Audison · bit Nove
Audison bit Nove Review: 9-Output Car DSP With Caveats
Research-based review of the Audison bit Nove, a 6-in, 9-out car DSP with two optical inputs. Specs, price, availability, rivals and who should still buy it.
Pros
- Nine RCA outputs, each with a 10-pole parametric EQ, crossover and delay for active systems
- Six inputs accept speaker-level (3 to 20 V) or RCA (1.2 to 8 V) signals, suiting factory radios
- De-equalization and USS circuit help it work behind OEM sources that mute without a speaker load
- Two optical inputs accept up to 192 kHz/24-bit, such as the bit Play HD or bit DMI
- Rated THD of 0.005% at 1 kHz, 1 Vrms and SNR of 102 dBA analog and 110 dBA optical
- Compact 130 x 34.5 x 199 mm, 0.7 kg body with 0.08 ms time-alignment steps
Cons
- Internal processing is 24-bit/48 kHz fixed point, so 96 kHz and higher sources are not processed natively
- No current Audison product page found, and one US dealer lists it as no longer available
- Configuration needs a Windows PC; no phone app is listed, and one owner called the software clunky
- A $550 miniDSP C-DSP 8x12 lists 12 outputs and a higher rated SNR of 115 dB
- No digital output and no built-in Bluetooth listed
- No independent measurements or professional lab tests found to confirm the rated figures
Specifications
| Analog inputs | 6 channels, speaker-level 3-20 V or RCA 1.2-8 V; stereo AUX RCA 0.3-5 V |
|---|---|
| Bandwidth | 10 Hz to 22 kHz at -3 dB |
| Channel separation | 85 dBA at 1 kHz |
| Computer connection | Micro USB (USB 1.1/2.0/3.0); Windows Vista to Windows 10; 1024 x 600 minimum screen |
| Crossover | Linkwitz-Riley 12/24 dB, Butterworth 6/12/18/24 dB per octave; 68 steps, 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Digital inputs | 2 x optical S/PDIF, up to 192 kHz/24-bit |
| Dimensions and weight | 130 x 34.5 x 199 mm (5.11 x 1.35 x 7.83 in); 0.7 kg (1.5 lb) |
| Equalizer | 9 parametric EQs, plus or minus 12 dB, 10-pole, 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Outputs | 9 x RCA; max 4 V RMS at 0.1% THD; no digital output |
| Power | 7.5 to 14.4 VDC operating; 0.53 A idle; 1 mA off (4.5 mA with DRC) |
| Processing | 24-bit/48 kHz fixed point (32-bit Cirrus Logic DSP per UK distributor listing) |
| Remote | Remote in 4-15 VDC (1 mA); remote out 10-15 VDC (130 mA); ART turn-on 2-7 VDC |
| SNR (A-weighted) | 102 dBA master input, 101.5 dBA AUX input, 110 dBA optical inputs |
| THD | 0.005% at 1 kHz, 1 Vrms output |
| Time alignment | 0-15 ms (0-510 cm); 0.08 ms steps, 0.02 ms fine set |
| Type | Car audio digital signal processor, 6 inputs, 9 outputs (sold as bit Nove DRC with DRC AB controller) |
Verdict
The Audison bit Nove suits owners adding an active multi-amplifier system behind a factory or aftermarket radio who want speaker-level inputs, de-equalization and nine tunable outputs. Its main strength is that flexibility at about $499; its main compromises are 24-bit/48 kHz processing, Windows-only software and patchy availability. A $550 miniDSP C-DSP 8x12 lists more outputs and better rated noise figures, so compare before buying.
This Audison bit Nove review covers a nine-output car audio digital signal processor (DSP) built for adding an active, multi-amplifier system behind a factory or aftermarket radio. Is it worth buying? A US retailer prices it at $499, which is competitive for a processor with speaker-level inputs, nine outputs and two optical inputs. The catches are that its internal processing runs at 24-bit/48 kHz, the tuning software is Windows-only and many shops sell it as the "bit Nove DRC", which bundles a DRC AB controller. No direct successor from Audison is confirmed; the nearest siblings are the smaller bit Ten (4 inputs, 5 outputs) and the much more expensive bit One HD Virtuoso.
