AudioControl has launched the Director M-Series 4800 (top) and 6800 (bottom) high-powered matrixing amplifiers, engineered to address the needs of integration specialists. The eight-channel M4800 supplies 100W per channel at 8 ohms or 200W at 4 ohms of output, while the M6800 supplies the same power to 16 channels, with the added option of 400W per channel at 8 ohms bridged. The newest additions to the M-Series lineup feature sophisticated onboard DSP including graphic and parametric equalization by zone, available custom profiles tailored for popular architectural loudspeakers, network monitoring/programming, plus the addition of zone and global volume control with individual channel/zone grouping via standard TCIP and zone audio presets. Director Series amplifiers can be controlled onsite or remotely through their DCHP/fixed IP control. Both models also allow for the ability to bridge channels, giving integrators configuration flexibility for system setup, and come available in brushed aluminum as well as the new Black Espresso anodized finish, and come with AudioControl’s standard five-year warranty.
Amplifier Technologies, Inc. (ATI) has introduced a new line of Class D amplifiers, the AT5XXNC series, featuring Hypex N-Core output modules with ATI-designed input buffers and linear power supplies. The new amps are available in two configurations: The AT52XNC amps are rated at 200W RMS per channel at 8 ohms with 300W RMS at 4 ohms, and are available with two to eight channels. The AT54XNC amplifiers use two N-Core modules per channel in a differential bridged output configuration, delivering 500W RMS per channel at 8 ohms and 900W RMS at 4 ohms. The AT54XNC amplifiers are available with two, three, or four channels. They are the first ATI amplifiers to use microprocessor control for turn-on delay and feature automatic AC power recognition and configuration.
Lexicon by Harman introduced the eight-channel DD-8+, a new multiroom, high-efficiency amplifier at CEDIA 2016. Utilizing Harman’s DriveCore amplifier technology to deliver 1,000 watts of power from acompact design, the Lexicon DD-8+ is an enhanced complement to the DD-8 multichannel amplifier. With eight channels of 125W each (all channels driven) and a chassis of only a single rack space height, the Lexicon DD8+ adds the ability to configure and control the amplifier from all major web browsers and third-party IP control systems, four new stereo digital audio inputs with a built-in hires DAC, and preamp and DSP audio management features. DSP preamplifier functionality includes pink noise generation, bass and treble controls, 10-band parametric EQ, limiter and delay settings, selectable high-pass and low-pass filters, input trim levels with clip indicators, and maximum volume settings.
NAD Electronics is now shipping a custom installation solution, the CI 720 Network Stereo Zone Amplifier and companion RM720 Rack Mount. The CI 720 features BluOS, the high-resolution multiroom wireless audio operating system developed by Bluesound. BluOS offers the ability to stream audio from local collections or popular cloud services like Tidal, Spotify, Qobuz, and others. NAD Hybrid Digital power makes the CI 720 single stereo zone solution unique, with a space-saving “blade” form factor that allows it to reside locally in a zone–behind a flat screen TV, for example–where the analog and digital inputs to accommodate the local source in addition to the network stream. With a conservatively rated 60W continuous and up to 165W dynamic power available, any speaker can be driven to lifelike sound levels with high quality.
Rotel introduced the 14 Series, featuring two new integrated amplifiers, the A14 and A12. The flagship is rated at 80W per channel RMS into 8 ohms, both channels driven. The A14 features a substantial power supply comprising a Rotel manufactured toroidal transformer plus slit-foil capacitors to handle difficult speaker loads and dynamic signal peaks. It has been designed to accommodate both classic analog and the latest digital source components supported by the onboard AKM 32bit/768kHz DAC. The power supply, the heart of this amplifier, features Rotel manufactured toroidal transformers built to high tolerances using raw materials carefully selected from proven, trusted suppliers.
Belgian brand Storm Audio made its worldwide launch at CEDIA 2016, where it unveiled its line of high-end immersive audio home theater processors and amplifiers. The StormAudio power amplifier range is designed to provide audiophile-grade power for home theaters and multiroom applications, with flexible channel numbers. The entire PA product lines shares the same proprietary architecture in a compact 3U chassis, with the same control and custom installation functionalities. The line includes three new amplifier models: PA 8 Master, PA 8 Elite, and PA 16 Elite, for suggested retail points of $6,900, $9,200, and $11,500, respectively. Each benefits from a large power supply with efficient, high-current amplifier modules, as well as an electronically managed vent system. The amps can also be remotely monitored.
