PHILIPS/marantz DPM7 (1987) | Digital Processing

 

The Philips/marantz DPM7 Digital Processing Pre-Main Amplifier Prototype is an exceptionally rare piece of Philips and Marantz digital audio history. Developed in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, and hand-built in a limited run of approximately 60 units, the DPM7 was never officially released to the market, making it one of the most sought-after Philips/Marantz prototypes ever created. Designed by the same engineering team behind the legendary Philips MFB and later DSS Digital Speakers, the DPM7 showcased an ambitious vision of digital audio years ahead of its time. At its heart is the renowned Philips TDA1541A HHH8714 1Y DAC, while the power amplifier section shares much of its design philosophy with the acclaimed Marantz PM64mkII, delivering the warm, detailed and musical sound for which classic Marantz components are famous. The innovative digital control stage incorporated the world's first ASP (Audio Signal Processor) developed specifically for hi-fi equipment, allowing fully digital processing of volume, tone and sound-shaping functions without compromising audio quality. Features include a digital graphic equalizer, adjustable room acoustics settings, digital reverberation, dynamic range control, special sound effects, acoustic memory presets and multiple digital and analog inputs, making the DPM7 a true precursor to later room-correction and digital sound-processing technologies. From the planned user manual: "The Philips/Marantz DPM-7 is an pre-main amplifier comprised of both a digital control amplifier and a 100W x2 high power amplifier. The digitalized control amplifier portion includes the world's first ASP (audio signal processor) developed exclusively for audio equipment. The functions of the control amplifier are processed digitally, thus totally eliminating any chance for diminished sound quality. Furthermore, the digital sound processing concept has been incorporated in every aspect of the control functions. The DPM-7 is equipped for a great variety of functions, including digital reverberation, a digital graphic equalizer, and many controls for creating the perfect sound field." Specifications: ASP (Sound Signal Processor): Sampling frequency: 44.1kHz, Quantization: 16-bit linear | Digital inputs: CD1, CD2/DAT 2, DAT 1 | Digital Sound Processing: Reverberation: 1sec - 9sec, Reverberation/Absorption: 3 positions: hard/medium/soft, Graphic equalizer: +/-12dB (2dB steps), Variable frequencies: 32Hz, 64Hz, 125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz (1/3 octave from central frequency) 1kHz, 2kHz, 4kHz, 8kHz, 16kHz | Dynamic range control: compression/expansion - release time: 3 positions long/medium/soft | Special effects: 5 positions | Acoustic memory: 4 memories | Volume preset: 2 presets | Analog inputs: Phono (MM/MC), CD, Tuner, Tape 1, Tape 2 | Power Amplifier Section: Rated output: 100W x 2 (20Hz - 20kHz - 6ohm) | Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz (+0, -0.3dB) | Dimensions: 420x146x334mm (wxhxd) | Weight: 14.5kg

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