Digital Signal Processors – a Beginner’s Guide

I was recently asked to advise on a project where the customer was installing new AV equipment in a public meeting space. The audio system was to include ceiling array microphones, gooseneck podium microphones, as well as a number of wireless lavalier and handheld microphones. The question I was being asked was “can you recommend an appropriate mixer for this application?”.

At first glance, an audio mixer seems to be the appropriate tool for the job – after all, a mixer takes a number of audio input sources, allows you to control the volume and equalization of each source, and mixes them into a combined output signal to be sent to an amplifier and eventually loudspeakers.

But what if you need to send multiple output signals to multiple destinations? What if some signals need to be sent to some outputs but not others? What if you need to instantly change the signal routing based on the room configuration? What if you need to apply auto echo cancellation (AEC) to any of the signals to prevent echo and feedback? And most importantly – what if you do not have a dedicated technician willing and able to sit behind the mixer to configure it and make adjustments?

For all of these reasons (and plenty more), the appropriate tool for this application is a digital signal processor (DSP), not a mixer. So, let us take a look at DSPs, their features and benefits, and where they are appropriate (and not) to use!

Anatomy of a DSP

One way of looking at a DSP is as a “mixer in a box” which can be remotely controlled. Similar to a mixer, a DSP will have a number of input channels and output channels – typically 12 (in) x 8 (out) – but many other configurations exist. Unlike a mixer, which is made to lay on a table or desk and features lots of volume sliders and knobs, a DSP is a small box which is made to be installed in an equipment rack and typically features no knobs or obvious controls.

blu101Below is the front and rear of a BSS BLU-101, one of the most popular and powerful DSPs that we sell:

As you can see, it does not look much like a mixer at all, but the functionality is similar. It has twelve inputs (the green ports on the right side), eight outputs (the orange ports in the middle), an ethernet port for connecting it to a network, an RS232 port for allowing the unit to be controlled remotely, BluLink for connecting to other Harman devices, and a set of GPIO control ports which can be used for monitoring other devices or accepting signals from external devices.

ac5swhtusAs mentioned above, there are not any controls or buttons on the front panel. Instead, DSPs are generally controlled by external control systems, such as AMX, Kramer, or Atlona. Users interact with a custom touch panel to send control signals such as channel mute, volume control, input/output routing and mixing, gating, and more! In simpler systems, BSS DSPs can also be controlled by a simple button/volume knob control panel, such as the BSS Contrio series.

Due to the versatility and abilities of DSPs, they do require configuration and setup before being deployed. When selling a DSP, always check to make sure that your customer has someone on their team who is familiar with configuring and setting up DSPs. In most cases, the manufacturer will have online training programs which can help them get up to speed. For example, Harman’s Professional Training Portal offers full courses on BSS programming for free! If the customer needs additional help or is simply pressed for time, Almo’s own LinkLab Professional Services team has certified DSP programmers ready to help!

When to Recommend a DSP

Now that you know a bit about what makes a DSP tick, when should you be recommending a DSP solution over a regular mixer?

  • Medium to Large Conference Rooms: any time a customer mentions conferencing, particularly for larger rooms with multiple microphones, a DSP should be recommended. DSPs have the flexibility and power to manage the complex routing needed to interface with conferencing devices. Make sure that your DSP has a USB port for conferencing, as well as auto echo cancellation (AEC)!
  • Training Rooms/Lecture Halls: for applications where there will not be a dedicated AV Tech available to manage the system, a DSP with preset scene recall and automatic level control is essential.
  • Building-wide Systems: any complex system where multiple rooms are being controlled from a central head-end system requires a DSP (and usually a large one) to manage the routing of audio from room to room.

cms14Of course, a DSP is not a fit for every situation. For example, most live performances (musical or otherwise) are better suited to being controlled by a real live person in front of a mixer who can respond in real time to the action on stage. Additionally, smaller, less complex systems (such as in a bar, restaurant, or retail store) which do not require advanced routing or signal control might be better suited to use a rack-mounted mixer (such as the JBL CSM series) or a zone controller (such as the dbx ZonePro).

