Goldhorn DSPA 1012 Plus | 20 Channel DSP / 8 x 80w + 2 x 150w Amplifier
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} .goldhorn-1012-specs-table th, .goldhorn-1012-specs-table td { padding: 12px 10px; font-size: 0.95em; } } Goldhorn DSPA 1012 Plus Premium 20-Channel DSP | 8×80W + 2×150W Amplification | 940W Total Output Premium Multi-Channel Audio Processing for High-End Systems The Goldhorn DSPA 1012 Plus represents the pinnacle of integrated DSP/amplifier technology for enthusiasts building complex, multi-way active systems. With 20 channels of ADAU1463 DSP processing, 10 amplified outputs (8×80W + 2×150W), and 12 RCA pre-outs, this flagship unit provides the routing flexibility and processing power required for advanced installations featuring dedicated amplification for tweeters, midrange, midbass, rear fill, and multiple subwoofer channels. At the core of the DSPA 1012 Plus sits the ADAU1463 automotive-qualified DSP: Analog Devices' enhanced audio processor with 48-channel I/O capability. This represents a significant upgrade from the ADAU1450 chip found in mid-tier processors, offering increased routing flexibility, enhanced processing capacity, and support for Virtual Surround Sound algorithms designed for premium vehicle audio environments. The amplification section delivers 940 watts of combined power: eight channels at 80W each (640W) plus two channels at 150W each (300W). This configuration is specifically designed for systems requiring moderate power for front/rear stage speakers while providing higher output for dedicated midbass drivers or center channels, a common requirement in 3-way and 4-way active systems with advanced staging requirements. With 12 high-level inputs, 2 RCA inputs, Optical and Coaxial digital inputs, and Bluetooth 5.0, the DSPA 1012 Plus accommodates virtually any source configuration. The 12 high-level inputs are particularly valuable for OEM integration projects involving complex factory-amplified systems (such as Bang & Olufsen, Burmester, or Mark Levinson installations) where multiple speaker-level signals must be captured before factory processing degrades them. Who Benefits Most from the DSPA 1012 Plus? Competition Sound Quality Builders If you're competing in IASCA, MECA, or EMMA sound quality competitions, the 20-channel DSP provides the routing flexibility to run complex 4-way active front stages with dedicated center channels, rear fill, and dual subwoofer arrays. The ADAU1463 chip's enhanced processing ensures you have sufficient headroom for advanced EQ strategies and crossover networks without audible latency or distortion. Luxury Vehicle Integration Specialists Premium vehicles with 12+ speaker factory systems (Mercedes-Benz Burmester, BMW Harman Kardon, Audi Bang & Olufsen) require extensive high-level input capability to tap signals from multiple factory amplifier outputs. The DSPA 1012 Plus's 12 high-level inputs handle these complex OEM configurations, while the 31-band EQ on all channels corrects factory tuning curves specific to each speaker location. Professional Installers The 8-preset memory system allows you to save customer-specific tuning configurations for rapid recall during service appointments or client vehicle swaps. With 20 DSP channels and 12 RCA pre-outs, you can accommodate requests for system expansions (adding external amplifiers, additional subwoofers, or center channels) without requiring DSP replacement. Multi-Way Active System Enthusiasts Building a 4-way active system with tweeters (2ch), super tweeters (2ch), midrange (2ch), midbass (2ch), rear fill (2ch), and dual subwoofers (2ch) requires 12 amplified channels minimum. The DSPA 1012 Plus provides 10 amplified channels plus 12 RCA pre-outs, allowing you to power the front/rear stage internally while routing subwoofers and specialty channels to external amplifiers. Critical Differentiator: The DSPA 1012 Plus is NOT a simple "more channels" version of the DSPA 810 Pro. The ADAU1463 DSP chip supports Virtual Surround Sound processing and advanced upmixing algorithms unavailable on ADAU1450-based