ASHLY PEMA 4250C Network Power Amp 4 x 250W @ 4 Ohms, DSP, CobraNet

Product Overview

The Ashly PEMA 4250C is a 4-channel, 250W-per-channel Protea-Equipped Media Amplifier with a factory-installed CobraNet option card, providing CobraNet digital audio network connectivity for commercial AV installations using legacy CobraNet infrastructure. As a complete one-box DSP amplifier solution, the PEMA 4250C integrates Protea DSP processing, an 8-in x 4-out matrix mixer, 8 built-in microphone preamps, and a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier in a single 2U rack-mount unit. The CobraNet card allows the amplifier to receive up to 8 channels of CobraNet network audio directly over a standard 100 Mbit Ethernet infrastructure. With 1000W total output at 4 ohms and the full Protea DSP suite, the PEMA 4250C suits conference rooms, government meeting spaces, and commercial installations where existing CobraNet network audio infrastructure is in place.

Product Description

The PEMA 4250C delivers 4 channels of 250W each into 4 ohm loads, with an integrated 8x4 Protea DSP signal processor on all inputs and outputs. The factory-installed CobraNet card connects the amplifier to a CobraNet-enabled audio network, allowing digital audio from any CobraNet device to be received and processed without analog audio cabling between source and amplifier locations. Eight balanced inputs are software-selectable for microphone or line level, and all eight channels include microphone preamps to support direct microphone connections. Protea DSP processing provides equalization, dynamics, FIR filtering, crossover, delay, and matrix routing capabilities that eliminate the need for a separate outboard DSP processor in most commercial installations. Remote DC level control on each input channel allows volume control from wall remotes and building automation systems, and preset recall enables the amplifier to switch between stored configurations for different room uses. The real-time clock with event scheduler supports fully automated daily operation without manual intervention. Class-D amplifier topology and switching power supply deliver over 80% energy efficiency, minimizing heat dissipation in equipment rooms. The PEMA 4250C is manufactured in the United States and carries a 5-year limited warranty.

Key Features

• 4-Channel Low-Impedance Output — 250W per channel (1000W RMS total) at 4 ohms for commercial speaker systems.
• CobraNet Card Included — Factory-installed CobraNet option card for digital audio network connectivity over 100 Mbit Ethernet.
• 8-Input x 4-Output Protea DSP — FIR filter capable, EQ, dynamics, crossover, delay, and matrix routing.
• 8 Built-In Mic Preamps — Software-selectable mic/line on all channels for direct microphone connections.
• Remote DC Level Control — Per-channel DC voltage input for wall remote and building automation integration.
• Real-Time Clock and Scheduler — Automated operation including scheduled preset changes and standby.
• Ethernet Control — 10/100 Ethernet for Protea NE software configuration and monitoring.
• Class-D Efficiency — Over 80% energy efficient with switching power supply.

Typical Applications

• Conference rooms and boardrooms on existing CobraNet infrastructure
• Government and institutional facilities with CobraNet audio systems
• Commercial meeting spaces requiring networked audio distribution
• Multi-purpose rooms with scheduled audio automation
• Training rooms with 4-zone speaker systems

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the PEMA 4250C and the PEMA 4250D?

The PEMA 4250C includes a factory-installed CobraNet option card, while the PEMA 4250D includes a factory-installed Dante option card. Both are 4-channel, 250W low-impedance amplifiers with the same Protea DSP engine. The choice depends on which network audio protocol is used in the installation.

Is CobraNet still supported in new installations?

CobraNet remains operational in many installed systems and is the right choice for facilities that already have CobraNet-based audio infrastructure. For new greenfield installations, Dante is more common today.

Does the PEMA 4250C work as a standalone DSP amplifier without CobraNet?

Yes. The CobraNet card provides an additional digital audio input path but is not required for operation. The amplifier functions fully with its analog inputs and Ethernet control regardless of CobraNet network availability.

How many zones can the PEMA 4250C drive?

The PEMA 4250C provides 4 independent amplifier output channels, each capable of driving a separate speaker zone. The 8-input x 4-output matrix allows flexible assignment of audio sources to each zone.

What software is used to configure the PEMA 4250C?

Ashly Protea NE software connects via standard 10/100 Ethernet and provides full access to all DSP settings, matrix routing, presets, and system monitoring.