Crest Audio, distributed by NAS Solutions in Australia, has released the PCX 1616 digital matrix speaker management processor, harnessing power and flexibility to perform loudspeaker management functions as well as matrix mixing, room combining and other audio processing functions.

Well-suited for installed and portable sound systems, the PCX 1616 offers the best-in-class processing technology supporting 32 input and 32 output channels, with 16 analogue inputs and outputs and 16 digital inputs and outputs via the optional Dante card. This allows a signal to be routed in multiple configurations to meet virtually any requirement.

Crossover filters located on each PCX Series processor are fully adjustable with any input capable of being routed to any output via the digital matrix system, allowing for any speaker management cabinet configuration.

The PCX 1616 has a 96kHz sample rate processing with an exceptionally quiet and accurate AD/DA interface (24-bit Delta Sigma) and filter response.

Crest Audio’s software and advanced DSP (digital signal processing) algorithms offer professional audio-grade signal processing and control features to manage, optimise and protect the front of house, monitor and multi-zone the speaker systems and ensure exceptional audio signal clarity and integrity without loss or colouration.

The front panel offers quick and simple visual LEDs to indicate functioning signal paths. Alternatively, an RJ-45 ethernet port, located at the back panel, allows for a higher-resolution graphical user interface configuration. The PCX 1616 can be controlled with the intuitive PCX editor software via back-panel ethernet or front-panel USB interface. Serial control is possible via RS 232 and RS 485. A security lock feature is included.

Each input and output features five-segment LED meters. Input features include gain, mute, HP/LP, five-band PEQ (parametric equaliser), polarity and up to 680ms of delay. Each output features an additional five-band PEQ, gain, compressor/limiter, polarity, delay, mute and crossover/band-pass filters.

EQ filter types include PEQ, Low-Shelf, Hi-Shelf, Low-Pass, High-Pass, All-Pass1 and All-Pass2. In addition, the PCX 1616 offers the distinctions of five-band PEQ and phase on both input/outputs as well as +48V phantom power, noise gate, feedback and an Automix channel on input.

To round out the PCX 1616’s adaptability, the firmware of each processor can be field updated. Additionally, each processor provides the ability to save presets that are nameable with a descriptive text entry. Each unit has an integrated power supply accepting AC mains voltages of 95 to 240VAC, 50/60Hz.

Rack-mountable and lightweight at no more than 5kg, the PCX 1616 is designed for the touring or fixed sound installation markets, wherever a reliable solution is required for loudspeaker management.