A good car audio system makes our journey or trip more enjoyable. Whether you are going for a family vacation or on any tour with friends, music in loudspeakers at the car is a must, isn’t it?
Therefore, if you want to get the best audio system for your car you should go for the DSP car audio because here you will get a good sound quality as well as a great bass. Moreover, DSP is the best solution to the bad audio quality and tuning problems.
But, what DSP actually is? In full form it is Digital Signal Processor; a device processing sound signals for optimizing the sound quality that the speaker reproduces.
Besides, for high performance, excellent quality sound along precise tuning, the DSP car audio is a great one. However, finding out a great quality DSP audio system that suits your requirements is not that easy task, as there are so many options out there in the market. Thus, this is exactly where the feature comes into play!
After a good amount of research, plus considering the users’ requirements and budget I have shortlisted the best DSP ( Digital Signal Processor) car audio systems available in the market. And, I am sure any one of the items reviewed here will attract you. Not only that, this article also tells you about the factors that should be considered while choosing the best DSP car audio. So, let’s get started.
What factors to consider while choosing the Best DSP Car Audio?
As stated earlier, there is various DSP car audio available in the market at present. All these devices are different from each other in terms of features as well as design. You have to pick one for your car that fulfills your need, and I believe, choosing the perfect device is not always easy, that too when you have lots of options.
Therefore, one should know about the important considerations in order to make the best choice. So, here are some important factors the buyers can consider to get the best DSP car audio for themselves.
Equalizer
It is important to have a DSP that comes with an equalizer. Because an equalizer lets the user control various audio frequencies from the sources and also output the sort of audio you want. The more the number of equalizer bands the user’s DSP has, the more control level he/she has over the device’s frequencies. Not only that, if you have a good number of bands, you will also get more ability to fine-tune the periodicity of your car’s audio system.
Bluetooth connectivity
Nowadays, who buys devices not having wireless connectivity? It not only makes your work easier but also saves your time in so many ways. So, go for the DSP supporting Bluetooth connectivity, as it will let your smartphone or other gadgets connect with the DSP and form a wireless configuration with the applications that are supported. Also, it will help you to get a cable-free car which makes it look less messy. Plus, besides streaming music wirelessly from your smartphone, this feature also allows your phone to be used as the sound source.
Time alignment
Many people don’t consider time alignment that important, but it is actually something that you should consider. Let me explain; you might know that the sound waves move a little slowly in the atmosphere, which is why there is a bit of delay in between the time when the audio exists in the speaker & the time it comes to the listener’s ear. This might produce echo and can weaken its performance.
Therefore, a DSP having the functionality of time alignment can help to delay the audio that is reproduced by the closest speaker so that the sound from both the closest and farthest speaker will reach the listener at the same time. Plus, this functionality helps to eliminate subtle echo and produce a higher sound quality for the listeners.
Crossover
A crossover has some filters which include the low pass filters & high pass filters. These filters help to abolish any unwanted lower as well as upper frequencies causing distortion.
Number of output channels
It is an essential feature to consider when it comes to efficient performance in the processors. We know, a signal pass via the channel to reach the audio device. Having a higher channel number means that the system can process more data and signals. Also, it determines how many speakers the user can connect to. So, it would be wise to go for the DSP audio system offering more channels or at least make sure that your DSP has a minimum of 4 output channels. Plus, if anyone wishes to add up a sub, they must ensure it has a channel for adding a sub. Therefore, the more channels your device has got the more it will let you add speakers for a great sound.
Frequency Response
Frequency response defines an audible range that any audio speaker can emit. The higher the frequency of the speaker reaches, the louder the audio gets.
Moreover, a device with a frequency response or a device that can deliver louder sound might sometimes face a bit of unwanted distortion, which is why you better check if the DSP audio device is compatible with your car.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
THD is the harmonic distortion rate available in any signal that is generated & inputted. It is also the ratio of the power of the harmonics to frequencies. Thus, it is important to get devices with a small THD percentage, if the user wants to get a nice and clear sound.
