FM Audio Processor

Falcon audio processors integrate many extra though needful features for the radio workflow: RDS coding (optional) and Stereo Generator or innovative technologies such as DAB and audio over IP.

Falcon series equipment ensures top quality performances and high level audio. It features powerful DPSs, 5-bands architecture, dual bands AGCs, 3-bands equalizer, stereo enhancer, speech detector and 5 limiters.

The comprehensive and accurate control of each audio parameter allows to perfectly shape the audio to broadcast unique and exceptional branded sound.

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Complete set of inputs

Extended Changeover/Silence Detector with configurable source priorities out of the following sources: 1xAnalog, 2xAES/EBU, 2xIP, 2xMPX, 1xMPX-AES192, 2x Dante™ (Optional), 1xInternal Player

Sampling rate from 32 kHz TO 192 kHz

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Complete set of outputs

1xAnalog, 2xAES/EBU, 1xIP, 2xMPX, 1xMPXAES192, 1x Dante™ (Optional)

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Built-in audio player

Suitable like a backup source or for test purposes. A Test Signal Generator is also available.

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Advanced SNM (Simple Network Management Protocol)

Allows data interchange and simplified configuration of third-party appliances connected in the same LAN using shared datasets MIB.

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MPX Changeover

Manages the routing of MPX signals for Advertisement Area Splitting.

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Advanced RDS (Optional)

Dynamic RDS fully supported, UECP Input implemented, 8 Datasets available. Suitable for network infrastructures.

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Upgradable and Reliable

Internal microSD card with OS for Disaster Recovery. Easily Upgradable via WEB or Windows application.

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Built-in audio encoder and streamer

Can manage two audio streams like an input, can generate an output audio stream.

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Web based control panel

The whole system can be managed through a WEB page generated by the internal web Server. The main functions can be managed through the physical panel.

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Advanced features

Processing delay

A configurable delay (from 0 to 3.5”) can be applied to the FM process to synch with those distribution channels having a significant latency like the DAB.

Dual Processing

15 kHz processing allows to use it as FM Audio Processor.

20 kHz processing for digital broadcasting, allows to use it as DAB Audio Processor, HD Radio Audio Processor, Sirius XM Audio Processor, Web Radio Audio Processor.

MPX Loudness processing

ITU BS.412 MPX Power Loudness Recommendations available for MPX processing chains compliant with every country loudness rules.

MPX over AES 192 (AES3)

This is the standard for exchange the digital MPX+RDS signals between professional audio devices.192 kHz standard is supported by several transmitter manufacturers.

Advanced Changeover

The Advanced Audio Changeover/Silence Detector can switch between any available input source: Analog, Digital, MPX, FM, IP, Dante™, Internal Audio Player.

Real time monitor

Processing delay is quite non audible, 10 to 30mS depending on the processing complexity.

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Audio Processing

Clarity of sound

Falcon processors high-quality hardware design and software algorithms produce a detailed, crystal-clear sound on any speaker system, always preserving original audio signature.

Voice processor

A dedicated processing section boosts presence of voice delivering a soft, silky sounding effect. Vocals are always on top of the mix making lyrics comfortably audible. Each instrument and vocalist gains dominium of its own space.

Extreme density

Falcon processors deliver full impact sound at the highest volume density preserving original audio detail, identity and mood. The dedicated ‘Bass Enhancer’ stage delivers a strong and effective ‘drum punch’ for a deep musical emotion.

Here are the processing tools to make it sound as you like:

AGC – Automatic Gain Control

• AGC Enable
• Cross Frequency
• Filter Slope
• Drive
• Attack Time
• Release
• Gate Threshold
• Release Acc. Hold
• Release Acc. Coeff.
• Work Zone Threshold
• Work Zone Release
• L/R Linkage
• Bass vs Master Coupling
• Idle Compression
• Idle Speed
• HP Filter

EFX/EQ

Stereo Enhancer

• Mode, Band, Effect Limiter, Effect Drive, Effect Depth

Post-AGC Equalizer

• Low Band 
• Mid Band 
• High Band
• Low Pass Frequency
• Center Frequency
• High Pass Frequency
• Low Pass Slope
• Band Pass Width
• High Pass Slope

