Crown CDi 2000 Power Amplifier
Back in 1983, I purchased a Crown DC-300A power amplifier. It's still in use every time I power up my studio. For as long as I can remember, the name Crown has been synonymous with rugged reliability, and my amplifier is certainly a testament to that fact. Over the past 25 years, however, power amplifier technology has advanced right along with every other technology, and today's models feature lighter weight construction and even computer-based digital signal processing. In this review, we're going to take a look at an amplifier that fits this bill and is one of Crown's most recent additions-the CDi 2000.
The CDi series amplifiers were first introduced by Crown in March, 2006. CDi stands for "Contractor Digital Integration" and this particular series is specifically designed for permanent sound installations. Crown touts the CDi series as "exciting new amplifiers with amazing technology at a very competitive price point. This line brings a new level of world-class features and performance to the installed sound market at an incredible value." The only difference in the three models is the amount of power output. The CDi 1,000 produces 500 watts per channel at four ohms, the CDi 2000 produces 800 watts per channel at four ohms, and the CDi 4000 produces 1200 watts per channel at four ohms.
Upon opening the CDi 2000, I was first struck by the size. The amp is only two rack-spaces tall and weighs only 19 pounds. The steel chassis is painted black with the front panel featuring numerous vents for front-to-rear airflow. The power switch, two de-tented rotary knobs for level control, two meter groups, and the LCD screen are also located on the front panel. Directly below the LCD screen are three buttons used to access menu items and also for initiating, if needed, front panel lockout.
The back panel includes the power connector, which features a detachable power cable. While this may seem trivial, I prefer a detachable cord on power amps due to a past bad experience. When rolling a rack that included a power amp with a non-detachable cable, the amp's power cable was inadvertently pinched by one of the wheels. This led to the entire cable needing to be professionally replaced. Also located on the back panel are a USB connector for PC control, the cooling fan, and the input/output connections. Since the CDi 2000 is designed for permanent installations, the connectors are not what one would see on a traditional portable power amp (i.e., ¼ inch connectors, XLR connectors, or banana clips), but instead are a four-position barrier strip for the outputs while the inputs utilize Phoenix-type connectors.
For the input wiring, Crown recommends using pre-built or professionally wired balanced line (two conductor plus shield), 22 to 24 gauge cables, and connectors. The wire is attached directly to the Phoenix-type connectors, which plug directly into the amplifier inputs. High-quality, two-conductor, heavy-gauge speaker wire and connectors should be used for the outputs. Crown includes a small package of five spade lugs for direct connection to the barrier strip. Crown also recommends having the custom wiring performed by a qualified professional.
Once the amplifier is properly wired, configuration may begin. The CDi 2000 is shipped with quick-start presets allowing fast initial setup. These presets include DSP off, Bridge, Crossover, Bridge Subs, and Subharmonic Synthesizer. Any changes made to these initial presets are lost upon powering down unless a user preset has been saved using System Architect software. This is accomplished via PC through the USB port.
These presets allow for numerous configuration possibilities. DSP off simply allows the input signal to pass straight through the amplifier without signal processing. With DSP on, numerous signal routing options are possible. These options include 70V on, which allows either channel one or two to be configured for 70V/high-Z loads. The CH1+CH2 option allows the input signals to be summed and fed to both output channels. This option also provides 6 dB of extra gain. Input Y allows the channel one input to be fed to both output channels. Stereo mode allows both inputs to go to their prospective outputs. XOV (Crossover) allows crossover frequencies to be set to one of the following: 80 Hz, 100 Hz, 1200 Hz, 1500 Hz, or 2000 Hz.
EQ (Equalization for Ch.1 or Ch.2) allows EQ to be applied to the signal. DEL (Delay for Ch.1 or Ch.2) allows delay times to be set at 1 to 10 milliseconds, 10 to 50 milliseconds, or 0 seconds. Both the EQ and Delay options are controllable only through the System Architect software.
As with all Crown amps, the CDi 2000 is backed with a three-year, no-fault, transferable warranty.
There is also built-in protection including output current limiting, microprocessor-controlled DC protection, which disconnects the loudspeaker load in the event of an output DC offset exceeding 2V, and thermal protection for the unit's transformers.
While installation and setup of the CDi 2000 are relatively easy, it would definitely be wise to have the unit installed and configured by a professional. Once installed, however, the CDi 2000 should provide years of reliable service. Upon reviewing this amp, I believe the CDi 2000 would nicely suit the needs of most small- to mid-size churches. The CDi 2000 features plenty of power, great sound and a fine array of onboard DSP options. With a price of $1,359 (MSRP), the Crown CDi 2000 should appeal to the budget-conscious church that does not want to sacrifice quality.
COMPANY: Crown International
PRODUCT: CDi 2000 power amplifier
QUICK-LINK: (574) 294-8000
URL: www.crownaudio.com
