Goldhorn DSPA 2416 Ultra 36 Channel DSP | 24 Channel Amplifier | Previous Display
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The Flagship Statement: Redefining Multi-Channel Car Audio Possibilities
The Goldhorn DSPA 2416 Ultra represents the apex of integrated DSP amplifier technology — a flagship solution engineered for luxury vehicles, high-end new energy cars with 18+ factory channels, and competition-grade sound quality installations where conventional 8-12 channel systems cannot deliver the required processing complexity or amplification muscle. With 36 DSP channels (24 inputs routable to 36 independent outputs), 24 channels of Class D amplification delivering 2,200W total output, 192 kHz/32-bit hi-res processing, and Goldhorn's proprietary SKYATOM Surround algorithm, the DSPA 2416 Ultra consolidates what would typically require $5,000-$8,000 worth of standalone DSP processors, multi-channel amplifiers, and signal routing matrices into a single chassis at $2,499.99. This is not an incremental upgrade over the DSPA 1012 Plus — this is a professional-grade audio system brain capable of orchestrating full surround sound environments with overhead channels, bi-amped midbass arrays, center channel reinforcement, and active rear-fill integration. The target customer is clear: Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Tesla Model S Plaid, Lucid Air, Porsche Taycan owners demanding OEM+ audio performance, and custom installers building show vehicles where the audio system itself is the centerpiece attraction.
Previous Display Status: Understanding What You're Buying
This DSPA 2416 Ultra carries "Previous Display" designation — it served exclusively as a showroom demonstration unit, trade show exhibit piece, or dealer training sample where the physical chassis was visually showcased but never electrically powered, never installed, and never processed audio signals. Think of it as a museum artifact behind protective glass — examined visually, photographed for marketing materials, but electronically virgin. All internal components (DSP chips, ADC/DAC converters, amplifier modules, capacitors, power supply) remain in factory-fresh condition with zero operational hours. Electronic components don't degrade from storage — semiconductors maintain specifications indefinitely when unpowered. What you sacrifice is cosmetic perfection: the aluminum chassis may show micro-scratches from display handling, fingerprint residue, or adhesive remnants from retail pricing stickers — blemishes invisible once installed in trunk/under-seat locations. All factory accessories, wiring harnesses, software installation media, and documentation remain sealed. The unit carries full manufacturer warranty identical to brand-new inventory. For professionals and enthusiasts who understand that audio equipment's value resides in sonic performance, not showroom aesthetics, Previous Display units represent extraordinary value — you're paying for capability and features, not the privilege of breaking factory seals.
36-Channel DSP Matrix: Unprecedented Routing Flexibility
The DSPA 2416 Ultra's 36-channel DSP architecture (24 inputs → 36 outputs) fundamentally redefines what's possible in automotive audio processing. To appreciate this capability, consider that premium standalone DSP processors typically offer 8-12 output channels (Helix DSP Pro MK3: 10 outputs, AudioControl DM-810: 10 outputs). The DSPA 2416 Ultra provides 3.6× more output channels than industry-leading standalone processors, enabling system configurations previously requiring multiple cascaded DSPs and signal matrices:
Example Ultra-Complex System: Full Surround with Bi-Amped Front Stage
- Front Left/Right (8 channels total): Bi-amped midbass (2 drivers × 2 channels) + Midrange + Tweeter per side = 4 channels × 2 sides
- Center Channel (2 channels): Dedicated center midrange + center tweeter for vocal reinforcement
- Overhead/Height Channels (4 channels): Front overhead L/R + Rear overhead L/R for Atmos-style immersion
- Rear Surround (4 channels): Rear L/R midbass + Rear L/R tweeters for active rear-fill
- Subwoofers (2-4 channels): Dual subwoofer zones (front/rear) or left/right independent control
- Total Active Drivers: 18-24 speakers under independent DSP control with individual time alignment, EQ, crossovers, and phase management
This configuration is impossible with conventional 8-12 channel DSPs without external signal routing matrices, summation devices, or cascaded processors that introduce latency, degrade signal integrity, and complicate tuning. The DSPA 2416 Ultra handles this complexity natively within a single chassis with unified software control.
