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miniDSP SHD

miniDSP SHD advanced audio processor

Product Overview

The miniDSP SHD offers a wealth of input-output options, network streaming services including Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify, network players such as Roon, powerful back-end processing for subwoofer integration and active speakers and of course, two-channel (stereo) Dirac Live.

Info

The miniDSP SHD is one of a series of related products – the SHD Series. Each has the same processing capabilities, but different input-output capabilities. The other members of the series are:

  • SHD Studio. A compact all-digital input-output model, perfect for use in modern all-digital systems, studios, and professional applications. See the product page for more information.

  • SHD Power. A compact integrated DSP preamp and power amplifier. 120W per channel of clean power on tap and two subwoofer outputs. See the product page for more information.

Dirac Live room correction

The miniDSP SHD executes stereo (two-channel) Dirac LiveĀ® digital room correction, from Dirac Research. Dirac Live's mixed-phase filtering technology will improve the imaging of your system, minimize the effects of room modes and resonances, and improve dynamics and clarity.

To accomplish this, the Dirac Live software steps you through the procedure for taking measurements around your listening area. It employs a sophisticated analysis algorithm to make the optimal correction across the whole listening area, not just at a single point. You have full control over the target frequency response. Measurements are taken with the miniDSP UMIK-1 or UMIK-2 calibrated acoustic measurement microphone.

Illustration of Dirac Live magnitude response correction

In addition to correcting magnitude response, Dirac LiveĀ® corrects the system's impulse response, which reflects how the system responds to a sharp transient such as a drumbeat. Reflections, diffraction, resonances, misaligned drivers, and so on, all combine to smear out the transient. Impulse response correction is a critical factor for accurate sound-staging, clarity and bass reproduction.

Illustration of Dirac Live impulse response correction

Typical applications

The miniDSP SHD processor replaces multiple components in a conventional audio system -- preamplifier, network streamer, DAC and room correction are all bundled into a single affordable unit. Figure 1 illustrates how a miniDSP SHD can simplify your audio system, using it as a digital preamp with network streaming, subwoofer integration and stereo (two-channel) Dirac Live room correction.

miniDSP SHD as preamp with network streaming, subwoofer integration and stereo (two-channel) Dirac Live room correction

Figure 1. miniDSP SHD as preamp with network streaming, subwoofer integration and stereo (two-channel) Dirac Live room correction