Sonance Sonamp 2-100 & 12-50 Multi-Channel Power Amplifiers
Instruction Manual
Important Safety Information
Always follow these basic safety precautions when using your Sonamp 2-100 or Sonamp 12-50 to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons:
- Read and retain instructions: Read all safety and operating instructions before operating the amplifier and retain them for future reference.
- Heed warnings: Adhere to all warnings and precautions listed on the amplifier and in the operating instructions.
- Follow instructions: Follow all operating instructions.
- Water: Never use the amplifier next to water.
- Carts and stands: The amplifier should be used only with a cart or stand recommended by the manufacturer. Move an amplifier and cart combination with care.
- CAUTION: To prevent electric shock, do not use the polarized plug with an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlets unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.
- Ventilation: Situate the amplifier so its location does not interfere with proper ventilation.
- Heat: Situate the amplifier away from heat sources such as radiators, stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Grounding or polarization: Grounding or polarization precautions should be taken so that these attributes are not defeated.
- Power-Cord Protection: Route power supply cords so they will not be walked on or pinched by items placed on or against them.
- Cleaning: To clean the amplifier, use "canned air" or wipe with a soft cloth. Do not use solvents, as they may damage the amplifier.
- Non-Use Periods: Unplug the amplifier's power cord from the outlet when it will be left unused for a long period.
- Object Entry: Take care so that objects do not fall through the enclosure openings.
- Moisture: Do not expose the amplifier to dripping or splashing. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the amplifier.
- Damage Requiring Service: Have the amplifier serviced by qualified personnel when:
- The power supply cord or plug is damaged.
- Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the amplifier.
- The amplifier has been exposed to rain.
- The amplifier does not operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.
- The amplifier has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service the amplifier beyond what is described in the operating instructions. Refer all other servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Lifting: Improper lifting of the 12-50 amp (20 lbs) can cause personal injury. The 2-100 amp is 10 lbs.
- Power requirement: Do not connect the Sonamp to the accessory outlet of any other component. A minimum 15 amp (20 amp preferred) grounded wall outlet is required.
⚠️ WARNING: The power (mains) plug serves as the amplifier's disconnect device. The disconnect device shall remain readily operable during operation. To ensure that the disconnect device (power plug) is easily accessible, do not place the amplifier in a confined area during operation.
⚠️ WARNING: To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture. The appliance shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing. No objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the appliance.
⚡ CAUTION: Risk of Electric Shock. Do Not Open.
⚡ CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover (or back). No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to authorized service personnel.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
⚠️ WARNING: Any changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Sonance Sonamp 2-100 or 12-50 amplifier. When properly installed, this amplifier will provide many years of entertainment pleasure. To get the most out of your new amplifier, please read this manual thoroughly before installation.
For optimal performance, Sonance recommends installation by a Sonance Authorized Dealer/Installer.
Box Contents
Sonamp 2-100 Box:
- Instruction Manual
- Sonamp 2-100 amplifier
- IEC power cord
- 4 x Feet
- 2 x Long rack ears
Sonamp 12-50 Box:
- Instruction Manual
- Sonamp 12-50 amplifier
- IEC power cord
- 4 x Feet
- 2 x Rack ears
Unpacking
Save the carton and polystyrene inserts for future safe transport in case the amplifier is moved or requires shipping for repair. Before proceeding with installation, locate the serial number on the rear panel of the unit and note it here for future reference:
S/N: _________________________________________________________
Placement
Place the amplifier on a level surface, in an upright position, out of direct sunlight and away from windows through which rain may enter.
Situate the amplifier away from heat sources such as hot air ducts or radiators. Ensure adequate ventilation by convection or suitable cabinet fans.
- Never place any object on or against the amplifier.
- Never operate the amplifier on a carpeted surface, as this will compromise ventilation.
- When installed in a cabinet, the front or back must be open during operation. Alternatively, install fans in the cabinet to assure continuous ventilation.
Front and Rear Panel Descriptions
Sonamp 2-100 Front Panel
1. Illuminated Power Button
2. Power, Active & Protection Indicator LED
Sonamp 2-100 Rear Panel
3. L/R Line In/Loop Outputs
4. Bridging Switch
5. Speaker Block Connector
6. Volume Level Control
7. Trigger Input/Output Connector
8. Auto On Switch
9. AC Fuse Holder
10. Power Cord Connection
Sonamp 12-50 Front Panel
1. Illuminated Power Button
2. Power, Active & Protection Indicator LED
Sonamp 12-50 Rear Panel
3. LOCAL Line In Connectors
4. BUSS A/B Inputs/Loop Outputs
5. Speaker Block Connectors
6. Stereo/Mono, Buss Dip Switches
7. Trigger Input/Output Connector
8. AC Fuse Holder
9. Auto On Switch
10. Volume Level Control
11. Power Cord Connection
Operation
Power Switch
The power switch turns the amplifier on and off. When the Sonance logo is lit solid white, the amplifier has power and is turned ON. When the logo is slightly dimmed, the amplifier is in standby mode. When the logo is blinking white, the amplifier's power supply is in thermal protection, and channel LEDs may also light red.
