Four high power models feature flexible trim rail system for clean install and innovative Thermal Throttle circuit for clean sound.
Blaupunkt has introduced four new car audio power amplifiers in their high-performance Velocity line. These amplifiers include attractive all-metal construction with a remarkably flexible system of removable side rails and end caps that allows multiple amplifiers to be integrated into a single unit. The side rails are also designed to conceal wiring and connections for a cleaner installation. All models feature an innovative Thermal Throttle circuit that allows them to operate continuously at maximum power levels without risk of shut-down.
The Blaupunkt Velocity VA2100 and VA2200 two channel amplifiers are very conservatively rated at 100 and 200 watts per channel respectively into four Ohm loads. The VA4100 delivers 100 watts into four channels, and the VA 1400 is a 400 Watt monoblock model designed for use with demanding subwoofer installations.
For high power installations, amplifiers are often asked to run at full power for extended time periods, leading to very high heat production. Conventional protection circuitry reacts to thermal overload either by a temporary amplifier shutdown, or by a step reduction in the input gain. Systems employing the shutdown strategy often lead to as much as 10 minutes of dead silence while the unit cools. Inexpensive gain reduction solutions, on the other hand, still produce output at reduced levels after overload, but the change in gain has the side effect of reducing amplifier efficiency by as much as 40%, drastically undermining the effectiveness of such a solution.
unkt’s Velocity amplifiers employ an innovative new Thermal Throttle (TT) circuit, which marginally decreases the amplifier output when thermal overload is approached. Rather than accomplishing this through gain reduction, however, the Blaupunkt circuit subtly varies voltage at the power supply rails to control heat production with no corresponding decrease in amplifier efficiency.
“Our Thermal Throttle circuit is really a different way of looking at thermal overload,” comments Tom Breithaupt, Blaupunkt Senior Audio Engineer & Product Manager. “Rather than treat high heat as an all-or-nothing emergency situation, the Velocity line continuously adjusts supply voltage to reduce heat production. This system is much more effective at tackling the problem, and as a result these amps can be run flat out for hours with very little discernible change in output volume.”
All of the Blaupunkt Velocity amplifiers feature an attractive top plate logo with an integrated blue LED to indicate power. Each model also includes a continuously variable remote gain control for mounting near the driver, allowing for simple level control, and flexible system. integration.
The Blaupunkt Velocity VA 2100 has a suggested retail price of $299.95; the VA 2200 has a suggested retail price of $399.95; the VA 4100 has a suggested retail price of $499.95; the VA 1400 has a suggested retail price of $449.95. All models will be available in February.
Blaupunkt, the mobile electronics division of The Robert Bosch Corporation, designs and manufactures high quality and high performance car audio, video and navigation products for sale worldwide. For Blaupunkt dealer locations and product information, call 1(800) In North America, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial automation and mobile products, power tools and accessories, security technology, packaging equipment and household appliances. Bosch employs more than 23,300 associates in more than 80 facilities throughout North America and reported sales of $6.6 billion in 2003. For more information, visit www.boschusa.com.
For specifications and high resolution image files, please visit http://www.gspr.com/blau/vel_amp.html
950-BLAU [2528] or visit the company’s web site at < www.blaupunktusa.com>.
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