Update on the DSP side of things....
I had a very constructive conversation with miniDSP guys and I'm very - shall I say even "excited" as the DSP side of the MDAC2 platform has the possibility of being better then we envisaged.
No NDA has yet been signed so I'm not sure how much miniDSP will be happy about me discussing in public, but the loose idea is that we design our MDAC2's DSP hardware to be compatible with miniDSP framework - in fact I'll design in the DSP based upon MiniDSP recommendation, something along the lines of one of their existing platforms (or as common as possible).
The MDAC2 would be in-essences a subset of one of their DSP boards - only with the MDAC2 ADC / DAC as integrated frontend / backend hardware.
MiniDSP will provide a "authentication processor" which can be embedded within the MDAC2's existing MCU as a way of protecting and enabling their own software IP.
The direction of the discussions is that MiniDSP will directly support their package of DSP features via their own website and provide future DSP software support - MDAC2 owners can visit the miniDSP website and purchase / download any of the supported DSP software features.
We discussed about offering a basic "get you going" DSP package included as part of the initial MDAC2 release (downloadable via the miniDSP website as an introduction to the "world" of miniDSP), I'm thinking about basic tone controls, and possibly the RIAA EQ for the L3 units.
For MDAC2 owners who have no interest in the DSP this has
Zero impact on you, the DSP will still control the Advanced clock etc. you have no extra cost involved by having the miniDSP door open - but for those who wish to explore the more serous side of DSP can visit the MiniDSP website and explore to your hearts content
I just want to stress that enabling the MiniDSP support does not add ANY additional cost to the MDAC2 hardware (it just needs to be considered and enabled during design). As I've not yet started the Digital PCB it does not introduce any delay, in fact its helpful as it clarifies our DSP path - which will now based upon miniDSP's recommendation.
The MDAC2 will be software / firmware upgradable via the USB - each unit will have its own "authentication processor" with serial no. so its between miniDSP and MDAC2 owner what extra DSP features they choose to pay for and install at anytime in the future - it be nice if we receive a small commission for each software download to keep the lights on here in Czech Rep. but not a condition
I'm excited because this opportunity vastly expands the MDAC2 DSP feature set with SERIOUS room correction and other professional DSP features.
Its early days in the discussions, but we still will be able to offer DSP functions that miniDSP might not be interested in (so the MDAC2's DSP is still open for our own developments) - but when it comes to DSP software, miniDSP are in a totally different category to what would be our basic Mickey Mouse offerings... We design hardware and have no infrastructure or desire to support advanced DSP software.
We would support Multi channel (Daisy-chained) MDAC2's for speaker crossover design via miniDSP etc...
MDAC2 with its "Reference grade" DAC conversion, very decent ADC's and now advanced DSP support is going to be a very unique and stunning platform - I like the way its "naturally" developed and grown into such a impressive unit - thank you for your patience and support
I should lastly add, that nothings confirmed yet as miniDSP need to time to sit down and discuss amongst themselves if their is a strong enough businesses case. I have no idea what will happen with MDAC2 beyond the initial units, maybe someone will licence the design... who knows
my only concern is our "few" PFM units
after 3 years of my life developing the design, it be nice if the MDAC2 platform saw life beyond the initial batch but nothing I've made any serious consideration for ATM - I'm a designer not a production manufacturer....