QSC Introduces New DPA-Q Network Amplifiers

Three New DPA-Q Amplifiers Offer a Complete Solution for Network Cinema Audio

Designed specifically for use with the Q-SYS™ Network Audio Platform, QSC Audio Products, LLC is pleased to announce the new DPA-Q Network Amplifier Series. DPA-Q amplifiers combine high power output with Q-SYS network connectivity and processing to create the ultimate audio routing and power solution for cinema sound applications. 

Q-SYS, introduced by QSC in 2007, is an extremely powerful yet simple-to-use digital audio network platform that has been installed in hundreds of large commercial applications around the world. Since it is completely scalable, it’s also a cost-effective option for cinema operators who want to take advantage of the benefits offered by a networked audio solution. With the new DPA-Q amplifiers, putting a cinema’s audio system on the network is as simple as plugging in an Ethernet cable. 

Network access offers many benefits, including the ability to monitor and control cinemas from anywhere with network access. “Until now, applying the concepts of audio networks in cinemas has not been practical for most cinema operators. Proprietary solutions or costly infrastructures put it out of the reach of the average multiplex. With Q-SYS and DPA-Q amplifiers, all that has changed,” says Barry Ferrell, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer for QSC Audio Products.

Q-SYS uses industry standard layer-3 IP technologies, combined with Q-LAN, QSC’s own IT-friendly media distribution technology, which uses off-the-shelf networking components, enabling Q-SYS to operate over standard Gigabit Ethernet with no proprietary network equipment required.

DPA-Q network amplifiers operate like other Q-SYS peripherals using the same standard layer-3 networking technology for audio streaming, routing, control, and monitoring.  All amplifiers feature Flexible Amplifier Summing Technology™ (FAST), which enables better power allocation by distributing the total amplifier power across one, two, three or all four outputs, enabling amp channels to be combined for maximum current or voltage output.  The largest models are capable of up to 5,000 watts continuous and peaks of up to 8,000 watts.

Redundant rear-panel Ethernet jacks on the amplifiers simplifies Q-SYS integration. Adding DPA-Q amplifiers to a new or existing Q-SYS design is easily done via the Q-SYS Designer software.

Each housed in a 2U rack-mount configuration, DPA-Q Network Amplifiers feature new QSC proprietary class-D power devices, which enable multi-channel, high performance power.  The DPA-Q lineup includes the DPA4.2Q (400W/Ch @ 4 ohms continuous, 500W/Ch burst), the DPA4.3Q (625W/Ch @ 4 ohms continuous, 1600W/Ch burst) and the DPA4.5Q (1250W/Ch @ 4 ohms continuous, 2000W/Ch burst).

The rear panels feature four (4) balanced Euroblock Mic/Line input connectors that are onramps into the Q-SYS system, and four (4) Euroblock loudspeaker connectors.  In addition, eight bi-directional GPIO connectors offer additional functionality, like automation of masking systems and curtains, which, combined with iOS mobile device control, make DPA-Q Network Amplifiers an essential part of a “boothless” cinema concept.

DPA-Q Series Network Amplifiers will be available beginning in May, 2014.