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Audio Authority SonaFlex Digital Amplifier
SF-16M 50 Watts x 16 Channel Matrix Zone Amplifier
Now With Android and iOS Mobile Control Apps!
Audio Authority SonaFlex SF-16M 50 Watts x 16 Channel Digital Zone Amplifier
The Audio Authority's SonaFlex
SF-16M is a 16-Channel matrix zone amplifier with sophisticated digital control capabilities, joining the elite range of Audio Authority products that are designed and built in the USA.
Built from the ground up, the SF-16M is the perfect companion to Audio Authority's own ADX and HLX audio matrix switchers, as well as a wide range of stand-alone applications. For example, use with an ADX-0808 Multi-Zone Audio Switcher and up to eight audio sources to create a sophisticated whole-house audio system. Combine multiple SF-16M amplifiers for use in restaurants and clubs, complete with overhead paging and live band integration. Use built-in room-combining features to handle partitioned conference halls.
When the music matters, the custom-designed linear hybrid power features toroidal power transformers, giving the SF-16M transient handling capabilities that switching power supplies simply cannot match. This amplifier has the power and agility that is crucial to preserving musicality and warmth that one would expect from a fine analog amplifier while simultaneously brining the advantages of superior responsiveness, headroom, and dynamic range. It is, in effect, a re-imagining of what an audiophile-quality amplifier should be.
- 16-Channel Amplification and matrix switching
- Digital Signal Processing for each output
- 16 mono or 8 stereo line level inputs via RCA connectors
- 4 mono or 2 stereo FlexPort inputs
- 16 speaker-level outputs via "Phoenix" connectors
- Cascade multiple SF-16M amplifiers to expand to as many as 64 channels
- Rack-mountable with included 3U rack ears
- Multiple control options
- Free iOS and Android Mobile Control Apps
- CasaTunes, Control4, RTI, and other third-party RS-232 controllers
- Front-Panel Controls
When the Music Matters
Why not make every room a listening room? It's a beautiful concept, but the reality is that many of today's multi-channel digital amps are lacking in terms of the musicality and power that is needed to do justice to a music lover's collection.
When setting out to to develop the SonaFlex Series, Audio Authority's guiding principle was that multi-room audio equipment should be just as respectable as audiophile products of the classic listening era. The fruit of their labor is multi-channel digital amplifier with the musicality and warmth of a fine analog amp. The SF-16 is responsive and powerful, with the headroom and dynamics your favorite tunes deserve.
How Audio Authority Did It
A linear power supply, based on a uniquely designed rectifier circuit with toroidal transformers is at the core of the SonaFlex amplifier. Audio Authority's design uses custom-built transformers to meet the power demands associated with transient peaks, resulting in an "ease" to its nature.
Class D amps with switching power supplies which are efficient, but they can't handle large transient peaks. SonaFlex's hybrid linear supply is also very efficient, but it also responds to musical dynamics with the agility, power and headroom that defines a truly musical amplifier.
More Magic in the Details
On the digital side, high sampling rates contribute to smoother, more natural sound reproduction, adding finesse to power. Following through on Audio Authority's commitment to the music, all of the SonaFlex components were carefully chosen to keep harmonic distortion low and the signal to noise ratio high,.
Features like remote source wall plates, expandability, and quick install connectors, demonstrate Audio Authority's commitment to the people who install their equipment, elevating SonaFlex to a whole new level compared to other multi-channel amps. The bottom line is that SonaFlex exists to thrill music lovers … because the music matters.
The Audio Authority SF-16M comes with an exceptional 3 year parts and labor warranty from the manufacturer.
Audio Authority's Description
16 Channel Matrix Amplifier with FlexPort Inputs
Model SF-16M Sixteen Channel Digital Amplifier
Overview
Whether you install audio systems in commercial facilities or in homes, the SF-16M has the features and capabilities to handle just about any application you may encounter. Its flexibility and musical power give end users so much more than traditional audio systems, while giving installers a streamlined installation process.
