QSC Audio Ships PLX Series Power Amps

Apr 12, 2006

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Building upon a reputation for sonic quality and rugged reliability with what now represents a third generation of PowerLight technology, QSC's new PLX2 amplifiers are now shipping.

Designed to meet the demanding needs of live performance, PLX2 amplifiers are divided into two product groups offering power outputs of up to 3,600 watts. Adding subwoofer processing and more convenient back-panel switches to the original, still unrivaled PLX platform, the fully-featured PLX2 "02" lineup (models PLX1802, PLX2502, PLX3102, and PLX3602) are complemented by the compact PLX2 "04" amps (models PLX1104 and PLX1804), which bring the same technology to applications where bridged or 2Ω operation isn't required.

Adding contemporary style to any rack while also serving as an integral I-beam providing extra strength and support, the PLX2 cast aluminum front panel is but one highlight among a host of other mechanical features including integrated front handles, side rails, rear rack ears, and handy cable-tie anchor points.

With QSC's third-generation PowerLight technology, PLX2 amps tip the scales at a total of 15-21 pounds. These weight-saving gains are achieved with active circuitry that replaces the hundreds of turns of copper wire found in a traditional power transformer that can easily add 20-25 pounds to total amplifier weight.

"A conventional power transformer can easily weigh more than a complete PLX2 amp," Quilter adds. "By greatly increasing the power supply frequency, the PowerWave supply utilizes a much smaller, more efficient transformer with shorter, wider windings. This thicker, less restrictive design is not only lighter, but supplies more peak power to the audio output section as well."

Beyond these benefits, the PLX2 product group offers sound quality usually associated with studio reference amplifiers thanks to its use of audio power circuits that reduce crossover distortion with precision bias tracking. Capable of making minute adjustments as amplifier temperature changes, precision bias tracking produces a consistent and cleaner high frequency sound regardless of how hard an amp is driven. In addition, PLX2 models with higher power ratings are outfitted with QSC's proprietary Class H output circuitry, which can best be described as a form of audio turbocharging that increases maximum power yields without affecting sonic performance.

PLX2 "02" models are perfect for extremely high-powered bridged mono operation, or driving up to four loudspeakers from each amp channel at a 2Ω load. Every model in this category features built-in subwoofer processing, filter switches, and front-panel indicators displaying bridged mono status. All functions are switchable, making a wide-ranging number of working options available to suit virtually any need.

Built for applications where one or two loudspeakers are driven by each amplifier channel at 4Ω, PLX2 "04" models offer greater performance value via a simplified feature set that nonetheless retains undiluted PLX2 performance and strength. At 15 lbs. each, these amps are perfect for portable systems and reference-quality playback. Like the "02" models, each features automatic overload protection, SpeakOn® NL-4 output connectors, 21-position front panel gain controls, balanced XLR/F inputs with parallel TRS connectors, and a cooling design that exhausts hot air out the front to insure cooler rack temperatures.