Boston Acoustics LCAi220 manual Introduction, Technology Inside

Introduction

LCAi220

The LCAi220 is an in-wall local zone amplifier that switches between a central audio source (whole house audio) and a local source (TV, CD player, etc.). In the standby mode, the local speakers are amplified by a centrally located distribution amplifier. When an input signal is detected from either the local high level, low level, or the 12v trigger/video in inputs, the LCAi220 switches on and the speakers switch over to the LCAi220’s high quality amplifier.

The LCAi220 provides a simple, easy to use way to have multi-source audio in any room. Its compact, in-wall design allows the LCAi220 to fit easily behind a flat panel TV. The LCAi220 mounts in a two-gang wall box with all speaker connections located behind the unit and the local source inputs and controls located on the front. The end result is an unrivaled combination of installation ease and performance, and with its auto source switching makes the LCAi220 literally invisible to the end user.

The Technology Inside

Amplifier

The amplifier used in the Boston Acoustics LCAi220 is a high performance class A/B amplifier delivering sound quality equivalent to the finest multi-room/multi zone amplifiers or receivers.

Low Voltage Power Requirements:

The LCAi220 features two separate power inputs, one on the front for use with the supplied power supply and a second located on the rear panel for a centrally mounted power supply. Since the LCAi220 can operate with 12vdc to 16vdc power, it can be used on the same power source as many other devices used in home audio installations today allowing an installer to mount a central power supply and route power to many separate locations.

Local Source High and Low Level Inputs:

The LCAi220 features both high (speaker level) and low level (RCA) inputs allowing for connection to almost any local audio source.

Adjustable Input Level:

The LCAi has a fully adjustable gain to match the output of the LCAi220 to the central music source.

Highpass Filter:

The LCAi220 features an adjustable highpass filter for the local speakers. Selectable between Flat (no crossover engaged), 30Hz @ 12dB, and 100Hz @ 12dB. This is especially useful if using the LCAi220 with small speakers or with a subwoofer. The highpass is only active when used with the local zone.

Subwoofer Line Output:

The LCAi220 features a dedicated low-level subwoofer output. The subwoofer output is derived from both the local source being amplified by the LCAi220 and the whole house system. The signal from the subwoofer output is a mono signal lowpassed at 85Hz @ 12dB per octave.

Fault Detection / Protection:

The LCAi220 features active circuitry to protect itself against a potentially hazardous situation.
If a fault state is detected, the LCAi220 will go into protection mode and the fault LED will
illuminate.	3