Well, wondering how will you find the THD rating? Check the top of the box of your product; it shall be written there. Else, you can ask any one of the stores while buying.
The Size
I usually don’t consider the size and dimension as the factors to check while buying; unless it is for cars.
The weight and dimension are the deciding components. You should definitely go with the size that suits your vehicle but I would suggest avoiding the heavy systems, even if your car can fit it. Because it is very difficult to install and maintain heavy systems. Hence, go for the lighter one to get an easier installation.
So, in short, before buying measure the place’s (where you want to keep the car audio) dimensions and buy according to the measurement and also try to go with the one having a lighter or standard weight.
Warranties and Price
Always try to decide a price range in between which you want to buy your device, otherwise, you will get confused.
And would like to invest money fixing your brand new product? If not, then it is very important to check whether your device has got any warranty or not before buying it.
Quick Size Comparison Table of the best DSP car audio:
Taramp’s Pro 2.6
The Pro 2.6 DSP of Taramp is designed especially for enhancing the user’s overall experience with his/her car audio system. This device has two input channels along with six output channels, which are independent and that’s why the output channels can be used individually.
Moreover, this DSP car audio has some great and practically useful features, which are discussed below.
Product’s Highlights:
- The Taramp’s Pro 2.6 DSP car audio comes with an adjustable limiter making it easier to use.
- This device features a scroll screen, with the help of which the user can make simultaneous adjustments.
- It comes with a parametric equalizer as well as crossover routing filters.
How does it Perform?
As mentioned earlier, this DSP features an adjustable limiter. The limiter comes with 3 adjustable options which include active, automatic, and off. Moreover, 3 settings include release in approx 1ms – 4000ms range, threshold in a range of 20dB – 0dB and attack in approx 1ms – 900ms range. Overall, the limiter works nicely.
Besides, the sound quality is decent enough. It successfully produces a louder sound which helps you to enjoy the ambiance more.
Another highlight of this DSP car audio is the scroll button. This feature is great and with its help, you can make simultaneous adjustments easily. It is quite easy to use and simpler to operate.
With just a single touch on the button one can switch to the next menu and with the help of a long touch (meaning touch the button for max 2 seconds), one can go back to the previous menu.
Moving on, it features a parametric equalizer which is a 3-band for each of the outputs. This equalizer has a central frequency of between 20 Hz & 20 kHz range. Besides, the
high pass and lower pass filters of Pro 2.6 DSP separate the input to output signals’ frequency ranges in order to get an optimized and balanced sound quality.
Furthermore, this car audio is designed in a very nice way which has a memory for the adjustment functionality. It is a great attribute, which lets the DSP store the recent adjustments so that, even if the power is gone the user won’t lose the new/updated settings.
Overall, this car audio is good for those who are looking for an easy to use DSP audio device with some real-time adjustments. That said, its LCD screen, as well as intuitive interface, will definitely be a great help for the users.
Pros
First of all, the features of this DSP car audio are great! Also, it is very easy to operate. Besides, its mute function, delay adjustment, and 3-band equalizer are awesome. Not only that, its scroll screen feature helps the user to make simultaneous adjustments.
Cons
In spite of its great features, it has one big drawback that might forbid you from buying it. That is, the Taramp’s Pro 2.6 DSP car audio does not support Bluetooth connectivity. And also sometimes, it is difficult for some users to configure the device, especially if you are a first-time DSP user.
Dayton Audio DSP-408
The Dayton Audio DSP-408 is another super great DSP car audio on our list which comes with the ability to increase the sound system’s quality of the car. Also, this versatile device is filled with various features, a user interface, as well as a high-quality sound processing.
Product’s Highlights:
The features of this device are enough for making your device a perfect audio system, let us have a look:
- The Dayton Audio DSP-408 is connected and controlled with the user’s PC.
- It comes with a 10-band equalizer and six presets.
- This DSP supports Bluetooth connectivity.
