Harman‘s Crown Audio new XLS DriveCore 2 Series two-channel power amplifiers, offering upgraded features including DSP band pass filtering, selectable input sensitivity, remote sleep mode trigger and new styling, were showcased at the recent InfoComm 2015 show in Orlando.
Four new XLS DriveCore 2 models are available including the XLS 2502, XLS 2002, XLS 1502 and XLS 1002, with power ratings from 350 to 775 watts per channel at 4 ohms and 1,100 to 2,400 watts at 4 ohms bridged. Crown’s XLS DriveCore 2 Series amplifiers feature Harman’s DriveCore amplifier circuitry that combines power output with energy efficiency, all under 11 lbs (5 kg).
“The XLS Series has been a true industry workhorse and with the introduction of the XLS DriveCore 2 models, the amplifiers are even better suited for a wider range of live, portable PA and installed sound applications,” said Craig Lambrecht, business segment manager, Crown Audio.
Crown XLS DriveCore 2 amplifiers now offer a bandpass filter on each channel in addition to the previous low and high pass filters, enabling more precise DSP tuning. All models allow the front-panel LED indicators (except the clip and thermal indicators) to be turned off if desired, reducing distraction in dark venues. All the amplifiers have selectable input sensitivity of either 1.4 Vrms or .775 Vrms, facilitating their use in a wider variety of applications and enabling the amplifiers to be driven at full power.
XLS DriveCore 2 amplifiers now offer a remote sleep modetrigger function, to reduce power consumption from a distance. The amplifiers also feature a display sleep mode that turns the display lighting off after a specified time. All models provide a security setting that disables the front-panel menu buttons; the menu is locked and unlocked by entering a simple button combination. In addition, a system reset function enables all factory settings to be restored.
All models also incorporate Crown’s proprietary DriveCore Class D amplifier design, which is the size of a postage stamp yet combines the amplifier driver stage into the power output stage along with additional audio-signal functions to provide efficient, cool-running operation that conforms to Harman International’s GreenEdge environmental initiative. All the amps are 2U rack spaces high.
Crown XLS DriveCore 2 amplifiers can power 8- 4- or 2-ohm loads and can be bridged for 8- or 4-ohm mono operation. Additional features include Peakx limiters to protect the speakers; balanced XLR, 1/4-inch and RCA inputs; touchproof binding post and Speakon outputs. All Crown XLS DriveCore 2 amps are covered by a three-year, no-fault fully transferrable warranty.
Crown XLS DriveCore 2 Series amplifiers are available at prices ranging from $299 to $599.