units. This makes it particularly valuable for enthusiasts seeking immersive soundstage depth beyond traditional stereo imaging. ADAU1463 DSP: Enhanced Audio Processing Platform The ADAU1463 represents Analog Devices' enhanced SigmaDSP platform, designed specifically for premium automotive audio applications requiring extensive I/O capability and advanced processing algorithms. Compared to the ADAU1450 (used in the DSPA 810 Pro), the ADAU1463 offers: 48-Channel I/O Architecture The ADAU1463 supports up to 48 input and 48 output channels (hardware routing dependent), compared to the ADAU1450's more limited I/O matrix. In the DSPA 1012 Plus implementation, this translates to 20 DSP processing channels with full 31-band parametric EQ, crossover, time alignment, and phase control on each channel, ensuring no compromises when building complex multi-way systems. Enhanced Processing Capacity While both the ADAU1450 and ADAU1463 are automotive-qualified processors, the ADAU1463's enhanced instruction set and increased internal memory enable more complex processing algorithms without requiring sample rate reductions or EQ band limitations. This is particularly valuable when running full 31-band EQ across all 20 channels simultaneously, a configuration that can stress older DSP architectures. Automotive Temperature Range (-40°C to +105°C) Like the ADAU1450, the ADAU1463 is automotive-qualified for extreme temperature environments. This ensures stable performance in vehicles parked in direct sunlight (where interior temperatures can exceed 80°C) or cold-weather climates where startup temperatures approach -30°C. Consumer-grade DSP chips (ADAU1701, TI TAS-series) lack this qualification and may exhibit processing errors or thermal shutdown in extreme conditions. Virtual Surround Sound Support The ADAU1463's enhanced processing capability enables Virtual Surround Sound algorithms that create the perception of immersive, multi-dimensional audio from stereo source material. This is particularly effective in vehicles with 10+ speaker systems where proper DSP routing can simulate 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound environments, transforming movie soundtracks, live concert recordings, and Atmos-encoded content into spatially accurate presentations. DSP Processing Features: Full Control Across 20 Channels Each of the 20 DSP channels in the DSPA 1012 Plus provides: 31-Band Parametric EQ: Adjustable frequency (20Hz-20kHz @ 1dB steps), gain (±15dB @ 0.1dB steps), Q factor (0.5-15 @ 0.1 steps). Filter functions include Peak, High Shelf, Low Shelf, 1st Order All-Pass, and 2nd Order All-Pass. Variable Crossovers: Butterworth & Bessel (6/12/18/24/30/36/42/48 dB/octave), Linkwitz-Riley (12/24/36 dB/octave). Full HP/LP/BP control with independent slopes for each function. Time Alignment: 0-20ms per channel @ 0.02ms steps (equivalent to 22 feet of acoustic path length correction at 1,125 ft/s speed of sound). Phase Control: Variable phase shift at HP/LP filters from 0-359° for precise acoustic alignment between drivers. Input Mixer: Route any input source to any output channel with adjustable gain, enabling flexible signal routing for center channel extraction, upmixing, or surround processing. Practical Comparison: A Helix DSP Pro Mk3 ($1,199) offers 10 DSP channels with similar EQ/crossover capability but NO integrated amplification. The DSPA 1012 Plus provides 20 DSP channels + 940W of amplification. It doubles the channel count and adds 10 amplified outputs. This represents exceptional value for the processing power and amplification capacity delivered. 