Danville Signal Processing, Inc.
dspMusik™ 2/8
High Performance DSP Audio Processor
P/N A.03708D
P/N A.03708E
User Manual
Version 2.10
Danville Signal Processing, Inc.
dspMusik™ 2/8
User Manual
Copyright © 2017 Danville Signal Processing, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission
from Danville Signal Processing, Inc.
Danville Signal Processing, Inc. strives to deliver the best product to our customers. As part of this goal, we
are constantly trying to improve our products. Danville Signal Processing, Inc., therefore, reserves the right to
make changes to product specification or documentation without prior notice. Updated operating manuals
and product specification sheets are available at our website for downloading.
This manual may contain errors, omissions or “typo’s”. Please send your comments, suggestions and
corrections to:
Danville Signal Processing, Inc.
29687 82nd Avenue Way
Cannon Falls, MN 55009
Trademark Notice
dspblok and dspBootloader are trademarks of Danville Signal Processing, Inc. VisualDSP++, CrossCore, and
SHARC are trademarks of Analog Devices, Inc.
Contact Information
Danville Signal Processing, Inc.
29687 82nd Avenue Way
Cannon Falls, MN 55009
E-mail: dsp@danvillesignal.com
Web Site: http://www.danvillesignal.com
Voice: 507-263-5854
Fax: 877-230-5629
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page B
Table of Contents
Overview...................................................................................................................1
Hardware...................................................................................................................1
Software.....................................................................................................................2
I/O Configuration.......................................................................................................3
Balanced Audio - ADC & DAC Level Setting:.............................................................................................3
dspMusik Display/Encoder Operation........................................................................6
dspblok Options.........................................................................................................9
dspblok 21469uac2...................................................................................................................................9
dspblok 21489uac2...................................................................................................................................9
Product Warranty.....................................................................................................10
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page C
Overview
The dspMusik 2/8 is intended for applications where audio quality is of paramount importance.
Applications include high performance DSP based crossovers for studio monitors and high end consumer
audio systems. It is also well suited for multichannel decoders and algorithm development and
demonstration.
Loudspeaker manufacturers can use the dspMusik for as an external standalone crossover or as a
development system for Danville's embedded dspCrossover semi custom embedded DSP crossovers used
in powered monitors
One of the advantages of the dspMusik 2/8 for algorithm developers is that the hardware performance does
not mask the quality of the algorithm. This allows you to demonstrate your intellectual property at its best.
This manual covers the dspMusik 2/8 as implemented as a complete ready to operate product. It is housed in
an extruded aluminum box with an LCD display and encoder. The 2x16 character alpha-numeric LCD
display and companion encoder are used for volume control, source selection and adjustment of other
parameters. It can also be controlled via IR using an Apple Remote. The Apple Remote is available from
Apple resellers for about $20.
The dspMusik 2/8 is also available in bare board configurations for integration by OEMs into custom
housings. There are many options including switching amplifier interfaces, LCD displays and 8 channel
expansion. This manual covers the complete standalone version. The OEM integration manual covers
bareboard configurations with wiring details, physical dimensions and similar information needed to
implement the boards into a custom enclosure.
Most dspMusik 2/8 systems are resold by OEMs with optimized software that supports their product needs.
This manual covers most of the basic features of the dspMusik 2/8, however there might be custom features
implemented in the version of the dspMusik that you are using that are specific to the OEM provider. If you
have an OEM version, the splash screen will typically have their name and product.
Hardware
The dspMusik 2/8 is powered by an Analog Devices’ SHARC floating point DSP as implemented on a
Danville dspblok DSP module. There are a number of pin compatible dspbloks that will work with the
dspMusik. These choices will be discussed later in this manual.
As important as the DSP is to the platform, the audio quality is ultimately determined by the analog
electronics, the data converters and the clock sources. The dspMusik 2/8 supports 2 analog inputs, an S/PDIF
receiver, USB Audio Class 2 and 8 analog outputs. All analog I/O is available as balanced +4dBu professional
or balanced/single ended –10dBV consumer audio levels. The choice is based on software configuration. The
sample rate can be as high as 384k with 24 bit conversions.
Four state-of-the-art AKM AK4495 DACs are used for the 8 analog outputs. Each channel has balanced antiimaging filters to attenuate clock feed through and high frequency images. The output level is balanced (or
single ended) with levels as high as +4dBu (+22dB FS). Each DAC has analog attenuators to optimize the
full scale performance of the converter.
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 1
The analog input circuit is a low noise balanced input with very high common mode rejection. The optional
ADC module uses an AKM AK5397, considered by many to be the best ADC on the market. It has a S/N in
excess of 127dB. This is 20-30dB better that most home theater oriented converters.
