SONODYNE SBA 120

Product overview

The SONODYNE SBA 120 is a 120 W Class D booster amplifier in a rugged 1RU rack chassis, with 4 Ω and 100 V outputs through its output transformer and a balanced XLR input with XLR link out, from the SONODYNE SBA Series.

The SBA 120 delivers efficient 120 W Class D amplification from a heavy duty 1RU metal construction with rack mounting arrangement. Its 4 Ω and 100 V outputs are taken through a rugged toroidal output transformer, and a recessed level control on the rear panel trims the output. A balanced XLR input with a loop-through male XLR output allows easy daisy chain cascading: SONODYNE states that up to 6 amplifiers can be looped together without any noticeable loss in level. The amplifier operates from an efficient switching power supply that takes care of a wide range of mains input, and it is convection cooled, with no fan.

Key features

• Efficient 120 W Class D amplification
• 4 Ω and 100 V outputs through a rugged toroidal output transformer
• Balanced XLR input with XLR link out for daisy chain cascading
• Recessed output level control on the rear panel
• Heavy duty 1RU metal construction with rack mounting arrangement
• Efficient power supply for a wide range of mains input
• Signal and power on LED indications
• Convection cooled (no fan)

Inputs and daisy chaining

The female XLR input is balanced (pin 1 signal ground, pin 2 hot, pin 3 cold) with a line sensitivity of 180 mV (± 20 mV). The male XLR link output carries the same signal to other similar amplifiers; up to 6 amplifiers can be looped together without any noticeable loss in level, and SONODYNE advises a distribution amplifier when more than 6 amplifiers need to be looped.

Loudspeaker outputs

The speaker output terminal strip carries COM and 4 for 4 Ω loads, and COM and 100 for 100 V line loads. Low impedance loads should be 4 Ω or higher and the 100 V line load should not fall below 80 Ω. Both outputs can be used at the same time when the total output power does not exceed 120 W.

Protection and build

• Output short circuit and overload protection
• High overload mains fuse protection
• Radio frequency interference suppression
• Meets standard mains safety requirements
• Layout, grounding, decoupling and close tolerance components optimised for long term operational stability
• Custom designed, heavy duty steel chassis with front rack mount ears and symmetrical layout

In the box

• SBA 120 booster amplifier

SONODYNE SBA 120: frequently asked questions

Which loudspeakers can the SBA 120 drive?

4 Ω loudspeakers on the 4 Ω terminal, or a 100 V distributed loudspeaker line (not below 80 Ω) on the 100 V terminal; both can be used together within the 120 W total.

Can several SBA 120 amplifiers share one signal?

Yes. The male XLR link output loops the input to the next amplifier; up to 6 amplifiers can be looped without noticeable loss in level.

Where is the volume control?

On the rear panel: a recessed level control without a knob, set with a cross head screwdriver from MIN to MAX.

How much rack space does the SBA 120 need?

1RU in a standard 19 inch rack; the unit measures 483 x 44 x 310 mm and weighs 6.5 kg.

Where can I buy the SONODYNE SBA 120 in India?

The SONODYNE SBA 120 is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: 100 V distributed loudspeaker line

Installers driving a 100 V line of ceiling or wall loudspeakers.

Connections

Setup

1. Rack the SBA 120 (1RU).
2. Connect the source to the balanced XLR input.
3. Wire the 100 V line to the 100 V and COM terminals (load not below 80 Ω).
4. Set the output with the rear level control.

Tip: Turn the level control fully anticlockwise before powering up.

Workflow 2: 4 Ω loudspeakers

Systems with low impedance loudspeakers.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the loudspeakers to the 4 Ω and COM terminals.
2. Keep the load at 4 Ω or higher.
3. Set the level with a cross head screwdriver.

Tip: Frequency response into 4 Ω: 100 Hz (± 10 Hz) - 18 kHz (± 1 kHz).

Workflow 3: Daisy chained booster amplifiers

Larger installations that need several amplifiers on one programme.

Connections

Setup

1. Feed the first amplifier from the source.
2. Link its male XLR output to the next amplifier's input.
3. Repeat for up to 6 amplifiers.

Tip: Use a distribution amplifier when more than 6 amplifiers are looped.

Workflow 4: Mixed 4 Ω and 100 V loads

Venues combining a few low impedance loudspeakers with a 100 V line.

Connections

Setup

1. Use the correct COM terminal for each load.
2. Keep the total output power within 120 W.

Tip: Low impedance and 100 V loads can be used at the same time.

Workflow 5: Rack installation

Contractors building equipment racks.

Connections

Setup

1. Mount the amplifier in a standard 19 inch rack (1 EIA rack unit (1.73 inch)).
2. Add rear support such as shelving or a rear rack strip, especially for road use.
3. Keep the airflow around the unit unrestricted.

Tip: Flange slots accept bolts up to 6.35 mm (1/4 inch).

Workflow 6: Powering up safely

Anyone commissioning the system.

Connections

Setup

1. Check that the mains voltage matches the rear panel marking.
2. Turn the level control down and the power switch off.
3. Connect all equipment to a common earth point.
4. Switch the amplifier on last and off first.

Tip: Wait a couple of seconds before switching the amplifier on again.