Conclusion

Hopefully, this serves as a good introduction into the capabilities and use cases for audio digital signal processors. Do not be intimidated by the complexities of DSPs – at their heart they are simply tools for making audio sound great and getting it where it needs to go.

The good news is that you do not have to be an expert to sell DSPs. The audio team at Almo is here to help you navigate the details. Simply be on the lookout for the opportunity, ask some questions, and email [email protected] to help figure out the details. We are here to help!

Audio enthusiast? Check out “Visiting the JBL Experience Center“.
John Rossman - headshot-frame

About the Author

John Rossman | CTS

BDM II – Technical Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: Harman ProfessionalAKG, AMX, BSS, Crown, DBX, JBL, Lexicon, Martin, & Soundcraft

Beyond the Static Screen: Unleashing the Power of Interactive Digital Signage

Remember the days of static images on unchanging displays? They served their purpose, but in today’s fast-paced, digitally-driven world, they tend to fade into the background. This is where interactive digital signage – a dynamic and engaging way to connect with your audience – can mean the difference between “background noise” and true engagement. Interactivity transforms passive viewers into active participants.

But what exactly makes interactive digital signage so beneficial and how does BrightSign make it easy? Let’s explore:

interactive displayAmplified Engagement and Memorability:

Imagine walking past a screen that responds to your presence, allowing you to tap, swipe, and explore.  This is how we engage day to day with our phones, and it’s become the standard when it used to seem like science fiction (think Minority Report). By actively involving users, you capture their attention in a way static displays simply can’t. This heightened engagement leads to better information retention and a more memorable experience with your brand or message. Think about browsing a digital product catalog on a touchscreen versus glancing at a printed flyer – which are you more likely to remember?

Richer Data Collection and Insights:

Interactive displays offer a goldmine of data. You can track what content users are most interested in, which buttons they tap, and even gather valuable demographic information (anonymously, of course!). This data provides invaluable insights into audience behavior, allowing you to refine your content, optimize your messaging, and make more informed business decisions. Imagine understanding which products in your digital showroom are getting the most attention – that’s powerful information!

personalized experiencePersonalized and Relevant Experiences:

Static signage delivers the same message to everyone. Interactive signage, however, can be tailored to individual needs and preferences. Through touchscreens, QR code scanning, buttons, connected apps, or even motion sensors, you can offer personalized content, targeted promotions, and customized information. This level of relevance makes the experience more valuable and increases the likelihood of conversion or desired action. Think about a digital wayfinding system that adapts based on your selected language or a retail display that suggests products based on your previous interactions.

interactive kiosksStreamlined Information Delivery and Self-Service:

Interactive kiosks can empower users to find the information they need quickly and efficiently, reducing reliance on staff. From wayfinding in a complex building to accessing product details in a store or checking in for an appointment, interactive signage provides convenient self-service options. Most people are used to shopping online, so extending that experience to a retail location where they can lay hands on the product is the next evolution. This not only improves the user experience but also frees up your team to focus on more complex tasks.

Enhanced Marketing and Sales Opportunities:

Interactive digital signage opens up exciting new avenues for marketing and sales. Imagine a digital storefront that allows customers to browse products, view detailed specifications, watch videos, and even make purchases directly from the screen. Interactive displays can also be used to run engaging contests, collect leads, and deliver targeted advertising based on user interactions.

How BrightSign helps move interactivity forward:

BrightSign’s free software, BrightAuthor:Connected offers a drag and drop approach to “programming” interactive content, opening the door to those that may not have the technical capabilities to create content using HTML and Javascript.  These tools offer the ability to create interactive content for use with touchscreens, control systems, fire alarms, buttons, motion sensors, keyboard, card readers, GPS sensors, etc. without the need for programming knowledge.  In the video below, I create an interactive presentation with touch, UDP and button control, including a playback counter, all in around 2 minutes.

The Future is Interactive:

Interactive digital signage is more than just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how we communicate and engage with audiences in physical spaces. By moving beyond static displays and embracing the power of interaction, businesses and organizations can create more engaging, informative, and ultimately more effective experiences.

