Crest Audio launches networkable power amplifiers

Intended for fixed installations, the range is described by the manufacturer as offering an ‘efficient green design that saves energy, weight and space’.

The four-model CKd Series is being marketed by Crest as combining the power-supply design of its own Pro 200 with NexSys networking and Class-D topology, all centred upon an ultra-high efficiency output circuit offering improved weight, power and thermal values. The amplifiers can be networked via Crest’s equally new Nx Dante-8 NexSys control module to the NexSys 5 and MediaMatrix NWare software. The Nx Dante-8 module fits into the rear bay of each of the amplifiers and supports all NexSys functions, DSP functions and Dante digital audio I/O via a 1GB Ethernet connection.

Of the four models, the CKd 1208 and CKd 1204 provide 1,250W per channel in eight and four channels configurations respectively, while the CKd 608 and CKd 604 provide 625W per channel in eight and four channels. Each amplifier channel reportedly operates to rated power in direct 70V, 100V, 8-ohm or 4-ohm modes, configurable per channel. 

Also included is a Control Voltage input on each channel to allow external gain control, while a Fault output on each channel allows the amps to be wired to external monitoring systems. Additionally, users can conserve energy by disabling channels that are not in use.

Finally, the range boasts Crest’s ACL (Active Clip Limiting) technology, which automatically reduces gain at the onset of clipping to prevent amplifier and load damage, and IGM (Instantaneous Gain Modulation), which monitors load current to protect against overloading.  

Crest has also announced the launch of its two-channel Pro-LITE 3.0 and Pro-LITE 3.0 DSP power amplifiers, which it reports feature ‘an incredibly lightweight, efficient design with high power and stable performance into 2-ohm loads’.

The two switch-mode power supply-loaded, Class-D amplifiers operate in parallel, stereo and bridged modes, weight 13.3lbs and deliver 870W per channel at 4-ohms stereo. On-board the DSP-loaded version meanwhile is a suite of delays (0-120ms per channel) adjustable crossovers, adjustable limiters, a parametric EQ, HF driver EQ, four user preset storage locations, and stereo/mono operation with lockable security settings. A front-panel LCD screen is included for users to quickly assign presets, plus a USB port for external set-up.

The Pro-LITE 3.0 DSP also integrates Waves MaxxBass Bass Extension technology, which uses psycho-acoustics to create precise harmonics that give the perceived effect of boosting low frequencies in the mix. The level of MaxxBass effect can be adjusted from 0 per cent to 100 per cent.

Shipping: Q4

Web: www.crestaudio.com