Allen & Heath PRIME Audio Mixer

For those looking to get the highest levels of audio performance from their dLive, Avantis or SQ, we’ve created PRIME, two new modules for use with DX32 expanders. PRIME Input Technology Next Generation Design With an ultra-flat frequency response from 1Hz all the way up to 40kHz, and an incredibly fast slew rate, PRIME delivers detailed and articulate audio to the mix engine at the highest possible resolution with breath-taking transient response, and full range linearity. While most preamps are based on AC coupled stages, PRIME has a DC coupled gain stage which eliminates the LF distortion typical of AC coupling, vastly improving low frequency linearity and phase response. This unique design calls for painstaking component choice and layout in addition to intensive per channel component trimming during commissioning. Ultra-Linear Design and Components A Difference You Can Hear Because linearity was paramount in the design process, our design team made several innovations to improve high input level handling. A super-matched low noise quad transistor package on the front end dramatically reduces thermally induced very low frequency anomalies. Audiophile grade electrolytic capacitors have been utilised in the signal path. Naturally, PRIME employs the very latest 32bit / 96kHz analogue-to-digital converters, but more importantly, the design team used several devices in parallel on each channel to reduce distortion and optimise noise and dynamic range. 8 channels of analogue-to-digital conversion are employed for every pair of input channels yielding increased headroom and superior SNR compared to standard AD implementations. The ADC system can also be user configured for anti-aliasing roll-off characteristics: either fast or slow roll-off and ultra low latency delay, the sound engineer can pick optimal settings for particular applications or music. Optimal Performance Tuned By Hand To further preserve signal integrity, the PRIME circuitry is encased in full metal shielding for increased RF rejection throughout the signal path. Finally, before a PRIME Input module leaves our factory, each unit has its individual preamps trimmed by hand to meet our exacting requirements for feedback path and common mode rejection. Now that’s attention to detail. PRIME Output technology Get The Best Out Of Your System With the same attention to detail and meticulous component choice as the PRIME Input card, high quality resistors, capacitors and op-amps have been selected for their exceptional performance: low noise, low distortion and linearity. The inclusion of a balanced line driver circuit not only offers ultra-low noise and distortion, but maintains common mode feedback when clipping and avoids excessive ground currents, further slashing distortion. The improved inter channel cross-talk results in optimal stereo field and depth. The differential design also reduces common mode DC offsets on the output, removing coupling capacitors to realise the most transparent sound possible throughout the frequency range. Our premium 32-bit DAC technology runs at 96kHz, offering exceptional distortion and noise characteristics for ultra-high performance. The DAC filter can also be configured for different anti-aliasing roll-off filter characteristics including roll-off speed and latency – so you can choose the optimal settings depending on the application. To preserve signal integrity the PRIME circuitry is encased in full metal shielding for increased RF rejection throughout the signal path. Any combination of PRIME Input and Output cards can be installed in a DX32 modular expander. PRIME modules can also be mixed with existing analogue and digital DX32 I/O modules. Maximum PRIME I/O in fully expanded dLive and SQ systems: dLive S Class: 92 PRIME I/O modules dLive C Class: 44 PRIME I/O modules Avantis: 48 PRIME I/O modules SQ: 32 PRIME I/O modules Refer to the DX System Guide for more information on DX expansion capabilities. Features PRIME Input Next-generation Preamp Design With Dc Coupled Gain Stage Use With DX32 for SQ, dLive & Avantis Each Individual Channel is Fine-tuned by Hand for Optimum Common Mode Performance Meticulous Design of Grounding and Power Supply to Minimise Noise and Distortion Full Metal Shielding for Increased RF Rejection Throughout The Very Latest 32-bit / 96kHz ADC for Class-leading Conversion 4 Channels of Summed ADC Per Input for Extended Dynamic Range and Increased SNR Optimised for Use With Our 96kHz XCVI FPGA Core PRIME Output Next-generation D-A Output Card Design Use With DX32 for SQ, dLive & Avantis Fully Balanced Differential Output Stage for Improved Common Mode Performance, Cross-talk and Linearity Ultra-low THD and Noise The Very Latest 32-bit DACs for Class-leading Conversion Specially Selected Operational Amplifiers for Ultra-low Noise Full Metal Shielding for Increased RF Rejection Throughout Optimised for Use With Our 96kHz XCVI FPGA Core Sign up to the Newsletter Keep up with the latest news and product developments from Allen & Heath. 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