Lexicon DD-8 residential amplifier

Leading home entertainment distributor Karma AV is now shipping a new multi-channel residential digital amplifier from Lexicon that delivers eight 125w channels from a chassis just one rack unit tall (44.45mm). The DD-8 employs DriveCore technology developed by Lexicon's parent company Harman, with silicon co-developed by Texas Instruments.

The DriveCore IC is no bigger than a postage stamp, yet combines both  amplifier drive and power output stages. Lexicon says the solution, which combines the efficiencies of Class D amplification with the audiophile benefits of A/B designs, "delivers an unprecedented amount of power while using less energy and less rack space than ever before." Five patents apply to the tech.

As the DD-8 does not require a fan, integrators can take comfort from the fact their racks will stay cool and quiet. To lower running costs, the unit switches to standby automatically when not in use. Up to five DD-8s can be flat-stacked without spacing.

Unit connectivity is generous, and includes four stereo/eight mono analogue inputs, a stereo bus in/out, independent output level trims and 12V triggers.

The DD-8 arrives in the UK, after scooping three awards at the CEDIA Expo in September for Best Power Amplifier Resi, from Residential Systems, Sustainable Lifestyle Product Innovation and a CEDIA Manufacturers' Excellence award for Best New Product. It's also earned a CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering gong from the CEA, in the multi-room audio/video category.

Jim Garrett, Market Manager from Haman's High Performance AV group is confident the model sets a new standard for CI amplification, in terms of energy efficiency and sound performance. "We're able to leverage advances across every market served by Harman, including professional, consumer and automotive," he says "to deliver the perfect product for any application, every time."

The Lexicon DD-8 sells for £2,250 (inc VAT). For more click here.