How does it Perform?
Firstly, the Dayton audio DSP-408 is user-friendly. It can be connected with your PC and through it, the device can access the GUI or the graphical user interface which is Windows-based. The Dayton audio designed its GUI which makes it very easy to set up the DSP.
That said, the GUI provides all the necessary tools for enhancing the audio output of the user’s system.
Moreover, this DSP features eight output channels where each channel comes with a low & high-shelf equalizer. These equalizers boost the sound signals before the set frequency. In addition to that, the high-end tremble is processed by the high shelf filter, whereas the bass bottoms are processed by the low shelf filter.
Further, it also comes with 6 presets. Interestingly, you can customize each present’s name so that it becomes easy for you to configure the DSP according to your needs. Not only that, but other operations are also present to save, load, recall, or delete the preset files in Dayton audio DSP.
Another great thing about DSP-408 is its Bluetooth connectivity, which was absent in the previously discussed model. Its connectivity options make it an excellent digital signal processor for your car audio.
Also, one can buy the Dayton Audio Bluetooth dongle separately for connecting the DSP with his/her phone and set up it with the iOS or Android mobile application. In addition, the users can use their smartphone for streaming music wirelessly to the DSP via the Bluetooth dongle.
This DSP car audio’s best thing is that you do not have to worry about any sort of voltage issues as its operating voltage is quite wide. Most importantly, it assures you protection for reverse voltage, minimum voltage, and maximum voltage.
Overall, the Dayton Audio DSP-408 is very good car audio with nice sound quality, which can as well be used as a home sound system. Therefore, there is no limitation on where to use it.
Pros
It provides great sound quality, time alignment, I/O mixing, and also mounting hardware. Also, this device comes with an optional remote (wired). Plus, it also comes with 6 presets and you can customize each present’s name so that it becomes easy for you to configure the DSP according to your needs.
Cons
This DSP car audio sometimes produces a slight hissing sound at the maximum volume. Also, few users felt the Bluetooth connection should have been more strong. Other than that no major complaints.
EXPERT 6-CH
The Expert 6 ch is well known for its innovative design. The users can control every element of the sound equalization of their car audio system. Also, this highly versatile DSP car audio is packed with various features that are responsible for enhancing as well as customizing the car audio system.
Product’s Highlights:
- This DSP features a digital LED display and a digital crossover having four stereo and eight mono outputs.
- Its ‘Connect function’ makes it possible for the users to control their DSP car audio remotely.
- The Expert 6 ch accepts 6 output as well as 4 input channels.
How does it Perform?
This DSP car audio is easy to operate, even for beginners. One can customize the desired output channel just by selecting it. After that, the user needs to use the rotary encoder for actualizing the settings. Isn’t it easy?
Moreover, it comes with a digital LED display that displays various details in just 2 lines. That is the reason, it becomes possible for the users to view maximum controls easily. Therefore, it is quite easy to know about the current and new settings the user is applying for ungraded control.
Furthermore, the DSP features a digital crossover having four stereo and eight mono outputs. Besides, the crossover consumes a range of 20 to 22 kHz high pass filter, again 20 to 22 kHz low pass filter, along with comprising 12dB, 24dB, & 48dB (8th) attenuation filter.
In addition, the Expert 6 ch accepts 6 output as well as 4 input channels. Plus, this device can also equalize 18 parametric and 28 graphic bands, which gives in a total of 46 bands(!). Besides, the equalization frequencies support in between 40 Hz – 16 kHz range approx.
Another feature in the DSP named ‘Connect function’ is quite interesting as I haven’t found it in most other devices. It makes it possible for you to control your DSP car audio remotely; just through Bluetooth connect it with the mobile application. So if you are bored with the onboard controls, then go for this Expert 6 ch.
Overall, this DSP gives the users entire freedom to customize their car audio. Not only it provides you with various options, but also it is great at customization in terms of audio equalization.