Speech Detector

• Mode
• Action

Phase Rotator

• Phase Rotator

Multiband

Multiband Controls

• Drive
• Attack Time
• Release
• Gate Threshold
• Release Acc. Hold
• Release Acc. Coeff.
• Idle Compression
• Idle Speed
• Band1 vs Band2 Coupling
• Band2 vs Band3 Coupling
• Band4 vs Band3 Coupling
• Band5 vs Band4 Coupling

Compressors 

• Threshold (for each of 5 bands)
• Relative Attack (for each of 5 bands)

Compressor-Limiters Feedback

• Feedback (for each of 5 bands)

Limiters

• Drive (for each of 5 bands)
• Attack Time (for each of 5 bands)
• Release (for each of 5 bands)
• Hold (for each of 5 bands)

Downward Expander

• Expansion (for each of 5 bands)
• Expansion Threshold (for each of 5 bands)

Bands Mixer

• Gain (for each of 5 bands)

Final Limiters

Limiters Setup

Bass Limiter

• Bass Drive
• Bass Attack
• Bass Release
• Bass Threshold
• Super Bass Mode
• Super Bass Gain
• Lookahead Mode

Main Limiter

• Mid. Freq Drive
• Mid. Freq Attack
• Mid. Freq Release
• Mid. Freq Threshold
• Mid-High Peaks SubDrive
• Mid-High Peaks Attack
• Mid-High Peaks Release
• Mid-High Peaks Threshold

Bass/Main Limiter Setup

• Bass Limiter Mix
• Main Limiter Mix

Lookahead Final Limiter

• Overdrive

Brilliance adjustment

• Wide Band Process Brilliance Attenuation

MPX Bass Control

• Mode
• Drive
• Clipping Threshold

MPX Limiter Deemphasis

• Drive
• Attack

MPX Limiter Emphasis

• Drive
• Attack

MPX Limiter Emphasis 2

• Drive
• Attack

MPX Limiter Global

• Attack

Factory Presets

The right sound for your Radio or TV in a few clicks thanks to our Factory Presets.

In our Factory Presets there is all our expertise acquired in thirty years of experience, enriched by the advice of the most important experts in the sector.

FM & HD Radio Applications

Falcon processors are populated with 8 Families of Factory Presets for FM & HD Radio, allowing sound engineer to rapidly find the desired sound. For each Family are available some Flavors.

All the Factory Presets are available in the 50 µsec and 75 µsec Pre-emphasis versions, some are available in a specific version for HD Radio.

For each Flavor, are available 4 additional versions:

• +1: slightly emphasized
• +2: moderately emphasized
• EFX: as +2 with some Bass & Stereo enhancing
• Voice: slightly reduced to highlight speech

Combining all of this, the Falcon gives you more than 240 presents, one of which is the right for you.

General Purpose (50 µsec, 75 µsec, HD)

The easiest and fastest way to go on the air. This preset is the best possible compromise between various musical genres, speech and advertising.

Flavors:

• All Purpose
• Classic Hits
• Rockloud
• General Purpose

Clean (50 µsec, 75 µsec, HD)

A clean preset for VOICE or music formats that requires a transparent processing with a good amount of AGC.

Flavors:

• CHR Hot
• Newstalk
• Clean

Open (50 µsec, 75 µsec)

Open and clean with a touch of color and loudness.

Flavors:

• Rock open
• Open

Compressed (50 µsec, 75 µsec, HD)

For who search a compressed, loud and big sound.

Flavors:

• RNB
• Bass punch
• Compressed

Loud (50 µsec, 75 µsec, HD)

Loud and open preset for a competitive sound.

Flavors:

• CHR Loud 1
• Loud

POP-Contemporary (50 µsec, 75 µsec)

Processed and loud preset for contemporary music.

Flavors:

• AC Bright
• CHR Bright
• Electra V2
• Gigawatt
• POP Contemporary

Oldies-Generic (50 µsec, 75 µsec)

Loud, big and compressed preset with a good amount of auto equalization for oldies format radios.

Flavors:

• Oldies
• Oldies Generic

Oldies 70-80 (50 µsec, 75 µsec)

Like Oldies Generic but with more gentle processing and a different approach to oldies music processing.

