Outline’s Newton is an all-new FPGA-based processing platform
Italy - At Prolight+Sound next month, Outline will introduce Newton, the company’s new FPGA-based processing platform.
Designed to be “the management and control core” for audio networks in touring, broadcast and fixed installation applications and provides management of sophisticated audio systems by combining multi-format channel routing with simultaneous standards conversion and digital signal synchronisation.
Newton additionally incorporates powerful new filter technology along with clock and powering redundancy in a 1U networkable chassis.
A system topology is provided by very high-quality FPGA-based SSRC (synchronous sample rate conversion) and ASRC (asynchronous sample rate conversion) with outstanding dynamic range and ultra-low distortion. The unit supports up to 15 clock source options and a virtually unlimited number of filters using Outline’s proprietary WFIR filtering technology supporting raised cosine filtering technology. It also features independent, internal dual-redundant universal AC mains supplies (fitted as standard) with dual cooling fans.
Newton’s I/O configuration will provide 216 channels in both directions simultaneously using a fully automatic clock source and audio signal switchover facilities. The system and set-up are fully controllable via Outline Dashboard software for Mac OS.
Newton is available in three hardware versions – Newton 16, Newton 16+4 and Newton 16+8 – to suit the requirements of differing applications or projects. All processed signals and direct outputs can be routed out of Newton using any of the available audio standards – Dante (AES67 compliant), AES3, Madi Optical and Madi Coaxial. Internal processing is all at 96kHz, with an internal data depth up to 64 bits. In each processing section users have precise control over Level, Delay, Polarity and Raised Cosine Filters (implemented within WFIR Equalisers), all functions that are required to manage and optimise a loudspeaker system.
All three versions of Newton share the same motherboard, and it is possible to upgrade from Newton 16 to Newton 16+4 or Newton 16+8. Multiple Newton devices are easily interconnected to form a network that is scalable to meet all audio applications.
A detailed technical presentation will be staged at Frankfurt’s Manufacturer’s Forum on 12 April, starting at 3pm. (Hall 3, Level VIA, room Facette).
(Jim Evans)

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