All of the data converters have a variety of internal filter choices. This include both sharp cutoff and
minimum phase types. Minimum phase filters are favored for most applications, because they avoid pre echo
artifacts.
Minimal clock jitter is of prime importance for high quality audio. If a clock has excessive jitter, a perfect data
converter would be transformed into something mediocre. The right data at the wrong time is the wrong
data! The dspMusik 2/8 uses a very low phase jitter clock with very careful routing to minimize reflections to
each device. The SHARC DSP has eight ASRCs that provide jitter attenuation far better than a low noise PLL
is capable of achieving. This is very helpful for rate conversions (generally upsampling) and is absolutely
imperative for S/PDIF streams that are intrinsically noisy from a jitter perspective.
The dspMusik 2/8 uses a standard IEC connector and can be powered with any 100-240 VAC 50/60 Hz
mains source. All that is needed is the appropriate mains cord set. This makes the dspMusik 2/8 functional in
international markets without special configuration settings.
Software
There are two primary ways to program the dspMusik 2/8.
Most customers will opt for DSP Concepts' Audio Weaver. This is a graphical design program that includes as
many as 400 optimized modules. Systems are designed in a drag and drop fashion to create signal flow.
Audio Weaver runs natively on the SHARC DSP with optimized production quality modules. You design the
signal processing system without the need for custom programming. Once you have your layout, you can
adjust parameters in real time. For example, a loudspeaker designer can create a crossover design, make
some measurements and listening tests, and then adjust parameters to fine tune the system without
interruption of the test source or music. A run time version of Audio Weaver is included with the dspMusik
2/8. This lets you design and distribute your application without buying additional tools or licensing. All you
need is a Windows computer.
If you have an OEM version of the dspMusik 2/8, chances are this is how most of your system software was
implemented. The specific layout and tuning was done by the OEM, so that their system performs optimally.
The alternative method would be traditional programming in C or assembly. In this case, you would use
either Analog Devices' Visual DSP++ or CrossCore Embedded Studio. You would also want an emulator,
either an ICE-1000 or ICE-2000. The older ADI emulators will also work with any of the dspblok 214xx
boards. Danville supplies example code with device drivers for the converters and a basic talk thru shell
program to get you started.
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 2
I/O Configuration
The dspMusik has three stereo input sources, Analog, USB Audio Class 2, and S/PDIF. Each input can be
selected from the display/encoder or Apple remote and have independent gain settings. This is helpful when
the levels from each source can be quite diverse.
For example, you might have the Analog input connected to a phono preamplifier, the USB connected to
your music server and the S/PDIF to a television. Each of these sources could have very different output
levels. When you switch between each source, the volume level can remain consistent. This also means that
turning the volume down for one source does not adjust the others. Mute is universal. All sources are muted
together.
There are 8 balanced Analog outputs. These are usually assigned for specific purposes by the software. For
example, in a DSP crossover, some outputs are assigned to tweeters, others, to woofers, etc. If you have an
OEM version of the dspMusik, make sure you consult the OEM’s instructions for the correct assignments of
each output.
Balanced Audio - ADC & DAC Level Setting:
The dspMusik 2/8 has both input PGAs (programmable gain amplifiers) and output attenuators to adjust the
audio signals to optimum levels. The goal is to maximize signal level without clipping. These switch in
approximately 6dB steps (a little different for the first step to accommodate dBu to dBV differences).
Nominal audio levels are defined by standard in only two ways:
Professional level (Balanced) -4dBu nominal (+22dBu full scale)
Consumer level (Unbalanced) –10dBV nominal (+8dBV full scale)
This means that signal levels are much higher with professional audio equipment (about 11.75dB). We don’t
amplify inputs and we amplify outputs to create these levels.
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 3
Since professional level is defined as balanced and consumer level is defined as unbalanced, it gets a little
more complicated.
Consumer level is usually unbalanced. This means that a proper input cable (maybe from a phono
preamplifier) should connect Center (source) to Hot (dspMusik, tip), and Ground (source) to Ground and
Cold (ring) on the dspMusik TRS. The best way is with a three conductor cable with separate wires (shield &
twisted pair) connected at the source end.
Unbalanced outputs ONLY use the Hot and Gnd on the dspMusik. The Cold connection is left open.
Otherwise, The Cold output will drive into a short (Ground).
When making input connections, a less optimum but certainly convenient interconnect method is to use a
phono to 2 conductor (mono) phone plug adapter. This shorts the Cold and Ground connections at the TRS
input of the dspMusik. DO NOT DO THIS FOR UNBALANCED OUT CONNECTIONS! It will short the
Cold Output to Ground! Output cables for unbalanced circuits leave Cold open.
