What Else Distinguishes These AMPLIFIERS?

WHAT ELSE DISTINGUISHES THESE AMPLIFIERS?

Constant power into varying impedances. It takes twice as much current to develop a given wattage into 2Ω as it does into 8Ω —but only half the voltage. Many amplifiers quote a high output current at 2Ω but have an unpublished operating time measured in a handful of seconds—before thermal shutdown (hopefully) precludes thermal meltdown.

Our solution for this is selectable rail voltages for optimizing the amplifier to the load. This is impractical for conventional line-frequency supplies—and it comes at a cost for switching supplies. A full PWM design is needed, adding a coupled out- put inductor, a current-sense transformer and a current-mode controller IC. An impedance selector switch is also needed for each channel, simultaneously altering the rail voltage and the current limit. Each channel of the amplifier can be inde- pendently optimized for 2Ω , 4Ω , and 8Ω , useful in bi-amping and tri-amping, etc. Both 70 and 100 volt constant voltage line operation are possible. Instructions on the back of the amplifier explain the various options.

UNIVERSAL LINE VOLTAGE INPUT

Voltage selection is provided in two bands: 100-140 volts and 200-265 volts, (both 50-60 Hz) via two quick-connect termi- nals located on the EMI filter board, accessed by removing the top cover. The current-mode control system automatically corrects for the bulk of power line variation with each band. This allows most of the PWM action to be reserved for pro- gramming and regulation of output voltages. A flyback topology provides the numerous housekeeping low voltages required by various circuits.

PROTECTION CIRCUITS

Fan control circuit - Each amplifier channel has a fan control circuit that measures the temperature of the heatsink, and adjusts the fan speed accordingly. This thermally-tracking fan speed circuit keeps fan noise to a minimum when power demands are low. Typically the fans will be turning slowly even at idle conditions - although abnormally low room temper- atures may allow the fans to turn off completely. The fan control circuit also has a turn-on blast feature that runs the fans at full speed for a few seconds every time the amplifier is turned on. This serves the dual function of cleaning out the air tun- nel, and providing a simple means to check the fans for proper operation. If you suspect that the fans are not operating cor- rectly, try turning the amplifier off, then listening or feeling for the turn-on blast when the amplifier is turned back on.

Thermal Standby - If excessive heatsink temperature is detected, the individual amplifier channel will go into thermal stand- by mode. The amplifier will be turned off, and the THERMAL LED illuminates until heatsink temperatures return to normal. At that time the amplifier automatically turns back on, and continues operating normally.

NOMAD protection - The amplifier output MOSFETs are protected from excessive power dissipation by NOMAD protec- tion circuitry. NOMAD (Non-Multiplying Advance Decision) limits the power when it measures signal voltage and current conditions that will exceed the pre-determined power limit of the MOSFETs. This instantaneous power calculation is per- formed on each output MOSFET, causing the amplifier to automatically limit power when needed. In this way, a speaker load with an impedance “dip” over a particular frequency range will only activate the NOMAD protection when sufficient audio is present at that same frequency range, but continue operating normally otherwise.

Short protection - The NOMAD protection circuit also protects against shorts, and will instantly limit the output power if speaker wires are shorted together. Normal operation will continue immediately after the short is removed.

Power Supply Current Limiting protection- The switching power supply will protect itself from excessive power dissipation by continuously monitoring currents in the switching MOSFETs. The Current Limiting circuit measures the currents in the switching MOSFETs and will instantly limit them to a safe level.

Soft turn-on/fastturn-off- Speaker loads are protected from turn-on/turn-off transients by a circuit that monitors the power supply, and controls the amplifier when power on/off events are detected. At turn-on, this circuit waits for power supply voltages to settle, then sends a turn-on ramp signal to slowly turn the amplifier on. At turn-off, this circuit acts quickly to turn off the amplifier before power supply capacitors discharge, and voltages collapse into the output signal - causing speaker “pops”.

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SR2600, SR2300 specifications

The Hafler SR2300 and SR2600 are high-performance power amplifiers designed for audio enthusiasts seeking to elevate their listening experience. These models are renowned for their remarkable sound quality, powerful performance, and innovative technologies, making them ideal for both home audio systems and professional applications.

Starting with the Hafler SR2300, this amplifier is a two-channel powerhouse capable of delivering up to 150 watts per channel at 8 ohms, and 225 watts per channel at 4 ohms. One of the key features of the SR2300 is its Class AB design, which strikes an optimal balance between efficiency and sound fidelity. The design minimizes distortion, allowing for clear and precise audio reproduction across a wide frequency range. The amplifier also boasts a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring that both low and high frequencies are accurately represented.

The SR2300 is equipped with a high-performance, toroidal power transformer, which enhances its ability to deliver a stable power supply to the output stages, resulting in improved dynamic range and transient response. Additionally, the SR2300 features comprehensive protection circuitry, safeguarding the amplifier from overheating and short circuits, ensuring reliable operation even under demanding conditions.

In contrast, the Hafler SR2600 offers even more power and versatility, pushing out up to 250 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 400 watts at 4 ohms. This model maintains the same renowned Class AB architecture as the SR2300 but integrates additional features such as a balanced XLR input for enhanced connectivity and reduced noise, which is invaluable in professional audio settings. The SR2600 also incorporates advanced thermal management systems, allowing it to operate efficiently even during prolonged use at higher output levels.

Both models come with customizable gain control options, allowing users to tailor the output to their specific needs. Whether being used to drive high-efficiency speakers in a home theater setup or powering professional studio monitors, the Hafler SR2300 and SR2600 deliver rich, detailed sound that remains consistent across various listening environments.

In summary, the Hafler SR2300 and SR2600 stand out in the audio amplifier market with their robust design, high power output, and advanced technologies that prioritize sound quality and reliability. These amplifiers continue to be favored choices for both audiophiles and professionals, ensuring an engaging and immersive audio experience.