The unit scores 3.0 out of 5 on the rubric explained near the end. The verdict, pros, cons and specification list sit in their own boxes on this page, so the text below covers how the processor works, what the rated figures mean and what to check before buying.
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Audison bit Nove design and build
The processor is a compact black box rated at 130 x 34.5 x 199 mm (about 5.1 x 1.4 x 7.8 in) and 0.7 kg (1.5 lb). Our calculation from those dimensions gives a volume of roughly 0.9 litre (130 x 34.5 x 199 = 892,515 mm3). The low 34.5 mm height lets it slide under a seat or into a tight panel cavity. Case materials, connector quality and internal construction are not described in the sources, so they are not confirmed.
The listed connections are six analog input channels, a stereo auxiliary RCA input, two optical inputs, nine RCA outputs, a micro USB port for the computer and an AC Link port for the DRC controller.
Features and usability of the bit Nove
Each of the six analog inputs accepts either speaker-level signals (3 to 20 V) or RCA-level signals (1.2 to 8 V). The auxiliary RCA input takes 0.3 to 5 V, which Audison suggests for a phone or tablet. That input flexibility is the main reason to pick a processor like this for a car with a factory radio. Audison adds a de-equalization function that flattens the equalization a factory source applies, and its USS (Universal Speakers Simulator) circuit lets the processor sit behind radios that mute their output when they detect no speaker load. In North American vehicles it can also work with the iDatalink Maestro AR interface, sold separately.
Each of the nine outputs has its own 10-pole parametric equalizer (plus or minus 12 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz), a crossover and a delay line. Crossover filters are Linkwitz-Riley at 12 or 24 dB per octave and Butterworth at 6, 12, 18 or 24 dB per octave, selectable in 68 frequency steps from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with a 0 or 180 degree phase switch. Time alignment runs from 0 to 15 ms in 0.08 ms steps, with a 0.02 ms fine setting. The manufacturer quotes these steps as 2.8 cm and 0.7 cm of path difference, and the 15 ms maximum as 510 cm.
Configuration happens on a Windows PC over micro USB. The listed requirements name Windows Vista through Windows 10 and a screen of at least 1024 x 600; no macOS or phone app is listed. The unit also lists a wire-controlled preset and optical-input selection, plus compatibility with Audison's bit Tune auto-calibration. Retail packages are described as including a CD-ROM with software, the owner's manual and test tracks; the full box contents are not confirmed.
Audison bit Nove rated performance
Our research found no independent lab measurements for this model, so the figures below are the manufacturer's. The data lists THD of 0.005% at 1 kHz with a 1 Vrms output, a bandwidth of 10 Hz to 22 kHz at -3 dB, and A-weighted signal-to-noise ratios of 102 dBA for the master inputs, 101.5 dBA for the auxiliary input and 110 dBA for the optical inputs. Channel separation is rated at 85 dBA, and the maximum output level is 4 V RMS at 0.1% THD. These numbers come from the maker's own test conditions.
The sample rate is the detail that matters most. The two optical inputs accept up to 192 kHz/24-bit, but US and UK dealer listings describe the processing as 24-bit/48 kHz fixed point, using a 32-bit Cirrus Logic DSP and matching converters. How higher-rate material is converted is not confirmed. A source such as the bit Play HD, which outputs up to 96 kHz, therefore meets a listed processing rate of 48 kHz. For comparison, Audison lists the bit One HD Virtuoso with 24-bit/96 kHz floating-point processing. For an end-to-end hi-res chain that gap matters; for a factory radio feeding the speaker-level inputs it probably does not.
