2 Channel, Bridgable Power Amplifiers
SYSTEM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Speaker Compatibility
A single channel (not bridged) of the SI-1230 is capable of driving a 4 ohm impedance speaker load. No more than two 8 ohm speakers or no more than one 4-6 ohm speaker can be safely connected to a single channel. Proper ventilation of the SI-1230 is critical when driving lower impedance loads. If the SI-1230 is not properly ventilated, the protection circuits may activate and shut off the channel at higher volume levels (for more information on proper amplifier placement, see Installation Considerations on page 15).
A channel pair that has been BRIDGED is capable of driving an impedance load of 8 ohms. Proper ventilation of the SI-1230 is critical when driving a 8 ohm load with bridged channels. If the SI-1230 is not properly ventilated, the protection circuits may activate and shut off the channel at higher volume levels (for more information on proper amplifier placement, see Installation Considerations on page 15).
When designing your system, try to specify 6-8 ohm speakers (Niles offers a complete line of inwall, in-ceiling, outdoor and home theater loudspeakers with all models rated from 6-8 ohms).
Cable and Wire
Because the SI-1230 has many connections on the rear panel (see Figure 12), it is important that you correctly label all of the input cables and speaker wires. Label the cables and wires with their destination or source, rather than the SI-1230 terminal to which they are connected. This will make it easier to reconfigure your system in the future.
The SI-1230 connects to your sources via shielded line level audio cables with RCA connectors. Use high quality cables with your Niles amplifier for the lowest possible noise and best overall performance. Your Niles dealer can recommend the proper cable.
The SI-1230 connects to your speakers using two conductor speaker wire. For most applications, we recommend you use 16 or 18 gauge wire. For wiring runs longer than 80 feet, we recommend 14 gauge wire. The SI-1230’s high-quality, gold-plated 5-way binding posts will accommodate up to 12-gauge wire. Attaching banana plugs to the wire will enable the connection of larger wire sizes.