Pros
This device has very simplified commands which make it easier to use. It accepts 6 output as well as 4 input channels. Plus, this device can equalize 18 parametric and 28 graphic bands, which gives in a total of 46 bands. Also, it has a digital LED display of 24-bit resolution, plus its Bluetooth connectivity is also great.
Cons
The packaging can be improved.
Stetsom STX 2448
The Digital Audio Processor; Stetsom STX 2448 is one of the best car DSP audio in the market. Its innovative design and modern technology increased its craze among the users. Also, it is capable to make various adjustments for improved customization.
Product’s Highlights:
- It features an intuitive interface that guides the users on how to use the Stetsom STX 2448.
- This digital signal processor has an audio limiter, crossover function, and integrated equalizer.
How does it Perform?
Firstly let us know about the flexibility of this device. You will be very happy to know that, the Stetsom STX 2448 is very user-friendly (like the other devices on this list). Luckily, this DSP’s intuitive interface guides the users on how to use the Stetsom STX 2448. Therefore, even if someone is using it for the first time, she/he won’t face any problem. This interface along with an LCD screen helps to make different parameters adjustments to the car’s audio system.
Besides, this device has 2 A & B labeled audio inputs as well as 4 completely independent outputs. Also, the users can select the audio source according to their preference, for example, A, B, or even A+B. Also, the outputs let the user for improved customization.
Talking about the sound quality, I found it good enough. Moreover, the audio output that you get from the car sound system, can also be controlled by utilizing the crossover function. Not only that, but also the crossover function also helps to define the topology of the low as well as high pass filters, cut frequencies, and the attenuation rate.
Further, this digital signal processor has an audio limiter. This limiter uses a dynamic mechanism for controlling any attack as well as release parameters. This protects the car speakers and car amplifiers. Plus, it also assures sound accuracy. Hence, it not only keeps you tension-free but also provides quality.
Lastly, it has an integrated equalizer that features a graphic EQ of 15-band. The user can control this feature via manual tuning for improved customization. Else, enjoy the advantages of the 12 presets to get a decent equalization.
Also, for professional equalization, the device comes with 5 parametric equalizer settings which help in equalizer bandwidth and comprising gain control.
Overall, it is both well-functioned and inexpensive DSP car audio.
Pros
The Stetsom STX 2448 is affordable, provides great sound, and is compactly built. Also, the audio limiter feature of this device uses a dynamic mechanism for controlling any attack as well as release parameters. This protects the car speakers and car amplifiers. Plus, it also assures sound accuracy.
Cons
The major drawback of this DSP car audio is that it lacks English Instructions. Plus, it doesn’t support any remote control as well.
Rockford Fosgate DSR1
The DSR1 of Rockford Fosgate is one of the most loved high-end audio devices, especially when talked about cars. It comes with great features and also an interactive app, making it easier for the users to operate.
The signal processor of DSR1 is designed for replacing factory speakers and amps in any Ford & Chrysler vehicle. Doing this one can enhance his./her car’s sound system.
Product’s Highlights:
- This DSP car audio supports an interactive mobile app for controlling the device.
- It also supports Bluetooth connectivity.
- It has a 4 channel input, 245 bands precise equalizer, and a flashable module.
How does it Perform?
To start with, the DSP supports Bluetooth connectivity, which is why you don’t have to use any wire for connecting the device with your smartphone if you don’t want to. It uses Bluetooth 4.0 technology and provides you with faster, stronger, and stable wireless connectivity.
Moreover, as stated earlier, the DSR1 supports an interactive mobile app for controlling the device. This app is very easy to use for all types of users; so don’t be tensed if you are a noob. Besides, the app is also available in both iOS & Android operating systems.
Furthermore, it has 8 output channels. Also, it features four-channel inputs, which are categorized in the following way:
- 4 channel high-level inputs ( this one comes with a sense turn-on signal functionality)
- SPDIF coaxial inputs
- 4 channel differential units
- RCA Auxiliary inputs
The most amazing thing about this digital signal processor and also the reason behind making it one of the best in its 245 bands precise equalizer. Also, the frequency bands that are supported by this DSP are very wide, which is why the users can easily tune the audio precisely. Plus, the audio quality is also good.
