STORM I AUDIO ISP CORE 16 Immersive sound processor

Today we’ll have a ‘First look’ at the STORM I AUDIO ISP CORE 16 Immersive sound processor.

Kind of product?

The STORM I AUDIO ISP Core 16 is a high-end immersive sound preamp/processor designed for premium home theater systems.

Brand?

STORM I AUDIO was founded in 2011 as part of Immersive Audio Technologies in France.  Initially the brand collaborated with Auro Technologies to develop Auro-3D compatible audio processors and later became independent in 2017. The brand has since grown into a global leader in high-end immersive audio processors and amplifiers with a focus on premium home theater solutions.

Current price?

The STORM I AUDIO ISP Core 16 is currently available at your local dealer for 14.199 EUR.

What’s in the box?

We start off with the main unit, an IR remote control with two AAA batteries, a power cord, and a user manual for setup and operation. Side note: an optional calibration kit might be necessary to carry out room correction.

Features?

The STORM I AUDIO ISP Core 16 is a premium 18-channel immersive sound processor designed for high-end home theater systems, delivering exceptional audio performance in a sleek 3U chassis. Based on the award-winning ISP Elite platform, it supports advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro-3D (up to 7.1.6), and IMAX Enhanced, ensuring a cinematic experience with precise sound reproduction. Its robust DSP, featuring dual ADI Sharc DSP 4 processors for post-processing and a Texas Instruments K2G for decoding, minimizes jitter and enhances clarity, achieving a dynamic range of 118dB with low residual noise. The processor uses the same DAC as the ISP Elite MK2 and incorporates STORM I AUDIO’s proprietary analog/digital hybrid volume control for detailed, dynamic sound across all volume levels.

The ISP Core 16 excels in room calibration with Dirac Live, including Bass Control and Active Room Treatment modules, optimizing any speaker configuration for any room. It supports up to 20 parametric EQs per channel, four-way active crossovers, and unlimited subwoofer integration with advanced bass management. The intuitive web-based interface, StormEasy Wizard, and mobile app (iOS/Android) simplify setup and control, with compatibility for home automation systems like Control4 and Crestron. A 5-inch color display provides real-time data, such as VuMeter and HDMI signal details.

Connectivity includes seven HDMI 2.1 inputs and two outputs (with eARC), supporting up to 8K, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Roon Ready certification and a REW plugin enhance its versatility, making the ISP Core 16 a future-proof, high-performance solution for audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts.

Closer look?

The chassis of the ISP Core 16 stands on four sturdy feet. On the front panel from left to right: the STORM I AUDIO logo, up, home, down, display, volume knob, IR sensor and power button. Here’s the back panel: power socket input and switch, fan, LAN, 2 USB, IR in and out, trigger section, zone 2 optical digital output, analog RCA inputs, digital coaxial and optical inputs, XLR analog outputs and HDMI inputs and outputs.

For whom is this product?

This processor is designed for audiophiles, home theater enthusiasts, and professional integrators seeking a high-end immersive audio solution for premium home cinema setups.

First impression?

Its premium quality and intuitive sophistication immediately conveys its high-end design. We were struck by the StormEasy Wizard interface and mobile app, which make navigating its powerful features remarkably user-friendly, delivering pristine, immersive audio that transforms any home theater. A full review will follow shortly, so stay tuned!