Flavors:

• Loud 80s
• Oldies 70-80

Signal Routing and Changeover

The new Falcon processor includes a technologically advanced Audio Changeover/Silence Detector able to switch between any available source: Analog, Digital, MPX, FM, IP, AoIP…In case of missing audio from any external sources, the processor can play the playlist stored in the microSD. It’s possible to add up to 3.5 seconds delay to MPX output to synchronize DAB signal (connected to analogue or digital output) to FM signal connected to MPX output.

An embedded Test Signals Generator allows to output an audio signal suitable for testing the equipment or the whole audio system.

I/O Connections

Falcon Audio Processor new series features a complete set of input and outputs connections. Analog and AES/EBU digital audio connections are standard aside of two buffered and independent multiplexed output (MPX+RDS) with hardware bypass: Analog Input > Analog Output | Digital1 Input > Digital1 Output | Digital2 Input > Digital2 Output |AUX1 Input > MPX1 Output | AUX1 Input > MPX2 Output

Three USB ports (one on the front, one on the rear panel and one installed on the internal circuit board), are available.

microSD allows to clone the whole setup from one Falcon to another one.

Two AUX inputs (SCA) allows to connect an external RDS encoder. Another AUX input can receive the audio from another MPX processor and switch with the internal generated MPX, allowing to build a small network managed from radio automation system. 

Dante™ connection, available as an option, allows to manage AoIP Dante™ or AE67 signals: 2 Stereo inputs and 2 Stereo outputs.

Front Panel

Falcon X7 features a wide Color TFT Technology display (480×128) that shows the input and output processing, including the corrections for each band featured from the compressor, the limiters and the multiband AGC. 

Obviously, it also shows the input and output of all signal levels.

Moreover trough the display it’s possible to check the system status: operating parameters, GPI/O port status and RDS parameters, including the station’s ID. 

A TRS (stereo Jack 6,3 mm) connector allows monitoring both original and processed signal, checking in the faster way the differences between the available presets.

Communications & Alarms

Falcon audio processors can exchange information with other equipment through some communication ports: One LAN/WAN port, two RS-232 serial ports, two USB ports, one GPIO port with optical coupler and relays.

Information will be sent (status, alarms) or received (commands). A panel with 40 LEDs and the LCD display (Falcon X7) show status information.

Alarm messages can be sent via GPO, SNMP (Trap), and http.

Web Server

Users can manage Falcon equipment via LAN, no need to install any client software. The internal Web Server can be managed with any browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera…). The GUI on the web page is clear, easy to use and responsive, suitable to be managed from any device: Personal Computers, tablets, smartphones.

SNMP (v 2.0c) programming protocol allows to manage the whole command set. Falcon firmware also implements HTTP, FTP, SNMP, SMTP, UDP, TCP and is PV4 – IPV6 addressing compliant. RDS services need a precise synchronization: the system tries to connect to a primary NTP, backup NTP and to an external GPS receiver (not supplied).

Moreover, connecting an external GPS allows to geo-localize the Falcon. The WEB server supplies a page with a map that shows the appliance position. Standard Ethernet interface can manage up to 4 independent TCP ports, up to 4 separate UDP ports and 1 SNMP port. Obviously, it also shows the input and output of all signal levels.

MPX Stereo Generator

The stereo generator integrated in the DSP structure, provides an almost ideal MPX signal, optimizing the performances of the equipment to the maximum. All the parameters for pilot level, phase and levels are adjustable via the web page. Stereo Generator circuit can switch the source between the internal MPX and an external signal. Switch can be managed locally or with a command sent by an external radio automation software via Ethernet or GPI.

Built In Decoder and Streamer 

Falcon processors, in addition to analog/digital/AoIP inputs and outputs, are open to integration with the IP world, thanks to the ability to decode two audio streams (each stereo or mono) as input and generate an output audio stream (stereo or mono).

