ASHLY NE24.24M 8X4 Protea DSP Audio Matrix Processor 8-In x 4-Out

Product Overview

The Ashly NE24.24M 8X4 is a Protea DSP audio matrix processor configured with 8 inputs and 4 outputs, built on the modular NE24.24M platform that uses field-installable expansion cards to reach the 8x4 configuration from the 4x4 base unit. A dedicated signal processor without amplification, the NE24.24M 8X4 handles matrix routing and DSP processing for commercial AV systems in boardrooms, conference rooms, and multi-purpose facilities where 8 source inputs are distributed to 4 output zones. The Protea DSP engine provides equalization, dynamics, crossover filtering, delay up to 1365ms, automatic feedback suppression, and matrix routing, controlled via 10/100 Ethernet and RS-232 with 31 preset locations and third-party control system compatibility.

Product Description

The NE24.24M 8X4 is well suited for installations where multiple audio sources need to be flexibly distributed to a smaller number of amplified output zones. With 8 balanced analog inputs and 4 balanced analog outputs, the 8x4 configuration handles source selection and mixing for systems where 4 amplifier zones are served by multiple input sources such as microphones, program sources, and playback devices. Each expansion card in the modular chassis carries its own dedicated DSP processor, providing per-channel processing power for equalization, dynamics, crossover filtering, delay, and matrix routing. Any of the 8 inputs can be routed to any of the 4 outputs with individual level control, and the fixed path architecture reduces programming complexity compared to fully flexible DSP platforms. Euroblock connectors on all audio I/O, preset recall inputs, and DC remote level control provide connections for wall remotes and room control systems. The optional GPO logic card provides general-purpose outputs for triggering projection screens, curtains, and lighting control. Input and output levels are viewable in dBu for accurate field calibration. With multi-level software security and the free Ashly Remote iOS app, the NE24.24M 8X4 is manageable from both PC software and mobile devices.

Key Features

• 8-Input x 4-Output Matrix — Full any-to-any routing with individual level control at every routing point.
• Modular Expandability — Field-installable expansion cards add 4 channels per card up to 24x24 maximum.
• Individual DSP Per Card — Dedicated DSP processor per expansion card for per-channel processing.
• Protea DSP Library — Variable-Q EQ, crossover filters, auto feedback suppression, dynamics, delay up to 1365ms.
• 24-Bit A/D and D/A — High-resolution audio conversion throughout the signal chain.
• Ethernet and RS-232 Control — 10/100 Ethernet for Protea NE software; RS-232 for third-party control systems.
• 31 Preset Locations — Store and recall complete system configurations.
• iOS Remote App — Free Ashly Remote iOS app for tablet-based field control.
• Optional GPO Logic Card — Trigger projection screens, curtains, and lighting from the processor.
• RoHS Compliant — Environmental certification for commercial installations.

Typical Applications

• Conference rooms with multiple source inputs and 4 audio zones
• Boardrooms requiring flexible source-to-zone routing
• Multi-purpose rooms and training facilities
• Houses of worship with 8 sources and 4 output zones
• Government meeting rooms with complex source routing

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the NE24.24M 8X4 an amplifier?

No. The NE24.24M 8X4 is a DSP audio matrix processor only. External power amplifiers are required to drive loudspeakers from the 4 output channels.

When would I choose the 8X4 over the 8X8 configuration?

The 8X4 is the right choice when the installation has 8 audio sources but requires only 4 output zones or amplifier feeds. The 8X8 provides equal input and output counts for installations needing 8 independent zones. The 8X4 typically costs less and is more compact for simpler source-to-zone ratios.

Can the NE24.24M 8X4 be expanded?

Yes. Additional expansion cards can be added to reach up to 24x24 total channels. Cards are field-installable without reprogramming.

What is the GPO Logic Card and how does it install?

The optional GPO Logic Card installs in place of a 4-input or 4-output expansion card in one of the expansion slots. It provides general-purpose relay outputs for triggering projection screens, curtains, and lighting from audio events or timed commands.

What control options are available beyond Ethernet?

In addition to 10/100 Ethernet, the NE24.24M 8X4 includes RS-232 for third-party control systems, and Euroblock inputs for DC remote level control and contact-closure preset recall from wall panels and room controllers.