Audio Authority Debuts SonaFlex 16-Channel Digital Amp

Audio Authority is debuting at CEDIA Expo 2011 its new 16-channel digital amplifier, the SF-16, aimed at serving the needs for both the commercial and residential markets. The U.S.-built unit's highlights amplification, flexible audio configurations and open control capability while providing 60W RMS per channel at 4 ohms.

David Acton, product development specialist for Audio Authority, says, “Our new SonaFlex amplifier was designed to address the changing market landscape for the custom installer. We went to our dealers to see what they were looking for in a multi-channel amp. They told us they needed power, dynamics and reliable performance combined with the flexibility to use the amplifier in residential and commercial distributed audio applications. We believe the SonaFlex SF-16 addresses these needs and exceeds expectations for audio quality and performance.”

Acton says the most unique feature of the SF-16 is its “support for consumer and pro audio sources, combined with the ability to override audio on any channel using contact closure, IR, RS-232 or IP commands." The unit is well suited for whole-house audio with local source override, paging for restaurants and business, room-combining for conference centers and more.”

The SF-16 includes two FlexPort Cat 5 audio ports, which accept a variety of Audio Authority wallplates, sold separately. Options include stereo RCA, balanced mic/line level, and digital optical/coax versions. All wallplates can be located up to 1,000 feet away from the SF-16.

Other key features include:

• 16 channels of digital amplification -- 60W RMS per channel at 4 Ohms, all channels driven
• Eight stereo RCA and two FlexPort audio inputs can be assigned as stereo or mono to any channel output
• Class A/B audio performance combined with the efficiency of a Class D amplifier
• Quick-connect DB25 input and pass-thru from Audio Authority ADX and HLX audio matrix switchers
• IR, RS-232 and Ethernet control of channel volume, muting, override and volume presets
• 10 programmable volume presets
• Expandable to 64 output channels by bridging four units via the DB-25 audio port
• Quick setup using the front panel or PC configuration software

The unit is available Q4 2011 with an MSRP of $2,500. FlexPort wallplates will retail at $200 each.