Supported CODECs:

Input (CBR & VBR):

• AAC (AAC-LC): 32-256 kbps, 16/32/44.1/48 kHz
• Linear PCM – 16 bit, 16/32/44.1/48 kHz
• MP3 (MPEG1-Layer 3): 32-320 kbps, 16/32/44.1/48 kHz
• MP2 (MPEG1-Layer 2): 32-320 kbps, 32/44.1/48 kHz
• OGG VORBIS: 32-256 kbps, 16/32/48 kHz
• OPUS: 6-320 kbps, 48 kHz

Output (CBR):

• AAC (AAC-LC): 32-256 kbps, 16/32/48 kHz
• Linear PCM – 16 bit, 16/32/48 kHz
• MP3 (MPEG1-Layer 3): 32-320 kbps, 16/32/48 kHz
• MP2 (MPEG1-Layer 2): 32-320 kbps, 16/32/48 kHz
• OGG VORBIS: 32-256 kbps, 16/32/48 kHz
• OPUS: 6-320 kbps, 48 kHz

Supported Streaming Servers:

• Icecast: MP3, OPUS and Ogg Vorbis

Network and Transport & protocols:

• Transport: Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP), Real-time Streaming Protocol (RTSP)
• Protocols: IPv4, IPv6, TCP/IP, UDP, RTP, RTSP

Casting modes: Multicast and Unicast

Auxiliary Data / TAGs:

Auxiliary Data/TAGs to be inserted in encoded output stream (ID3 for MP3) can be defined:

Statically:

• From a web page;
• Using REST-type commands;
• Read from a file via SMB/SAMBA;
• Parsed by ASCII UDP commands;
• Parsed by SNMP string commands.

Dynamically:

• Imported by the Input Stream.

Dynamic data streaming output (title / author / channel name / URL)

Key applications:

• STL and SSL links, DVB S/T audio, WEB radio;
• Audio streaming over internet

Dante™ AUDIO-OVER-IP CONNECTIVITY

Dante™ option (also supporting AES67 and SMPTE ST 2110-30 transport protocols) provides an Ethernet connection for 2 Stereo Input and 2 Stereo Output, with independent and dedicated Level Control and Sample Rate Conversion.

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RDS Radio Data System Encoder

Falcon RDS option performs a full digital Static and Dynamic RDS encoding in compliance with the latest standards: UECP EBU SPB490 v7.05, Cenelec (Europe) and NRSC (USA).

It provides 8 Data Sets with a wide range of static services, including Radio Text.

The dynamic RDS features allows to manage many kinds of services: PS, RT, CT, EON, RT+, PTY, PTYN.

With the addition of the RDS encoder, the processor makes the listening experience even more engaging by also transmitting emergency information, such as weather or traffic alerts, helping to keep listeners informed and safe.

Add the RDS encoder to the Falcon is easy and convenient and does not require additional hardware installation. Furthermore, the RDS encoder can be controlled and configured through the web user interface, making managing the services/data transmitted even easier.

Analog Input - AUDIO
Number of Inputs	1 Stereo
Connectors:	2 XLR, female - Electronically balanced – EMI Suppression
A/D Conversion:	24bit Sigma-Delta Conversion (Crystal CS4272)
AD Clipping Point	+24.0 dBu
Operative Nominal Level	From –12.0dBu to +13.0dBu (0.1dBu Step) Software adjustable
Line Impedance	10 kΩ (Electronically balanced selectable)
Distortion	Less than 0.01% TDH+NOISE (0.0 dBu 1Khz)
AD Dynamic Range	108 dB RMS (110 dB A weighted)
Input Modes	Stereo, Mono (Left), Mono (Right), Mono (Left+Right)
CMRR input	>60 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
FM Frequency range	5 Hz-15 kHz (+/- 0,5dB when processing is disabled)
DAB Frequency range	5 Hz-20 kHz (+/- 0,5dB when processing is disabled)

Digital Input – AUDIO
Inputs Number	2 (1st for audio, 2nd for audio or Digital MPX)
Connectors	XLR, female – Electronically balanced– EMI Suppression
Format	AES3/EBU
Input impedance	110 Ω
Sample rate	32 kHz / 44.1 kHz / 48 kHz /96 kHz / 192 kHz with src and jitter attenuation
Operative Nominal level	From 0.0 dBFs to -25.0 dBFs (0.1 dBu step) Software adjustable
Dynamic Range	125 dB (Typical), 122 dB (Minimal)
Distortion	Less than 0.01% TDH+NOISE (0.0 dBu 1Khz)
Input Modes	Stereo, Mono (Left), Mono (Right), Mono (Left+Right)
Conversion dynamic range	124 dB (32 KHz) | 126 dB (44,1 kHz) | 126 dB (48 kHz) 122 dB (96 kHz)
Conversion resolution	24 bits
FM Frequency range	2 Hz-15 kHz (+/- 0,025dB when processing is disabled)
DAB Frequency range	2 Hz-20 kHz (+/- 0,025dB when processing is disabled)

