Rethinking the Matrix - Part 3

Thinking outside the rack – what do integrators look for in an audio matrix processor?

One thing that stands out from the many discussions I’ve had with consultants and integrators during the development and rollout of the AHM-64 matrix processor is how little of the conversation focuses on the unit itself. So I thought it would be interesting to bring together the big three areas that I am asked about the most.

Number one – the ecosystem

Often what seems to draw people to our solutions is the array of I/O and control options available. It makes sense – after all the end user may never even be aware of the ‘brains’ of the system, but they’ll probably plug into an I/O box or tweak the levels on a wallplate. Up to 24 audio expanders can be added to an AHM-64 system, and thanks to the intelligent SLink port, you can pick and choose from our ever-growing ‘Everything I/O’ range of portable, rack and wall-mount expanders. You also have a choice of proprietary, low-latency Layer 2 point-to-point audio transport, or Layer 3 Dante AoIP.

In terms of control and integration, we do provide a TCP control protocol for third party integration, but we can also offer our own selection of PoE-powered network controllers in fader, rotary or wallplate flavours. If glass screen control is more your thing, our Custom Control app lets you deploy custom user interfaces on demand to multiple users and/or device types, allowing for both kiosk and BYOD applications on Android, iOS, Mac and Windows. 

Number Two – Security, Security, Security

It doesn’t matter how good the audio solution is. If it doesn’t meet the IT team’s security requirements, it’s not coming in the building. We’ve been fortunate to work with a global corporate client with ultra-tight IT security, giving us the opportunity to minimise network vulnerability. In addition to 32 password-protected user profiles, we provide optional SSL encryption to the external control port, with the ability to load a certificate file and key to the AHM processor, and a hardware option to disable HTTP connections. 

Number three – time is money

Adopting a new matrix processor is a significant commitment, so people want to know how AHM-64 is going to make their lives easier. One feature that gets heads nodding is automatic firmware matching, which does pretty much what the name suggests. When there’s a firmware update, that update is shared to all connected A&H remotes and I/O units. That doesn’t sound earth-shattering, unless you’ve been the one who had to go around and locally update every single bit of connected hardware, just because someone said yes to the latest firmware for the main box. Not fun.

AHM-64 is super easy to learn, with no certified training required. We don't charge for control apps or slap on extra service fees. Once you’ve got to grips with the system, you’ve got a scalable solution that’s equally at home in a bar or a conference centre.

For more information on the AHM-64 processor, visit https://www.allen-heath.com/ahm-64/