Description
The ARC Audio Falcon combines twelve bridgeable Class-D amplifier channels with sixteen channels of ARC Audio Pro-Series DSP control in one compact chassis. It is designed for high-channel-count active systems, premium factory-audio replacement, and advanced OEM integration.
The amplifier section delivers 75 watts × 12 at 4 ohms, 125 watts × 12 at 2 ohms, or 250 watts × 6 bridged at 4 ohms. Four additional DSP-controlled preamp outputs expand the system to sixteen processed output channels.
An Analog Devices ADAU1462 DSP and dual AKM Velvet Sound converters support 192 kHz/32-bit audio. ARC Audio DNA software provides 444-band equalization, crossover control, all-pass filters, time alignment, and full input/output matrix routing. Optical and digital-over-copper inputs, high-level inputs up to 32 volts, and iDatalink Maestro AR compatibility support modern factory and aftermarket systems.
See the ARC Audio Falcon in an SMS Product Video
A quick look at the Falcon’s twelve amplified channels and sixteen-channel DSP architecture.
Specifications
| Amplified channels | 12 bridgeable Class-D channels |
|---|---|
| Power at 4 ohms | 75 watts × 12 |
| Power at 2 ohms | 125 watts × 12 |
| Bridged power at 4 ohms | 250 watts × 6 |
| DSP-controlled outputs | 16 total: 12 amplified and 4 preamp |
| DSP processor | Analog Devices ADAU1462 |
| Conversion | Dual AKM Velvet Sound ADC/DAC architecture |
| Audio support | Up to 192 kHz/32-bit |
| Equalization | 444 total bands through ARC Audio DNA software |
| Digital inputs | Optical and digital over copper |
| High-level input capacity | Up to 32 volts |
| OEM integration | iDatalink Maestro AR compatible |
| Remote compatibility | PSC and LR-2 |
| Cooling | Microprocessor-controlled fan cooling |
Features
- Twelve bridgeable amplifier channels and sixteen DSP-controlled outputs.
- High-resolution Pro-Series signal-processing platform.
- Full input/output matrix routing, summing, and mixing.
- Parametric equalization, crossover control, all-pass filters, and time alignment.
- Optical, digital-over-copper, high-level, and low-level integration.
- Maestro AR compatibility for supported factory-audio systems.
- Class-D switching-frequency control helps reduce interference.
- Fan-cooled compact chassis for high-density installations.
When SMS Chooses Falcon
Falcon is selected when the vehicle and speaker plan genuinely benefit from a high channel count. Its twelve amplified channels make it especially useful for larger active systems, multi-location factory replacements, or builds where several speaker sections need independent DSP control without stacking multiple cabin amplifiers.
Falcon vs Blackbird vs X2 800.8 DSP
- X2 800.8 DSP: Eight amplified channels with four processed outputs for systems with more moderate onboard power needs.
- Blackbird: Eight amplified channels with higher onboard speaker power when eight channels cover the cabin layout.
- Falcon: Twelve amplified channels plus four processed outputs when the system needs more independently controlled speaker locations or a larger active architecture.
Common System Uses
- Active 3-way front stages with rear fill or additional vehicle speaker locations.
- High-channel-count OEM replacement systems where factory functions must be retained and the signal corrected before tuning.
- Complex cabin systems with a separate dedicated subwoofer amplifier fed from processed output.
- Systems that need substantial routing flexibility without using several separate cabin amplifiers.
Falcon Is Not Automatically the Upgrade
More channels are only useful when the vehicle and system need them. SMS does not choose Falcon solely because the speakers are AS or RS. If an eight-channel architecture is the cleaner design, X2 800.8 DSP or Blackbird may be the better solution. Falcon is chosen when its additional amplified channels simplify or improve the complete system.
Installation and Tuning
SMS maps every input, output, speaker load, crossover role, and external amplifier before installation. Power distribution, cooling, mounting, source integration, gain structure, DSP routing, and final measured tuning are planned as one system.
Compare ARC Audio DSP Options | ARC Amplifier Guide | Plan an ARC Falcon System