940W Amplification: 8×80W + 2×150W Configuration The DSPA 1012 Plus's amplification architecture is specifically designed for asymmetric power distribution: a common requirement in high-end systems where certain channels (midbass, center channel, or dedicated surround speakers) require more power than tweeters or satellite speakers. Amplifier Channel Allocation Strategy The 10 amplified channels are divided into two power groups: 8 Channels @ 80W (4Ω Class D) Typical Use Cases: Front tweeters (2ch) - 80W provides ample headroom for 90-95dB sensitivity drivers Front midrange (2ch) - 80W drives most 3"-4" midrange drivers to full output Rear full-range or coaxial speakers (2ch) - 80W adequate for rear fill in most vehicles Center channel (1ch) - 80W supports dedicated center channel speakers for improved imaging Surround channels (1ch) - 80W for dedicated surround/ambient speakers Power Reality Check: 80W @ 4Ω translates to approximately 45W @ 8Ω (common for component tweeters/midrange). Ensure speaker impedance matches amplifier design for optimal power delivery. 2 Channels @ 150W (4Ω Class D) Typical Use Cases: Front midbass drivers (2ch) - 150W provides adequate power for 6.5"-8" midbass in door locations Dedicated center channel (1ch) + front midbass (1ch) - Asymmetric power for center-focused systems Rear midbass (2ch) - Higher power for rear stage depth in competition systems Shallow-mount subwoofers (2ch) - 150W per channel sufficient for dual 8"-10" shallow subs in sealed enclosures Bridging Option: While not officially supported, experienced installers may bridge the 2×150W channels for a single ~250W mono output (4Ω bridged load). This is useful for powering a single high-power center channel or dedicated midrange array. Class D Topology: Efficiency vs. Class AB The DSPA 1012 Plus uses Class D amplification (unlike the DSPA 810 Pro's Class AB). This design choice prioritizes: Thermal Efficiency: Class D amplifiers run cooler (85-90% efficiency) compared to Class AB (60-70%), critical when generating 940W in a compact chassis Power Density: Class D enables higher wattage in smaller footprints, the DSPA 1012 Plus is only 296×217×43mm (11.6"×8.5"×1.7") despite producing 940W Electrical Efficiency: At 940W output, Class D draws approximately 75A @ 13.8V (vs. 95-105A for equivalent Class AB), reducing strain on vehicle electrical systems Class AB vs. Class D Decision: If you're powering high-sensitivity tweeters (>90dB @ 1W/1m) or prefer the linear response characteristics of Class AB amplification, consider using the DSPA 1012 Plus's 12 RCA pre-outs to external Class AB amplifiers for front stage channels while leveraging the internal Class D amplification for midbass, rear fill, and utility channels. Comprehensive I/O: 12 Hi-Level + Optical + Coaxial + Bluetooth The DSPA 1012 Plus provides the most extensive input/output architecture in Goldhorn's DSP/Amp lineup: Input Options 12 High-Level Inputs (16V Max) Designed for complex OEM integration projects where factory systems use 10-12 speakers powered by multiple amplifiers. Examples include Mercedes-Benz Burmester (13-speaker), BMW Harman Kardon (16-speaker), or Audi Bang & Olufsen (19-speaker) systems. The 16V input tolerance accommodates high-power factory amplifiers without clipping the DSP input stage. 2 RCA Inputs (3V Max) Connect aftermarket head units or source processors with low-level RCA outputs. The 3V maximum input sensitivity ensures compatibility with most aftermarket sources (typical output: 2-4V RMS). Optical Input (SPDIF) Extract bit-perfect digital audio from OEM head units with optical outputs (common in Toyota, Lexus, BMW, Mercedes). Supports up to 96kHz/24-bit resolution, preserving full dynamic range that analog inputs cannot match. Coaxial Digital Input (SPDIF) Alternative digital input for head units offering coaxial SPDIF output (less common than optical but found in some aftermarket processors). Provides the same 96kHz/24-bit capability as optical input. Bluetooth 5.0 (aptX HD) Wireless streaming from smartphones with aptX HD codec support (48kHz/24-bit @ 576 kbps). While Bluetooth quality cannot match wired digital inputs, aptX HD provides acceptable quality for casual listening without requiring head unit integration. Output Architecture The DSPA 1012 Plus routes its 20 DSP channels to a combination of amplified outputs and RCA pre-outs: Output Type Channel Count Specifications Typical Use Case Amplified Outputs (80W) 8 Channels 80W RMS @ 4Ω per channel (Class D) Front tweeters, midrange, rear fill, center