat tablets/phones), Diagnostic testing (quick audio troubleshooting without wired connections).
• OTG Input (USB On-The-Go): Direct connection for smartphones/tablets via USB cable. Advantages over Bluetooth: Higher bitrate (up to 384kHz/24-bit for Android phones with USB Audio support), Lower latency (<5ms vs. 100-200ms Bluetooth—critical for video sync), Simultaneous charging + audio (phone stays charged during extended tuning sessions). Use for: Professional tuning sessions (USB mic + RTA software running on tablet), Hi-res audio playback from smartphone library, Firmware updates via Goldhorn app.

Output Configuration (Massive Expansion Capability):

• 24 × Amplified Speaker Outputs: Banana plug or spade terminal connections (professional-grade binding posts). Each output individually fused and protected (short-circuit protection, thermal protection, DC offset protection). Output terminals organized in groups of 4 for easy identification during installation.
• 16 × RCA Pre-Outputs @ 5.6Vrms: Highest pre-out count in any integrated DSP/amplifier. Use cases include: External Amplification (connect reference amplifiers for front stage 4 RCA = front L/R bi-amp, external monoblock for subwoofers 2 RCA = stereo subs, additional mid channels 2 RCA, rear amplifiers 4 RCA). Zone Distribution (send processed audio to rear-seat entertainment amplifiers 4-8 RCA, separate driver zone amplifier 2 RCA, external DSP for further processing 2-4 RCA). Multi-Room Commercial (route to ceiling-mounted amplifiers in different vehicle zones such as tour bus: 4 RCA = lounge, 4 RCA = sleeping area, 4 RCA = bathroom, 4 RCA = driver cab). 5.6Vrms voltage ensures external amplifiers reach full rated power without clipping.
• Total Output Matrix: 24 amplified + 16 RCA = 40 total outputs from 36-channel DSP. Routing flexibility in SigmaStudio: Any of 36 DSP channels → Any of 40 outputs (amplified or RCA). Example: DSP Channel 1 (front left tweeter processing) → Both Amplifier Output 1 (built-in 80W amp for tweeter) AND RCA Output 1 (external reference amp for competition). Enables A/B testing, redundancy, or hybrid amplification strategies.

Goldhorn SKYATOM Surround System - Immersive 360° Soundfield

What is SKYATOM? Proprietary surround sound processing algorithm developed by Goldhorn for automotive environments. Unlike home theater surround (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X) which requires specific encoded content, SKYATOM creates immersive 3D soundstage from ANY stereo or multi-channel source (factory head unit, Bluetooth, streaming, CD).

SKYATOM Processing Stages:

1. Source Analysis: Algorithm analyzes incoming audio (frequency content, stereo imaging cues, transient characteristics) in real-time. Identifies spatial elements: Lead vocals/instruments (center-focused), Ambient/reverb content (surround candidates), Bass content (subwoofer-appropriate), Height cues (overhead speaker routing).
2. Spatial Extraction: Separates audio into spatial components using phase correlation and frequency-dependent steering. Example from pop music track: Lead vocals extracted to center channel (eliminates left-right wandering from stereo pan), Background vocals/harmonies spread to front wide/height speakers (creates spacious chorus effect), Bass guitar/kick drum routed to subwoofers with phase-coherent summation, Cymbals/hi-hats sent to overhead/height channels (simulates drummer playing above listener).
3. Vehicle-Optimized Routing: Maps spatial components to available speakers based on DSPA 2416 Ultra's channel configuration. System auto-detects active channels during setup. Adaptive routing ensures optimal results whether using 12-channel system (no height speakers) or full 24-channel system (front/rear/center/height/subs).
4. Acoustic Correction: Applies vehicle-specific compensation for cabin acoustics. Adjusts delay and phase relationships to account for speaker distances and reflections. Result: Cohesive 360° soundfield where music appears to surround listener rather than emanate from doors/dash.

User-Selectable SKYATOM Modes:

• Front Focus: Optimized for driver-only listening. Prioritizes front soundstage imaging and depth. Height/rear speakers provide subtle ambience without distracting from front stage. Best for: Critical listening, competition SQ judging, solo driving.
• All Seats: Balanced soundstage for all passengers. Center-fills image for front passengers, rear speakers provide full-range audio (not just rear-fill). Height channels add vertical dimension. Best for: Family trips, carpools, ride-sharing.
• Theater Mode: Maximum immersion, emphasis on surround effects. Enhances rear/height speaker output for cinematic experience. Bass enhancement for impactful movie soundtracks. Best for: Rear-seat entertainment, audio/video content, gaming.
• Off (Pure Stereo): Bypasses SKYATOM processing entirely. Traditional 2-channel stereo for purists or competition classes prohibiting surround processing. Best for: IASCA/MECA competitions (rules often require stereo-only), critical audiophile listening, A/B comparison testing.

Dynamic Loudness Control (DLC) - Tonal Balance at Any Volume

The Loudness Problem: Human hearing is non-linear—we perceive bass and treble differently at various volume levels (Fletcher-Munson curves). At low volumes (conversational levels, 60-70dB SPL), bass and treble sound weak compared to midrange. Solution: DLC automatically adjusts frequency response based on system volume level.