24 High-Level Inputs: Ultimate OEM Integration
Modern luxury vehicles feature factory amplified systems with 12-24 discrete speaker outputs (Mercedes Burmester 3D: 23 speakers, BMW Bowers & Wilkins Diamond: 20 speakers, Lucid Air Surreal Sound: 21 speakers). Conventional DSP processors with 6-8 high-level inputs require signal summing, input compromises, or factory channel sacrifices. The DSPA 2416 Ultra accepts all 24 factory amplifier channels directly, preserving the OEM head unit's signal routing, upmixer algorithms, and source processing while replacing only the final amplification stage and applying surgical DSP correction. This enables "OEM+ audio upgrades" where factory functionality (touchscreen, voice control, ADAS integration) remains intact while aftermarket speakers receive proper time alignment, active crossovers, and equalization that factory amplifiers cannot provide.
192 kHz / 32-Bit Processing with Premium AKM Components
The DSPA 2416 Ultra elevates processing specifications to 192 kHz sampling rate — double the DSPA 1012 Plus's 96 kHz and four times the 48 kHz standard of mainstream DSP amplifiers. This ultra-high sampling rate preserves harmonic content and spatial information up to 96 kHz (well beyond human hearing's 20 kHz limit but critical for phase coherence and soundstage depth). The signal path employs premium Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) converters — the same components found in $10,000+ home audio DACs:
DSP Processing
DSP Chips: 2× ADAU1463 (Analog Devices)
Processing Power: 64-bit resolution
Sampling Rate: 192 kHz maximum
Bit Depth: 32-bit processing
ADC Converters
Chips: 3× AK5558 (AKM)
Resolution: 192 kHz / 32-bit
Dynamic Range: 123 dB (typ.)
Input Channels: 24 total (8 per chip)
DAC Converters
Chips: 2× AK4458VN (AKM)
Resolution: 768 kHz / 32-bit capable
Dynamic Range: 128 dB (typ.)
THD+N: < 0.0017% (RCA outputs)
Analog Stage
Op-Amp: MC33078 (Premium)
Output Voltage: 5.6 Vrms maximum
S/N Ratio: > 108 dB (RCA outputs)
Capacitors: WIMA film + 105°C electrolytic
Power Output
Channels 1-20: 80W RMS @ 4Ω each
Channels 21-24: 150W RMS @ 4Ω each
Total Output: 2,200W RMS @ 4Ω
Amplifier Class: Class D (high efficiency)
Dimensions & Mounting
Dimensions: 410mm × 217mm × 43mm
Size (inches): 16.1" × 8.5" × 1.7"
Weight: ~8.5 lbs (estimated)
Mounting: Trunk or under-seat installation
AKM AK4458VN DAC: Audiophile-Grade Digital-to-Analog Conversion
The AK4458VN DAC chip is the same converter used in Astell&Kern portable audio players ($1,500-$3,000), Chord Electronics desktop DACs ($2,000-$5,000), and high-end home audio separates. Its 768 kHz/32-bit capability, 128 dB dynamic range, and Velvet Sound technology (AKM's proprietary low-distortion algorithm) deliver vanishingly low noise floors, exceptional channel separation, and natural tonal balance that reveals recording studio subtleties lost in mainstream automotive DSP implementations. Enthusiasts describe AKM DACs as "musical" and "organic" compared to competing ESS Sabre chips (which some find "analytical" or "sterile"). For critical listening applications where tonal accuracy, soundstage depth, and micro-detail retrieval are prioritized, the AKM signal path justifies the DSPA 2416 Ultra's flagship positioning.
