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AirAura X1 / Dec 2016
G E N E R A L I N F O R M A T I O N
General Information
Introduction
Welcome to the Wheatstone X1 FM and HD Digital Audio Processor, an exciting part
of Wheatstone’s third generation of audio processing. The X1 expands on technologies
previously invented by Wheatstone, incorporates several new technologies, and delivers
that “sought after” sound to the FM and HD mediums.
The X1’s processing algorithms have evolved from our highly popular FM‑55 broadcast
audio processor. The X1 package builds on the great sound and simple setup of the FM‑55
and adds a second processing path for HD as well as an insert point for a ratings encoder.
The X1 is the first part of a brand new approach to processing from Wheatstone that
we call UNIFIED PROCESSING. Unified Processing means the entire processor is self-
aware of all the processing stages, how they are working, and what decisions the individual
blocks have to make to generate a unique and consistent sound from source to source, no
matter what the dynamic range or level.
The X1’s unified algorithms include a brand new program aware 10-band limiter
(never before offered at this level in any broadcast processor) that takes the effortless
sound of the FM‑55 platform to a new level. Coupled with our proven iAGC program
density controller, specialized low distortion, low IMD clipper for FM and codec aware
HD processing, the X1 stands above all other processors in its price class.
Remote control of X1 is via Windows‑based Graphical User Interface (GUI) software
and can be accomplished via 100BaseT wired Ethernet. The X1 GUI incorporates two
layers of controls… one for expert users and one for basic users. This means that even
inexperienced users can have confidence in setting up and adjusting the processor.
Eight rear panel General Purpose Inputs (GPI) and four General Purpose Outputs
(GPO) are provided to allow hardware‑level interfacing of the X1 to station systems.
The X1 provides the user with the ability to insert the ratings encoder and any associated
gear directly into the processing path. This wraps the encoder around the audio proces‑
sor to potentially increase the chances of ratings credit. The front end of the X1 thereby
acts as a program density controller for the ratings encoder, ensuring that there is always
ample program level to embed the watermark. Previously, one had to place the ratings
encoder BEFORE the audio processor and run the risk of the multiband section of the
audio processing skewing the watermark tones. With the X1, placement is AFTER the
bulk of the multiband section, leaving the watermark intact and with the potential for
higher recognition by the meter.