channel, surround speakers Amplified Outputs (150W) 2 Channels 150W RMS @ 4Ω per channel (Class D) Front/rear midbass, center channel, shallow subwoofers RCA Pre-Outs 12 Channels 6V pre-amp output, THD+N 108dB External subwoofer amps, additional speaker amps, active crossover networks Routing Strategy for Maximum Flexibility: Use the 10 amplified channels for speakers requiring moderate power (tweeters, midrange, rear fill, center), then route the remaining 10 DSP channels via RCA pre-outs to external amplifiers for high-power applications (midbass, subwoofers, specialty channels). This configuration maximizes the value of the DSPA 1012 Plus's 20-channel DSP capability. Complete Technical Specifications DSP Processing DSP Chip: ADAU1463 (48-ch I/O capability) Processing Channels: 20 independent channels EQ Bands (Output): 31 parametric per channel EQ Bands (Input): 5 parametric per channel Crossover Types: Butterworth, Bessel, Linkwitz-Riley Crossover Slopes: 6-48 dB/octave (8 options) Time Alignment: 0-20ms per channel (0.02ms steps) Input Delay: 0-10ms per channel (0.02ms steps) Phase Control: 0-359° rotation at crossover filters Presets: 8 memory slots Amplifier Specifications Power Output: 8×80W + 2×150W @ 4Ω Total Power: 940W RMS Amplifier Class: Class D THD+N (Amplifier): 100dB (A-weighted) Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz Input Impedance: 6Ω DAC/ADC Performance DAC: PCM1691 (high-performance multi-channel) ADC: 2× PCM1840 (professional-grade) Opamp: MC33078 (low-noise audio opamp) Capacitors: High-temp 105°C electrolytics + WIMA film THD+N (RCA Out): 108dB Inputs High-Level: 12 channels (16V max) RCA: 2 channels (3V max) Optical: 1 channel (SPDIF, 96kHz/24-bit) Coaxial: 1 channel (SPDIF, 96kHz/24-bit) Bluetooth: 5.0 (aptX HD support) Outputs Amplified: 10 channels (8×80W + 2×150W) RCA Pre-Out: 12 channels @ 6V RCA Specs: THD+N 108dB Control & Software Software: Windows 8/8.1/10/11 (64-bit) Connection: USB-B Auto Turn-On: DC offset or signal sensing Remote Turn-On Output: Yes Navigation Mix Mode: Yes Power-Off Delay: Yes (variable) Noise Gate: Yes (analog input) Automatic Switching: Configurable Power & Dimensions Operating Voltage: 10-16V DC Current Draw: ~75A @ full power (13.8V) Fuse Rating: 60A Dimensions: 296 × 217 × 43 mm (11.6" × 8.5" × 1.7") Finish: Black anodized aluminum Start-Stop Ready: Yes (voltage fluctuation tolerance) EPS Error Protection: Yes Special Features Virtual Surround Sound: Supported (ADAU1463) Input Mixer: Flexible signal routing Linking Functions: Volume, EQ, Crossover All-Pass Filters: 1st/2nd order (input + output) Hi-Shelf / Low-Shelf: Available Competitive Analysis: Premium Multi-Channel DSP/Amplifiers The DSPA 1012 Plus occupies a unique position in the premium DSP/Amplifier market. Here's how it compares to alternatives in the $1,000-2,500 range: Model Price DSP Channels Amplifier Channels / Power RCA Pre-Outs Key Differentiator Goldhorn DSPA 1012 Plus See current price 20 (ADAU1463) 8×80W + 2×150W (940W total) 12 @ 6V 20-ch DSP + 940W in one chassis Audison Forza AF M8.14 bit DSP $1,999-2,240 14 (proprietary DSP) 12 × 90W @ 2Ω (1,080W total) 0 (all channels amplified) Italian engineering, 1,080W power, Audison pedigree Helix V-Twelve DSP Mk2 $1,699 12 (proprietary DSP) 12 × 95W @ 4Ω (1,140W total) 0 (all channels amplified) Audiotec Fischer engineering, mobile app control Helix DSP Pro Mk3 (DSP Only) $1,199 10 (proprietary DSP) None (DSP only) 10 @ 9V Mobile app, auto time alignment, NO amplification AudioControl DM-810 (DSP Only) $799 8 (proprietary DSP) None (DSP only) 8 @ 8V AccuBASS, OEM integration focus, NO amplification Mosconi Gladen DSP 6to8 $1,299 8 (proprietary DSP) 8 × 105W @ 4Ω (840W total) 0 (all channels amplified) Italian Class AB amplification, 840W power JL Audio VXi1200/12i $1,499 12 (proprietary DSP) 12 × 100W @ 2Ω (1,200W total) 0 (all channels amplified) 1,200W total power, JL Audio brand recognition Goldhorn DSPA 810 Pro $699 (closeout) 10 (ADAU1450) 8 × 65W @ 4Ω (520W total) 10 @ 6V Budget option, fewer channels, less power Value Proposition