Bose 343546-1110 PowerMatch PM8500N – 8-Channel Configurable Power Amplifier

Product Overview

The Bose PowerMatch PM8500N is an 8-channel configurable power amplifier built for commercial-grade fixed-installation sound reinforcement in auditoriums, houses of worship, and large performance venues. Delivering 4,000 watts total output (500 W per channel at 4 ohms), this rack-mount amplifier integrates a full digital DSP engine, QuadBridge channel configuration technology, and Ethernet-based network control. The PM8500N is a primary choice for AV system integrators who need scalable amplifier power with precise loudspeaker processing in a single 2RU chassis. Its compatibility with Bose ControlSpace Designer software and support for an optional Dante expansion card make it a strong fit for networked commercial AV deployments.

Product Description

The PowerMatch PM8500N addresses the core challenge of large-scale installed sound: delivering consistent, high-quality output across multiple zones and load types without requiring multiple discrete amplifiers. Using Bose's proprietary QuadBridge technology, each 4-channel loudspeaker block can be independently configured as Mono, V-Bridge, I-Share, or Quad mode — allowing output power to range from 8 channels at 500 W each up to 2 channels at 2,000 W each, or mixed configurations in between.

The amplifier's Class-D topology uses a dual voltage and current feedback loop — a design inherited from Bose's automotive amplifier manufacturing experience — to deliver frequency response, THD, and dynamic range comparable to Class-AB designs at Class-D efficiency levels. Total conversion efficiency exceeds 75% at one-third rated power, and the PeakBank regenerative 4-quadrant power supply with fast-tracking PFC allows the PM8500N to draw all 4 kW from a single 120V/20A mains circuit.

Each output channel includes a full loudspeaker processing chain: 9-band parametric EQ, bandpass crossover filters (Butterworth, Bessel, or Linkwitz-Riley at up to 48 dB/octave), delay up to 3 seconds, and peak and RMS voltage limiters. Bose loudspeaker presets are available for optimized system protection and performance. An 8x8 input-to-output signal routing matrix provides full flexibility for complex system designs.

The front panel features a 240x64 LCD with rotary encoder navigation and dedicated soft keys, giving technicians direct access to input sensitivity, output configuration, EQ on/off, preset selection, and mute without requiring a laptop on-site. The rear panel provides a USB Type-B port for ControlSpace Designer software, a 100 Mbps Ethernet RJ-45 port for network control and monitoring, a digital expansion slot for optional Dante or AmpLink cards, and an 8-channel analog input section with 3-pin Phoenix Contact connectors. A fault-notification relay output (NC/NO, 1A/30VDC) enables integration with building management or AV control systems.

Available from Creation Networks, the PM8500N ships as a US-120V model (SKU 343546-1110) and is backed by Bose Professional's commercial warranty and support infrastructure.

Key Features

• QuadBridge Output Technology — Software-selectable channel configuration (Mono, V-Bridge, I-Share, Quad) allocates up to 4,000 W across 2 to 8 channels to match any system design.
• Class-D Amplification with Dual Feedback Loop — Continuously monitors and controls both voltage and current delivered to each loudspeaker load, maintaining low distortion and wide dynamic range independent of power level.
• PeakBank Power Supply with Fast-Tracking PFC — Regenerative 4-quadrant design delivers sustained burst power and superior transient response from a single 20A household circuit.
• Integrated 8x8 DSP Matrix — Includes 5-band input PEQ, 9-band output loudspeaker EQ, crossover filters, delay, and peak/RMS limiters per channel.
• Bose Loudspeaker Presets — Factory-optimized presets for Bose RoomMatch and other Professional loudspeakers provide protection equivalent to a self-powered system.
• ControlSpace Designer Software Integration — Full configuration, monitoring, and network control via USB or Ethernet; compatible with larger Bose ControlSpace systems including ESP processors and CC controllers.
• Digital Expansion Slot — Supports optional Dante audio network card (359844-0020) or AmpLink network card (772238-0110) for integration into digital audio networks.
• Front Panel LCD Interface — 240x64 LCD with rotary encoder and soft keys for local configuration and real-time status monitoring without a PC.
• Auto-Standby/Auto-Wake — Configurable power management reduces energy consumption when the system is idle.
• 2RU Rack-Mount Form Factor — Front-to-rear airflow with microprocessor-controlled variable-speed fans; rear rack support tabs accommodate rear rail mounting.
• Fault Notification Output — NC/NO relay contact (1A, 30VDC) for integration with external monitoring or control systems.
• Wide Load Compatibility — Drives low-impedance (2–8 ohm) and high-impedance (70V/100V) loudspeaker loads directly in V-Bridge, I-Share, and Quad modes.

Typical Applications

• Auditorium
• House of worship
• Multi-purpose room
• Conference room (large format)
• All-hands room
• Training room
• Broadcast studio
• Commercial meeting space

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the PM8500N include Dante networking out of the box?

No. The US-120V model (343546-1110) ships with a standard analog input section. Dante connectivity requires the separately purchased PowerMatch Dante network card (359844-0020), which installs into the rear expansion slot.

Can the PM8500N drive both 70V and low-impedance loudspeakers in the same installation?

Yes. Individual channel blocks can be independently configured for low-impedance (2–8 ohm) or high-impedance (70V/100V) operation. V-Bridge, I-Share, and Quad modes support direct 70V and 100V loads; Mono mode has limited 70V/100V use (tap adjustments required).

What software is required to configure the PM8500N?

Bose ControlSpace Designer software version 3.2 or later is required for full configuration. Basic setup and preset selection are also accessible through the front panel LCD interface without a PC.

How does the PM8500N integrate with Bose ControlSpace processors such as the EX-1280?

When fitted with the AmpLink expansion card, the PM8500N receives 8 channels of low-latency uncompressed digital audio directly from any AmpLink-equipped Bose ControlSpace processor (EX-1280, EX-1280C, EX-440C, ESP-880A) over a standard shielded Cat 5/6 cable. In networked Dante configurations, it integrates into the broader ControlSpace system for scheduling, preset management, and centralized monitoring.

What circuit breaker is needed for the US-120V model?

Bose recommends a dedicated 20A circuit at 120VAC for the PM8500N. The PeakBank power supply with fast-tracking PFC keeps the maximum RMS current draw to 15A, making the standard 20A household circuit sufficient for full 4 kW output.

What is the warranty on the Bose PowerMatch PM8500N?

Bose Professional products are covered by Bose's standard commercial warranty. Contact Creation Networks for current warranty terms and authorized service options.

Is the PM8500N discontinued?

The PM8500N is listed as a discontinued product by Bose Professional. Creation Networks offers available inventory of new units. Contact us to confirm stock status before ordering.