Description
The Adastra RS480 is a high-power 480W 100V line slave amplifier engineered to expand and reinforce large-scale commercial audio systems. Designed for professional installation environments, it delivers efficient Class-D amplification within a robust 2U rack-mount chassis, making it an ideal solution for venues requiring increased power and extended speaker coverage.
Built for scalability and ease of integration, the RS480 allows installers to expand existing systems without replacing core equipment, providing a cost-effective route to higher output and wider coverage.
High Power Output for Large-Scale Installations
With a 480W RMS output, the RS480 is the most powerful model within the RS Series, designed to support demanding distributed audio systems. It provides the headroom required for large venues, ensuring consistent performance across extended speaker lines and multiple zones.
This makes it particularly suitable for:
- Large retail stores and shopping centres
- Bars, pubs, and restaurants with extensive coverage requirements
- Warehouses and industrial facilities
- Schools, colleges, and public buildings
- Hotels and hospitality venues
Its high output ensures clear and consistent audio even across long cable runs and high speaker loads.
Designed for Expanding 100V Line Systems
The RS480 is purpose-built as a slave amplifier, meaning it accepts a line-level signal from a mixer or master amplifier and boosts it to drive additional speakers.
A key feature is its dedicated 100V input, allowing the amplifier to connect directly to an existing 100V speaker line. This enables system expansion from virtually any point in the installation, reducing the need for additional signal cabling and simplifying upgrades.
This approach is ideal for:
- Extending existing audio systems into new areas
- Increasing system capacity without redesign
- Scaling installations efficiently
Efficient Class-D Amplification
The RS480 utilises Class-D amplifier technology, delivering high output with improved efficiency and reduced heat generation. This results in:
- Lower power consumption
- Reduced cooling requirements
- Lightweight construction relative to output
- Reliable performance for continuous operation
This makes it well suited to commercial environments where systems are expected to run for extended periods.
Flexible Connectivity and System Integration
The RS480 offers comprehensive connectivity options to suit a wide range of installations:
- Line-level inputs via RCA and screw terminals
- Line outputs for cascading additional amplifiers
- 100V input for direct system expansion
- Speaker outputs for both 100V line and low impedance systems
Slave input and output connections allow multiple amplifiers to be daisy-chained, enabling scalable system design for large venues.
Dual Operation: 100V Line and Low Impedance
In addition to 100V line operation, the RS480 supports low impedance speaker configurations, stable down to 2 Ohms. This provides flexibility for installers working across different system types or hybrid setups.
This dual functionality allows the amplifier to adapt to:
- Distributed ceiling speaker systems
- Low impedance loudspeaker setups
- Mixed system environments
Emergency Mute Integration
The RS480 includes a 24V mute input, allowing integration with fire alarm or emergency systems. When triggered, the amplifier can mute audio output to prioritise safety announcements.
This is essential for compliance in:
- Public buildings
- Education facilities
- Commercial premises
- Hospitality environments
It ensures the system meets modern safety standards without compromising functionality.
Installation-Ready Rack Design
Housed in a standard 2U 19-inch rack format, the RS480 is designed for straightforward installation into AV racks and equipment cabinets. Its durable construction ensures long-term reliability, while front-panel controls and LED indicators provide clear system monitoring.
The compact yet powerful design makes it suitable for both new installations and system upgrades.
Ideal Applications
The Adastra RS480 is widely deployed across commercial audio environments:
- Large-scale background music systems
- Multi-zone hospitality venues
- Retail and shopping centres
- Public address and announcement systems
- Industrial and warehouse installations
Its ability to expand existing systems makes it a practical and cost-effective solution for growing installations.