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MPX INPUT
Input Number	2
Connectors	Unbalanced on BNC – EMI Suppression
Input impedance	50 KΩ
Adjustable Nominal Input Level (Sensitivity)	-6 dB to +13,0 dB (0.1 dBu step) Software adjustable
Max Input Level	+18,0 dBu
A/D Conversion	Texas PCM4220

Analog Output AUDIO
Output Number	1
Connectors	2 XLR, female - Electronically balanced – EMI Suppression
D/A Conversion	24 bit Sigma-Delta Conversion (Crystal CS4272)
Output Level	-6.0 dBu to +20.0 dBu (0.1 dBu Step)
Output Level Max.	+ 24,0 dBu
Output Impedance	10 Ω
Load Impedance	600 Ω or greater
THD + Noise	Less than 0.01% (0.0dBu @ 1 kHz)
Signal to noise Ratio	>80 dB unweight - 100% Mod. 20 Hz–15 KHz
L/R CrossTalk	< –70 dB, 20 Hz–15 KHz
Pre-emphasis	50 µsec, 75 µsec
FM Frequency range	5 Hz-15 kHz (+/- 0,5dB when processing is disabled)
DAB Frequency range	5 Hz-20 kHz (+/- 0,5dB when processing is disabled)

Digital Output AUDIO
Outputs Number	2 (1st for audio, 2nd for audio or Digital MPX)
Connectors	Balanced on 1 XLR – EMI Suppression
Format	AES3/EBU
Output impedance	110 Ω
Sample rates	32 kHz / 44.1 kHz / 48 kHz / 96 kHz / 192 kHz Software selectable
Resolution	24 bit
Operative Nominal level	From 0.0 dBFs to -30dBFs (0.1 dBu step)
Dynamic Range	125 dB (Typ), 122 dB (Min)
Distortion	Less than 0.01% TDH+NOISE (0.0 dBu 1 Khz)
Pre-emphasis	50 µsec, 75 µsec
FM Frequency range	2 Hz-15 kHz (+/- 0,025 dB when processing is disabled)
DAB Frequency range	2 Hz-20 kHz (+/- 0,025 dB when processing is disabled)

MPX OUTPUT
Connectors	Unbalanced on 2 BNC – EMI Suppression
Source impedance	10 Ω
Load impedance	600 Ω or greater
Maximum Load Capacitance	5 nF
D/A Conversion	Texas PCM 1796
Composite output level	-6,0 dB to +13,0 dB (0,1 dBm step)
Max Output Level	+18.0 dBm
Mod Power Limiter	Adjustable from -1.0 dB to +12 dB according to ITU-R BS.412
Pilot Frequency	19 KHz +/- 1 Hz
Pilot Level	-25.5 to -14.0 dB in 0.1 dB/Step - Ref 100% Mod
Pilot Stability	19 kHz, ± 1 Hz
Pilot Phase	Adjustable +/- 12 degrees, 1 degree step
Pilot THD+Noise	0.03% (TDH 0.002%)
Stability	+/-10 ppm (-10 to +55 °C)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N)	> 85 dB on a 60 kHz Bandwidth, referenced to 100% modulation, unweighted
Distortion	<= 0.01% THD - Bypass mode, de-emphasized, 20 Hz – 15 kHz bandwidth, referenced to 100% modulation, unweighted
Stereo Separation	Greater than 70 dB, 30 Hz – 15 kHz
Linear Crosstalk	> -80 dB - main channel to sub-channel or sub-channel to main channel referenced to 100% modulation
38 kHz Suppression	> 70 dB (referenced to 100% modulation)
Pilot Protection	> 65 dB relative to 10% pilot injection, ± 500 Hz.
Crosstalk M/S	> 80 dB
Crosstalk S/M	> 80 dB
MPX clipping & limiting	Based on look-ahead techniques
RDS/RBDS Protection	Better than -55 dB @ 56kHz, better than - 65dB@57 kHz (MPX Clipper Disabled)
Pre-emphasis	50 µsec, 75 µsec
MPX Modes	Stereo, Mono, L+R, L-R, Pilot only, No Pilot
MPX Clipper	On/Off and adjustable 95% to 105 %, 1% step

