IBC 2018: Calrec Introduces Impulse Core
At IBC 2018, broadcast audio specialist Calrec has unveiled its new Impulse core, a powerful and scalable digital signal processing (DSP) platform designed to support the transition to next-generation audio (NGA) and IP-based infrastructures.
The Impulse core is built around a robust and highly flexible DSP engine that can be used as a standalone unit or integrated into existing Calrec systems. According to Dave Letson, VP of Sales at Calrec, the new platform offers a clear direction for future development, providing customers with a straightforward upgrade path as they transition to IP-based networks.
The Impulse core is compatible with existing Apollo and Artemis control surfaces, allowing existing Calrec customers to upgrade their systems without significant disruption or retraining. The platform also supports up to three DSP mix engines and control systems that can run independently on a single core, enabling the use of multiple large-format mixers simultaneously in a compact footprint.
Impulse Features
- 3D immersive path widths and panning for NGA applications
- 5.1, 5.1.2, 5.1.4, 7.1, 7.1.2, and 7.1.4 input channels, busses, monitoring, and metering
- Height and 3D pan controls for immersive audio
- Flexible panning and downmixing capabilities
The Impulse core also features an integral AoIP router that fully supports NMOS discovery and connection management, as well as mDNS/Ravenna discovery. The platform can operate at speeds of 1- or 10-Gbps and includes up to four router cards with a 4096 x 4096 audio routing matrix.
Redundancy and Disaster Recovery
The Impulse core is designed for high availability, offering the option to combine two units in a redundant configuration that can be physically remote from each other for disaster recovery purposes.
'This technology enables all Calrec customers to make the transition to NGA and IP infrastructures, providing the flexibility to do so at a pace that works for them,' said Letson. 'Impulse gives existing customers the opportunity to upgrade to new network technologies when it's right for them, and provides a clear, simple, and cost-effective upgrade path.'