Next FM Transmitter has low distortion < 0.05 % and the best FM S/N ratio > 80 dB. It also has a very good channel separation up to 50 dB over the whole band and PLL controlled by microprocessor. It is adjustable from 2 to 20W or 10 to 100W (depending on version).

The 20 or 100W exciter can be used with external power amplifier to reach output power up to 3KW.

The Next FM is a revolutionary digital audio processor that can be used to process audio for FM and digital broadcasting such as HD/DAB and Internet streaming. Using the latest multi-band DSP technology, the DSP board provides up to 2.8 gigaflops of processing power and enables broadcasters to create their own sonic signature to attract and keep a loyal audience.

2 bands version VS 4 bands version

The 2 bands version is the ideal choice:

• As a main audio processor for soft and medium formats (Classical, Voice, Jazz…)
• As a secondary processor to finalize the audio at each transmitter site (i.e. after pre-processing at the studio)

The 4 bands version is the ideal choice:

• As a main audio processor for all formats
• For radio stations needing loudness:  The sound that compete with the best processors on the market (Omnia6, Orban8500...)

Using predictive techniques, the Automatic Gain Control is based on complex algorithms that correct large level variations without any pumping effect. It maintains a constant audio level on the air. The wideband approach keeps the balance between frequencies. Silence gating prevents unnecessary volume changes and improves processing quality.

The Next FM features a 2-band audio processor, standard. Yet, it allows the creation of specific sonic signatures thanks to its 4-band parametric equalizer. For each band it is possible to configure the frequency, the gain and the filter quality. This level of precision is quite useful for bass enhancement. You can also increase high and low frequencies dynamically thanks to the Bass FX and Treble FX.

Enhance the stereo effect of your signal with perfect control. Stereo enhancement used to be a source of reception troubles such as multi-path. The Next FM includes a specific limiter to insure reception stability.

The Next FM uses a unique algorithm that controls the gain for each band. You can easily control how the Next FM will process your sound. A ‘Fidelity’ parameter enables you to control how close to the original sound you’d like to remain. (Purist/Processed). The Next FM also has the Sound Impact System, which is a revolutionary algorithm that preserves dynamic and peak attack perception.

The Next FM contains an advanced 2 or 4-band limiter (depending on version). Its look ahead function guarantees perfect peak control without the drawbacks of typical limiters. A mix function enables control of the balance between the bands.
2 band units can easily be upgraded to 4 band architecture by installing a software key.  

Previously the best clippers on the market were running at a sampling rate of 768kHz. The Next FM includes a revolutionary ‘virtual’ composite/MPX clipper that samples at 1.5 MHz. This level of quality and control has never been reached before. Precisely control high frequency energy with the HF limiter. An HD limiter can be used at the same time to process digital high quality radio (HD /DAB / DRM). This limiter uses predictive techniques with very low delay (<6ms on 4-band version).

 
Preset management

 
User friendly and intuitive interface

Audio configuration made easy:

• Instantly compare current settings with an existing preset.
• Keep a record of all modifications thanks to the complete undo/redo function
• Use easy and full modes for audio configuration
• Create your own view by selecting the meters you want to see.

RDS ENCODING

The Next FM includes a RDS encoder fully compliant with the RDS and RBDS standards as well as the UECP communication protocol. The built-in RDS encoder offers the same features as our high-end Audemat existing range including FMB10 (basic) and FMB80 (full) RDS encoder.

RDS Parameters	Basic RDS	Full RDS
PI: Program Identification codes PS: Program Service name (Scrolling PS) TP – TA: Traffic Program and Traffic Announcement flags MS: Music Speech flag DI : Decoder Identification PTY – PTYN : Program Type & Type Name AF: Alternative Frequencies list Method A (up to 25 Frequencies) Method B RT: Radio Text RT+: Radio Text+ Connection to automation software IP connectivity	X X X X X X X X up to 25 X X X	X X X X X X X X up to 900 X X X X
SLC, PIN, LINK, EON, TDC, TMC, ODA, EWS		X
DSN / PSN	2 DSN/ 1 PSN	10 DSN/ 10 PSN

The Next FM includes an optional 80Gb hard drive for audio backup. This function provides additional security in case of loss of audio at the inputs. The audio backup is presented as an integrated 3rd audio input with the advantage of configurable crossfades during input auto-switches. An alarm can be automatically sent by the unit to inform the engineer of audio source failure. Using the java interface, upload audio files from your PC to be used for Audio Backup, or enter the IP port address of your ‘SHOUTcast’ server so the IP MP3 stream input can serve as audio backup.

You can also use the hard drive to store audio files to be played at specific time or triggered using the contact closures and Scripteasy software, to insert local content into a translator broadcast, etc.

2 versions are available, a basic version with only 1 audio file stored on the hard disk or an advanced version including a full playlist management.

Using high speed DSPs, the Next FM includes a highly over sampled stereo encoder that offers amazing stereo performance and perfect synchronization. The MPX limiter enables control of the composite power conforming to ITU-R412.

• DSP technology and perfect synchronization of all subcarriers.
  • Audio, Pilot and RDS signals are produced in the same unit.
• Stereo Encoder, highly over-sampled for stereo performances never reached before.
• HQ Sound means higher audio quality for listeners:
  • 192kHz samle rate for audio processing
  • 1.5MHz sample rate for final limiters
  • Extend FM audio bandwidth to 17kHz without affecting the 19kHz or L-R signals.

The Ecreso Next FM has 5 slots that can be equipped with digital inputs, analog inputs and relay output boards. In standard form, it includes Scripteasy V2, powerful software that enables the creation of scripts and automatic routines. This capability can be used to control other equipment such as a satellite receiver, to trigger the Traffic Announcement (RDS) or to control and play audio files stored on the local hard drive of the Next FM.
Scripteasy enables the integration of serial protocols using its  RS232 API tool. Therefore, the Next FM could control and monitor an FM amplifier using a serial cable. Scripteasy also allows for the integration of the SNMP MIB of an external piece of equipment, and execution of the GET and SET commands via IP.

An embedded FM receiver can be added to provide an ideal solution for FM rebroadcasting .
Excellent performance and sustained reliability allow this option to satisfy the requirements of the most demanding broadcasters, satellite and cable operators...
Rebroadcasting applications for this equipment might include coverage of shaded areas, rebroadcasting in tunnels and rebroadcasting from ‘on the air’ signals to cable network or satellite providers.
It could also be used also to monitor received signals in control rooms (with monitoring option).