Digital Output MPX - Option
Connectors:	Balanced on 1 XLR – EMI Suppression
Input impedance:	110 Ω
Format:	AES192
Sample rate:	192 KHz
Output level adjustment:	From 0,0 dBFs to –30,0 dBFs (0,1 dB steps)

BACKUP PLAYER
Physical support	USB Flash Drive, microSD CARD (max 64GB)
Audio file format	MP3, WAV
Sample Rate	32 | 44,1 | 48 | 64 | 96 kHz

RDS FEATURES (Optional)
RDS Level adjustment	Digitally controlled
Phase adjustment	Yes, 0 ÷ 359.9°
RDS Subcarrier	100% Digitally Generated Shape
CENELEC – EN50067 compliant	Yes
Accurate Clock Time (CT) Sync with Internet Connection	Yes
Remote TA actuation for Traffic Announcements	Yes
GPS module for automatic synchronisation of the built-in Real Time Clock (RTC)	Optional external via USB
Group Supported	All
Group Sequence	Configurable
PS	8 DSN x MAIN + 10 PSN
PI	8 DSN x MAIN + 10 PSN
PIN & PTY	RDS/RBDS
AF Method A	up to 1024 (64 lists)
AF Method B	up to 1024 (64 lists)
RT	Yes, 32 messages
RT rate adjustment	Group Sequence
RT+ for songs and content tagging	Yes
TP	Yes
TA Control	Command, Soft, GPI
PTYN	Yes
EON	10 PSN
CT	Yes
TMC, EWS, IH, TDC	Yes
Free Format Groups (FFG)	Yes
Open Data Application (ODA)	Yes
PS Scrolling	Yes
Scrolling by characters, by word, auto centre, truncate long words	Yes (Characters – from 1 up to 8)

COMMUNICATION
Connection with radio automation: Software	Yes
Network connectivity	4 TCP ports / 4 UDP / 1 SNMP
Configuration software	Web Server, FTP
Password protection	Yes
ASCII Protocol	Configuration messages
REST Command	Yes
Alert notifications on user-defined events via SNMP traps	Yes
Embedded SNMP agent permitting: active management tasks	Yes
Supported Network Protocols	HTTP, SNTP, UDP, TCP, NTP, FTP
UECP Protocol	EBU SPB490 Ver. 7.05
PI Calculator	Yes
RDS 2.0 Ready	Yes

System Features
Remote interface GPIn	6x GP In optocoupled
Remote interface GPOut	4x Relays – dry contacts
Remote interface connector	DB 25 female connector - EMI suppressed
Remote interface GPIO Voltage and Current	DC 5V Source and Sink 10 mA
Communication Port	2 x RS232, 3 x USB, 1 x LAN
Serial Interfaces	1st RS232 on DB9 female connector - EMI suppressed 2nd RS232 on DB25 female connector - EMI suppressed
Firmware can be upgraded in the field	Yes
Front-panel Colour TFT Display	No (Falcon X6) / Yes (Falcon X5, X7, D7 and Fox 3)
Data may be entered on-site with Front-panel Buttons	No (Falcon X6) / Yes (Falcon X5, X7, D7 and Fox 3)
Front Panel LEDs	40

PHYSICAL
Dimensions	485 x 44 x 240 mm (1 rack unit)
AC Rate Voltage	230Vac / 110Vac +/- 10% - 30VA – Connector IEC 3-Wire detachable
AC Frequency	50 Hz / 60 Hz +/- 4%
Power factor	0,9
Processing architecture	Fully digital, based on DSP 24bit/250Mhz. 5 band Signal processing
Weight	3,5 Kg
Operating temperature	-5°C / +50°C up to 95% non condensing
Max Altitude	Up to 3000 meters above marine level
Safety Standard	CE
RFI	The equippment has been designed to work in strong RF Fields and it is provided with Standard RFI filters. Necessary RFI filters are standard and same are provided.
Grounding	One more earth terminal are provided in the body to connect audio ground