Martin Audio DX4.0-DANTE – 4-In 8-Out Networked DSP Processor

Dante Availability Notice: Due to the global shortage of Brooklyn II Dante network cards, the DX4.0 controller no longer includes Dante as standard. Dante-equipped units are available for approved projects. Contact technical@martin-audio.com for Dante system design support.

Product Overview

The Martin Audio DX4.0-DANTE is a four-input, eight-output networked loudspeaker processor, controller, and matrix providing complete signal management for professional loudspeaker systems in commercial AV and live sound installations. Operating at a 96kHz sampling frequency with state-of-the-art audio converters, the DX4.0 delivers a nominally flat response well beyond 40kHz, setting the benchmark for converter and DSP transparency in a dedicated loudspeaker processor. Dante digital audio networking, analogue, and AES3 inputs, combined with remote control and monitoring over Ethernet via Martin Audio VU-NET software, make the DX4.0 a flexible front-end processor and matrix for complex multi-zone, multi-system amplification architectures built around iKON amplifiers and Martin Audio loudspeakers.

Product Description

The DX4.0's four input channels and eight output channels support flexible matrix routing, allowing any input signal or combination of inputs to be assigned and processed independently to any output channel. Each output channel carries the full suite of DSP tools required for professional loudspeaker system alignment, including parametric EQ, all-pass filters, high- and low-pass crossover filters, time-delay, and VX limiting. VX limiting models the thermal and mechanical behaviour of connected loudspeaker transducers, providing the same level of active protection for passive enclosures as a fully active bi-amp system would deliver through a dedicated amplifier DSP.

The 96kHz DSP architecture supports FIR filter optimisation for Martin Audio's O-Line ceiling loudspeaker series, enabling linear-phase correction of the O-Line array's complex directivity characteristics in fixed installation deployments. When used with Martin Audio U-Hub, the DX4.0 can distribute both digital audio and network control to an MLA Series array or subwoofer system over a single cable connection, simplifying infrastructure for large-scale touring and install productions. The Dante input channels allow the DX4.0 to serve as the primary front-of-house matrix in a networked system, receiving audio from a Dante-enabled mixing console or stagebox and distributing processed signals to iKON amplifiers via Dante output. Global mains operation across 100–240V, 50–60Hz supports deployment in any regional mains environment without modification.

Key Features

• 4-In 8-Out Matrix Routing — Full input-to-output matrix assignment with independent DSP processing per output channel for complex multi-zone system architectures.
• 96kHz DSP Processing — State-of-the-art converters and DSP algorithms deliver nominally flat response beyond 40kHz for transparent loudspeaker management.
• Analogue, AES3, and Dante Inputs — Multi-format input support for analogue consoles, digital stagebox systems, and Dante-networked audio environments.
• VX Limiting — Transducer thermal and mechanical modelling provides active loudspeaker protection equivalent to fully active bi-amp systems on passive enclosures.
• FIR Optimisation for O-Line — Linear-phase FIR filter processing tailored for Martin Audio O-Line ceiling array directivity correction in fixed installation.
• Comprehensive DSP Toolset — Parametric EQ, all-pass filters, high/low-pass crossover filters, and time-delay on every output channel for precise system alignment.
• VU-NET Ethernet Control — Remote configuration, preset management, real-time metering, and system monitoring from a centralised VU-NET workstation.
• Global Mains Operation — 100–240V, 50–60Hz auto-sensing for international touring and fixed installation deployment.

Typical Applications

• Houses of worship with complex multi-zone loudspeaker systems requiring centralised DSP management
• Auditoriums and performing arts centres deploying Martin Audio O-Line ceiling arrays or MLA Series line arrays
• Broadcast studios requiring transparent, high-sample-rate loudspeaker processing and matrix routing
• Multi-purpose venues with front-of-house matrix requirements for distributed amplification via iKON amplifiers
• Government and institutional facilities integrating Dante audio distribution with structured loudspeaker system management

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the DX4.0 a standalone processor or does it require iKON amplifiers?

The DX4.0 is a standalone loudspeaker processor and matrix that can drive any compatible amplifier via its eight analogue outputs or AES3 digital outputs. Dante output to iKON amplifiers is the recommended architecture for fully networked Martin Audio systems.

What does VX limiting do that standard clip limiting does not?

VX limiting models the thermal mass and mechanical excursion limits of specific loudspeaker transducers, applying dynamic gain reduction before thermal damage or mechanical over-excursion occurs. Standard clip limiting only responds to amplifier output level, not transducer condition.

Can the DX4.0 be used with non-Martin Audio loudspeakers?

Yes. The DX4.0 provides a full DSP toolset applicable to any loudspeaker system. VX limiting is specific to Martin Audio transducer models, but all other processing tools function independently of loudspeaker brand.

Is Dante included as standard on the DX4.0-DANTE?

Due to the Brooklyn II card shortage, Dante is not currently included as standard. Units are available for approved Dante projects. Contact technical@martin-audio.com for project-specific configuration.

How does the DX4.0 integrate with the U-Hub?

The Martin Audio U-Hub accepts a single cable connection from the DX4.0 and distributes both digital audio and network control signals to an MLA Series array or subwoofer system, significantly simplifying cabling infrastructure for large system deployments.

What is the benefit of 96kHz DSP in a loudspeaker processor?

Operating at 96kHz provides a wider frequency domain for FIR and IIR filter design, reducing group delay artefacts and extending the usable bandwidth of all-pass and high-pass filters beyond what is achievable at 48kHz sample rates.

Where can I find compatible Martin Audio amplifiers and loudspeakers?

Visit creationnetworks.net/collections/martin-audio to browse the full Martin Audio range including iKON amplifiers, XE monitors, and O-Line ceiling arrays.