298 replies to this topic

[~Spyne~]

This is a thread for any and all discussion relating to THIS processor/controller.


Just saw this through MEA's facebook page...
Alpine PXA-H800

Will be interested in hearing more details about this as they are released, and especially interested in real-world test/reviews, though these are unlikely to happen for a few weeks/months (at a guess)

Quick overview (for those too lazy to click the link);

* IMPRINT EQ – Automatic tuning technology. Using the omni-directional microphone in various positions in the vehicle the system analyses the data and automatically corrects any problems and then applies the desired target EQ curve.
* AntEQ – This technology removes any factory supplied equalization, leaving a “flat” response to work from.
* RoadEQ – Automatically correct any road noise issues, in real time.
* User Customisation – The user can customise the sound to their liking via manual or automatic tuning using the optional RUX controller or the computer software. Usually the owner would tune automatically, then make minor tweaks manually.
* MediaXpander PLUS – Improves playback from compressed media device such as iPods and can restore the audio data.

* 6 Channel Inputs – Up to 10 volts, both RCA and speaker are provided.
* Dual Optical Inputs – Ai Net and Ai Net Aux.
* 8 Channel Outputs – Fully active, 4 volts.
* Equalization – 31 bands per channel.
* Parametric Equalizer – 10 bands on front, rear and centre channel.
* Subwoofer Parametric Equalizer – 5 bands.
* X-Over Slopes – Up to 36dB/octave.
* Signal to Noise Ratio – 110dB Digital / 105dB Analog.
* Digital to Analog Conversion – 24 Bit, high performance.
* DSP – Dual 32-bit floating point operation.

[shizzle]

mmm, looks nice. Any idea on what it might cost? I would be guessing around $1k?

[Tiger]

(drools)

[2LOUD2OLD]

sounds interesting, though can't say i'm a fan of the looks of the RUX controller

[Deadeye]

I've always been keen on looking into getting a processor, I know as i slowly move more and more into the SQ scene I will need one!

I suppose I want one that is somewhat future proof though.. this one looks pretty good if I had the spare $

Shizzle...

Quick overview (for those too lazy to click the link);
Pricing In the US... The PXA-H800 unit will be available in April for $699, as will the RUX-C800 controller for $249. The DCS-BT1 is available now for $99.

Alpine has addressed the short comings of the previous model PXA-H660 (an updated US version of the PXA-H650, now available in the US for the reduced price of $249). This should see it perform well when up against the JBL and Audison units when it arrives. Next I will take a look at the new Rockford 3Sixty.3 and I can tell you it has some great, unique features. Also I will try to get some further info on the OEM integration unit that Sony had on display at the CES.

Edited by Deadeye, 10 January 2011 - 02:12 PM.

[Fury♫]

Very nice.
Keen to see how this goes

[~thematt~]

Not good enough.

Needs to come packaged into a full blown Head Unit OR incorporate multi-channel processing. 2 channel needs to die, especially since 5.1 etc. are coming into the market.

[Marc ♫]

I can understand the stand alone concept Matt. For one, from a technical point of view with noise rejection etc, but secondly, as if this was incorporated into a full blown head unit - imagine the cost of design and production, to sell what, maybe 500 worldwide at very expensive RRP? Keep the price down, make it more affordable and let consumers add it on where they need to.

In regards to 5.1. Why? Movies in cars is silly. Music in 5.1 is a very small market.
I am a SQ purist and music lover - I have zero interest in movies in the car or soundtracks in 5.1

[Fury♫]

I can understand the stand alone concept too - this way it can be used with OEM systems if necessary.

Multi-channel audio reproduction can actually greatly improve sound quality in a car, and overcome some of the shortfalls of the cars acoustic environment, and the natural seating positions in a car.

[TEGBOY]

I just wish it had a proper optical input. AiNet is simple not enough. But, its a sexy piece of kit.

[Domza]

Interesting... Wouldn't mind seeing some trusted reviews when their available! Looks nice, similar traits to the audiophile PDX amplifiers.

Domza.

[~thematt~]

When you consider OEM units and fully integrated 'systems' (like the iDrive) into a vehicle, I would concede that you're right Marc. Stand alone units are much more flexible.