How DLC Works:

• Volume-Dependent EQ Curves: DSPA 2416 Ultra stores multiple EQ profiles (low/medium/high volume). As volume increases from minimum (0) to maximum (60), system smoothly interpolates between profiles. Low Volume (Levels 0-20): Boost bass +6dB below 100Hz, boost treble +4dB above 8kHz, slight midrange cut -2dB @ 1-3kHz (compensates for ear's reduced bass/treble sensitivity at low SPL). Medium Volume (Levels 21-40): Moderate boost +3dB bass, +2dB treble (balanced response as ear sensitivity increases). High Volume (Levels 41-60): Flat response or slight bass/treble cut -2dB (ear is fully sensitive, prevents fatigue from excessive high frequencies at loud levels).
• Separate DLC for Analog/Digital/Bluetooth: Each input source has independent DLC curve. Why? Analog inputs (high-level, RCA) may have different tonal balance than digital inputs (optical, coaxial) or Bluetooth. Goldhorn allows separate tuning: Analog DLC compensates for factory head unit EQ curve (which may be bass-heavy or treble-shy). Digital DLC assumes flat source, applies standard Fletcher-Munson compensation. Bluetooth DLC accounts for Bluetooth codec limitations (SBC/AAC roll off treble >15kHz), adds extra treble boost at low volumes.
• User-Adjustable Intensity: DLC strength adjustable in software (Off / Low / Medium / High / Custom). Allows fine-tuning to personal preference. Some users prefer aggressive loudness curves (maximum bass boost at low volume), others prefer subtle correction (natural tonal balance).

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) - Reduce Road/Wind Noise

Automotive ANC Technology: DSPA 2416 Ultra includes Active Noise Cancellation algorithm that reduces low-frequency road noise and wind noise from 40Hz-400Hz (range of tire roar, wind buffeting, engine drone).

ANC Implementation:

• Reference Microphone (Optional): System can accept external reference microphone input (connect via auxiliary input) that monitors cabin noise. DSP analyzes noise spectrum and generates anti-phase signals to cancel noise through speakers. Similar to active noise cancelling headphones (Bose QC, Sony WH-1000XM) but for car cabin.
• No-Mic Mode: If reference mic not installed, ANC operates in "predictive" mode using vehicle speed signal and music content. DSP identifies noise-like frequencies (steady-state 40-400Hz energy with no musical variation) and applies gentle EQ cut to reduce masking effect. Less effective than mic-based ANC but still improves clarity.
• Practical Benefits: Lower listening fatigue on long drives (reduced need to increase volume to overcome noise), Better vocal intelligibility (noise masks 200-500Hz where consonants live), Extended speaker life (less power wasted reproducing bass to overcome road noise).

Phase 1: Pre-Installation Planning

Electrical System Assessment:

• Battery Capacity Verification: DSPA 2416 Ultra draws ~150A at full 2400W output. Verify OEM alternator output (minimum 200A recommended for headroom). High-current vehicles (BMW, Mercedes) typically adequate with 220-250A alternators. Economy vehicles may require alternator upgrade (160A → 250A+ high-output unit). Measure battery CCA rating (minimum 600 CCA recommended for reliable starts after high-power audio sessions).
• Ground Point Identification: Locate factory chassis ground points within 24" of planned amplifier mounting location. DSPA 2416 Ultra requires <0.1Ω ground resistance for optimal performance. Use battery negative terminal or chassis ground. Clean to bare metal using wire wheel or sandpaper (remove paint, rust, anodizing to bare metal). Apply thin layer of dielectric grease after connection (prevents corrosion). Use star washer under ring terminal to penetrate surface oxidation. Verify <0.1Ω resistance with multimeter (between amplifier ground terminal and battery negative).
• Power Wire Routing: 0 AWG or 1/0 AWG (53mm² or 50mm²) OFC power wire required for 2400W system without voltage drop. Route through factory firewall grommet (avoid drilling when possible—preserves water seal and doesn't void warranty). Use split loom or wire guard in areas with potential chafing (firewall pass-through edges, seatbelt mounting brackets, seat rail movement areas). Avoid routing near: Exhaust components (heat), Brake lines (safety), Fuel lines (fire hazard), Moving parts (pinch risk). Install 200A-250A ANL fuse within 18" of battery positive terminal (fuse protects wire from short-circuit fire risk).
• Start-Stop Compatibility Check: DSPA 2416 Ultra includes start-stop detection circuitry (common in 2015+ vehicles for fuel economy). Verify vehicle has start-stop system. Connect yellow wire to ignition/ACC circuit that remains active during engine restart (some vehicles kill all ACC power during stop). Test during installation: Engine stop → Amplifier enters standby mode (blue LED dims, output mutes) → Engine restart → Amplifier resumes within 1 second (blue LED bright, audio continues seamlessly). If audio cuts out during restart, relocate yellow wire to different ACC source.

Acoustic Planning & Speaker Placement:

• 24-Channel System Architecture Design: Plan speaker locations and channel allocation before disassembly. Common configurations: Luxury OEM Upgrade (18-24 ch): Tap all factory speakers, amplify with DSPA 2416 Ultra. Competition SQ (24 ch): Front 4-way active (12 ch) + Center array (4 ch) + Subwoofer system (8 ch). Multi-Zone Commercial (24 ch): 4-6 independent zones (4 channels per zone). Hybrid Enthusiast (20 ch): Front/rear speakers (16 ch) + Subwoofers (4 ch) + 4 spare channels for future expansion.
• Cable Length Calculation & Wire Gauge: Measure from planned amplifier mounting location to each of 24 speaker positions. Add 25% for routing slack and service loops. Use wire gauge chart for runs: 80W channels (Ch 1-20): 14 AWG for runs <15ft, 12 AWG for runs 15-25ft, 10