Clarion DTX810S 8-Channel 800W Amplifier with 12-Channel DSP

Competition-grade DSP amplification with expanded I/O for complex system architectures

Product Overview

The Clarion DTX810S is a 12-channel digital signal processor and 8-channel Class D amplifier engineered for advanced custom installations requiring comprehensive tuning control. Delivering 800W maximum power across eight channels (100W peak per channel), this unit serves as the processing and amplification hub for multi-speaker, multi-zone systems where independent channel control is critical. With eight high-level inputs, two RCA inputs, plus optical and coaxial digital inputs, the DTX810S accepts signals from virtually any source—factory head units, aftermarket processors, or digital audio devices. The 12 RCA and 8 high-level outputs provide the routing flexibility needed for bi-amped components, dedicated subwoofer channels, and rear fill zones. Every channel features a 31-band parametric equalizer with 0.1dB resolution, independent crossover filters (6-48dB/octave slopes), and time alignment up to 20,000ms (692cm) for reference-quality staging in any vehicle layout.

Key Specifications

• 12-channel DSP processor with 8-channel Class D amplification
• Maximum power output: 800W (100W peak per channel across CH1-8)
• 10 input channels: 8 high-level (28-40Vpp max) + 2 RCA (6.5Vpp max) + optical/coaxial digital
• 20 total outputs: 12 RCA (6.5Vpp max) + 8 high-level (38Vpp max)
• 31-band parametric EQ per channel: 20Hz-20kHz, Q value 0.404-28.852, ±12dB gain, 0.1dB resolution
• Independent high-pass/low-pass filters per channel: 20Hz-20kHz, 6-48dB/octave slopes
• Output delay: 0-20,000ms (692cm/273in) for precise time alignment
• Filter types: Linkwitz-Riley, Butterworth, Bessel
• Signal-to-noise ratio >100dB, THD 0.05%, dynamic range >100dB
• Operating voltage: DC 9-16V
• Dimensions: 227mm (L) × 187mm (W) × 53mm (H)
• Weight: 2.58kg (packaged: 3.00kg)

Features & Benefits

Full Class D architecture delivers efficient amplification across all eight channels with minimal heat generation, enabling compact installations in locations where traditional Class A/B amps would overheat—perfect for under-seat, behind-panel, or boot cavity mounting in touring 4WDs and dual-cabs.

Digital input capability via optical and coaxial connections allows direct integration with head units featuring digital outputs, preserving signal quality by bypassing analog conversions and minimizing noise floor—particularly valuable in high-end systems where every dB of signal-to-noise ratio matters.

Twelve-channel DSP processing with dedicated 31-band EQ per channel enables surgical tuning of complex systems including bi-amped front components (separate woofer/tweeter channels), center fill, rear staging, and multiple subwoofer zones without external processors or additional equipment.

Extended time alignment (20,000ms) accommodates extreme off-axis installations common in commercial vehicles, vans, and motorhomes where driver position may be several meters from certain speakers, allowing precise phase correction across the entire system.

Eight high-level inputs accept factory speaker-level signals from OEM amplified systems without modification, making this ideal for upgrading premium factory audio in vehicles like Land Cruiser Sahara, RAM Limited, or Mercedes-Benz models without replacing the factory head unit.

Twenty total output channels (12 RCA + 8 high-level) support virtually unlimited system architectures—run additional external amplifiers via RCA pre-outs while simultaneously powering passive speakers directly, or use high-level outputs for factory speaker retention alongside aftermarket components.

Six preset memory banks store complete tuning profiles for different scenarios: daily commute EQ, competition SPL mode, passenger-focused staging, highway cruising response, or genre-specific tuning for rock versus classical—switch instantly without retuning.

Remote sensing capability automatically powers the unit when detecting high-level signals, eliminating dedicated remote wire requirements in factory integration scenarios and simplifying installation in vehicles where accessing ignition-switched power is challenging.

