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Audio Precision has recently released version V6.0 of the APx500 audio measurement software update. In this version, the APx500 software supports the simultaneous input and testing of multiple signals from different sources; it can measure up to 16 digital channels as well as 8 analog audio channels at the same time. This new multi-signal testing capability, combined with the highest number of testing channels and the widest range of digital interfaces, provides APx500 users with essential cross-domain analysis capabilities as well as the opportunity to reduce testing time. Simultaneous testing of multiple signals refers to the ability to activate a second type of input signal on any APx modular audio analyzer or APx515 analyzer, and to measure both analog and digital signals at the same time. When two types of signals are input simultaneously, for example, one or more analog microphone signals via the analog interface and a set of MEMS microphone signals via the PDM-16 module, the APx500 V6.0 software will provide measurement results for each active input channel. Furthermore, the sensitivity or gain characteristics of digital microphones and other converters can be displayed directly through a new \"Sensitivity\" test item, which shows the relationship between the RMS values of analog and digital inputs. The simultaneous testing of multiple signals feature is available in both the Sequence testing mode and the Bench real-time testing mode; it supports all basic measurements for microphones and microphone arrays, as well as transfer function analysis, along with the two-channel FFT analysis function added in previous versions of the software. With these new functions and transfer functions, the complex amplitude and phase relationships of multiple analog or digital microphones or cross-domain devices can be analyzed easily. An illustration of the cross-domain testing feature introduced in APx500 software version V6.0, showing an example application in which 16 digital microphones (Input 2) are used as the DUT, while an analog reference microphone (Input 1) is used as a reference. Testing applications improves R&D and production efficiency. For audio devices with analog and digital outputs, the new multi-input testing feature allows these outputs to be evaluated simultaneously in a design laboratory or on the production line. Parallel measurement of the two signal types can also reduce testing time, which is particularly important in production applications. The multi-input testing function is particularly suitable for smart speakers with digital microphones, mobile phones, Bluetooth headphones, and other devices, as it allows for the simultaneous measurement of the device’s microphone and a simulated reference microphone. “Our latest version of the APx500 software offers powerful new features that are widely applicable in the design and manufacturing of audio products. ”said Mike Flaherty, CEO of Audio Precision. “ This new feature provides design engineers with more in-depth analysis, while offering manufacturing engineers faster testing times; the multi-input testing function demonstrates the power and value of the APx500 audio measurement software. ” The new APx audio analyzer will come with V6.0 software and one year of software maintenance, with a valid license covering future APx 7.0 versions (as well as any versions released between V6.0 and V7.0). APx users who already have a valid license for V6.0 only need to download the upgrade, while users of the older version of the APx analyzer can purchase the software upgrade option. AP will hold an online seminar on V6.0 on June 30, 2020, during which the ANC headphone testing methods will also be shared; registration is welcome.