Installing the bit Nove and living with it
The listed operating supply is 7.5 to 14.4 VDC with an idle current of 0.53 A. The rated figures work out to about 6.4 W at 12 V (0.53 x 12). Turn-on comes from a 4 to 15 VDC remote-in signal, or from the automatic remote turn-on (ART) feature listed at 2 to 7 VDC, and a remote-out lead supplies 10 to 15 VDC at up to 130 mA for amplifiers. Standby draw is listed as 1 mA without the DRC controller and 4.5 mA with it, which is about 0.11 Ah per day for the latter (4.5 mA x 24 h).
Safety notes for anyone installing one: disconnect the battery before touching the power lead, fit an inline fuse close to the battery on the supply, and use a solid chassis ground. Set crossovers before powering amplifiers that drive tweeters, because an unfiltered signal can damage them. Start with amplifier gains low and the master volume down, since a 4 V RMS maximum output can overdrive an amplifier set for a lower input. Professional installation is sensible for vehicles with factory amplifiers or digital buses.
Audison bit Nove against two rivals
Two processors serve as the nearest like-for-like comparison. The miniDSP C-DSP 8x12 V2.0 is a direct price rival, and the Helix DSP PRO MK3 is a widely used step-up model at more than twice the price. On paper the miniDSP C-DSP 8x12 V2.0 offers more outputs and better rated noise and distortion for $51 more, which is about 10% above the bit Nove's price (51 / 499). The Helix DSP PRO MK3 adds higher output voltage and more input options. Our calculation from the rated figures puts its 8 V output 6 dB above the bit Nove's 4 V (20 x log10(8 / 4)). Rated figures use different conditions, so the gaps are indicative, not exact.
| Item | Audison bit Nove | miniDSP C-DSP 8x12 V2.0 | Helix DSP PRO MK3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (USD) | $499 | $550 | $1,250 |
| Price per output (calculated) | $55.44 (9 outputs) | $45.83 (12 outputs) | $125.00 (10 outputs) |
| Analog inputs | 6 speaker-level or RCA, plus stereo AUX | 8 (8x12 design); input types not confirmed | 8 RCA plus 8 speaker-level |
| Digital inputs | 2 optical, up to 192 kHz/24-bit | Not confirmed | 1 optical (12-96 kHz), 1 coaxial (12-192 kHz) |
| Outputs | 9 RCA, 4 V RMS max at 0.1% THD | 12 RCA; level not confirmed | 10 RCA, 8 V |
| Processing | 24-bit/48 kHz fixed point | 32-bit floating point, 400 MHz SHARC; up to 192 kHz | 64-bit DSP, 96 kHz sampling |
| Rated SNR | 102 dBA master, 110 dBA optical | 115 dB (weighting not stated) | 111 dBA analog, 116 dBA digital |
| Rated distortion | 0.005% THD, 1 kHz, 1 Vrms out | 0.0007% THD+N (conditions not stated) | Below 0.001% THD+N analog, below 0.0005% digital |
| Size and weight | 130 x 34.5 x 199 mm, 0.7 kg | Not confirmed | 40 x 177 x 120 mm |
The bit Nove's case rests on Audison integration. Its optical inputs are meant for the bit Play HD player and the bit DMI interface, which taps the digital audio on some cars' MOST bus.
Who should buy the bit Nove and who should skip it
It suits drivers adding amplifiers and a fully active speaker system to a factory radio who value speaker-level inputs, de-equalization and Audison's DRC controller. It also suits anyone extending an existing Audison system, and installers who already know the Audison software.
Skip it if you want end-to-end hi-res processing, a phone app for tuning, built-in Bluetooth or digital output, or the lowest noise figures for the money. Also skip it if you cannot confirm warranty and support from an authorized Audison dealer.
Audison bit Nove price and what to check before buying
The Audison bit Nove is priced at $499 at Audio Design in the US. UK dealers list it around 599 pounds and a Lithuanian shop lists 507 euros, so price varies widely by region. Prices change often, so check the current listing. The Amazon page for the Audison bit Nove shows the live price for shoppers who prefer to buy there.
Confirm whether a DRC AB controller is included, since many listings sell the bit Nove DRC bundle. Check that the seller is an authorized Audison dealer so the warranty is valid, and that the software runs on your Windows laptop. Warranty length and full box contents are not confirmed, so get both in writing. Budget for installation, amplifiers, optical cable and any vehicle-specific interface, and check the return terms. Ask the seller or Audison support for the manual and software before the return window closes.