To learn more about interactive signage and how BrightSign can help, contact me at [email protected], or visit our website AlmoProAV.com for additional information.

Todd Heberlein
About the Author

Todd Heberlein | CTS, DMC-D-4K, DSCE

Senior BDM – Technical Lead

Supported Manufacturers: Absen and Brightsign

AV Runs on Relationships

“I’d rather buy from you than ______.”

How many times have you seen that?  I hope you’ve seen it a lot.  The question is, why are they buying from you and not someone else?

It is because you have established a relationship over time that was built upon trust, open communication and reliability.  They trust you to provide what they need and that what you propose is in their best interests.

media partnersI have often joked that AV doesn’t run on electricity – it runs on food and coffee (or energy drinks for the installers).  Truthfully, it runs on relationships.  Some new but most old.  Something came up and they took care of you.  What was supposed to happen, happened or they helped ease a difficult situation.  It was something that went beyond the swag – it was that personal touch.  A quick call or email after hours.  Listening.  Solving the problem and making it right.

Many years ago, I spec’d fourteen new model DSP boxes from a manufacturer that I already had a relationship with.  I knew they typically ran late on new products like this and this was no exception.  All fourteen boxes ended up being installed and wired in the racks on-site.  A day later, I received a call at my desk from the programmer.  “These boxes don’t do push-to-talk.”  I had made an assumption on what I thought would be a normal feature for this application.  I called my contact that I had known for a long time and he said, “Oh, those do push-to-mute.  We never considered push-to-talk.”  We had updated firmware two days later that included push-to-talk.  You don’t forget that.

When your contact went to another firm, did your business follow them there?  Probably, if they were still within the industry.  The company that they work for is many times immaterial as compared to the person and you know there had to be a reason they moved on from that last company.

getting supportAV is a relationship business whether it be with manufacturers, distributors, rep firms or clients.  The equipment itself is often secondary.

If somebody treated you like just another customer or took a job out from under you that you had been working on for months or a particular product let you down, you remember it.  Forever.  We have some very long memories in AV.

You can easily recount the bad but you also remember the good.

For example, I had to leave my car at the shop overnight when a fellow designer and I took a road trip to perform a site visit to a job in progress.  We returned back to the shop late the next night in the rain to discover that my car had been broken into.  The passenger side glass was broken and radio stolen but worse, they also took my kids’ Christmas presents that I had stashed in the trunk.  The company that I worked for didn’t have to cover the presents that were stolen but they did.  That was 20 years ago and I have never forgotten the kindness that the owner of that business showed me.

Further, how did you get your last job?  Someone knew you and your reputation.  We have all been through that.

Tom Kehr instructorInfoComm is right around the corner and there will be plenty of talk about products.  Sure, take time to talk about the products but more importantly, spend some face-to-face time with the people behind those products.  The gear is fun but it’s the relationships that matter.

I will be there this year and doing a one-hour Basic Acoustics for Meeting Rooms at 4:00pm Tuesday and a two-hour Basics of Power and Grounding at 10:00am Wednesday.  My time there will be short but I will be endeavoring to catch up with as many of you as I am able. [See class details here.]

If you enjoyed this blog, check out Tom’s “The Value of Expertise” blog for more insights.
Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

The Impact of AV Over IP on Global Installations: Why is everyone converting?

In today’s AV landscape, AV over IP (AVoIP) isn’t just an upgrade—it’s the new standard for global installations. Whether you’re connecting a boardroom in Bogotá, a resort in Punta Cana, or a university campus in São Paulo, AVoIP is transforming how large-scale deployments are designed, managed, and scaled.

Why AVoIP? Because Matrix Switchers Are Outdated

Let’s be real—traditional matrix switchers had their moment. But in today’s fast-paced, multi-location world, they just can’t keep up. AVoIP offers infinite scalability, simplified deployment, and cost-efficiency—all while running over standard Ethernet networks.

  • atlona omnistreamExample: During a recent deployment for a Fortune 500 client in Mexico City, we connected 20 meeting rooms with seamless 4K video distribution using Atlona’s OmniStream AVoIP solution. No bulky switchers. No infrastructure headaches. Just smooth, scalable content delivery over their existing 1Gb network.