The SonaFlex SF-16 is a unique blend of multi-channel amplification, flexible audio switching and open control capability. Built and designed in the U.S. with the custom installer in mind, the SF-16 brings a new approach to common residential and commercial distributed audio applications - one multi-purpose matrix amplifier that can be used in a variety of installations.
Commercial Solutions
Restaurants, sports bars, hotels, conference rooms and worship facilities are all great installation opportunities for the SF-16M. Using FlexPort inputs, override triggers and sound scenes, the SF‑16M is great solution for facility-wide paging, conference room combining/segmenting, live audio override for restaurants, nightclubs and more.
Key Benefits for the End User
Local Source Selection
Popular consumer audio sources such as iPods, AppleTVs and BluRay players can be located near the listener and connected via Cat 5
to the FlexPort audio inputs. With the push of a button, the user switches to the local audio source and then switches back to the default
audio at will. This feature is also ideal for restaurants and clubs with live music where a user needs to override background music with audio
from a mixer.
Sound Scenes
A Sound Scene is a system-wide snap-shot of all volume and source settings. Scenes allow the end-user to easily recall previously captured
system settings. It is a perfect way to set the mood for parties, restaurant ambience and other commonly used system settings that need to
be recalled with a single button press. Up to 10 Sound Scenes can be stored and recalled per SF-16M. For installations with multiple SF-16M’s
linked together, additional system-wide Sound Scenes can be stored and recalled across all units.
Output Grouping
Allows multiple outputs to be grouped together to share volume ramping, muting, source selection and more. Groups are ideal for making
large areas a single audio zone or for grouping outputs with hi-pass and low-pass filters (sub/sat combinations) so that they respond together
as one zone. Up to 10 groups can be stored per SF-16M.
Features
Key Features
- Audio matrix switching, signal processing and amplification in one unified system
- 16 analog RCA inputs combined with four Cat 5 FlexPort input channels allow for a total 20 mono/10 stereo inputs
- Optional Cat 5 FlexPort modules accept balanced line/mic, XLR, digital coax/optical and analog RCA audio sources
- 16 amplified outputs can be configured as mono, stereo, or a combination of stereo and mono
- Up to four SF-16M units can be linked together to form a powerful 16 input x 64 output audio matrix, plus FlexPort inputs
- Class-D amplification provides a conservatively rated 45 watts per channel (all channels driven) or 60 watts (8 channels driven)
- Linear power supply delivers the warmth and musicality of an analog amplifier, combined with the responsiveness and headroom required for dynamic music content
- Signal processing tools include hi- and low-shelf filters (Bass/Treble), hi- and low-pass filters, and up to seven bands of parametric equalization per output
- 10 audio overrides (triggered by contact closure, IR, and RS-232, commands) provide a convenient method to switch to alternate audio inputs for applications such as paging, local source selection, and room combining
- 10 preset sound scenes (a system-wide snap-shot of all volume and source settings) can be saved and recalled using IR, RS-232 or IP commands
- 10 audio groups allow multiple outputs to be grouped to share volume ramping, muting, and source selection
- Compatible with virtually any control system available using RS-232, Ethernet or IR commands
- Easy setup via PC configuration utility
FlexPort Cat5 Audio Inputs
- FPM-U accepts two RCA inputs, either one stereo or two mono sources
- FPM-D accepts one digital audio source, converting it to analog for transmission to the SF-16 (local analog output also available)
- FPM-X accepts mic audio, either 1/4-inch jack or XLR, from microphone or mixer outputs
- FPM-B accepts balanced audio from mixers or microphones, includes remote override connection for push to talk microphones
Control Interfaces
- Ethernet
- RS-232 Serial
- Front panel IR sensor
- Rear panel IR input (3.5 mm jack)
- Front panel capacitive touch buttons and knob with LCD screen
The SF-16M PC Configuration Utility is an easy way to set up source and output names, audio settings, groups, sound scenes, override actions, and all other features of the SF-16M.