NOTE: Upon initial power up, there is an approximately 12-second boot-up cycle, which is normal.
Input/Output Lights (LEDs)
When each channel is active and a signal is present, the LED lights green. A blinking red LED indicates the channel is being overdriven. A solid red LED indicates the amplifier is in protect mode. While in protect mode, LEDs may periodically light green to retest the output. Protect mode can be caused by a short in the wire, overheating, or an internal amplifier problem.
⚠️ NOTE: WHEN ANY OF THE LEDS ARE LIT RED, TURN THE AMPLIFIER OFF IMMEDIATELY. DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM BEFORE TURNING THE AMPLIFIER ON.
Power Cord
The Sonamp amplifiers feature removable IEC power connectors. Plug the female end of the power cord into the Power Cord Connector on the amplifier's rear panel and the male end into a grounded wall socket.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT plug the amplifier's power cord into a convenience outlet on any other audio or video component. If an extension cord is necessary, use only a heavy-duty (14-GAUGE OR LARGER) cord to ensure sufficient current for operation.
AC Fuse Holder
To replace the fuse, unplug the power cord and use a screwdriver to remove the fuse holder. The 2-100 uses a 5A fuse (T5-AL), and the 12-50 uses a 10A fuse (T10-AL).
⚡ CAUTION: For continued protection against fire, replace the fuse with only the same type and rating.
Auto On - Voltage In/Out
The Sonamp amplifiers can be turned on/off using a 3-30 volt AC or DC signal. The Voltage Output provides a 12-volt DC signal to control additional amplifiers or equipment.
Volume Level Controls
Each channel has a rear-panel volume adjustment pot. These controls allow for balancing sound levels for various zones or compensating for room characteristics. The default setting is 50%.
⚡ IMPORTANT: Use caution when setting volume levels to avoid overdriving and potentially damaging speakers. Verify all sources, as output voltage varies by device.
Speaker Connections
Use premium speaker wire that complies with fire rating codes. Always check local codes governing wire installation within walls or ceilings. Sonamp amplifiers are stable with any reputable speaker wire. They use speaker block connectors that accommodate up to 12-gauge wire.
When bridging channels, use the two outside connections on each connector. Connect the positive speaker wire to the left side connection and the negative connection to the right side.
NOTE: ALWAYS CHECK LOCAL BUILDING CODES BEFORE INSTALLING WIRE IN WALLS OR CEILINGS.
Line Inputs/Loop Outputs
The 2-100 has LINE INPUTS and loop OUTPUTS. The 12-50 has BUSS INPUTS A/B and loop OUTPUTS. Loop outputs are non-buffered; the number of amplifiers that can be looped depends on the source component's output capability.
Bridging Channels
IMPORTANT: The minimum speaker impedance for bridged operation is 8 OHMS. DO NOT operate a zone in bridged mode into a speaker less than 8 OHMS nominal impedance.
- Set the zone's BRIDGE switch to the ON position.
- Connect the speaker's positive (+) lead to the left side of the connector marked "+".
- Connect the speaker's negative (-) lead to the right side of the connector marked "+".
For bridging, use the left audio input for the 2-100. For the 12-50, use the left LOCAL Input or the left Buss Input. Use the DIP switch to select the input for the bridged output.
Trigger Mode Control
Amplifiers can be set to automatically turn ON via an audio signal, a control voltage, or remain always ON.
NOTE: If audio or voltage triggers are selected, there is a 12-second cycle time from standby to audio signal. This is normal and required to comply with the EU < 0.5 Watt ErP Directive (EC/1275/2008). Select OFF to bypass this feature.
Auto On Triggering - Three Position Switch
- AUDIO: Amplifier turns ON when a minimum audio signal (2.5 mV) is detected at any input. Takes 12 seconds. Turns OFF after 15 minutes of no input signal.
- VOLTAGE: Amplifier turns ON with a 3-30 volt AC or DC signal. Connect the trigger voltage source to the voltage trigger input. Takes 12 seconds.
- OFF: Amplifier remains ON and does not enter standby mode. This disables the amplifier's power saving feature.
12V Trigger Output
A 12V OUTPUT 2-wire screw connector on the right side of the green block connector provides 12V DC whenever the amplifier is ON.
NOTE: The current draw on the 12V trigger output connection should not exceed 200mA.
Protection Circuitry and LEDs
The Sonamp amplifiers feature a multi-stage protection system to prevent damage to the amplifier and speakers.
