Outline’s Newton is an all-new FPGA-based processing platform designed to be the management and control core for audio networks in touring, broadcast and fixed installation applications.
Newton provides management of 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, all in a 1U networkable chassis.
A unique system topology is provided by 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 (patent pending) 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 3 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.
While Newton 16 is an all-digital device, Newton 16+4 and Newton 16+8 add local analogue inputs and outputs. Newton 16+4 adds 4 auxiliary analogue inputs and outputs while Newton 16+8 adds 8 auxiliary analogue inputs and outputs. Each analogue input is also provided with additional processing and matrix allowing inputs to be processed, routed and mixed into the main matrix.
All 3 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.
The new device will be presented at Prolight + Sound, Frankfurt, 12 April 2018.