StormAudio Core 16+ AV Processor Adds 18-Channel Support
StormAudio builds on its acclaimed Core platform with the new ISP Core 16+, offering greater flexibility, enhanced HDMI performance, and 18-channel immersive decoding.
High-end immersive audio specialist StormAudio has officially introduced the ISP Core 16+, a powerful new AV preamp/processor that brings elite-level performance and flexible integration tools to serious home cinema projects—complete with 18-channel decoding, Dirac Live room correction, and full support for HDMI 2.1 and 8K video.
Designed and manufactured in France, the Core 16+ builds directly on the foundation laid by the original ISP Core 16, which StereoNET reviewed in 2022, receiving an Appaluse Award. At the time, the Core 16 earned praise for distilling the audio performance of StormAudio’s flagship ISP Elite series into a streamlined, installer-friendly platform. The new Core 16+ retains that design philosophy but adds meaningful enhancements to meet the demands of today’s more ambitious cinema layouts and content formats.
As immersive audio evolves, 9.4.4 speaker configurations are becoming the new go-to reference for high-end home theatre. With 18 decoding and post-processing channels, the Core 16+ gives integrators the flexibility to deliver 9.4.5 or 11.1.6 layouts, along with multi-room and multi-theatre capability—without compromise. The platform supports all major formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced, with StormXT onboard to enhance spatial immersion from non-native content.
At its core is the same high-end DAC stage and proprietary analogue/digital hybrid volume control found in the ISP Elite MK3, optimised to preserve dynamic range and low noise at all levels. Post-processing includes up to 20 PEQs per channel, support for multi-way active speakers, and advanced bass management across up to six zones.
Room correction is handled by the full Dirac Live suite, including Room Correction, Bass Control, and Active Room Treatment—modules that are often add-ons in competing systems. A plugin for Room EQ Wizard (REW) is also available for those who prefer manual tuning.
HDMI capability sees a major leap forward, with HDMI 2.1/HDCP 2.3 supported across 7 inputs and 2 outputs, including ARC/eARC, 8K/4K120, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. An optional HDMI matrix mode supports dual-zone video routing.
On the audio side, the processor provides 16 balanced XLR outputs and 2 optical Toslink outputs, alongside analogue and digital inputs including 4 RCA, 3 coaxial SPDIF, and 3 Toslink inputs. Control options include IR, web browser, StormRemote smartphone and tablet apps, and full driver support for Control4, Crestron, RTI, Savant, Nice, and URC ecosystems.
A standout usability upgrade is the new 5-inch full-colour display, which shows real-time HDMI signal status and multichannel VU meters—useful for both day-to-day use and system troubleshooting.
Already Own a Core 16? Upgrade Made Simple.
StormAudio hasn’t left existing Core 16 owners behind. The company has introduced a software-based upgrade licence that brings older units up to Core 16+ capabilities—no hardware modification required. The licence unlocks:
- Two additional output channels (for full 18ch decoding)
- Expert Bass Routing
- StormXT Channel Expander
- HDMI Dual-Zone Matrix functionality
It’s a straightforward way to extend the life of an already capable processor and prepare existing systems for more complex configurations. For anyone planning or upgrading a reference-grade home theatre, this release further solidifies StormAudio’s position at the cutting edge of immersive audio.
Pricing and regional availability for the ISP Core 16+ and the upgrade path will be confirmed shortly.
For More Information Visit Storm Audio
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Jason Sexton
Jason joined StereoNET in 2025 and now serves as ANZ Editor, bringing decades of experience in marketing, brand development, and specialist hi-fi retail. His listener-first approach delivers grounded insights that cut through the noise. Outside audio, he’s into cars, trail riding, 80s nostalgia, and guitar.
Posted in: Home Theatre
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