Blaze Audio has announced the addition of four new models in its PowerZone Connect series of multi-zone installation amplifiers that are designed for a range of commercial installation applications.
New models include the Connect 1002, 1502, 2004 and 3004 DSP amplifiers with stated total system power offerings of 1000, 1500, 2000 and 3000 watts (respectively) in a full rack, 2RU form factor. Users can leverage full system power and maximum channel count in Lo-Z (4 ohms) or employ half the channel count but double the channel power for Hi-Z operation. Hybrid output (Lo-Z + Hi-Z) setups can also be achieved on four-channel models.
The onboard matrix DSP facilitates system configuration and control via Blaze Audio’s PowerZone Control browser-based web app that can be used to configure and manage sound zones, inputs/outputs, firmware updates, the importation of loudspeaker presets, and access to EQ settings, all via phone, tablet, or PC by connecting through the amplifier’s built-in Wi-Fi or direct via the amplifier’s network port.
The amplifiers employ Pascal UMAC class-D technology and L-PRO amp modules and are equipped four unbalanced RCA line inputs, four balanced microphone/line inputs, four Lo-Z outputs or two Hi-Z outputs (model depending), S/PDIF digital I/O (amp linking), RJ45 (network/control access), Wi-Fi access (integrator setup and maintenance), and a multi-purpose GPIO (volume, standby, mute, trigger).
Blaze Audio executive sales director for the Americas Kevin Wilkin says, “For the largest projects, these power amps make an excellent choice. With PowerZone Control, system configuration is quick and intuitive and their optimal hybrid power performance of both variable Lo-Z and constant Hi-Z voltage provides integrators with a very flexible amplifier that can be used in many different configurations and setups.
“Equally notable, their S/PDIF digital I/O provisions enable multiple amps to be easily linked together. I should also add that these models employ Pascal’s UMAC Class D amplifier technology with market-proven ultra-reliable L-PRO amp modules—ensuring maximum reliability for long-term cost-effectiveness.”
