CONSTANT VOLTAGE AMPLIFIERS

Description

Constant voltage amplifiers, also known as high-impedance amplifiers or distributed audio amplifiers, are audio amplifiers specifically designed for systems that utilize a constant voltage distribution method for audio transmission. This method is commonly employed in audio installations where multiple speakers are connected over long distances, such as in commercial sound systems, public address (PA) systems, and background music systems.

Here are some key aspects and features of constant voltage amplifiers:

Constant Voltage Distribution: Constant voltage systems use a high-impedance transmission method, typically at 70V or 100V, to distribute audio signals to multiple speakers. The audio signal is amplified to a high voltage level and then distributed through a network of transformers, ensuring consistent audio levels across all connected speakers.
Impedance Matching: Constant voltage amplifiers include output transformers that provide impedance matching between the amplifier and the distributed speaker network. These transformers allow the amplifier to deliver power efficiently to multiple speakers with varying impedance ratings, while maintaining a constant voltage level throughout the system.
Power Taps: Constant voltage amplifiers often feature power taps or multiple output terminals with selectable wattage settings. These power taps allow the installer to adjust the power delivered to each individual speaker based on its specific requirements, ensuring balanced audio distribution and appropriate sound levels in different areas.
Long Cable Runs: Constant voltage systems are suitable for installations that require long cable runs between the amplifier and the speakers. The high-impedance transmission method minimizes power loss and signal degradation over long distances, making it more efficient than traditional low-impedance speaker wiring.
Distributed Speaker Arrays: Constant voltage amplifiers are designed to drive multiple speakers connected in parallel within a distributed audio system. This configuration allows for flexible placement of speakers throughout a facility, such as in large halls, shopping centers, or outdoor spaces, while maintaining uniform audio coverage.
Priority and Zone Control: Some constant voltage amplifiers provide additional features like priority input channels and zone control. These features allow specific audio sources to take precedence over others and provide independent volume control for different zones or areas within the system.
Constant voltage amplifiers are widely used in commercial audio installations where centralized audio distribution is required. They offer efficient and scalable solutions for delivering audio to multiple speakers over long distances while maintaining consistent sound levels. By utilizing constant voltage distribution, these amplifiers simplify installation, reduce wiring complexity, and enable easy expansion and configuration changes in complex audio systems.

When selecting a constant voltage amplifier, it’s important to consider factors such as power requirements, the number and impedance of connected speakers, power tap options, and any additional features needed for the specific installation.