The 9088iis Networked Signal Processor forms the heart of the Soundweb system. In a single rack space unit, it offers 8 analogue audio inputs, 8 analogue audio outputs, 200 MIPS of digital signal processing, a pair of network jacks, and a variety of control options.
The front panel of the 9088iis has a number of LEDs to allow a quick view of activity on the audio inputs and on the network. It also has a mini-DIN connector for an RS-232 serial port: this is normally used to connect a PC for system setup and control.
The rear panel contains the audio inputs and outputs and the network jacks. It also contains a second RS-232 port, which is normally used for control from an external controller such as AMX or Crestron. Finally, it contains a control connector: see section 4 Control options for a description of how this is used. Both control i/o and analogue i/o connections are made via "Phoenix" style two-part screw terminals; the female connectors are shipped with the Soundweb unit, so installation can be made with no soldering and no extra connectors to buy.
The 9088iis contains two preamplifier cards for the analogue inputs: each card handles four of, the inputs. Three types of card are available: the analogue line card, the analogue mic/line card and an AES/EBU Digital Input/Output card.
The line card gives a choice of two gain settings: 0 dB and 12 dB (intended as a pro/consumer switch). The mic/line card provides a range of gain settings from 0 dB to 72 dB, together with phantom power and phase reverse. In all Cases, each input can be switched individually.
The Digital input card holds two AES/EBU stereo inputs and outputs, with input sample rates from 32kHz to 96Khz. Output sample rates are user-selectable from 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz and 96kHz, and an external word-clock sync input is provided for house-reference.
BSS Audio
BSS Audio is world renowned for outstanding sound quality and reliable equipment that satisfies the real demands of professional musicians and high-profile installations. Products from BSS Audio are used on major tours, in recording and broadcast studios, churches, casinos, arenas, and nightclubs on every continent.
Why do so many sound industry veterans swear by BSS Audio? Because with every performance, installation, broadcast, and recording, these professionals put their reputations on the line. The pros demand superior sound quality and a proven track record. They can count on it with BSS Audio.
Used Input and Output Processors
Input/output processors are used for multichannel sound recording in real time. Capable of studio-grade fidelity, these specialized soundcards are used in professional sound engineering and make use of an audio stream input output protocol.
These kinds of I/O audio processor soundcards are fitted with multiple input and output connections, usually USB, FireWire or some kind of optical interface so that a larger amount of data can be carried than with a normal sound card. Input/output processors also emphasize higher fidelity and sampling rates, as they are intended for real-time audio mixing and multi-channel recording.
Due to their highly specialized nature, input/output processors are not considered practical for home users, as they lack certain features common in consumer soundcards, such as real-time ambience effects, environmental audio extensions and the ability to accelerate hardware in video games, as these are considered to be undesirable.
Input/output processors feature a specially designed protocol that is capable of handling numerous inputs and outputs for audio, as consumer soundcards have a sampling latency that is comparatively large, and therefore unsuitable for professional applications. Consumer soundcards simply take too long to convert and transfer a sound sample to the hard drive of a computer, and they are also limited in the amount of bit depths and effective sampling rates they can process. Input/output processors typically have multiple channels, rather than just the two provided on most consumer soundcards, and there connectors are more accessible.
