DSP processor Zapco DSP-Z8 IV AT

DSP processor Zapco DSP-Z8 IV AT

Many years ago, Zapco introduced their DSP-Z8 IV DSP processor. It was designed to bring true audiophile sound quality to an affordable DSP. The Zapco DSP-Z8 IV was a giant killer, delivering sound quality better than units costing twice as much. But as Zapco has always said and will always say, "We believe we can do better". First introduced in 2018 was the updated DSP-Z8 IV II series, which brought a number of improvements, and in 2022 we saw the all-new Zapco DSP-Z8 IV AT model series, which includes two new DSP processors, two DSP processor amplifiers and a digital monobloc. And what's new with the IV AT series? New features, new controls and of course even better sound. The unified look of the Black and Copper theme of the Zapco AP Series audiophile amplifiers is just the beginning.

New features of the DSP processor Zapco DSP-Z8 IV AT

Compared to its predecessor, the DSP processor Zapco DSP-Z8 IV AT has improved by two RCA inputs and at the same time by two high-level inputs. In total, it will offer 8 RCA inputs and 8 hi-level inputs. Also new is the option to set the level of the input signal, improved PC software, the possibility of automatic calibration using an optional microphone, and especially the optional Bluetooth module for streaming music in Hi-Res quality. Also new is the remote control, which will allow you to change the input source, control the main volume or amplifier output for the subwoofer and even switch songs when playing music from, for example, a mobile application.

The main features of the DSP processor Zapco DSP-Z8 IV AT

• Eight-channel DSP processor: Cirrus Logic CS47048.
• Power: 150 MHz/32 bit/192 KHz.
• 8 RCA inputs and 8 high-level inputs.
• 8 RCA outputs.
• ADC: Cirrus Logic CS47048 32 bit/192 KHz
• ADC Dynamic Range/THD: 108dB/-98dB
• DAC: Cirrus Logic CS8422 24 bit/192 KHz
• DAC Dynamic Range/THD: 140dB/-120dB
• Low level (Pre)/sensitivity: 1-5 VRMS
• High Level (Spk In)/Sensitivity: 2-20V
• Optical Digital IN: 24 bit-192 KHz
• Coaxial Digital IN: 24 bit-192 KHz
• Frequency response (-3dB): 10 Hz - 22.5 KHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio DSP digital input: 110 dBA
• DSP analog input signal-to-noise ratio: 106 dBA
• Harmonic distortion THD+N DSP digital input: 0.002%
• Harmonic distortion THD+N analog input: 0.005%
• F/R EQ: 1-6 ch Gr. & Par./31 Poles
• Effect EQ: 7-8 ch Gr. & Par./11 Poles
• Mute/Solo: yes, each channel
• Time correction (Range/Steps): 0/15 ms / 0.02 ms
• Maximum delay (Cm/Steps): 515 cm / 0.68 cm
• Polarity: 0/180°
• Remote control included
• HD-BT Music streaming (optional with HD-BT)

Enhanced PC software

The new DSP-Z8 IV AT DSP processor gives you the great sound and features of the Series IV II and adds a coaxial digital input as well as an optical digital input and Bluetooth streaming capability. However, the PC software also saw several improvements. The drop-down menus now allow you to name each output channel to match your system settings. The added Advanced menu also includes new Mixing Set and AutoTune features. The new DSP-Z8 IV AT gives you more options for input selection. You can have up to 8 input channels which you can instantly set up simply by selecting 2-Ch, 4-Ch, 6-Ch or 8-Ch in the inputs section on the front. If you need to sum the channels of the factory stereo to get the full range of the input, just click SUM and the system will do it all for you. But if your system is more complex, you also have the option to go into the Advanced menu and use Mixing Set to manually assign each channel exactly the amount of input from each input channel that will work best for your particular audio setup.

Automatic sound calibration

DSP IV AT series processors now give you automatic calibration for signal EQ, phase and delay, when you purchase the optional Zapco calibrated microphone. You can choose which function you want the system to calibrate, as well as which channels you want to include in the calibration. In the graph area you can see how the system is currently working and you can also look at the equalization curves of the speakers. Calibration of all channels within all functions is done automatically within 5 to 10 minutes, saving you several hours of time. Of course, the human ear will always be the final judge, but auto-tune will get you to the point where you can just make the final adjustments and enjoy the music.

About the Zapco brand

Zapco is the oldest high-end car audio brand in the world, specializing in high-end car amplifiers and DSP processors. The company was founded in the USA back in 1974 and has been collecting one award after another since then. And this both from prestigious organizations that evaluate the quality of products and innovations, as well as at global competitions focused mainly on sound quality. Zapco amplifiers represent audiophile quality without compromise, defining the standard of quality and setting the criteria by which other products in the industry are judged. At Zapco, for over 45 years, they have been constantly looking for innovative ways to bring better sound to the automotive environment, and this relentless pursuit of absolute sound quality has always resulted in new technologies and high-end products. Are you asking why? Because nothing else can capture the soul and bring tears to the eyes like music. Music can make you dance for joy..... of all the arts, music has the most powerful and immediate effect on your body and mind. Reproducing music in all its beauty and delicacy deserves nothing less than the best efforts of all Zapco employees. And also because music matters!

Product comments

Evaluation

• Processors and other audio processing products DSP processors
• High-end ZAPCO amplifiers

Product assembly

SsangYong RextonHyundai i30 N