Global Deployments: One Setup, Infinite Possibilities

One of the biggest wins with AVoIP is its consistency across regions. Whether you’re installing in Miami, Madrid, or Medellín, you can replicate the same system architecture. 

zeevee zypher That means faster rollouts, fewer compatibility issues, and streamlined support.

  • Caribbean Example: We recently helped a hospitality group overhaul their digital signage network across multiple resorts. Using ZeeVee ZyPer4K encoders and decoders, they centralized content distribution from a single hub. Now, they push real-time promos, event schedules, and resort updates to multiple locations—without the need for separate headends or complex cabling at each site.

Higher Education: Smarter Campuses with AVoIP

lecture hallUniversities are quickly adopting AVoIP for lecture streaming, content distribution, and hybrid learning. The flexibility and remote management capabilities make it a game-changer for higher ed.

  • Higher Ed Example: We recently worked with a university in LATAM that wanted to create a seamless hybrid classroom experience. Using Kramer’s KDS-EN6 and KDS-DEC6 AVoIP system, they linked lecture halls, remote classrooms, and overflow areas into one unified network. Students attending virtually had zero-latency audio and video, and the IT team could manage the entire system remotely—no more frantic campus sprints to fix a frozen screen.

Scalability: Because Expanding Shouldn’t Break the Bank, just be installed in them!

The beauty of AVoIP is its modular scalability. Need to add ten more displays next month? No problem. Just drop in more encoders and decoders. No forklift upgrade required.

  • muxlab controllerLATAM Example: A corporate campus in São Paulo rolled out MuxLab’s ProDigital Network Controller for 4K content distribution across 50+ displays. When they expanded, they simply added more endpoints—no need for new infrastructure.

Speed and Simplicity: Your IT Team Will Thank You

One of the biggest reasons Fortune 500s are all in on AVoIP? It plays nice with existing IT infrastructure. No proprietary cabling, no octopus like cable heads. No weird compatibility issues. Just standard Ethernet.

  • wyrestorm Financial Sector Example: When upgrading the Panama offices of a financial institution, we deployed WyreStorm’s NHD-400-TX/RX system. Their IT team took over AV support without breaking a sweat, thanks to the system’s seamless integration with their existing network.

Security: Because Boardroom Meetings Shouldn’t Be Hackable

lumens ndi encodersAVoIP also offers enhanced security. Solutions from Lumens, AMX, and Kramer use encrypted video streams, protecting sensitive content from prying eyes.

  • Corporate Security Example: A multinational bank in LATAM needed to securely stream financial data between branches. By using Lumens’ NDI encoders, they ensured low-latency, encrypted content distribution without compromising data integrity.

AVoIP: Because You Deserve to Leave the Server Room Before Retirement.

Let’s be honest—AVoIP is also about quality of life. With remote management tools, you can troubleshoot systems from anywhere. No more spending your weekend in a freezing server room.

  • kramer-control-pi-1Hospitality Example: One of our Caribbean resort clients now manages their entire digital signage network remotely using Kramer’s Control Platform. Need to update content across multiple resorts? One click—done. No techs on-site. No downtime, just sunshine and pina coladas!

Why corporations are All In on AVoIP?

For global companies, AVoIP is the only logical choice. Here’s why:

  • Consistency: Same setup from in every location… no matter where in the world.
  • Scalability: Add endpoints without adding infrastructure headaches.
  • Remote Management: Because nobody wants to spend their day troubleshooting in a server room. Yuck!
  • Cost Efficiency: Less hardware, fewer cables, happier CFO. Happy CFO, happy sales team!
  • Flexibility: Works across corporate, hospitality, and higher ed sectors. Endless possibilities.

The bottom line?

AVoIP isn’t the future—it’s the now. So, the next time someone pitches you a clunky, outdated AV solution, just smile and say, “That’s cute. But we’ve moved on.”  Talk to your Almo Pro AV rep when designing your next project and let’s lock down a better solution that will make your life easier and your customer happy!

