StormAudio is making waves in the audio technology landscape with the introduction of a series of innovative upgrades designed to enhance its audio processing solutions. With a focus on delivering exceptional performance, flexibility, and reliability, these advancements aim to meet the evolving needs of customers and set a new standard in high-end audio.
The Next-Generation Decoder
At the forefront of StormAudio’s innovations is the ADEC (Advanced DECoder), a next-generation decoder section that represents the latest evolution in the company’s industry-leading audio processors. This cutting-edge upgrade underscores StormAudio’s commitment to providing unparalleled audio performance and innovation for its valued customers.
Unmatched Performance and Precision
The new ADEC decoder section is a groundbreaking achievement in high-end audio processing, offering both superior technical capabilities and practical benefits for users:
- Enhanced Processing Power: The ADEC boasts an advanced dual-core DSP and ARM core, resulting in improved performance and unlocking new features for a richer, more immersive audio experience.
- Superior Decoding Performance: With a complete rewrite of the entire code, the ADEC achieves faster switching times—up to 2.5 times quicker—while ensuring seamless integration with future audio technologies.
- Accurate Immersive Audio: Fully certified for the latest formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro-3D, MPEG-H, and Sony 360 Reality Audio, the ADEC decoder excels in handling complex multi-channel setups. It delivers a sound experience that faithfully reflects the artistic vision of creators, providing precise spatial positioning of audio objects for full immersion.
- Robust Multichannel Processing: Supporting up to 35 channels, the ADEC offers flexibility for sophisticated home cinema setups, delivering ultra-low latency and perfect synchronization across channels for seamless playback.
Seamless Integration and Future-Proof Compatibility
The ADEC hardware will be gradually integrated across all StormAudio units in the coming months, already featured in units shipping from France, such as the ISP Evo, ISP Elite, and ISR Fusion. Integration into the ISP Core 16 is anticipated for the second half of 2025.
Demonstrating a commitment to future-proof design, the ADEC upgrade is fully compatible with all existing StormAudio ISP models, including the Elite, Core, Evo, Fusion, and Master. Moreover, owners of Focal Astral and Bryston SP4 units running the optional StormAudio firmware upgrade will also benefit from this evolution. The upgrade will be available by the end of Q1 2025, ensuring every customer can enjoy the latest advancements without needing to replace their entire unit.
Transition to New ESS Sabre DACs
In line with its commitment to quality, StormAudio is transitioning to the new Hyperstream® IV ESS Sabre DACs, replacing the previous DACs that have reached the end of their lifecycle. This upgrade guarantees consistent high-performance audio processing, reinforcing StormAudio’s industry-leading standards. Existing owners can expect to benefit from this upgrade in the second half of 2025.
Major Software Update on the Horizon
In addition to hardware advancements, StormAudio is gearing up for a major software update scheduled for early Q2 2025. This update will enhance functionality and usability, featuring:
- Improved EQ functionality for greater precision in audio tuning.
- New upmix settings for expanded adaptability across various content types.
- Simplified management of multi-way subwoofers via the StormEasy wizard.
- Enhanced output mapping to support complex configurations.
- Improved latency management for optimal synchronization.
A Bright Future Ahead
These hardware and software updates are just the beginning of what’s ahead for StormAudio. As the company continues to innovate, these advancements will form the foundation for a new generation of products aimed at pushing the boundaries of immersive audio experiences.
With a roadmap focused on expanding channel capabilities, integrating cutting-edge audio formats, and developing intuitive setup and calibration tools, StormAudio is dedicated to meeting the demands of both integrators and end-users.
