AudioControl has introduced a new flagship surround sound processor: the Hyperion APR-16. Featuring 16 channels of immersive audio processing, AudioControl explains that the APR-16 was developed to accommodate increasingly complex home cinema configurations through independent, single-path optimization, leading to what the company says should be more flexible systems able to adapt around room characteristics.
Hyperion APR-16 engineered from the start with Dirac in mind
One element of the APR-16 AudioControl points out is that the processor was incepted with use of Dirac audio optimization in mind. The process has integrations for both Dirac Live and Dirac Active Room Treatment (ART), leveraging Dirac’s algorithms to model and correct complex acoustic artifacts resulting from loudspeaker-listening environment interactions.
Because of this, the system can analyze various parameters—including time-domain response, frequency linearity, and spatial reflection patterns—to implement precise corrective filters for clarity and tonal balance, lending to a more immersive listening environment.
Audio optimization through HAA Link is also available on the APR-16—making it one of the first components to be certified for use of HAA Link software by the Home Acoustics Alliance. The caveat is that this needs to be purchased by the end-user and implemented by trained audio calibrators.
Still, once activated, the tool allows integrators to perform extensive calibration using the HAA Link App, instead of having to go through the processor’s interface.
AudioControl audio design paired with AVPro Edge networking expertise
Additional components that come with the APR-16.
Beyond calibration capabilities, AudioControl says that the APR-16 was conceived as an entirely in-house project, with teams from both AudioControl and AVPro Edge working on the audio design and networking capabilities, respectively.
As with all Hyperion products, the APR-16 is designed to adhere to all 22 benchmarks for audio design by CEDIA/CTA-RP22.
The processor comes with premium 32-bit ESS Sabre DACs, studio-grade pixel-accurate HDMI video, 24-bit / 192 kHz sampling rate support, alongside a comprehensive array of analog outputs with extensive routing capabilities. Built-in HDCP and EDID management was put in to ensure compatibility between multiple sources and displays.
Being compatible with any control system out the gate, the processor also has integrations with Dante/AES67 for networked audio distribution, accommodating multizone entertainment systems through a built-in 4-port Ethernet switch (two in and two out) with that same Dante/AES67 capability.
Of course, AudioControl also points out that the APR-16 is built to work in unison with its amplifier counterparts—the Tetra, Penta and Hepta—within larger home audio setups.
Why integrators should take note
While plenty buzzy, immersive audio is quickly becoming—if it isn’t already—an expected part of any high-end home theater system. However, assuming immersive audio is a more premium consideration, the room correction capabilities of the APR-16 are something that integrators are going to want to pay attention to.
Not only will those expand the range of environments that can support immersive audio, but they will also work to improve the audio profile of even the most unconventional rooms, allowing for more non-traditional (but still high performing) audio setups.
The HAA Link integration is noteworthy as well, considering it was originally conceived to simplify calibration by allowing it to be done through a unified interface that remains consistent across different hardware environments.
Availability
The AudioControl APR-16 is available now.