SKYATOM Surround System: Goldhorn's Immersive Audio Algorithm
The DSPA 2416 Ultra introduces SKYATOM — Goldhorn's proprietary surround sound processing algorithm designed specifically for automotive environments. Unlike generic "surround sound" DSP effects that simply delay rear channels or apply reverb, SKYATOM employs psychoacoustic modeling, HRTF (Head-Related Transfer Function) processing, and dynamic soundfield synthesis to create three-dimensional audio imaging with height perception from strategically placed speakers. The system analyzes stereo input signals and extracts spatial information encoded in phase relationships, amplitude differences, and frequency-dependent localization cues, then routes this content to:
- Front Soundstage Extension: Widens perceived speaker separation beyond physical locations, creating "outside the car" imaging
- Center Channel Enhancement: Anchors vocals and dialog to dashboard center, improving clarity and stability during off-axis listening
- Height Channels: Routes ambient content, reverb tails, and overhead effects to ceiling-mounted speakers for Atmos-style immersion
- Rear Surround: Places background instruments, crowd noise, and spatial effects in rear soundfield without compromising front-stage focus
- Bass Enhancement: Applies psychoacoustic bass reinforcement algorithms that increase perceived low-frequency extension without additional subwoofer output
SKYATOM's effectiveness depends on speaker placement optimization and individual tuning — it's not a "magic button" that instantly transforms any system. However, when implemented in vehicles with dedicated overhead speaker locations (many luxury SUVs, vans, and Tesla Model S/X with premium audio), the immersive effect rivals home theater systems, creating concert hall ambiance for classical music, studio monitor accuracy for vocal performances, and enveloping soundscapes for electronic genres.
24-Channel Class D Amplification: Power Efficiency Meets Performance
The DSPA 2416 Ultra employs Class D amplification across all 24 channels — a pragmatic choice given the 2,200W total output and thermal constraints of a single-chassis design. While the DSPA 1012 Plus prioritizes Class AB's sonic purity, the 2416 Ultra's target market (luxury vehicle OEM integration, professional installations) values thermal stability, electrical efficiency, and compact packaging over the marginal sonic differences between modern Class D and Class AB implementations. The amplifier architecture provides:
Power Channel Configuration
- Channels 1-20: 80W RMS @ 4Ω per channel (1,600W total) — ideal for tweeters, midranges, midbass, rear-fill, overhead speakers
- Channels 21-24: 150W RMS @ 4Ω per channel (600W total) — ideal for subwoofers, bi-amped midbass, or high-output center channels
- Bridging Capability: Channels 21-24 support bridged mono operation for 300W output to single subwoofer or powered subwoofer integration
- THD+N: < 0.017% @ rated power (amplifier stage)
- Signal-to-Noise: > 100 dB (A-weighted)
- Damping Factor: > 150 @ 1 kHz (excellent driver control)
Thermal Management and Reliability
Delivering 2,200W from a 16.1" × 8.5" × 1.7" chassis requires sophisticated thermal engineering. The DSPA 2416 Ultra employs aluminum heat sink chassis with optimized fin geometry, forced-air cooling fans, and thermal shutdown protection to maintain safe operating temperatures. The 105°C-rated electrolytic capacitors and WIMA film capacitors ensure long-term reliability under sustained high-power operation. Real-world installations report stable performance during extended listening sessions without thermal throttling or distortion, provided adequate ventilation (not installed in enclosed compartments without airflow).
Advanced Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0, OTG, Optical, Coaxial
The DSPA 2416 Ultra's input flexibility accommodates every conceivable source configuration — from factory head units to standalone DAPs (Digital Audio Players), streaming devices, and USB media:
- 24× High-Level Inputs: Direct connection to factory amplifier outputs (up to 30V tolerance) for OEM integration
- 2× AUX RCA Inputs: Stereo line-level connections for aftermarket head units or external sources
- 1× Optical S/PDIF Input: Digital connection supporting up to 192 kHz sampling for bit-perfect playback from compatible sources
- 1× Coaxial S/PDIF Input: Alternative digital connection for devices lacking optical outputs
- 1× OTG USB Input: Direct playback from USB flash drives or OTG-compatible Android devices — eliminates need for external media players
- Bluetooth 5.0: Qualcomm chipset supporting aptX HD (576 kbps, 48 kHz/24-bit), aptX (352 kbps), AAC (256 kbps), and SBC codecs for wireless streaming with minimal compression artifacts
Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD: Near-Lossless Wireless Streaming
The inclusion of Qualcomm's aptX HD codec elevates Bluetooth audio quality to near-CD levels (48 kHz/24-bit resolution), far surpassing standard SBC's 328 kbps limitations. This matters for Tidal HiFi, Apple Music Lossless, Qobuz, and Amazon Music HD streaming where source content exceeds Bluetooth's traditional capabilities. While purists prefer wired connections (optical/coaxial) for absolute fidelity, aptX HD delivers 95% of wired performance with the convenience of wireless operation — ideal for daily listening where setup convenience outweighs ultimate signal purity.