Analysis Channel Count Advantage: The DSPA 1012 Plus offers 20 DSP channels. Competitors offering similar amplification (Audison Forza @ $1,999, Helix V-Twelve @ $1,699, JL VXi1200 @ $1,499) provide only 12-14 DSP channels. You're getting 40-67% more processing channels for less money. Integrated vs. Separate Components: If you purchased a Helix DSP Pro Mk3 ($1,199) for DSP processing, you'd still need a 10-channel amplifier ($800-1,200) to match the DSPA 1012 Plus's amplification capability. Total cost: $1,999-2,399. The DSPA 1012 Plus delivers both in one chassis while doubling the DSP channel count. Premium Features at Mid-Premium Pricing: The DSPA 1012 Plus undercuts the Audison Forza ($1,999-2,240) while providing more DSP channels (20 vs. 14) and comparable amplification (940W vs. 1,080W). The primary trade-off is brand prestige and possible Class AB option on Audison. Both subjective factors rather than objective performance differences. Real-World Installation Scenario: 4-Way Active + Center + Subwoofer System Goal: Build a competition-level 4-way active front stage with dedicated center channel, rear ambiance, and dual subwoofers. All controlled from a single DSP/Amp unit. Channel Allocation: 18 of 20 DSP Channels Used DSP Channel Speaker Assignment Crossover Settings Power Source 1-2 (Amplified 80W) Front Tweeters (Focal Utopia) HPF: 4kHz @ 24 dB/oct (LR) Internal amplification 3-4 (Amplified 80W) Front Super Tweeters (Morel Supremo) HPF: 8kHz @ 12 dB/oct (Butterworth) Internal amplification 5-6 (Amplified 80W) Front Midrange 3" (Hertz Mille Pro) BPF: 500Hz - 4kHz @ 24 dB/oct (LR) Internal amplification 7-8 (Amplified 150W) Front Midbass 6.5" (Focal Utopia) BPF: 80Hz - 500Hz @ 24 dB/oct (LR) Internal amplification (150W) 9 (Amplified 80W) Center Channel (JBL MS-8c) BPF: 200Hz - 5kHz @ 18 dB/oct Internal amplification 10-11 (Amplified 80W) Rear Ambiance (Morel Tempo Ultra) HPF: 100Hz @ 12 dB/oct, -8dB level Internal amplification 12-13 (RCA Pre-Out) Subwoofers Left/Right (JL 13W7) LPF: 80Hz @ 24 dB/oct (LR) External JL Audio HD1200/1 14-15 (RCA Pre-Out) Rear Midbass (Optional Expansion) BPF: 80Hz - 400Hz @ 24 dB/oct External Arc Audio X2-600.4 16-18 (Unused) Reserved for Future Expansion — — System Components: DSPA 1012 Plus (DSP + 940W amplification for 9 channels) JL Audio HD1200/1: $699.99 (subwoofer amplification) Arc Audio X2-600.4: $599.99 (optional rear midbass amplification) Speakers (Focal Utopia + Hertz + Morel + JL): ~$4,000 Supporting Components: ~$5,300, plus the DSPA 1012 Plus (all amplification + DSP included) Performance Expectation: This configuration delivers competition-level front stage clarity with dedicated center imaging, ambient rear fill, and authoritative bass extension. All controlled from a single DSP with the flexibility to add rear midbass amplification later without replacing the DSP. Tuning Strategy: Use the 31-band EQ on channels 1-8 (front stage) for precise frequency response correction. Apply 20ms time alignment to front tweeters/super tweeters (mounted in A-pillars 6-8 feet from listening position) relative to midbass drivers (door-mounted 3-4 feet away). Use phase rotation on subwoofer channels (12-13) to align with front midbass output around 80Hz crossover point. The ADAU1463's enhanced processing ensures no audible latency even with complex EQ curves across all channels simultaneously. Limitations & When to Consider Alternatives Limitations to Consider No Mobile App Tuning: Requires Windows PC connection for all tuning adjustments. Cannot make real-time EQ changes from smartphone while sitting in the vehicle. Helix and Audison DSPs offer mobile app control at similar price points. Class D Amplification Only: If you prefer Class AB amplification for tweeters/midrange due to lower distortion characteristics, you'll need to use the RCA pre-outs to external Class AB amplifiers. The internal 940W is Class D only. 80W May Be Insufficient for Low-Sensitivity Speakers: If you're driving speakers with 83-85dB sensitivity (e.g., Focal Utopia, Morel Supremo), 80W may lack headroom at