Flexible Input Options
Most pro and consumer audio sources can be used with the SF-16M via its unique FlexPort™ audio inputs. Up to four FlexPort audio
modules can be connected, via Cat-5, to each SF-16M. Module options include balanced line/mic, XLR, digital coax/optical, and analog RCA
inputs, accommodating anything from pro audio mixers to Apple TV media players. FlexPort modules include an illuminated button that may
be used to trigger audio override at all pre-selected SF-16M outputs.
Scalable Outputs
Any amplified output of the SF-16M can be assigned as mono or stereo, allowing for 16 mono, 8 stereo, or a mixture of both mono and stereo
speaker locations per chassis. The SF-16M can split mono inputs to stereo outputs and combine stereo inputs to mono outputs. Up to
four SF-16M units can be linked together to form a powerful 32 input x 64 output system, with shared source signals and optionally shared FlexPort
signals.
Pure, Stable and Reliable Power
Using Class-D digital amplification, the SF-16M produces a conservatively rated 45 watts per channel (all channels driven) or 60 watts (8 channels
driven) at 8 Ohms and is stable to 2 Ohms. The SF-16M is so rock-solid that even a dead short to the outputs won’t negatively affect the
unit. The SF-16M shuts off the amplifier stage until the short is corrected and then comes back on without a power cycle.
Innovative Linear Power Supply
Quite possibly the most impressive benefit of the SF-16M is its dynamic audio quality. Competing Class-D products use switching power
supplies, which are efficient, but have a serious flaw: they can’t manage large transient peaks, resulting in audio distortion. The SF-16M
hybrid linear supply has the headroom to respond to musical dynamics with extra power, because its analog design allows its floating voltage
rail to accommodate quick transient peaks in the music, instead of clipping, like the switching supply does.
Quality Front-End Components
The SF-16M features 24-Bit, 96-kHz Burr-Brown A/D conversion with 64-times oversampling, resulting in natural, accurate sound reproduction
of the input source material.
Signal Processing Tools
The SF-16M provides a rich palette of Digital Signal Processing (DSP) tools that allow the installer to custom-tune every sonic environment. For
basic installations, use DSP such as bass, treble, balance and loudness. For more advanced home or commercial applications, use hi/low
pass filters and up to 7-bands of parametric equalization per output.
Pass-Thru Mode
When you need a great sounding amp to use with an existing audio matrix, the SF-16M excels, providing 16 RCA inputs and DB-25 source audio
loop outputs for system expansion. In addition, the SF-16M’s DB-25 input allows for quick connection to Audio Authority audio matrix switchers
such as HLX and ADX. The built-in FlexPort audio inputs can still be used in pass-thru mode to override any on-board RCA audio input,
allowing for features such as local source selection, paging override, doorbell override, and room combining.
Open Control Architecture
The SF-16M is compatible with virtually any control system available today using RS-232, Ethernet or IR commands. 2-way drivers for many of
the top control systems are available for download from our website. In addition, iPad control of the SF‑16M is available by downloading control
templates based on the Command Fusion control platform.*
Easy Setup
Advanced setup tasks (input/output naming, group assignments, sound scene setup) are achieved using the SF-16M's PC configuration software.
The SF-16M's front panel VFD display allows for access to basic settings required in a typical install. For added security, the front panel
can be locked out, preventing tampering of system settings.