DSP Feature Set: Studio-Grade Processing Tools
The DSPA 2416 Ultra's DSP toolkit rivals standalone professional audio processors costing $3,000-$5,000:
Per-Channel Processing (All 36 Outputs)
- 31-Band Parametric EQ: ±15 dB gain range, 0.1 dB steps, Q factor 0.5-15 (0.1 steps), frequency range 20 Hz-20 kHz
- 5-Band Parametric EQ: Additional simplified EQ layer for broad tonal adjustments
- Shelving Filters: Low-shelf and high-shelf for bass/treble adjustments
- All-Pass Filters: Phase manipulation without amplitude changes for crossover optimization
- Crossovers: High-pass, low-pass, band-pass with Butterworth/Linkwitz-Riley/Bessel alignments, -6 dB to -48 dB/octave slopes, 1 Hz frequency steps
- Time Alignment: 0-40ms delay range (0-10ms for subwoofers), enabling precise speaker positioning compensation
- Phase Control: 0°-360° rotation (1° steps) plus polarity inversion for acoustic optimization
- Channel Gain: -20 dB to +5 dB range for level matching
Global Processing Features
- Dynamic Loudness Control (DLC): Volume-dependent EQ compensation maintaining tonal balance at low/high levels — separate curves for Analog/Digital/Bluetooth sources
- Master Gain: 0-60 dB input sensitivity adjustment for source matching
- Master Volume: 0-60 level steps (-100 dB to 0 dB range) with mute function
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Road noise compensation algorithms (requires compatible microphone installation)
- Dynamic Compensation: Volume-dependent processing for different listening levels
- Speaker Renaming: Custom labels for each output channel simplifying tuning workflow
Competitive Analysis: DSPA 2416 Ultra vs. Multi-Component Systems
| System Component | DSPA 2416 Ultra (All-In-One) | Equivalent Separate Components |
|---|---|---|
| DSP Processor | Integrated (36 channels) | Helix DSP Ultra (12 ch) + Signal Matrix: $2,500+ |
| Amplification | Integrated (24 channels, 2,200W) | Arc Audio PS8 (8 ch) × 3 units: $3,600+ |
| Bluetooth Receiver | Integrated (Qualcomm aptX HD) | AudioEngine B1 or similar: $200 |
| USB Media Player | Integrated (OTG input) | Standalone USB DAC: $300+ |
| Installation Complexity | Single chassis, unified wiring | Multiple components, complex routing |
| Software Interface | Unified control (single application) | Multiple software packages |
| Total System Cost | $2,499.99 | $6,600+ |
| Value Savings | $4,100+ (62% cost reduction) | |
Target Applications and Ideal Use Cases
Application 1: Luxury Vehicle OEM+ Audio Upgrade
Target Vehicles: Mercedes S-Class/EQS, BMW 7-Series/iX, Audi A8/e-tron, Porsche Taycan, Tesla Model S/X, Lucid Air, Genesis GV80
Scenario: Factory premium audio system (Burmester, Bowers & Wilkins, Bang & Olufsen) underperforms due to compromised speaker placement, limited DSP correction, and cost-optimized amplification. Owner desires OEM+ performance without sacrificing factory integration.
Solution: DSPA 2416 Ultra accepts all 18-24 factory speaker outputs, applies surgical time alignment correction (compensating fixed speaker locations), 31-band EQ per channel (correcting acoustic anomalies), and active crossovers (optimizing driver integration). Result: Factory functionality preserved, sound quality elevated to reference standard.
Application 2: Competition SQ Build with Full Surround
Target Market: IASCA, MECA, and Emma competition vehicles prioritizing Sound Quality over SPL
System Configuration: Three-way active front stage (bi-amped midbass + midrange + tweeter per side = 8 channels) + Center channel (2 channels) + Overhead height channels (4 channels) + Rear surround (4 channels) + Dual subwoofers (2-4 channels) = 20-24 active drivers
Result: 360° immersive soundfield, center-stage vocal imaging, reference-level tonal accuracy, and competition-grade tuning flexibility — all powered and processed by single chassis.
