Outlaw Audio has introduced the Model 200 “M-Block” single channel amplifier with a power rating of 200 watts into 8 ohms, and a remarkable low Web-direct price of just $299 (US).
While audiophiles have long appreciated the inherent channel-isolation benefits of single-channel amplifiers, these “mono-block” amplifiers are typically very expensive components available only in the most exclusive high-end audio salons. The Outlaw Model 200, which is sold only on the internet, presents a very affordable way to add extra channels to a home theater, power multiple remote-zone speakers, bi-amp premium audiophile speakers, or create a high-performance two-channel music system.
The Outlaw Audio Model 200 M-Block uses a proprietary hybrid Class A/B/Class G amplifier design that is conservatively rated at 200 watts into a 8-ohm load, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, < 0.05%THD, or 300 watts into 4-ohms. The short-term dynamic power rating is 300 watts into 8 ohms. This amazingly compact amplifier is just 1-3/4 inches high, or one rack-unit in pro-audio jargon, while its footprint matches conventional 17 inches wide components.
Compared to conventional two-, five-, and seven-channel amplifiers, the Outlaw Audio Model 200’s mono configuration provides inherently perfect isolation between channels and a separate power supply for each channel. The Model 200 uses a large-diameter pancake toroidal transformer with a 400VA rating, and two filter capacitors with a combined rating of 20,000 µF to ensure a steady current supply no mater what the input signal.
The Model 200 operates as Class A/B power up to 80 watts, transitioning within 2 microseconds (2 millionths! of a second) to Class G above that. This allows a remarkable combination of signal quality, high power levels, high efficiency, and low operating temperatures without the use of a cooling fan. The transition to Class G is absolutely inaudible, because the 2 microsecond transition lasts about 1/25th the duration of a single cycle of 20 kHz audio. For the Class A/B operation mode the output stage uses four 15-amp bipolar transistors, while the Class G operation employs two 40-amp high-power MOSFETs.
Since the unit is designed to always be either on or in stand-by mode, there is no front-panel power switch. The rear-panel Master Power Button provides the safety switch required to remove the unit from an AC power source. In the standby mode the Model 200 is turned on or off by a standard 6-35VDC trigger signal applied to a rear-panel jack, or when the “music sense” circuit detects the presence of an audio signal at the input jack. When the audio signal stops for 10 minutes, the amplifier automatically turns off.
The front panel has a three-color LED status indicator that glows Outlaw Green when the unit is on, yellow when the unit is in standby, and red if the unit goes in the protect mode. The input signal transits a gold-plated RCA input jack, with the output signal connects via high-quality five-way binding posts.
The Model 200 is available immediately, direct from Outlaw Audio, for $299 (US).
Model 200 Technical Specifications
* Power Output (FTC Continuous RMS):
– 200 watts @ 8 ohms, 20 Hz 20 kHz, < 0.05% THD
– 300 watts @ 4 ohms, 20 Hz 20 kHz, < 0.05%
* Short Term Dynamic Power Output:
– 300 watts @ 8 ohms
* THD Signal to Noise: 100 dB (unweighted)
* Input Impedance: > 10K Ohms
* Gain: +27dB (1.7V sensitivity) for full output
* Input Connectors: RCA Jack
* Output Connectors: Five-Way binding posts
* Power Consumption: 600 watts maximum, < 3 watts standby
* Weight: 18 pounds
* Dimensions (H/W/D):1.75″ x 17″ x 11.5″
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