As to the 5.1 bit, Fury hit the nail on the head. 2-channel in a car is a dated, flawed concept. 5.1 properly executed will trump it, and is much MUCH easier to effectively employ for good SQ (and cheaper). It would be nice to see a proper high-end processor employ this at the very least. 2-channel -> 5.1 channel decoders arent even 'new technology'. They have existed for years as polished products.

[sean]

It is pretty cheap though, I think it will sell well, they needed something to replace the h701...

[~Spyne~]

cheap in America - remember what happened with the Pioneer P99rs???

[Fury♫]

I would guesstimate $1200-1500rrp here, with the controller being $300-400rrp.

[268669♫]

At the current exchange rate, these should be no more expensive than america, as none will be in the country yet and will have similar import duties as i'm guessing they are all coming from China. If they are not the same price or extremely close, this is a sign of the car audio industry not supporting itself and I would recommend anyone purchasing them to get them OS.

However on specs it doesn't seem to bad, more features for the everyday user than the SQ competitor.

Ant

[Domza]

Pricing of these units according to Alpine-USA are:
Alpine PXA-H800: $699.95 (US)
Alpine RUX-C800: $249.95 (US)

So considering how the dollar is at the moment, you would expect these figure to be close to the mark for our Australian dollar (hopefully)...

Domza.

[SQXPRT]

dual optical inputs - check.. just need an alpine with optical outputs.. OOPS!

would have been nice to set itself apart with a couple of more outputs - front 1/2/3 _ centre/sub/surround... oh well.

interested to hear more about the new controller..
"RUX-C800 – In dash controller (DIN size) required for programming and stand alone use of the PXA-H800. Provides control of the processor from the dash and when used in conjunction with a compatible Alpine head unit it can control sources and sound functions."

what other functions can be controlled?

[RHI-SEE]

spewing.
they had massive raps for the H660, so i imported one and now they have already made it outdated. i will definitly be keen to update when this comes outs and sell the H660.

[Mr_Jay_540i]

does look very nice. i like the rux controller. quite cool

[shiny_car]

This is awesome news. I'm sure it is narrowing the gap with the old F1 Status processors in terms of SQ (logic (progression) would have it so).

It's nice they've given it a cosmetic boost, making it worth showing off! Not just a 'grey box'.

sounds interesting, though can't say i'm a fan of the looks of the RUX controller

dual optical inputs - check.. just need an alpine with optical outputs.. OOPS!

Two things spring to mind:
1. the RUX probably reflects the new look of future Alpine headunits, to match
2. perhaps one such future HU will have optical output! Surely!

[Marc ♫]

You can't expect the retail to be on par with US, it simply won't happen despite the strong AUD at the moment. It should be better than it has been yes, but you have to remember Australia is an island. It's all been outlined here on these forums so many times, but just remember shipping has to be factored in, marketing budgets, warranty / service allowance etc. Business is business.

Unfortunately, with the dollar the way it is, this will force many to buy overseas - that is inevitable. I know from a warranty and support point of view I would still buy it locally if ~ $200 - $300 price difference.

[Marc ♫]

I can also confirm launch of this processor (For Australia) will be April/May.

[Marc ♫]

Aussie page now up also: http://www.alpine.co...age.php?pid=345

[shtoney]

...excellent, berry keen to check this out when available in oz...cheers for the heads-up

[Riley.]

so its a combination between a 701 and a 660 essentially? do want

[SQXPRT]

I think I'm getting excited in my pants

I see the LED's on the front with Dolby and DTS :):):)

[jas]

looks like the alpine INA-910 has optical output not sure about the other new headunits from alpine...just hope there are a few new models with pulse touch and toslink output.

[~Spyne~]

i would get excited in my pants, but i just dropped some serious money on a p99, so any additional processing will have to wait a year or two.

wonder if clarion is now going to bring out an updated hx-d2(d3)? or settle for being an entry/mid-level brand.

[Captn_Awesome]

Hmmmm interesting

As for 5.1 in cars - seriously 5.1 in home is mostly over rated let alone in a car