Yamaha Introduces P Series Amplifiers
July 11, 1997
Utilizing their new Energy Efficient Engine (EEEngine) technology, Yamaha Corporation of America announces the release of the new "P" series amplifiers, available in three power ratings (P1600, P3200 and P4500). The EEEngine technology of the versatile P Series amplifiers delivers high power output, cool running and low power draw, all within one small package.
The P1600 delivers 150 watts per channel into 8 Ohms (200W into 4 Ohms/400W into 8 Ohms bridged mono); the P3200 is 350 watts per channel into 8 Ohms (480W into 4 Ohms/960W into 8 Ohms bridged mono); and the P4500 is 500 watts per channel into 8 Ohms (680W into 4 Ohms/1360W into 8 Ohms bridged mono).
All versions are rackmountable 2-space designs (the amplifiers also have rubber legs and can be used free-standing), with front panel power and level controls. The front panel includes "signal present" and peak indicators for each channel as well as AC, protection and overheat warning lights.
In addition to the standard stereo/bridged mono selector, the P-series amplifiers also include a parallel setting. When in the parallel mode, the input circuit feeds a monaural signal from one input jack to both channels, while still maintaining independent L/R control of the amplifier's signal. This eliminates the need for awkward splitter cables when operating in a mono mode.
The input controls are 31-position dB-calibrated attenuators allowing standard independent L/R adjustment. The input jacks accept XLR, 1/4-in. balanced and barrier strip connections, allowing for quick and easy connection to virtually any system. Outputs are five-way binding posts.
The protection circuits on all three models are comprehensive: ON/OFF power muting (which suppresses the outputs until the amplifier has stabilized, protecting the speakers from transient spikes at power up and down), heat oversink protection, noise filtering and a PC limiter for short circuit protection. An ultra-quiet forced air cooling fan maintains a constant temperature in the units.
The frequency response of the amplifiers is 0dB+0.-1dB (f= 10Hz-50kHz, RL= 8ohms, po= 1W), allowing for very transparent amplification with no sound coloration. Each unit features a high damping factor of >200 (RL= 8ohms, f= 1kHz) for improved bass response and a total harmonic distortion (THD) of <0.5 percent (stereo, f= 20Hz-20kHz, RL= 8ohms). Intermodulation Distortion (IMD) in all modes (stereo/mono) is <0.5 percent (half power, f= 60Hz: 7kHz, 4:1).
The amplifiers are incredibly quiet with a signal-to-noise ratio of >100dB and a residual noise of <-70dB (attenuator at minimum). Channel separation is >65dB (half power, f= 20Hz-20kHz, RL= 8ohms) and >80dB with the input attenuator at a maximum 600ohm shunt. The slew rate in a stereo mode is ±30V/µ and ±50V/µ in mono.
Power requirements are U/C model 120V, 60Hz and are also available in two other configurations: 100V, 50/60Hz; 230V, 50/60Hz. Total dimensions of all three models measure 480 mm (width) x 88 mm (height) x 455.8 mm (depth). Delivery is expected mid-summer for all three models. For more information, visit their web site at www.yamaha.com. | 
