FOCAL ANNOUNCES 16 CHANNEL AV PROCESSOR AMPLIFIER
When you think Focal, you generally think speakers - highly regarded French speakers. What you usually don't think of is audio-video electronics, and that's precisely what Focal's newly announced Astral 16 is.
In collaboration with fellow French specialists, Immersive Audio Technologies, the Astral 16 is reported to feature exceptional multiroom audio and video processing, cutting-edge technologies, and a "versatile solution promise an immersive home cinema experience that far outclasses its competition." A big call indeed.
The Astral 16 uses Class D amplification for 12 amplified channels, with an additional 4 preamplified channels (balanced XLR outputs) dedicated entirely to audio (filtering, equalisation, bass management, etc.)
Output power has been stated by Focal as 12 x 200 watts simultaneously (8 Ohm / .1% THD)
I
t also supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and emerging formats (though there's no mention of IMAX Enhanced), is 4K UHD capable, HDR support including HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, and is also equipped with Dirac Live room calibration and comes supplied with a calibrated microphone.
The Focal Astral 16 is equipped with seven HDMI inputs which meet the current standard for 4K, including HDCP 2.2, as well as the two HDMI outputs that are equipped for eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel).
Inputs include 6 digital (3 x coaxial, 3 x optical) and 4 analog stereo RCA inputs.
Multiroom feature allows you to watch a movie in one room while listening to music in another, controllable from an iOS app.
Focal Astral 16 is also compatible with Control4, Crestron, Savant and RTI automation platforms.
The Focal Astra 16 will be available in May 2019. Australian and New Zealand pricing have not been confirmed, but it will sell overseas for 20,000 Euros.
For more information visit Focal.
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Marc Rushton
StereoNET’s Founder and Publisher was born in England and raised on British Hi-Fi before moving to Australia. He developed an early love of music and playing bass guitar before discovering the studio and the other side of the mixing desk. After writing for print magazines, Marc saw the future in digital publishing and founded the first version of StereoNET in 1999.
Posted in: Home Theatre
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