Gisela Ramirez, Sales Director - LATAM

About the Author

Gisela Ramirez

Sales Director – LATAM

Exertis Almo

Empower Your Corporate Clients with Smart Huddle Spaces: Essential AV Products for Seamless Collaboration

If you’re looking to design and install top-notch huddle spaces, we have everything you need to create the perfect solution for any space and budget, ensuring your corporate clients stay satisfied and return for more. In this blog, we’ll cover the basic principles to foster effective communication and recommend essential AV products for seamless collaboration.

Creating the Perfect Huddle Spaceperfect huddle space elevation

In today’s fast-paced corporate world, having a dedicated spot for quick meetings and brainstorming sessions is essential. But to make these spaces truly effective, they need the right tech solutions to enhance user productivity.

Building the perfect huddle space involves more than just selecting the right products. It’s about creating an environment that fosters collaboration and inclusion for a hybrid workforce.

Here are some tips to help you design an effective huddle space for your clients:

  1. Strategic Placement: Position your display and video conferencing equipment to ensure that everyone in the room has a clear view and can participate fully.
  2. Comfortable Seating: Provide comfortable seating arrangements that encourage engagement and interaction.
  3. Adequate Lighting: Ensure that the space is well-lit to reduce eye strain and create a welcoming atmosphere.
  4. Good Accoustics: Consider soundproofing or use sound-absorbing materials to enhance audio quality and reduce distractions during meetings.
  5. User-Friendly Technology: Choose AV solutions that are easy to use and integrate seamlessly with existing systems.

Essential AV Tech for Collaboration

Huddle spaces come in various configurations and sizes. For an example, check out this flyer featuring a signal flow diagram and elevation drawings prepared by the LinkLab services team for a recent E4 Experience event, where we set up a demo huddle space for attendees to experience firsthand. Now, let’s dive into some of the AV products we offer to elevate any corporate huddle space.

Philips displaysDisplay Solutions

A high-resolution display is the centerpiece of any huddle space. The Philips 55″ Q-Line 4K Ultra HD Display offers stunning visuals and vibrant colors, making it ideal for presentations, video calls, and collaborative work. With its sleek design and advanced features, this display enhances the overall experience and ensures that every detail is visible to all participants. As integrators, you’ll appreciate the ease of installation and the impressive performance this display offers.

Middle Atlantic free standing display mountFree-Standing Mounts

A sturdy and versatile stand or mount is essential for any huddle space setup. The Middle Atlantic Forum Free-Standing Display Stands are designed to support displays ranging from 42″ to 55″. These mounts provide a secure and adjustable platform for your screens, ensuring optimal viewing angles for all participants. Whether you need a floor-to-wall mount or a freestanding option, these products offer flexibility and reliability, making installation a breeze for integrators.

Video Conferencing Solutions

Barco ClickShare Bar ProEffective video conferencing is essential for remote collaboration. The Barco ClickShare Bar Pro is a powerful tool that combines a camera, microphone, and speaker into one compact device. This all-in-one solution simplifies the setup process and delivers high-quality audio and video for clear communication. With features like AI-powered noise cancellation and automatic framing, the ClickShare Video Bar Pro ensures that every meeting runs smoothly, making it a valuable addition to any huddle space.

Power Management

power distribution - rack mountedReliable power management is critical to maintaining uninterrupted operations in your huddle space. The NEXSYS Rackmount PDU from Legrand AV is a horizontal rackmount power solution that offers multi-stage surge protection. This ensures that all your AV equipment is safeguarded against power surges, providing peace of mind and consistent performance. With easy installation and robust protection, it’s a must-have for any huddle space setup.

High-Quality Cables

high speed hdmi cablesQuality cables are the backbone of any AV setup, ensuring clear and stable signal transmission. The CG41364 HDMI cable from Legrand AV’s C2G Plus Series is designed to deliver high-definition video and audio with minimal interference. This cable supports 4K resolution, making it perfect for presentations and video conferencing. Its durable construction and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for connecting your devices, ensuring your clients get the best possible experience.

Conclusion

By following these guidelines, you’ll create huddle spaces that not only meet your clients’ needs but also foster effective collaboration and productivity. A well-equipped huddle space can significantly enhance your corporate clients’ experience, transforming any corner into a hub of innovation and success that meets the demands of modern corporate environments. Satisfied clients lead to a thriving business for you!

