ELECTRONICS

DSP (digital signal processing) is the hot new feature in marine audio that allows optimizing the sound quality for each audio channel. JL Audio’s new MVi amplifiers enable this function using a laptop, tablet or smartphone connected to the amp.

+ JL Audio MVi amplifiers

+ Fusion Signature Series 3

JL’s marine speakers have long been regarded as among the best in sound quality and durability among boaters. Now the company has committed to providing the same standard in reference-grade audio performance and reliability in its new line of MVi marine amplifiers.

The lineup includes six new DSP amps, from the MV400/4i with four audio channels ($849.99) to the MV1000/5i ($1,199.99) with eight channels. Also included in the new lineup are two monoblock marine subwoofer amps (starting at $699.99) and all the related accessories and controls.

Integrated triple-core AKM DSP allows the optimization of each audio channel’s timing, frequency response and output level. This allows each speaker to perform at its best based on its location and surroundings.

In addition, MVi amplifiers can store up to six sound presets, allowing boaters to switch sound profiles at the push of a button based on the boat’s location and/or activity. You can, for example, have preset profiles for “docked,” “underway,” “sandbar” and so on.

Instead of using traditional control knobs and switches, MVi amplifiers are configured from the captain’s seat of a boat using JL Audio’s free TuN software on a compatible computer, tablet or smartphone.

“It only takes a few minutes to set up,” says Stephen Leigh, vice president for electronic engineering at JL Audio.

“Once completed, the resulting audio is more dynamic, more accurate and much more fun to listen to than a conventional marine audio system.”

JL has also introduced peripheral pieces, including a Bluetooth communicator for wireless communication between the amp and compatible mobile devices, and a network hub to connect up to six amps. JL’s MVi DSC amps along with the company’s new M7 12-inch subwoofer and new WakeSub hidden twin-subwoofer system are featured in the new Nautique G25 Paragon wake-sports boat review on page 48.