M-Audio has unveiled the Studiophile DSM1 and DSM2 reference monitors with built-in DSP for sound processing. They have been developed in collaboration with Digidesign (certainly for DSP purposes).

So what’s the point of the DSP?

The monitors feature a powerful onboard DSP engine, which provides clear and accurate audio imaging by compensating for phase differences between the two drivers at the crossover point. The onboard DSP also manages a number of functions that enable users to tailor each speaker to their unique space and placement needs, for optimal monitoring in any environment.

And in case anyone is wondering, the analog and digital inputs supports up to 24-bit/192kHz.

Adam Castillo, marketing director at M-Audio had this to say (from the Avid press release):

The DSM monitors are a logical next step as we expand our position as a leader in the studio monitor market. We’re really pleased with the result of this collaboration between M-Audio and Digidesign – the quality of the DSM series speaks for itself.

I’m not sure what leading position he’s talking about, but anyway…

Studiophile DSM1 and DSM2 Features:

• 1” Teteron soft fabric, high-frequency dome with Neodymium magnet and ferrofluid cooling – accurate to 27kHz
• custom low-frequency driver with anodized aluminum cone provides exceptionally low distortion (6.5” on DSM1, 8” on DMS2)
• onboard DSP manages the complex, 4th-order digital crossover for pristine imaging
• DSP-based EQ and Acoustic Space Controls optimize monitor for difficult acoustic environments
  bass-reflex port delivers controlled extended bass response
• high-density cabinet yields good damping and reduced acoustic interference
• professional digital inputs (up to 24-bit/192kHz): S/PDIF and AES
• balanced analog inputs: XLR and 1/4”
• bi-amplified with Class D power amps: 100 watts (low frequency) and 80 watts (high-frequency)

The Studiophile DSM1 and DSM2 monitors are currently expected to ship in the fourth quarter of 2008 and carry an MSRP of US$649.95 per unit and US$749.95 per unit, respectively.