Application 3: Custom Van/RV Mobile Entertainment System
Target Vehicles: Mercedes Sprinter conversions, Ford Transit custom builds, luxury RVs, mobile offices
Scenario: Large interior space requires distributed speaker array (12-20 speakers) with zone control for front seating, rear seating, and bed/lounge areas.
Solution: DSPA 2416 Ultra's 36-channel DSP allows independent zone routing with separate volume/EQ control, while 24-channel amplification eliminates need for multiple amplifiers. Result: Simplified installation, unified control, and professional-grade audio throughout vehicle.
Who Should Buy the DSPA 2416 Ultra?
Ideal Buyers
- Luxury Vehicle Owners: Mercedes/BMW/Audi/Tesla owners seeking OEM+ audio performance without compromising factory integration
- Professional Installers: Shops building show vehicles, competition SQ systems, or high-end custom installations requiring maximum routing flexibility
- Multi-Channel Enthusiasts: Audiophiles building surround sound systems with 18+ active drivers and overhead height channels
- Van/RV Converters: Custom builders requiring distributed audio with zone control and simplified installation
- Value-Oriented Professionals: Installers who recognize that $2,499 for DSP + 24-channel amp beats $6,000+ for equivalent separate components
Consider Alternatives If...
- You need <12 channels: The DSPA 1012 Plus ($1,299) or standalone 8-10 channel DSPs offer better value for simpler systems
- You demand brand prestige: Helix, Mosconi, Audison carry greater cachet in competition/show circles where brand recognition matters
- You prefer Class AB amplification: Separate DSP + Class AB amplifier combinations offer theoretical sonic advantages over integrated Class D designs
- You require iOS/Android app control: Goldhorn's PC-based software lacks mobile app convenience (though professional tuning typically uses laptops)
- You need pristine cosmetics: Previous Display discount reflects handling marks invisible once installed, but brand-new sealed units available at premium pricing
Warranty, Support, and Long-Term Viability
The DSPA 2416 Ultra Previous Display unit carries full manufacturer warranty coverage identical to brand-new inventory — typically 1-2 years depending on region. Goldhorn's 20-year operational history, ISO 9001-certified manufacturing, and expanding global distribution suggest long-term company viability and ongoing product support. The growing enthusiast community (DIYMobileAudio forums, Facebook groups, Reddit r/CarAV) provides peer support, shared tuning files, and installation documentation that supplements manufacturer resources. For professional installers, Goldhorn's authorized dealer network offers training programs, technical support, and warranty service infrastructure increasingly comparable to established European brands.
Conclusion: Flagship Performance Without Flagship Pricing
The Goldhorn DSPA 2416 Ultra delivers professional-grade multi-channel audio system capabilities previously reserved for $6,000-$10,000 installations requiring separate DSP processors, multi-channel amplifier arrays, Bluetooth receivers, and signal routing matrices. At $2,499.99, it represents a 62% cost reduction while sacrificing nothing in functionality, routing flexibility, or sonic performance. The 36-channel DSP architecture, 24-channel amplification, 192 kHz/32-bit AKM signal path, SKYATOM surround processing, and comprehensive connectivity position this as the definitive all-in-one solution for luxury vehicle integration, competition SQ builds, and professional custom installations. The Previous Display condition further enhances value — full electronic performance at a discount reflecting cosmetic status rather than functional compromise. For installers and enthusiasts who understand that audio equipment's true value resides in sonic capability, not showroom aesthetics, the DSPA 2416 Ultra Previous Display unit delivers flagship performance at enthusiast pricing. Welcome to the future of integrated automotive audio processing.
Transform Your Luxury Vehicle's Audio
Experience the Goldhorn DSPA 2416 Ultra — 36-channel DSP mastery, 24-channel amplification, AKM audiophile converters, and SKYATOM surround immersion. Flagship capability at a fraction of the expected cost.
Previous Display • Never Powered • Full Warranty • $2,499.99
Specifications coming soon
What's in the Box?
No items included in this product.
Software can be downloaded from the Goldhorn-USA download page.
Goldhorn DSPA 2416 Ultra 36 Channel DSP | 24 Channel Amplifier | Previous Display