Theory Audio Design DLC-250.8 Amplified Loudspeaker Controller

About The Theory Audio Design DLC-250.8 Amplified Loudspeaker Controller

The Theory Audio Design DLC-250.8 is a powerhouse 8-channel amplifier and loudspeaker controller packed into a compact 1U chassis. It delivers 250 Watts into 4, 8, or 16 Ohms from any channel pair, or 125 Watts per channel with all channels driven - impressive performance in a space-saving form. 

Even more impressively, it can directly power 70V/100V high-impedance loudspeakers without the need for internal transformers. In Lo-Z mode, the DLC-250.8 can run up to 32 Theory 16 Ohm speakers, or up to 128 in Hi-Z mode - all from a single rack unit.

Configuration is simple thanks to its built-in web interface, accessible via wired Ethernet or its onboard Wi-Fi access point. It also features flexible DSP tools including parametric EQ, delay, gain, and limiters for precise system tuning.

Rack ears come standard, and full control system integration is available with API and modules for AMX, Control4, Crestron, Crestron Home, ELAN, Q-SYS, and RTI. The DLC-250.8 combines performance, efficiency, and control in one exceptionally versatile unit.

The Theory of Everything: Theory is genuinely unique - their products have completely changed the level of performance attainable from small to medium size installed sound systems. Part of the way they attain this level of performance is by employing proprietary DSP techniques to process the signal for their loudspeakers and subwoof­ers with a very high degree of precision.

As such, the Theory ecosystem of products is a little different than what you're used to as all The­ory loudspeaker models require the application of Theory High Resolution Digital Loudspeaker Processing. For this reason, it is best to think of Theory loudspeakers as "active" or "powered" speakers - Theory have just elected to place the electronics, normally installed inside the loudspeaker itself, in rack-mountable chasses, outside the harsh environment of the loudspeaker, and where wiring and service of the electronics can be accomplished painlessly.

So, when configuring system designs, always pair your chosen Theory loudspeakers with appropriate Theory Amplified Loudspeaker Controllers. These highly powerful and flexible units will make deploying Theory systems simple and painless and will guaranty the best performance available for your application.

Applications

High Output Surround Sound Systems: Residential cinema rooms, commercial media rooms, gaming systems, executive boardrooms, etc

Two-Channel Music Systems: Premium residential and corporate stereo music systems, music and performance higher education

Background and Foreground Business Audio Systems: Bars and sports bars, restaurants, retail stores, hotels, houses of worship, corporate conference, screening rooms, lobbies, casinos, etc

Distributed Audio: Residential and commercial distributed audio systems, airports, higher-ed campuses, and education facilities

Music and Video Post Production: Surround and Dolby Atmos mix rooms where maximum output in compact depth is required, music post production

Our Review

The Theory Audio Design DLC-250.8 is a seriously capable piece of gear that manages to pack a whole lot of power and flexibility into a tidy 1U rack space. With up to 250 Watts per channel (depending on the load), it can drive anything from low-impedance home theatre speakers to massive distributed 70V/100V systems - no transformers required. It's also super easy to configure, thanks to its built-in web interface and Wi-Fi access point, and it comes loaded with powerful DSP tools for fine-tuning your system. Whether you’re outfitting a cinema room, restaurant, campus, or Dolby Atmos mix suite, the DLC-250.8 is ready to handle it all. And because it's part of the Theory ecosystem, it acts like the “brain” behind your speakers - processing and powering them with precision while keeping the electronics neatly tucked away in the rack. Simple to set up, rock solid in performance, and versatile enough for just about any application, the DLC-250.8 is a smart choice for anyone serious about installed audio.

Main Features & Specifications

• Design: 8-Channel Amplified Loudspeaker Controller
• 1U Chassis
• IP Control via Ethernet or Built-in Wi-Fi Access Point
• Power Sharing Between Neighbouring Channels
• Operation: LoZ and HiZ (70V/100V) Operation
• Inputs
  • 8 x Balanced Analogue Audio
  • 8 x RCA Unbalanced Analogue Audio
  • 1 x S/PDIF Digital Audio (Stereo, Coax)
• Outputs
  • 8 x Speaker Outputs
  • S/PDIF Digital Audio (Loop)
• Trigger: +12VDC
• Audio Operation: 48kHz/24-bit
• On-Board DSP: 48kHz/32-bit
• DSP Features: Loudspeaker Processing For All Theory Models, plus:
  • Input Matrix Mixer
  • 5 Parametric Input EQ Filters
  • Input Trim
  • Stereo/Mono Inputs and Zones
  • Signal Routing Including Priority Automatic Routing
  • Audio Ducking
  • 10 Parametric Output EQ Filters
  • Crossovers
  • Gain
  • Delay
  • Polarity
  • Peak and RMS Limiters
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz, +/-0.25dB
• Power Output
  • 250W per channel @ 4, 8, 16 Ohms and 70V/100V
  • 125W per channel @ 4, 8, 16 Ohms all channels driven
  • 125W per channel @ 70V/100V all channels driven
• Voltage Gain: Variable
• Input Sensitivity (Selectable)
  • +14dBu
  • +4dBu
  • -10dBV (Unbalanced RCA)
  • Microphone
• Power Requirements
  • Standby: <1W
  • (1/8 power, all ch. driven): 70W
• Idle Noise: -78dBV
• Signal to Noise Ratio: >106dB
• Distortion (1kHz, 1dB below max output): <0.02%
• Terminals: Euroblock Connectors
• Outdoor Capability: Indoor Use Only
• Mounting Points: Rack Mount (with included accessories)
• Included Accessories: Rack Ears
• Finish: Matte Black
• Dimensions (WxHxD): 483 x 44 x 319mm
• Weight: 3.5 kg
• Manufacturer's Warranty: 3 Years. Does not include misuse.

Note: Features & Specifications Subject To Change Without Notice. E&OE.