Crest Audio has announced the introduction of the new PCX Series of digital matrix processors that are designed to provide loudspeaker management functions as well as matrix mixing, room combining and additional audio processing functions for live and installed applications. One of the models in the new PCX Series of processors from Crest Audio.
The three rack-mount PCX units are distinguished primarily by their input/output configurations. The PCX 260 offers two XLR inputs and six XLR outputs; the PCX 480 offers four/eight XLR I/Os; and the PCX 88 offers eight/eight. In addition, the PCX 88 supplies an additional eight digital input channels and eight digital output channels, all independently assigned, are available over Ethernet with the optional Dante network audio card.
PCX units have a 96 kHz sample rate processing with a quiet and accurate AD/DA interface (24-bit Delta Sigma) and filter response. Crest Audio’s software and DSP (digital signal processing) algorithms provide processing and control features to manage, optimize, and protect front of house, monitor and multi-zone loudspeaker systems while offering audio signal clarity and integrity. The crossover filters are adjustable and any input can be routed to any output via the digital matrix.
The front panel of the PCX 260 offers local configuration and control via a front-panel LCD display, rotary encoder, and dedicated function buttons. Alternatively, an RJ-45 Ethernet port, located at the back panel, allows for a higher-resolution graphical user interface configuration. PCX Series processors can be controlled in real time on the front panel or with 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 comes with five-segment LED meters. Input capabilities on the PCX 260 and PCX 480 include gain, mute, HP/LP, eight-band PEQ (parametric equalizer), polarity and up to 680 milliseconds of delay. Each output has an additional nine-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.
Meanwhile, the PCX 88 offers the distinctions of five-band PEQ and phase on both input/output, as well as 48-volt phantom power, noise gate, feedback, and an automix channel on input. All three models have an internal signal generator providing sine, white noise, and pink noise.
The firmware of each processor can be field updated. Additionally, they offer 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 240 volts AC, 50/60 Hz.