Have more questions or want to consult with us about a specific use case? Connect with Exertis Almo’s Collaboration Solutions Category Manager or contact your Sales Representative, and we’ll help you find the perfect solution for your clients’ needs.

Want to know more? Check out one of our other collaboration solution blogs.

Top Outdoor AV Solutions for 2025: A Resellers Guide

As the demand for outdoor audiovisual (AV) solutions continues to grow, resellers and systems integrators need to stay ahead of the curve by offering the latest and most reliable products. Whether it’s for outdoor entertainment, advertising, or public announcements, having the right AV equipment is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top outdoor AV solutions for 2025, focusing on displays, audio systems, DVLEDs, kiosks, and mounts.

Outdoor Displays

Peerless-AV 55″ Xtreme™ High Bright Outdoor Display, Gen 4.1

Peerless-AV’s 55″ Xtreme™ High Bright Outdoor Display is designed to withstand the harshest outdoor conditions while delivering stunning visuals. With a brightness level of 2500 nits, this display ensures clear visibility even in direct sunlight. Its weatherproof design protects against rain, snow, and dust, making it ideal for outdoor advertising, digital signage, and entertainment.

Key Features:

  • 2500 nits brightness
  • Weatherproof design (IP68 rated)
  • Anti-reflective and impact-resistant cover glass
  • Operating temperature range: -31°F to 140°F

Peerless-AV Xtreme High Bright outdoor displays

More outdoor displays ⟫Bose Professional S1 Pro+ Wireless PA System

Outdoor Audio

Bose Pro S1 Pro+ Wireless PA System

The Bose Pro S1 Pro+ Wireless PA System is a versatile and portable audio solution perfect for outdoor events. With Bluetooth connectivity, built-in sensors for optimal sound, and a rechargeable battery, this system offers high-quality audio performance in any outdoor setting.

Key Features:

  • Bluetooth streamingElectro-Voice Evolve 50M
  • Rechargeable battery with up to 11 hours of playtime
  • Auto EQ adjusts sound based on placement
  • Lightweight and portable design

JBL Control 85mJBL Control 85M Landscape Speaker: Ideal for blending into outdoor environments while providing excellent sound coverage.

Electro-Voice Evolve 50M Portable Powered Column System: Offers superior sound quality and portability for outdoor events.

Yamaha VS6 Surface Mount Speaker: Durable and weather-resistant, perfect for outdoor installations.Yamaha speakers

Leyard MGS seriesOutdoor DVLED

Planar MGS Series Outdoor LED

Planar’s MGS Series Outdoor LED displays are designed for high-impact outdoor installations. With their robust construction and high brightness levels, these displays are perfect for large-scale outdoor advertising and digital signage.

Key Features:

  • Leyard MGS service and installHigh brightness for visibility in daylight
  • Weather-resistant design
  • Flexible installation options
  • Long lifespan and low maintenance

Outdoor Kiosks and Mounts

Chief Impact Outdoor Kiosk

Legrand kioskThe Chief Impact Outdoor Kiosk by Legrand is a durable and versatile solution for outdoor digital signage and interactive displays. Its sleek design and robust construction make it suitable for various outdoor environments, from parks to shopping centers.

Key Features:

  • Weather-resistant enclosure
  • Easy installation and maintenance
  • Compatible with various display sizes
  • Secure and tamper-proof design

Chief outdoor ceiling mountChief OLC Mounting Kit: Ideal for ceiling and pedestal mounted displays in outdoor settings with varying installation requirements.

Conclusion

As outdoor AV solutions continue to evolve, resellers and integrators must stay informed about the latest products to meet their customers’ needs. The products highlighted in this guide offer reliable performance, durability, and versatility for various outdoor applications. By incorporating these top outdoor AV solutions into your offerings, you can ensure your customers have access to the best technology available in 2025.

Feel free to reach out to your sales representative or an Exertis Almo BDM for more information, or to discuss how these products can enhance your outdoor AV projects.

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