Stand-alone DSP or DSP Built In Amplifier - Which is best?

A DSP (Digital Signal Processor) allows us to fine tune the performance of our car audio system. Lucky for us though there are now more options for implementing this into our system. We can use a standalone DSP, or we can use a DSP built into the amplifier. But which option is better, or rather: which option is right for your application? Let's discuss!

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Car Audio Fabrication – Master Car Audio – Design, Build, Install

[PhiMobileSounds]

At this point I just hit like and watch. This man does not miss. Thanks for sharing Mark.

[Silentroller]

I think the 5 channel dsp amp is great for people looking to do 1 or 2 subs max and power all the speakers as well. Definitely nice to have it all in one package.

[kswis]

I def don't hate on anyone buying an amp with a built in dsp but having done that myself I found I was stuck with that amp. In order to upgrade to bigger amps I had to buy a stand alone dm-608. That's the way I recommend folks go but honestly. Either unit is fantastic

[mabolzichjjl]

There's an application for both. If you're really limited on space or you want a super simple setup go with the DSP integrated amp. Unfortunately most are manufactured with a class D amp. If you want something other than class D, you want total control of your system, and have the space then separate DSP is what you need

[gonzoe]

I am using a D6.1200 in a 2008 Ford Fusion. It is running my front stage and 2 Infinity 10” Kappa’s. My front stage is a pair of Dayton RS180P-4’s and a pair of SB Acoustics SB65WBAC25-4’s. I really like the system. My only regret is that I started thinking about adding differential rear fill. I would need more channels and a DSP that can create a differential signal. As much as I love the all-in-one concept of the D6.1200, it does have its upgrade limitations.

[broderp]

Separates give the most flexibility, but cost more, is more complicated, and takes up valuable space in a car. Simple is sometimes better.

[xxVanos]

I did a bit of 'future proofing' by getting getting an Audison AF C8.14 DSP/AMP. Love it!

[bkordel]

Best to invest in a DSP brand with the best software available. Arguably the most important feature about a DSP. Integrated amplifier or otherwise....

[josephburton]

DSP built in Amp. I’ve been watching your Channel for the past 2 days trying to figure out ha ha . I wish they had a DSP app built with line output converters

[ceescorner]

I personally went with a built In DSP amp by kicker for front stage speakers, radio powering rear door speakers, and a built in 10" sub for under seat in my frontier. Solid 450 watt system.

[orvilleblack]

Another great video....I had use other brands DSP'S until I start following #CarAudioFabrication & I learned about #AudioControl DSP'S....instant game changer & I will never look back....I'm presently using the AudioControl DM-810 & for my purpose I wish it had 12 channels instead of 10....Would help with me going fully active by not using passive crossover....mono the stereo output....using the pass Thru on the amps or even thinking about using two DSP'S....as I don't have the space. 🇯🇲

[Shut_Up_Wayne]

Not being able to set the crossover points per preset was a deal breaker for me. TWK for the win!

[rajasekhar]

Mark you are excellent !
No offense to AudioControl, but I would suggest Helix M6DSP or M4DSP are the most bang for the buck in terms of quality and features.
Each of those DSP amps's have 10 channels of processing with 6 and 4 powerd channels respectively, i think they give so many options to configure.

[mikehonda]

I feel DSP built into an amp has really one advantage not many mention, but also depending on the manufacturer could make or break a deal. My setup is overkill, but I’m rebuilding for 2 VX1000.5i units optical from a fix82 with the VXi hub. My plan is full active front stage 3way, using the subwoofer output from the amp for my door subs, channel1 tweet, channel2 high bass midrange, channel3 rear door full range, channel4 rear 3way speaker pods passive build, but one amp left, one amp right. Each amp has 2 pre-out’s adjustable by selecting your desired setting. So it gives me 4 pre-outs adjustable for anything I want. A set for sub, a set full range for pass through signal test, or just all 4 sub output. Now what I think makes the amp and DSP combo greater, is the option for higher signal voltage than what some DSP units limit you to. Like SPL builds that require high and clean signal voltage across voltage drop. Yes you can add a line driver after a DSP, but that can add noise to your signal, or with some, cut off your frequency range. Plus it is an additional unit you have to install.

[randizzle]

Hey cool! This is the exact question I asked for new video ideas in the forum the other day. Awesome!!!! Thanks Mark!

[LiLman]

DSP amplifier would be the best for me

[precisioninc]

Bottom line, DSP amps are for people that know what they will want and generally not interested in experimenting.

Another thing to maybe consider is breakdowns and the speed of technology. D class amplifiers have come a long way. If we use a DSP amp, we are kinda stuck with it. Stand-alone we can upgrade and trade out pieces. Also, like mentioned, you are forced into having less channels with DSP amps. A kid I worked with had the amazing Helix V8. Then he heard my setup that uses 10 channels for a 2.1 setup. He wants to try 3 way active but doesn't want to give up rear fill and bridging left and right 7inch speakers. He doesn't have enough channels.

[eazyful]

Great video how will you hook up a dap amplifier and a aftermarket radio

[Hexsense]

I don't aim for ultimate-high end setup. I like upgrading in stages and enjoy the process along the way.
So I'll end up with hybrid setup of DSP-amp plus another amp.
I start out with DSP-amp first where I have 4 ch amplified high level output but must also have 8 ch low level output for future expansion. Original installation use hi-level (35w or 40w rms) to drive each corner of car speakers. And ch 7 and 8 low level rca to sub box with low level input.
Then when it's time to upgrade front speakers to 2 or 3 ways component. I add another (more powerful) 4 ch amplifier taking input from low level dsp and drive front speakers with this stronger amp. Rear speakers still drive from dsp-amp's high level output as rear-fill, it require the dsp for time delay but it doesn't require a better amp than what's dsp-amp provide.

[LeekleManE]

I prefer having my DSP separate. As Mark touched on, it gives the ability and opportunity to change things up down the road without having to reconfigure the dsp all over again.