high volumes. Budget for external amplification on power-hungry channels. No Automatic Room Correction: Unlike Audison Bit Tune or AudioControl DM-RTA systems, the DSPA 1012 Plus requires manual tuning. You'll need an external RTA (AudioControl SA-4410, OmniMic) and measurement microphone to optimize EQ scientifically. Large Physical Footprint: At 296×217×43mm (11.6"×8.5"×1.7"), the DSPA 1012 Plus is significantly larger than standalone DSPs. Ensure adequate mounting space under seats or in trunk areas before purchase. Complex Setup Curve: With 20 DSP channels and extensive routing options, initial setup is time-consuming (4-8 hours for first-time users). Professional installation is recommended unless you have DSP tuning experience. When DSPA 1012 Plus is the RIGHT Choice Complex Multi-Way Systems: If you're building 4-way active front stages, dedicated center channels, or surround sound installations, the 20-channel DSP provides routing flexibility unavailable in 8-12 channel competitors. Integrated DSP/Amp Preference: If you want to avoid the complexity of separate DSP + multi-channel amplifier(s), the DSPA 1012 Plus delivers 940W of integrated amplification. Eliminating the need for 2-3 separate amplifiers in most systems. OEM Integration Projects: The 12 high-level inputs accommodate complex factory-amplified systems (Mercedes Burmester, BMW Harman Kardon, Audi B&O) where 8-10 inputs would be insufficient. Value-Focused Premium Builds: You're getting 20-channel DSP + 940W amplification. Comparable channel count + amplification from Audison or Helix costs $1,699-2,240. If brand prestige isn't a priority, the DSPA 1012 Plus delivers equivalent capability for less. Future Expansion Plans: With 20 DSP channels and 12 RCA pre-outs, you have substantial headroom to add external amplifiers, additional subwoofers, or specialty channels (horn tweeters, surround arrays) without replacing the DSP. Final Verdict: Premium Multi-Channel Processing at Mid-Premium Pricing The Goldhorn DSPA 1012 Plus occupies a strategic position in the premium DSP/Amplifier market: it delivers 20-channel ADAU1463 DSP processing and 940 watts of integrated amplification, undercutting competitors offering similar amplification (Audison Forza @ $1,999, Helix V-Twelve @ $1,699, JL VXi1200 @ $1,499 while providing 40-67% more DSP channels. The ADAU1463 DSP chip's 48-channel I/O architecture, Virtual Surround Sound support, and enhanced processing capacity represent a meaningful upgrade from the ADAU1450 platform found in mid-tier processors. This makes the DSPA 1012 Plus particularly valuable for competition builds, luxury vehicle integrations, and multi-way active systems requiring extensive routing flexibility beyond the 10-12 channels available in most flagship DSPs. The primary limitations, no mobile app tuning, Class D amplification only, and complex initial setup, are acceptable trade-offs for enthusiasts prioritizing channel count and processing power over convenience features. If you need mobile app control or prefer Class AB amplification, consider the Helix V-Twelve DSP Mk2 ($1,699) or Audison Forza ($1,999-2,240), but expect to pay $400-700 more for those conveniences while sacrificing 6-8 DSP channels. For installers building complex systems requiring 15-20 amplified channels across front stage, rear fill, center channel, and subwoofers, the DSPA 1012 Plus eliminates the need to purchase separate DSP ($800-1,200) and multi-channel amplifier ($800-1,200) components, simplifying installation and reducing system complexity. The DSPA 1012 Plus represents exceptional value for the processing power and amplification capacity delivered. It's positioned perfectly for enthusiasts who've outgrown 8-10 channel systems and need flagship-level DSP capability without paying $1,700-2,200 for equivalent performance from European brands. Goldhorn DSPA 1012 Plus: Premium 20-Channel DSP Amplifier 20-Channel ADAU1463 DSP | 8×80W + 2×150W Amplification | 12 RCA Pre-Outs Brand New with Full Manufacturer Warranty
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