AudioControl
AUDIO CONTROL The Director Model D4600 16 Channel High-Power Network DSP Amplifier
Best multi-zone amplifier for professional whole-home audio installations.
Experience unparalleled audio control with the AudioControl Director Model D4600, a 16-channel high-power network DSP amplifier. Engineered for demanding applications, it seamlessly blends robust amplification with advanced IP-controlled signal processing. Configure EQ, crossovers, and zone grouping effortlessly via the onboard DSP. This amplifier integrates smoothly with popular third-party control systems and features built-in speaker profiles from AudioControl’s Sound Partners program for optimized acoustic performance across various loudspeaker brands. Its compact 2U design makes it ideal for sophisticated installations.
$3456.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
418
/ 1683
#418 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-58%
Below average
Amplifier Channels
16
Who it's for
- Professionals needing reliable power for demanding architectural speaker arrays
- Integrators designing complex, multi-zone whole-home audio systems
- Audiophiles requiring precise acoustic tuning for every individual room
Who should skip it
- Installers working with limited rack space or poor ventilation
- Budget-conscious homeowners seeking an affordable multi-room audio solution
- DIY enthusiasts lacking professional networking and audio configuration experience
Performance breakdown
Channel Density
Sixteen channels in a 2U chassis maximize rack space efficiency.
DSP Versatility
Granular EQ and crossover control offer precise acoustic tuning for zones.
Integration Capability
Seamless IP control ensures smooth operation with third-party automation systems.
Power Delivery
Robust output handles demanding speaker loads with consistent, clean amplification.
Speaker Optimization
Built-in profiles simplify matching for a wide range of loudspeaker brands.
Protection Circuitry
LightDrive technology effectively prevents clipping to safeguard your high-end drivers.
Key Specs
Amplifier Channels
16
Power Output (8Ω)
100W per channel
Power Output (4Ω)
200W per channel
Bridged Power Output (8Ω)
400W
Minimum Speaker Load
4Ω
Signal to Noise Ratio
>95 dB, A-wtd, ref full output
Dimensions
17” W x 15.5” D x 3.5” H (2U)
Weight
19.2 lbs (8.7 kg)
Features
- 16 channels of high-power amplification
- Network-enabled DSP with IP control
- Built-in speaker optimization profiles
- Programmable graphic and parametric EQ
- Bridgeable power for flexible output
- Digital Signal Sense for auto turn-on
- LightDrive anti-clipping protection
- Compact 2U rack-mountable design
What customers say
The Audio Control Director Model D4600 earns high praise, especially from professional integrators, for its exceptional power density and compact design, perfectly suited for high-channel audio installations. Users consistently highlight the robust, high-fidelity audio delivery across 16 channels. A key benefit is the integrated Network DSP, which allows precise tailoring of sound profiles through granular control over equalization and routing. The amplifier is celebrated for its reliable, set-it-and-forget-it performance under demanding conditions. While the premium price places it outside budget markets, most agree the superior build quality and professional features justify the investment for high-end projects. Some DIY users find the DSP software complex, suggesting professional calibration is often needed.
Know before you buy
Yes, the D4600 allows you to bridge channels to increase power output. When bridged into an 8Ω load, the amplifier provides 400W per bridged pair, offering extra headroom for demanding speakers.
The onboard DSP provides programmable graphic and parametric EQ, allowing you to fine-tune the audio for each zone. It also includes pre-loaded speaker profiles from AudioControl’s Sound Partners program, which automatically optimize performance for many popular loudspeaker brands.
The D4600 is network-enabled and features IP control, making it compatible with most major third-party control systems. This allows for seamless integration and remote management of your audio zones.
LightDrive is a built-in protection circuit that prevents the amplifier from clipping, which can damage your speakers and cause harsh distortion. It ensures your audio remains clean and clear even when you are pushing the system to higher volumes.
Yes, the D4600 features Digital Signal Sense technology. It will automatically wake from standby mode when it detects an incoming audio signal, making it convenient for daily use.
Yes, the D4600 features a compact 2U rack-mountable design. Its dimensions are 17 inches wide and 15.5 inches deep, making it well-suited for professional rack installations.
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