Yamaha Shows Networked Amplifier Technology at AESSystem Includes PC Series Amps, Control Unit and Cobranet Hub Bridge October 7, 2002
As a continuing effort to develop and manufacture totally integrated audio systems, Yamaha Corporation of America, Commercial Audio Systems Division, showcased the PC Series power amplifiers, NHB32-C Cobranet Network Hub Bridge and ACU16-C Cobranet Amplifier Control Unit at AES 2002--the latest in networked amplifier technology.
The PC4800N and PC9500N amplifiers are powerful, efficient and surprisingly
quiet choices for any fixed or mobile application. Both models have been engineered to reproduce power linearity and very low distortion--even when driven hard--resulting in an uncolored, "three-dimensional" feel of the original sound source.
The PC4800N (MSRP $1,399) amplifier delivers two channels of 800-watt power (20 Hz to 20 kHz) into 4 ohms, and a bridged mono channel of 1600 watts. The PC9500N (MSRP $1,699) amplifier offers two channels of 1500-watt power at 4 ohms (20 Hz to 20 kHz), or a single channel of 3000 watts, bridged mono. Total Harmonic Distortion is < 0.5%.
Both PC Series models feature a switch-mode power supply, resulting in more efficiently regulated voltage and reduced overall weight. The PC9500N is equipped with two separate transformers and the PC4500N with a single transformer. Two radiator heat-sinks are positioned adjacent to the power transistors to absorb any circuit board vibration; dual variable-speed cooling fans maintain airflow through the heat-sink assembly as well as to the center of the amplifier.
Despite their high power output and compact sizes (under 29 lbs.), the PC4800 and PC9500 are UL-rated, and maintain efficiency, low current draw and reduced heat utilizing Yamaha's proprietary EEEngine and ultra-fast MOSFET technologies.
Each channel contains a 31-position input attenuator and high-pass filter for signal quality and precise calibration. Both units are 2RU designs and feature front-panel power, protection, temperature, remote and level indicators. Each channel contains both professional balanced XLR and PHOENIX-type terminal block input connectors; output connectors include 5-pole binding-post and SPEAKON. Two RJ45 terminals are included for networking purposes.
The ACU16-C Amplifier Control Unit is capable of monitoring up to 32 PC9500N or PC4500N amps using a PC computer via RS-232C or USB. The 1RU unit monitors output wattage or voltage, input level, temperature and impedance, and also controls power on/standby, attenuator, mute and phase. The ACU16-C communicates to amplifiers via an RS-485 buss with CAT-5 cable, using Cobranet as its input.
The NHB32-C Network Hub Bridge allows 32 channels of AES/EBU to be converted to Cobranet. The 1RU unit is also controlled by a PC computer using RS232C or USB, and may be used in conjunction with the ACU16-C for an amplifier network control solution.
"The decision to release Cobranet products was based on Yamaha's desire to provide compatibility with existing networking systems," states Larry Italia, general manager, Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems Division. "Similar products are currently under development as mLAN versions."
For more information, visit their web site at www.yamaha.com/proaudio. | 