Amplifier Channel Protection
If a channel encounters a short-circuit or extremely low impedance, its outputs will automatically mute. The affected channel's output remains muted until the fault is corrected. Other channels continue to operate normally.
Amplifier Channel Protection Indication
Dual color LEDs on the front panel indicate the operating status of each channel:
- Blinking Red: Channel is being overdriven.
- Solid Red: Amplifier is in protect mode. LEDs may periodically light green to retest the output. Protect mode can be caused by a short, overheating, or an internal problem.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: ALLOWING THE AMPLIFIER TO OPERATE WITH ONE OR MORE CHANNELS IN PROTECT MODE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD CAN DAMAGE THE AMPLIFIER.
Amplifier Power Supply Protection
If the power supply heat sink temperature exceeds the design maximum, the protection circuit activates, disconnecting all channel outputs. This is indicated by a blinking light on the front panel power switch.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: WHENEVER PROTECTION CIRCUITS ARE TRIGGERED, UNPLUG THE AMPLIFIER'S POWER CORD FROM THE WALL OUTLET BEFORE TROUBLESHOOTING.
Installation
Rack Ear Installation 2-100
The 2-100 includes two long rack ears for use in a 1U space. Unscrew the four Phillips head screws (M4 x 0.7 pitch x 10mm long) on each side of the front section of the amplifier. Use these screws to attach the rack ears.
Rack Ear Installation 12-50
The 12-50 includes two short rack ears. Unscrew the four Phillips head screws on each side of the front section of the amplifier. Use these screws to attach the rack ears.
Amplifier Stacking
The 2-100 and 12-50 can be directly stacked with feet removed for low to moderate output applications. For high-output applications, leave at least 1U space between amplifiers for increased ventilation.
For placing two Sonamp 2-100 or DSP 2-150 units in a single rack unit, order the RACK MOUNT BRACKET FOR SONAMP 2-100 & DSP 2-150 SKU#93098.
Shelf Mounting
If shelf mounting, attach the four included feet by screwing them into the threaded openings. No tool is required.
Specifications
SONAMP 2-100
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 2 (1 stereo pair) |
| Power Output - 8 ohms (Stereo) | 100 Watts RMS per channel (all channels driven) |
| Power Output - 4 ohms (Stereo) | 156 Watts RMS per channel (all channels driven) |
| Power Output - 8 ohms (Bridged) | 325 Watts |
| Frequency Response | 5Hz - 50kHz, bandwidth limited |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.15% (1kHz, 8 ohms); 0.1% (1kHz, 4 ohms) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | -100dB (20Hz-20kHz) |
| Input Gain | 29dB |
| Input Sensitivity | 100mV for 1 Watts Output @8 ohms; 990mV for 100 Watts Output @8 ohms |
| Input Impedance | 36k ohms |
| Loop Output Impedance | 600 ohms (non-buffered) |
| Maximum Source Input Voltage | 7.3 VAC RMS |
| Power Consumption 120V AC (@8 ohms, full power) | 252 Watts (all channels driven) |
| Power Consumption 120V AC (@4 ohms, full power) | 263 Watts (all channels driven) |
| Power Consumption 120V AC (@8 ohms, 1/8 power) | 51 Watts (all channels driven) |
| Power Consumption 120V AC (@4 ohms, 1/8 power) | 52 Watts (all channels driven) |
| Power Consumption 120V AC (@idle) | 22 Watts |
| Power Consumption 120V AC (@standby) | 0.3 Watts |
| Power Consumption 220V AC (@8 ohms, full power) | 241 Watts (all channels driven) |
| Power Consumption 220V AC (@4 ohms, full power) | 253 Watts (all channels driven) |
| Power Consumption 220V AC (@8 ohms, 1/8 power) | 48 Watts (all channels driven) |
| Power Consumption 220V AC (@4 ohms, 1/8 power) | 49 Watts (all channels driven) |
| Power Consumption 220V AC (@idle) | 20 Watts |
| Power Consumption 220V AC (@standby) | 0.3 Watts |
| Heat Output (@8 ohms, full power) | 152 BTU (all channels driven) |
| Heat Output (@4 ohms, full power) | 185 BTU (all channels driven) |
| Heat Output (@8 ohms, 1/8 power) | 84 BTU (all channels driven) |
| Heat Output (@4 ohms, 1/8 power) | 92 BTU (all channels driven) |
| AC Voltage | 100-120V@60Hz, 220-240V@50Hz |
| AC Fuse | 5A (T5AL ~ 250V) |
| Rack Space Requirement | 1U - 1/2 Rack Width |
| Dimensions w/ Feet (W x H x D) | 8 5/8" x 2 1/8" x 16 13/16" (219mm x 54mm x 427mm) |