In addition, the flashable module of this DSP gives the users option to install firmware (vehicle-specific) for making it nicely cooperate with the factory functionalities. Otherwise, they can also use it with high or low-level input.
Overall, the Rockford Fosgate DSR1 is nice performing, however, it gives its 100% only in Chrysler or Ford vehicles.
Pros
It comes with a USB port ( micro), has great time alignment, and an adjustable crossover. It uses Bluetooth 4.0 technology and provides you with faster, stronger, and stable wireless connectivity. This DSP also supports an interactive mobile app for controlling the device which is very easy to use for all types of users.
Cons
It gives its 100% only in Chrysler or Ford vehicles, but can it be called a drawback, as they have designed the Rockford Fosgate DSR1 specifically for these car models?
AudioControl DM-608
The AudioControl DM-608 DSP is known for its flexibility and amazing features. Also, the device contains remote in, remote out, and other remote level control. Moreover, in order to deliver an accurate tuning to the users, it comes with 8 output channels & 6 input channels.
Product’s Highlights:
- The AudioControl DM-608 DSP has multiple input & output channels.
- It comes with a USB port using which the users can connect their PC with the device.
- It features the AccuBASS technology.
- This DSP has variable crossover with a low-pass filter, high-pass filter, and bandpass filter.
How does it Perform?
As I have started with its output and input channels, let us finish talking about it at first. The 6 input channels in This DSP comprise the speaker level inputs, maximized inputs as well as live level inputs. Similarly, the 8 output channels comprise the maximized outputs along with the line outputs.
Besides, the users can connect their PC with the AudioControl DM-608 DSP via the USB port that comes with it. In this way, they can access the car audio from their Mac & Windows PC, plus make required adjustments and change different settings with the help of the included software; ‘AudioControl’.
Like the other best DSP, this device also features a variable crossover with a low-pass filter, high-pass filter, and bandpass filter. These filters help the DSP to filter 20 Hz to 20 kHz ranged frequencies at 24 dB/ octave (or 12 dB /octave).
Further, it has unique functionality, named as signal summing feature which lets the device combine many input signals into the desired output channel. This feature really helps to sum the highs and mids output into full-range sound output. So, if you have a factory car sound system, you can get this DSP audio for better performance.
In addition, the AccuBASS tech of this device is one of its incredible features which is also capable of making it possible to restore the bass frequencies on the factory car sound systems. Note that, the factory car sound systems usually spill bass when the volume is maximum.
Overall, this DSP is a quite decent one, which has a good number of outputs & input, and user friendly software.
Pros
It comes with a 30-band equalizer, and variable crossover with a low-pass filter, high-pass filter, and bandpass filter. Moreover, its signal delay as well as GTO signal sense is great. Plus, you can access the car audio from your Mac & Windows PC, and make required adjustments, also, change different settings with the help of its user-friendly software; ‘AudioControl’.
Cons
This DSP won’t suit everyone’s pocket and it does not have any display screen.
Sony XM-GS6DSP
One of the most oldest and famous manufacturers of audio equipment, Sony’s XM-GS6DSP is designed as a DSP, with great design and quality.
Product’s Highlights:
- Sony XM-GS6DSP can be controlled with a smartphone; both Android and iOS.
- It features adjustable crossovers, a selection switch function, and a graphical equalizer.
How does it Perform?
The Sony XM-GS6DSP is easy to operate as it can be controlled from the user’s smartphone via the app.
Also, this app supports both Android and iOS and it allows several configuration options. Plus, it gives ease to control the overall device.
Also, from the app, the user can control the signal delay and graphic equalizer. The signal delay can be adjusted in an orbit of 1 cm steps for the right, left, rear as well as front channels. On the other hand, the delay for the woofer channels can be adjusted in approx 30 to 300 cm range. It also comes with presents which include custom, right, left, all, and front listening positions.
