Bridged Operation

Bridging Explained

Balanced Bridging

Your Proceed amplifier has been designed to be extremely versatile. Should your needs change or grow over time, you may wish to add additional power by one of two means: Bridging, or Biamping. We will discuss bridged operation first.

Bridging refers to the act of reconfiguring the circuitry in two channels of your amplifier to act as though it were a single, much larger amplifier. (Of course, this reduces the number of available channels; you may need more amplifiers to make up the difference.)

Bridging is accomplished by sending a normal signal to one channel and an in- verted signal to the other. In this configuration, one channel will always be “push- ing” when the other is “pulling.” By connecting the loudspeaker leads across the left and right red output terminals, the amplifier can now deliver twice the nor- mal voltage to the loudspeaker. Working together this way, the two amplifier chan- nels can deliver about four times the power to a speaker that a single channel could deliver on its own.

Bridged operation is particularly beneficial with low sensitivity, high-impedance loudspeakers (8Ω or higher) that have a greater need for voltage than for current. It is not recommended for low-impedance loudspeakers, as the speaker’s imped- ance is “split” by the two halves of the amplifier. Thus the bridged amplifier “sees” a 2Ω load when connected to a 4Ω loudspeaker. Delivery of high power into such a low impedance creates a great deal of heat that needs to be dissipated. (Of course, your amplifier is protected against overheating, but having an ampli- fier shut itself down even temporarily can put a damper on the evening’s enter- tainment.)

If your preamplifier has balanced outputs, you should use them. For this discus- sion, we will assume that you are using a Madrigal Balanced Bridging Kit for each channel to be bridged. (Alternatively, you may have custom cables built us- ing your preferred wire and connectors, being careful to follow the wiring dia- gram below.)

Five Channel Amplifier specifications

Madrigal Imaging has carved a niche in the audiophile community with its high-performance audio equipment, notably the Five Channel Amplifier. This model is designed to deliver exceptional sound quality that caters to both home theater enthusiasts and dedicated music lovers.

One of the main features of the Madrigal Imaging Five Channel Amplifier is its ability to deliver robust power across all five channels. With an output power rating that typically peaks at 200 watts per channel, it ensures that even the most demanding speakers can be driven effortlessly. This means crystal-clear sound reproduction at various volume levels, making it suitable for both explosive action sequences in movies and subtle details in music.

The amplifier also employs advanced Class A/B operation, which combines the benefits of both Class A and Class B designs to provide optimal efficiency without sacrificing audio fidelity. This technology minimizes crossover distortion, ensuring that sound remains clean and precise, even at high volumes.

Another significant characteristic of this amplifier is its high-current output capability, which allows it to manage dynamic loads effectively. This feature is critical for maintaining audio clarity during complex musical passages, where rapid changes in volume and dynamics occur.

Madrigal Imaging has also integrated proprietary thermal management technologies into the Five Channel Amplifier. This ensures that the device operates within safe temperature limits, even during prolonged use, thereby extending its lifespan and maintaining performance integrity.

Furthermore, the amplifier includes versatile connectivity options, with multiple RCA and balanced XLR inputs, allowing for seamless integration into various audio systems. This flexibility means that users can easily connect the amplifier to their existing audio sources, ranging from CD players to home theater systems.

Lastly, the build quality of the Madrigal Imaging Five Channel Amplifier is exceptional, featuring a robust chassis designed to minimize vibration and enhance durability. This attention to construction not only contributes to the unit's longevity but also aids in preserving sound quality by reducing interference and noise.

In conclusion, the Madrigal Imaging Five Channel Amplifier stands out in the crowded high-end audio market. With its powerful output, advanced technologies, and meticulous construction, it promises an outstanding listening experience for both home theater systems and music playback.