Final verdict on the Audison bit Nove
The processor earns 3.0 out of 5. The rubric weights performance and function at 40%, features and usability at 20%, build and design at 15% and value for the price at 25%. The weighted result is 3.20, which rounds to 3.0 on the 0.5 scale. Our research score is based on the rated figures and documented details above.
| Category | Weight | Score (0 to 5) | Weighted points | Why |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Performance and function | 40% | 3.5 | 1.400 | Solid rated noise and distortion and strong per-output tuning, held back by 48 kHz processing |
| Features and usability | 20% | 3.0 | 0.600 | Speaker-level inputs, de-equalization and two optical inputs, but Windows-only software and no phone app listed |
| Build and design | 15% | 3.0 | 0.450 | Compact and light, with materials and construction not documented |
| Value at review price | 25% | 3.0 | 0.750 | $499 is reasonable, but a $550 rival lists more outputs and better rated noise figures |
| Total | 100% | 3.20, rounded to 3.0 | 3.200 |
For a factory-radio car that needs nine tunable outputs at a moderate price, the bit Nove is a workable choice, and you can view the current Amazon listing before you decide.
Sources and further reading
- Audio Design, bit Nove listing (price and technical specification)
- Audison UK distributor listing (DSP and converter description)
- OnlineCarStereo, bit Nove DRC listing (DRC bundle details)
- Sound of Tristate, bit Nove DRC listing (DRC bundle details)
- Elettromedia store, Audison range (bit One HD Virtuoso details)
- miniDSP, C-DSP 8x12 V2.0 product page (price and specifications)
- ResoNix, Helix DSP PRO MK3 listing (price and specifications)
Audison bit Nove FAQ
Is the Audison bit Nove still available?
US availability is mixed. One US retailer listed it at $499 on 12 October 2026, another showed it as no longer available and a third as out of stock. Audison's own product page did not load, and I found no official discontinuation notice, so confirm stock and warranty with an authorized dealer.
What is the difference between the bit Nove and the bit Nove DRC?
Most listings sell it as the bit Nove DRC, which includes a DRC AB dashboard controller, while some list the plain bit Nove. The processor specifications are the same in the listings I found. Confirm that the controller is in the box before buying.
Will it work with a factory radio?
Yes, that is a main use. Its six inputs accept speaker-level signals from 3 to 20 V, it has a de-equalization function and its USS circuit prevents radios that detect no speaker load from muting. On some North American vehicles it can also pair with the iDatalink Maestro AR interface, sold separately.
Can it process hi-res digital audio?
The two optical inputs accept up to 192 kHz/24-bit, but dealer listings describe the processing as 24-bit/48 kHz fixed point. Higher-rate sources are therefore not processed at their native rate. Audison lists its bit One HD Virtuoso with 24-bit/96 kHz floating-point processing.
Can I tune it from my phone?
The technical data lists configuration from a Windows PC over micro USB and names no phone app. A DRC AB controller handles dashboard control. Audison's bit Tune auto-calibration is listed as compatible, but I did not verify its price.
How many amplifier channels can it drive?
It has nine RCA outputs. A fully active three-way front stage uses six, which leaves two for rear speakers and one for a subwoofer. Each output has its own equalizer, crossover and delay.
How much power does it use?
The manufacturer lists an idle current of 0.53 A, about 6.4 W at 12 V. Standby draw is 1 mA without the DRC controller and 4.5 mA with it, roughly 0.11 Ah per day for the latter. Wire its turn-on lead to a remote or ignition-switched signal.
Is it better than the miniDSP C-DSP 8x12?
On paper the miniDSP lists more outputs (12 against 9) and a higher rated SNR (115 dB against 102 dBA) for about $550 against $499. The bit Nove offers speaker-level inputs and tighter Audison integration. Ratings use different test conditions, so compare tuning software and your own needs.