In addition, the graphical equalizer features 10 equalization bands and most interestingly, it has nine preset curves, plus one karaoke setting option for all the singers out there.
Moreover, this DSP comes with adjustable crossovers, with a high-pass filter of range 500 Hz to 4 kHz (it is featured by the front tweeter subwoofer) and a low-pass filter of range 50 Hz to 500 Hz (it is featured by the front subwoofer channels). Besides, the rear channels feature 2 crossovers, where one has a low pass filter and the other one has a high pass filter.
Another great feature of the Sony XM-GS6DSP is its selection switch function. Featuring on the rear channels, it helps to decide which channels to operate with only high-pass filters and which channels to function as the bandpass configuration having both the high and low pass filters activated. Plus, one can use the bass boost as well to control the woofer channel.
Overall, this device is an audio booster, making your car audio system excellent.
Pros
The Sony XM-GS6DSP has a compact design, a user-friendly app and also ensures secured Bluetooth pairing. Moreover, it features 10 equalization bands and most interestingly, it has nine preset curves, plus one karaoke setting option for all the singers out there.
Cons
Again, this DSP car audio system won’t be flexible for everyone’s pocket and its Bluetooth pairing in the iOS gadgets has to be done manually, which is a bit troublesome for some users.
Conclusion
DSP audio systems work like art. Their superior performance, sound quality, and distortion-less audio even at maximum volume is something everyone would love. And, having it would definitely enhance the sophistication as well as the versatility of your car.
The best DSP comes with a vast amount of customization options combined with the other features a user wants. Also, I have given you a big list of what to consider while buying one; but even if you don’t give emphasize the other factors, you must check if the DSP car audio has 3 functionalities which are an equalizer, crossover, and time alignment. Also, have many output channels would be a bonus.
Anyways, if you are thinking about how to impress any crush of yours or try to be cool among your sound enthusiast friends, buying one of these best DSP car audio can help.
Plus it will enhance your own car experience as well!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This FAQ section is here to help you even more! You may have some question! don’t worry this section got you covered with some of the most asked questions.
What factors I must consider while buying a DSP car audio?
There are lots. But try to ensure 3 functionalities which are an equalizer, crossover, and time alignment.
Do I need a DSP car audio?
It’s completely your choice. However, for high performance, excellent quality sound along precise tuning, the DSP car audio is a great one.
Is having a time alignment feature in the DSP car audio that necessary?
I would say yes. Many people don’t consider time alignment that important, but it is actually something that you should consider. Let me explain; you might know that the sound waves move a little slowly in the atmosphere, which is why there is a bit of delay in between the time when the audio exists in the speaker & the time it comes to the listener’s ear. This might produce echo and can weaken its performance.
Therefore, a DSP having the functionality of time alignment can help to delay the audio that is reproduced by the closest speaker so that the sound from both the closest and farthest speaker will reach the listener at the same time. Plus, this functionality helps to eliminate subtle echo and produce a higher sound quality for the listeners.
How is the Dayton Audio DSP-408? Does it have any drawbacks?
The Dayton Audio DSP-408 is very good car audio with nice sound quality, which can as well be used as a home sound system. Therefore, there is no limitation on where to use it. Talking about drawbacks, this DSP-408 car audio sometimes produces a slight hissing sound at the maximum volume. Also, few users felt the Bluetooth connection should have been more strong. Other than that no major complaints.
I am a complete noob, and don’t know how to configure the DSP, suggest a very easy and operate to use best DSP amplifier for car audio.
I would recommend the Stetsom STX 2448. It is very user-friendly (there are many other user-friendly DSP as well). Luckily, this DSP’s intuitive interface guides the users on how to use the Stetsom STX 2448. Since you are using it for the first time, it would be easy for you to go with this, and hopefully, you won’t face any problems.
Student and Tech journalist.
