At the recent CEDIA Expo 2016, Lexicon announced an upgraded version of its DD-8 multi-room amplifier. Like its predecessor, the new DD-8+ is an eight-channel, 125wpc amp that uses the company's DriveCore technology, but it adds several new features--including four new stereo digital audio inputs with a built-in hi-res DAC, preamp and DSP audio management features, and the ability to configure and control the amp from major web browsers and third-party IP control systems. The DD-8+ will be available in first quarter of 2017 for $3,000.

From Lexicon
HARMAN's Lexicon has introduced the DD-8+ multi-room amplifier, an eight-channel amplifier that utilizes patented DriveCore amplifier technology to deliver 1,000 watts of power from a sleek, compact design, while operating with amazing efficiency. The Lexicon DD-8+ is an enhanced complement to the award-winning DD-8 multi-channel amplifier. Maintaining the same attributes as the DD-8, which also includes HARMAN's pioneering DriveCore amplifier technology, eight channels of 125W each (all channels driven) and a chassis of only a single rack space height, the Lexicon DD-8+ adds the ability to configure and control the amplifier from all major web browsers and third-party IP control systems, four new stereo digital audio inputs with a built-in hi-res DAC, and preamp and DSP audio management features.

The Lexicon DD-8+ is ideal for multi-room audio, custom-installation and home theater. It offers flexible configuration options via a web interface, including selection of analog bus inputs and outputs, local channel analog and digital inputs and mono/stereo selection for each channel output pair. DSP preamplifier functionality includes pink noise generation, bass and treble controls, 10-band parametric EQ, limiter and delay settings, selectable high-pass and low-pass filters, input trim levels with clip indicators, and maximum volume settings. The amplifier features independent output level controls for each channel, as well as IP control over Ethernet, signal sensing, and 5-15VDC trigger control ports. The DD-8+ complies with the half-watt standby power consumption standards, and uses less power during normal operation than most traditional amplifiers do at idle. The amplifier has feedback and protection circuits incorporated into the DriveCore chip, and can switch to low-power standby mode when not in use for even lower energy consumption.

"The DD-8+ builds upon the success of the DD-8 by adding intelligent control, a wide-array of custom installation configurability, and a host of requested features that our dealers have told us they want to see in this product," said Jim Garrett, Director of Marketing and Product Management, HARMAN. "This comprehensive feature set merges with our powerful, proprietary GreenEdge amplifier technology in a package that is still only 1RU tall and weighs less than ten pounds. It's the perfect complement to the architectural loudspeakers available from our Revel and JBL Synthesis brands."

DriveCore technology advances amplifier design on several significant levels--smaller size, lighter weight, greater efficiency, environmentally friendly manufacturing and better sound. Additionally, the Lexicon DD-8+ amplifier features a HARMAN GreenEdge environmentally friendly design, for low power consumption and low heat emission. The system's high-efficiency, convection-cooled design allows up to five units to be stacked with just a single vent space above.

As with its award-winning predecessor, the Lexicon DD-8+ sets a new standard for multi-room amplifiers. The original DD-8 (which just saw a price reduction in July) will remain in the lineup, providing for the ability to be used in conjunction with the more capable DD-8+, delivering a powerful one-two punch for custom integrators.

The Lexicon DD-8+ will be available in first quarter 2017 at an expected retail price of $3,000 each. It will join the currently available DD-8, which has been reduced to $2,000 each.

Additional Resources
• Visit Lexicon's website for more product information.
• Revel Debuts New XC Extreme Climate Series Loudspeakers at HomeTheaterReview.com.