Axel Technology - Falcon X5

Designed for radio infrastructure operators seeking comprehensive processing capabilities without the need for additional equipment, the Falcon X5 is the entry-level model in Axel Technology’s new generation of Falcon processors. Despite its positioning, it offers the same processing power as the Falcon X7 and is distinguished primarily by simpler connectivity and management functions.

Its Dual Processing architecture allows it to process two separate channels simultaneously. FM processing operates up to 15 kHz, whilst a second channel can process the signal up to 20 kHz for DAB, HD Radio, Sirius XM or Web Radio. An adjustable delay of up to 3.5 seconds can also be applied to the FM processing to resynchronise this broadcast with a digital channel exhibiting greater latency.

The audio processing is based on a particularly comprehensive 5-band architecture. Dual AGC, multiband compression, limiters, 3-band equalisation, Stereo Enhancer, voice processing, Phase Rotator, brightness control and Bass Enhancer allow you to create a highly precise sound signature. Over 240 factory presets cover a range of programming styles, supplemented by 20 user presets for creating your own settings.

The Falcon X5 also features an MPX stereo generator with two independent analogue outputs and a 192 kHz AES3 digital MPX output. The MPX power control complies with ITU BS.412 recommendations. As an option, the processor can be fitted with a dynamic RDS encoder and a changeover function with silence detection.

Monitoring can be carried out directly from the front panel or remotely via the built-in web server. Operational data can be recorded onto a microSD card and exported in CSV format, whilst SNMP, TCP and UDP ports, GPI inputs and relay outputs facilitate its integration into an automated infrastructure. With its 1U rack-mount form factor and maximum power consumption of 15 W, the Falcon X5 thus combines the key tools required for the FM processing and generation chain in a single unit.