Specifications
- Power Per Channel (All Channels Driven): 45W @ 8 Ohms
- Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz, +/- 0.55dB
- Full Power Bandwidth: 20Hz to 20kHz
- S/N Ratio: 96dB
- Channel Separation: 70dB ( channel to channel @1kHz)
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): 0.03% at full power
- Intermodulation Distortion (IMD): 0.05% at full power
- Input Sensitivity: 0.5Vrms
- Input Impedance: 20k Ohms
- Audio Clock Frequency: 96KHz
- Output Clock Frequency: 385KHz
- Output Protection: Short Circuit, Over-Temperature, Overload
- Line Voltage & Frequency: 100-120VAC 50-60Hz
- Power Consumption: 1125W continuous, 1280W for 2 minutes
- Maximum Current Draw: 10A RMS
- Heat Output: 1109BTU/Hr. maximum
- Dimensions without rack ears and feet (H x W x D): 3U, 5.22” x 16.60” x 14”
- Net Weight: 41 lb.
- Shipping Weight: 49 lb.
- Approvals FCC, ETL
- Warranty: Three years, parts and labor
Downloads
Drivers
- Control4 Driver for SF-16M [Zip file]
Firmware
- SF-16M Firmware Version 1.2.0 [Zip file]
Improvements:- Reinforced serial command operation when multiple SF-16M units are connected together.
- Modified manufacturing test commands.
- Factory default settings now mute all outputs to prevent surprising high volume on startup.
- Improved Save command operation.
- Front panel display remains on the current screen during reboot, load or unlock, but switches to the main menu after a front panel lock request.
IR Codes
- SF-16M IR Codes [Zip file] Discrete IR codes in .XLS and .PDF formats
Literature
- Product Focus Sheet [PDF] With three application drawings
- User Manual [PDF] manual
Manuals
- Serial and Ethernet Commands [PDF] Serial and Ethernet commands for SF-16M Matrix Amplifier
- Control4 Driver [instructions] for SF-16M [PDF] Instructions for using the alpha version of the Control4 Driver for SF-16M.
- User Manual [PDF] Installation manual for SF-16M Matrix Amplifier.
PC Software
- SF-16M Audio Matrix Amplifier Software [Executable
Windows™ PC software utility]
This is the back panel of the SF-16M.
Android and iOS Control Apps, free in the Google Play and Apple's App Store.
Shown here are the optional companion FlexPort Module options.
Audio Authority SonaFlex Signal Flow Example
Android and iOS mobile control apps guide. PDF.
Audio Authority SonaFlex Series focus sheet - click to download in PDF format.
Audio Authority SF16M / ADX Integration focus sheet - click to download PDF.
Audio Authority SonaFlex Series Manual - click to download in PDF format.
Why Cable Solutions?
- Cable Solutions is an Authorized Audio Authority Online Reseller. Audio Authority provides full warranty and technical support for products that are purchased form authorized resellers only. Cable Solutions customers are entitled to full support.
- We inventory this item in our own local warehouse to make sure that it is available for immediate shipment. When it comes to getting your order shipped out FAST, no one works harder than we do! On business days, orders funded by noon will ship the same day. Orders that are funded on weekends or holidays will ship the next business day.
- Customers are our first priority. We are dedicated to helping you find the best solutions for your particular application. We are enthusiasts too, so we know what it's like to wait for cables and accessories needed to hook up new equipment. We also know how important it is to be able to get a prompt response when you need help, so it is not unusual to find us working long hours in an effort to get you the answers that you need.
- If you have had it with outsourced support or even worse, companies that do not even publish a phone number or a functional email address, then you will be absolutely delighted that you found our company. We have people, right here in Texas, ready to answer your phone calls and emails. If English is your language, you will have the simple pleasure of talking to people whose first language is English. If you call on the phone, you may well detect a Texas accent, but then that should not be unexpected when dealing with a family-owned business run by native Texans. It is our most sincerely hope that you will find our heritage of honesty, courtesy, and ethical way of doing business to be a refreshing experience.
American Innovation and American workmanship are intrinsic in the Audio Authority name. Add customer-centric service from Cable Solutions and you get a superior experience. Don't get stuck with incorrect advice, bad service, slow shipping or inferior products. If you want the best, you need look no further.