MINIDSP UMIK-X-2 UMA-XL 8-Channel MEMS Microphone Module

The miniDSP UMIK-X in UMA-XL configuration is a multi-channel, multi-point acoustic measurement system designed for synchronised analysis of extended sound fields, based on a distributed network of omnidirectional MEMS microphones interconnected via a USB-A2B link. Each UMA‑XL module incorporates four low-distortion, high-SPL, high-SNR Knowles MEMS capsules, deployed as physically separate micro-modules, allowing for the creation of sets of 4 to 16 active microphones while maintaining 24-bit resolution at 44.1 or 48kHz. This architecture is based on the Analog Devices A2B protocol, which provides simultaneous transport of multichannel audio and power over a single cable up to 40 metres, ensuring strict time synchronisation despite the spatial dispersion of the measurement points.

Beyond the electroacoustic chain, which is identical to that of the UMA-4 modules, the UMA-XL approach stands out for its extended positioning freedom, as each microphone can be positioned independently in order to adapt the measurement topology to the actual volume being analysed. This physical separation allows for detailed mapping of the sound field over large areas or in complex geometries, while maintaining inter-channel response homogeneity, which is essential for reliable multi-point measurements. This approach extends naturally to scenarios involving the calibration of dedicated rooms, the optimisation of distributed multi-enclosure systems, or environmental monitoring, where spatial accuracy takes precedence over network compactness.

Designed for advanced measurement installations requiring spatial expansion without compromising temporal consistency, the UMIK-X UMA-XL combines hardware scalability, robust connectivity and software integration, enabling centralised multi-channel acquisition via a UAC-2 interface, without drivers on macOS and Linux, and with a dedicated ASIO driver on Windows. This overall consistency is reinforced by native compatibility with the multichannel measurement functions of Room EQ Wizard (v5.20 and later), with the corresponding licence included, positioning the UMIK-X UMA-XL as a distributed measurement tool designed to evolve with the complexity and scale of the acoustic environments analysed.