| Dimensions w/ Rack Ears w/o Feet (W x H x D) | 19" x 1 3/4" x 16 13/16" (482mm x 44mm x 427mm) |
| Shipping Weight | 10 lbs (4.53kg) |
CAD Files available for download at www.sonance.com/electronics/amplifiers/digital
SONAMP 12-50
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 12 (6 stereo pairs) |
| Power Output - 8 ohms (Stereo) | 50 Watts RMS per channel (all channels driven) |
| Power Output - 4 ohms (Stereo) | 50 Watts RMS per channel (all channels driven) |
| Power Output - 8 ohms (Bridged) | 100 Watts |
| Frequency Response | 5Hz - 50kHz, bandwidth limited |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.05% (1kHz, 8 ohms); 0.1% (1kHz, 4 ohms) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | -87dB (20Hz-20kHz) |
| Input Gain | 29dB |
| Input Sensitivity | 100mV for 1 Watt Output @8 ohms; 650mV for 50 Watts Output @8 ohms |
| Input Impedance | 33k ohms |
| Loop Output Impedance | 600 ohms (non-buffered) |
| Maximum Source Input Voltage | 3.2 VAC RMS |
| AC Power Consumption 120V (@8 ohms, full power) | 665 Watts (all channels driven) |
| AC Power Consumption 120V (@4 ohms, full power) | 732 Watts (all channels driven) |
| AC Power Consumption 120V (@8 ohms, 1/8 power) | 104 Watts (all channels driven) |
| AC Power Consumption 120V (@4 ohms, 1/8 power) | 118 Watts (all channels driven) |
| AC Power Consumption 120V (@idle) | 30 Watts |
| AC Power Consumption 120V (@standby) | 0.36 Watts |
| AC Power Consumption 220V (@8 ohms, full power) | 617 Watts (all channels driven) |
| AC Power Consumption 220V (@4 ohms, full power) | 624 Watts (all channels driven) |
| AC Power Consumption 220V (@8 ohms, 1/8 power) | 100 Watts (all channels driven) |
| AC Power Consumption 220V (@4 ohms, 1/8 power) | 108 Watts (all channels driven) |
| AC Power Consumption 220V (@idle) | 30 Watts |
| AC Power Consumption 220V (@standby) | 0.45 Watts |
| Heat Output (@8 ohms, full power) | 614 BTU (all channels driven) |
| Heat Output (@4 ohms, full power) | 624 BTU (all channels driven) |
| Heat Output (@8 ohms, 1/8 power) | 80 BTU (all channels driven) |
| Heat Output (@4 ohms, 1/8 power) | 139 BTU (all channels driven) |
| AC Voltage | 100-120V@60Hz, 220-240V@50Hz |
| AC Fuse | 10A (T10AL ~ 250V) |
| Rack Space Requirement | 2U |
| Dimensions w/ Feet (W x H x D) | 17 1/4" x 3 7/8" x 16 13/16" (438mm x 98mm x 427mm) |
| Dimensions w/ Rack Ears w/o Feet (W x H x D) | 19" x 3 1/2" x 16 13/16" (482mm x 88mm x 427mm) |
| Shipping Weight | 20 lbs (9.07kg) |
CAD Files available for download at www.sonance.com/electronics/amplifiers/digital
Limited Two (2) Year Warranty
Sonance warrants this product (Sonamp 2-100 Amplifier or Sonamp 12-50 Amplifier) to the first end-user purchaser against defective workmanship and materials for a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase, provided it was purchased from an authorized Sonance Dealer/Distributor.
Sonance will, at its option and expense, repair the defect or replace the Product with a new or remanufactured Product or a reasonable equivalent.
Exclusions
This warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for use, and fitness for a particular purpose. No one is authorized to modify these warranties.
Sonance shall not be liable for consequential, incidental, economic, property, bodily injury, or personal injury damages arising from the product, breach of warranty, or otherwise.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary by state.
Warranty Coverage Limitations:
The warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the initial installation. It does not cover damage caused by accident, disaster, negligence, improper installation, misuse (e.g., overdriving, extreme temperatures), or unauthorized service or repair.
Obtaining Authorized Service:
To qualify for warranty service, contact your authorized Sonance Dealer/Installer or Sonance Customer Service at (949) 492-7777 within the warranty period. Obtain a return merchandise number (RMA) and ship the product prepaid to Sonance with the original sales receipt or proof of purchase.
©2014 Sonance. All rights reserved. Sonance and Sonamp are registered trademarks of Dana Innovations. Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.
For the latest information, visit www.sonance.com.
Sonance, 991 Calle Amanecer, San Clemente, CA 92673 USA | (949) 492-7777 | FAX: (949) 361-5151 | Technical Support: (949) 492-7777