In the professional audio case, levels and interfaces are consistent. With consumer gear, everything gets a
little sketchy. Some consumer gear now has balanced audio connections available. The problem is that
–10dBV is no longer is clearly defined. If balanced connections are used, should levels be measured from
Hot to Cold or alternatively, Hot to Ground? This is a 6 dB difference and different manufacturers have
different ideas.
Another issue that comes up is power amplifier gain. Most power amplifiers have a gain of between 20 and
30 (26dB to 31dB). This can be referenced from balanced or unbalanced inputs. This means that a large
power amplifier might need to about 3.5V peak to swing to full range. If the output gain is insufficient, the
amplifier will not swing to maximum power. In general, you use the settings that allow the amplifier to go full
range and not more. This will usually be the Consumer –10dBV output settings wired as balanced if the
amplifier has balanced inputs and single ended (unbalanced) if it does not.
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 4
dspMusik Naming Conventions
Input Levels:
Pro Audio +4 dBu
Balanced –4 dBV 5.75 dB Gain
Consumer –10 dBV 11.75 dB Gain
Balanced –16 dBV 17.75 dB Gain
Output Levels:
Pro Audio +4dBu
Consumer –10dBV 5.75 dB Attenuation (same level as Balanced –4 dBV)
Balanced –10dBV 11.75 dB Attenuation
Balanced –16dBV 17.75 dB Attenuation
On some displays, the levels may be labeled as +6 dB, +12 dB, etc for Inputs and –6 dB, -12dB etc for
Outputs.
When we are referring to Consumer Input and Output, the assumption is that we are wiring the cables in an
unbalanced configuration. For inputs, this means that we do not have an out of phase signal available for the
Cold input. A +4dBu (Pro) balanced signal is the nominal level between Hot and Cold. A –10dBV Consumer
level is the nominal level between Hot to Gnd.
The “Balanced” labels are expected nominal levels from Hot to Cold. A Balanced –10dBV signal would be
6dB lower than the Consumer –10dBV level since Hot to Gnd is only half of the signal.
It is also possible that a manufacturer decided that it would provide a balanced output where the level is
–4 dBV. This would allow the unbalanced circuit (leaving Cold disconnected) to be –10dBV. It would have
twice the voltage swing when the balanced wires are used. This means that the input circuit should have less
gain in this wiring configuration.
This is admittedly confusing. The good news is that if you are interfacing pro audio equipment, you just set
the levels to the Pro settings. If you are interfacing to most consumer equipment (RCA Phono) or PC
soundcards; make your cables as discussed above and use the consumer settings.
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 5
dspMusik Display/Encoder Operation
The display/encoder consists of a 2x16 alphanumeric display and a rotary encoder for control. The encoder
rotates continuously and also has a pushbutton shaft switch.
There is also an IR receiver that allows alternative control from an Apple Remote.
The Apple remote is assumed to be the later style (silver) that has 7 buttons.
Ergonomically, the Encoder and Apple Remote work in very similar fashion. Both controls can operate at the
same time.
The encoder functions are as follows:
Rotating clockwise increases the selection or moves toward the end of a list.
Rotating counterclockwise decreases the selection or moves toward the start of a list.
Normal Click (pushing like a mouse click) is a normal selection, works like an Enter key.
Doubleclicking (similar to a mouse) toggles mute.
Long Click (holding the encoder button down for 2 seconds).
The Apple Remote functions are as follows:
Up or Right Arrows function the same as a clockwise rotation of the encoder.
Down or Left Arrows function the same as a counterclockwise rotation of the encoder.
Center functions like a normal click or long click. There is no doubleclick functionality.
The Pause Button functions like a doubleclick (mute).
Menu is a hot key that eliminates the need for the Source Selection mode discussed below.
There are three main modes and one temporary mode:
Splash
Volume
Source Selection
Settings
Splash Mode
The splash screen typically displays company name and product and lasts for about 5 seconds.
During this time, all the nonvolatile settings from the dspMusik are transferred to the display
processor. This is how the display/encoder knows the current source selection, volume settings, etc.
This process is invisible on the display. During this time the encoder is ignored.
Volume Mode
The volume mode is the normal operating mode. It displays the volume setting in 0.5dB steps. 0dB is
maximum setting. It also displays the selected source. Volume level is independent for each source.
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 6
Rotating the encoder changes the volume for the selected source. Alternatively, you can use the Up,
Down, Left or Right buttons of the Apple Remote. Doubleclicking the encoder or pressing the Pause
button of the remote causes the system to mute or unmute for all sources. When the system is
muted, it is shown on the display.
Example Screen:
V o l u m e - 1 0 0 . 0 d B
S / P D I F M u t e d
Source Selection Mode
Source selection is invoked by a normal click of the encoder when starting in Volume Mode. Rotate
the encoder to the desired selection and press the encoder again. This will accept the new source
setting and return to Volume Mode. Alternatively, you can use the Apple Remote Menu button to
toggle through the selections. This is quicker and bypasses the Source Selection Mode (or returns to
Volume mode if already in Source Selection mode).
