British loudspeaker specialist ATC has announced the P2 Pro Dual Mono Power Amplifier – a true dual mono design, delivering 300W of continuous power simultaneously from both channels to drive the most challenging loudspeaker loads.
Hand-built in the UK, the class-A/B P2 is a dual mono design, keeping the power supplies, signal and return paths discrete for maximum signal separation with minimal crosstalk, and minimum intermodulation between channels across a frequency range of 400kHz. It also means that the power delivery from one channel cannot affect the specified power available from the other.
Housed in a new low-vibration 19-inch rackmount chassis featuring a precision machined 12.7mm brushed aluminium front panel, the amplifier’s layout includes a massive, custom 400VA low-noise transformer for each channel, and an output stage involving three pairs of MosFet devices per channel to achieve peak current output of more than 15A.
According to ATC Technical Sales Manager Ben Lilly: ‘The final design of these transformers is the result of seven design iterations with the goal of achieving best possible audio performance and lowest possible mechanical noise. This was achieved by using a very high-grade steel core which is then vacuum impregnated with high-temperature resin, post-winding. The exceptionally low levels of mechanical hum/buzz, along with convention cooling, are vital features if the amplifiers are to be used in control rooms designed with lowest possible levels of background noise.’
ATC’s ‘grounded source’ output stage ensures smooth power delivery and extremely low harmonic distortion. Gain matches that of the P2 Pro Dual Mono Power Amplifier’s lower power P1 Pro Dual Mono Power Amplifier sibling so that they can be used together in passive bi-amp or tri-amp systems connected via ‘Link’ phono inputs/outputs.
The P2 Pro Dual Mono Power Amplifier offers both balanced XLR and unbalanced phono inputs, Link phonos, proprietary speaker terminals, and a front panel-mounted power switch. ‘The mains power “soft-start” feature has been revised, slowing the rate at which the unit powers up,’ Lilly says. ‘The design of the venting has also been revised with the steel mesh covering the heat sink vents being replaced by a beautiful acid-etched stainless steel insert. Not only does this component greatly enhance the amplifier visually, it also reduces lid/cover vibration.’
Weighing in at 21kg/46.2lbs, the amplifier’s specifications include a quoted 300W (8Ω, 1% THD) maximum continuous output power rating; 2V rms (ref. 150W out) input sensitivity; 10kΩ/leg input impedance; <2Hz to >400kHz (-3dB) frequency response; >100dB crosstalk; and >0.002%/-95dB THD. It will be available in Q4 2016 at a UK RRP of £2,833.00 GBP (plus VAT).
