Crown Audio is now shipping the four highest-powered models in its DriveCore Install (DCi) Series of power amplifiers.
Available in both DCi Analog and DCi Network Ethernet-linkable configurations, the 4-channel and 2-channel amplifiers deliver 1,250 watts per channel into 2, 4 or 8 ohms, as well as 70 volts rms and 100 volts rms (all channels driven; 2,500 watts in bridged mode).
The models include the DCi Analog 4-channel DCi4|1250 and 2-channel DCi2|1250, and the DCi Network 4-channel DCi4|1250N and 2-channel DCi2|1250N. Both share the same specs, with the DCi Network amplifiers adding Ethernet connectivity that enables networked configuration via RJ-45 cable and BLU link digital audio transport.
“As the successor to our long-time industry-standard CTs Series, we introduced the DCi Series as the undisputed new standard in installed sound amplifiers,” says Daniel Saenz, business segment manager at Crown Audio. “As such, having high-power models in the lineup to handle the largest applications was mandatory. These four new amplifiers bring an entirely new level of performance, flexibility, sound quality and reliability to the most demanding large-scale amplification requirements.
“With the feature set of the networked amplifiers, the system is simplified through easier connections with RJ-45 for BLU link and fewer hardware devices with rack density of high output 4 channel amplifiers.”
Although quite powerful, the amplifiers are just 2U rack spaces high to conserve valuable rack space. The amplifiers’ compact size, high efficiency and sonic quality is made possible by Harman’s proprietary DriveCore amplifier IC chip, which combines the amplifier driver stage into the power output stage along with additional audio-signal functions –- yet is about the size of a postage stamp.
DriveCore and Class D amplifier topologies dramatically reduce size and power consumption requirements and yield much more energy-efficient operation.
Crown DCi Series amplifiers can be operated into 8-, 4- or 2-ohm loads and offer direct drive “constant voltage” capabilities for 70 volts rms and 100 volts rms amplification without the need for a step-up transformer, yielding higher audio quality in distributed audio applications.
The amplifiers incorporate an exclusive Global Power Supply that is designed to deliver maximum power in any country and their universal AC input accepts voltages from 100 – 240 VAC, 50/60Hz (+/- 15 percent).
The DCI Network amplifiers offer networked monitoring and control via Harman HiQnet Audio Architect system software. The network capable DCi Series amps offer digital audio connectivity using the company’s proprietary BLU link as well as analog inputs.
The DCi Series is Crown’s most green amplifier line to date, with a selectable powersave auto-standby mode where the amplifier will power after 30 minutes of no input signal and consume less than 1 watt.
In addition to the balanced 3-pin input connectors and 2-pin terminal strip output connectors, a rear-panel AUX port enables the amplifiers to be integrated into control systems for remote on/off and amplifier fault monitoring.
Crown DCi Series amplifiers carry a three-year, no-fault fully transferrable warranty.