Example Screen:
S o u r c e S e l e c t i o n
S / P D I F
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 7
Settings Mode
Settings are a collection of configurations, information or test features that are used occasionally.
Different dspMusiks will likely have a different collection of choices since dspMusik displays are
routinely customized for specific OEM requirements.
Since Settings are accessed infrequently, the assumption is that its access should be somewhat slower
and decidedly intentional. To enter Settings, press the encoder for several seconds (Longclick) until
the display toggles to Settings. Then release the button. You can also do this with the Center button
of the Apple Remote.
S e t t i n g s
A D C L e v e l
You can rotate the encoder (or use the Apple Remote arrows) to move through the various selections.
Generally, pressing the encoder (Normal Click) will move you to a submenu or return you back to
the main Settings menu.
A D C L e v e l
P r o A u d i o + 4 d B u
It some cases, the selection is just informational.
V e r s i o n
2 . 0
.
0 . 0
There is one odd settings choice – Apple Remote Tester. This is not accessible directly from the
Apple Remote. Its purpose is to test the Apple Remote which is the reason why the Apple Remote
doesn’t directly access it. Otherwise, Apple Remote works as an alternative to the Encoder for all the
other items in the Settings Mode.
A p p l e R e m o t e
< P r e s s A B u t t o n >
To leave Setting go to the last selection – Exit and press the encoder. This takes you back to the
normal operation – Volume Mode.
S e t t i n g s
E x i t
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 8
dspblok Options
The dspMusik 2/8 is powered by an Analog Devices’ SHARC floating point DSP as implemented on a
Danville dspblok DSP module. There are a number of pin compatible dspbloks that will work with the
dspMusik. Historically, the dspMusik has been supplied with either the dspblok 21479u8a or the dspblok
21469+USB. The dspblok 21479u8a supports USB Audio Class 2 and operates at 250MHz. The dspblok
21469+USB does not support USB Audio Class 2. It used the USB port for control only.
The USB audio dspbloks have a companion processor that supports USB Audio Class 2 (UAC2). These are
supplied with Windows device drivers and are supported natively by Apple OS X and Linux.
The latest USB audio dspbloks are the dspblok 21489uac2 and dspblok 21469uac2. These combine the best
features of the previous dspbloks and are now the recommended choices for the dspMusik 2/8. Both of
these products take advantage of XMOS’s late generation XU208 processor that provides the USB Audio
Class 2 support.
dspblok 21469uac2
The dspblok 21469uac2 is powered by the Analog Devices ADSP-21469 operating at 450MHz. It is the most
powerful 4th generation Analog Devices’ DSP. It also includes external DDR2 SDRAM. The dspblok
21469uac2 is the best choice for systems where large FIRs or very long delays are going to be implemented.
This would be likely for large space acoustics applications.
dspblok 21489uac2
The dspblok 21489uac2 is powered by the Analog Devices ADSP-21489 operating at 400MHz. It is almost
as fast as the dspblok 21469uac2 at a lower cost. Since the dspblok 21489uac2 does not include external
SDRAM, it tends to the best choice for small space acoustics applications, for example studio monitors and
high performance consumer loudspeakers. There is still plenty of internal RAM for delay compensation and
moderate size FIRs as well as the ability to process a very large number of IIR filters.
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 9
Product Warranty
Danville Signal Processing, Inc. products carry the following warranty:
Danville Signal Processing products are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship. If Danville
Signal Processing receives notice of such defects during the warranty period, Danville Signal Processing shall,
at its option, either repair or replace hardware products, which prove to be defective.
Danville Signal Processing software and firmware products, which are designated by Danville Signal
Processing for use with our hardware products, are warranted not to fail to execute their programming
instructions due to defects in materials and workmanship. If Danville Signal Processing receives notice of
such defects during the warranty period, Danville Signal Processing shall, at its option, either repair or
replace software media or firmware, which do not execute their programming instructions due to such
defects. Danville Signal Processing does not warrant that operation of the software, firmware, or hardware
shall be uninterrupted or error free.
The warranty period for each product is one year from date of installation.
Limitation of Warranty:
The forgoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from:
Improper or inadequate maintenance by the Buyer;
Buyer-supplied software or interfacing;
Unauthorized modification or misuse;
Operation outside the environmental specification of the product;
Improper site preparation and maintenance.
Exclusive Remedies:
The remedies provided herein are the Buyer’s sole and exclusive remedies. In no event shall Danville Signal
Processing, Inc. be liable for direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages (including loss of
profits) whether based on contract, tort, or any other legal theory.
dspMusik™ 2/8 User Manual Page 10
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