Technical Specs

• Amplifier type: Class D (all channels)
• Input channels: 10 total (8 high-level @ 4.7Ω impedance + 2 RCA @ 10kΩ impedance + optical/coaxial digital)
• Output channels: 20 total (12 RCA @ 100Ω impedance + 8 high-level)
• Peak power output: 100W per channel (800W total maximum across CH1-8)
• Output signal gain range: -59.9dB to 0.0dB
• Equalizer: 31-band parametric per channel, 20Hz-20kHz (1Hz resolution), Q 0.404-28.852, ±12dB gain (0.1dB steps)
• Crossover filters: Linkwitz-Riley, Butterworth, Bessel types, 20Hz-20kHz (1Hz resolution), OFF/6/12/18/24/30/36/42/48dB per octave slopes
• Output phase: 0° or 180° selectable per channel
• Output delay: 0-20,000ms (0-692cm/0-273in)
• Signal input range: RCA 6.5Vpp max, high-level 28-40Vpp max
• Signal output range: RCA 6.5Vpp max, high-level 38Vpp max (all channels)
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Total harmonic distortion: 0.05%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >100dB (RCA)
• Dynamic range: >100dB
• Remote input: high-level sense or ACC start
• Remote output: +12V DC @ 200mA
• Standby power consumption: 0.1W
• Operating temperature: -20°C to +70°C
• Working voltage: DC 9-16V
• Dimensions: 227mm × 187mm × 53mm (L × W × H)
• Weight: 2.58kg (unit), 3.00kg (packaged)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this power an entire system without additional amplifiers?

Yes, the DTX810S delivers 100W peak per channel across eight channels, sufficient for powering front and rear component sets plus small to mid-size subwoofers (8-10"). For larger subs or higher power requirements, use the 12 RCA pre-outs to drive external amplifiers while the DTX810S handles DSP duties and powers speakers directly.

Does the digital input improve sound quality over analog?

When connected via optical or coaxial digital input from a compatible head unit, the DTX810S receives a pure digital signal that bypasses analog-to-digital conversion stages, reducing potential noise and maintaining maximum dynamic range—most noticeable in high-resolution audio playback and quiet passages.

What software is needed for tuning?

The DTX810S uses Clarion's Windows-based tuning software (free download from Clarion). Connection requires a USB-to-serial adapter (not included). All DSP parameters, crossovers, EQ curves, and presets are programmed via laptop then stored permanently in the unit's memory.

How much more time alignment does this offer compared to the DTX680S?

The DTX810S provides 20,000ms maximum delay versus 10,000ms on the DTX680S—double the range. This matters in large vehicles (motorhomes, buses, vans) or when speakers are mounted at extreme distances from the listening position, requiring extensive delay correction for proper staging.

Is professional installation necessary?

While electrical installation is straightforward for experienced DIYers, optimal DSP tuning requires acoustic measurement equipment (calibrated microphone, RTA analyzer) and advanced knowledge of crossover theory, phase alignment, and acoustic principles. Professional tuning is strongly recommended to realize the full potential of this processor.

Compatible With / Goes Well With

• High-end component speaker systems (4" to 6.5" sizes requiring bi-amp configuration)
• Competition-grade tweeters and midrange drivers for advanced front staging
• Mid-size subwoofers (8" to 12" recommended for available power)
• Factory audio system integration in premium vehicles (Land Cruiser, RAM, Mercedes-Benz, BMW)
• Multi-amplifier competition systems (use as DSP front-end with multiple power amps)
• Head units with digital optical/coaxial outputs for maximum signal quality
• RCA distribution blocks and signal splitters for complex routing scenarios
• USB-to-serial adapters for laptop tuning connection
• Calibrated measurement microphones (UMIK-1, Dayton iMM-6) for professional DSP setup
• 4-gauge or 6-gauge amplifier wiring kits (depending on total system current draw)

Weight

3.00kg (packaged with accessories)