About the Ashly ne8800MS - Network Enabled Digital Signal Processor with Mic Input and AES Output Options
The Ashly ne8800MS is a high-channel-count, network-enabled digital signal processor engineered for complex audio applications requiring extensive mixing, routing, and processing, with dedicated microphone integration and digital audio output capabilities. This unit provides eight input channels, each featuring a switchable microphone/line preamplifier with phantom power, paired with eight output channels, offering a flexible matrix for sophisticated installations in houses of worship, performing arts centers, broadcast facilities, and corporate campuses. The inclusion of dedicated mic inputs with high-quality preamps eliminates the need for external preamps, streamlining system design and ensuring optimal gain staging from the source. The processor also offers optional AES/EBU digital audio output cards, allowing for seamless integration with digital amplifiers or digital audio networks for a fully digital signal path.
At the core of the ne8800MS is Ashly's powerful Protea DSP platform, which delivers high-resolution 96kHz processing for each channel. This provides a comprehensive suite of tools including parametric and graphic EQ, crossover filters, dynamics processors (compression, limiting, gating), delay, and a fully configurable mixer matrix. The intuitive drag-and-drop software interface allows system designers to create custom signal flows, from simple speaker management to complex multi-zone systems with separate mixes for front-of-house, monitors, recording, and streaming. The ability to handle live microphone sources with processing like automatic mixing, feedback suppression, and priority ducking makes it an ideal central processing hub for spoken word and music reinforcement.
Network integration is fundamental, offering complete remote control, real-time monitoring, and system diagnostics via a standard Ethernet connection. Technicians can adjust parameters, recall presets for different event configurations, and monitor levels and system health from anywhere on the network using a web browser or third-party control systems. Housed in a robust 2U rack-mountable chassis built for 24/7 reliability, the Ashly ne8800MS combines high-fidelity analog I/O with mic preamps, expansive digital connectivity options, and powerful networked DSP into a single unit, providing a scalable and future-proof audio backbone for the most demanding professional installations.