AV Processor/Receiver Storm Audio ISP Elite MK3

StormAudio ISP Elite MK3 — modular immersive processor with up to 32-channel decoding and Dirac Live room correction

The StormAudio ISP Elite MK3 is an immersive audio processor designed for demanding home cinemas and multichannel music systems, handling decoding and upmixing of up to 32 channels. It supports the Dolby Atmos, Auro-3D, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, MPEG-H and 360RA formats, works in multi-theater, multi-layout and multi-room modes and carries Roon Ready certification for network playback.

The design is based on a modular architecture with 16, 24 or 32 analogue output channels on XLR connectors, complemented by an optical output for a Zone 2 downmix. The digital section comprises an AES/EBU input for up to 16 channels, an AES/EBU output for up to 32 channels and AoIP (AES67/Dante) for up to 3 channels. The video path is handled by an HDMI 2.1 matrix with seven inputs and two outputs supporting ARC/eARC, HDCP 2.3, 40 Gbps bandwidth on all ports (4K UHD / 8K) and the HDR10+, Dolby Vision and HLG formats. The analogue and digital input complement is rounded out by six S/PDIF inputs (three optical, three coaxial), four RCA inputs in a 7.1 or stereo configuration and one stereo XLR input.

Room calibration is provided by Dirac Live with the Room Correction, Bass Control and Active Room Treatment modules, including REW plug-in integration. Correction of the frequency response and decay in the listening room, together with support for multiple subwoofers and both standard and expert bass management, results in a more even low-frequency response, more precise localisation of sound objects in the height layer and consistent spatial imaging across multiple listening positions.

Setup and control take place via a web interface, the StormRemote app for tablet and smartphone, an infrared remote control and a TCP/IP network connection with drivers for Control4, URC, Crestron, RTI, Savant and Nice (ELAN). The StormEasy Wizard and Layout functions simplify defining speaker configurations. Measuring 442 × 466 × 176 mm and weighing 11 kg, the processor received the CEDIA 2022 Best New Product award and the manufacturer provides a five-year warranty.

Key features

• Channels: Decoding and upmixing of up to 32 channels
• Formats: Dolby Atmos, Auro-3D, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced
• Video: Seven HDMI 2.1 inputs and two outputs
• Calibration: Dirac Live with Room Correction and Bass Control modules
• Architecture: Modular 16, 24 or 32-channel XLR outputs