Crown DCI8X300DA – 8-Channel 300W Dante DriveCore Install Amplifier

Product Overview

The Crown DCI8X300DA is an eight-channel, 300-watt-per-channel installation amplifier with integrated Dante and AES67 networked audio, designed for multi-zone commercial AV systems deploying IP audio distribution. Part of Crown's DriveCore Install DA Series, the DCI8X300DA suits AV integrators specifying high-channel-density networked amplification for distributed background music, paging, and fill speaker systems in conference centers, houses of worship, hospitality venues, and enterprise facilities on Dante network infrastructure.

Product Description

The DCI8X300DA delivers 300 watts per channel across eight channels with Dante networked audio input alongside analog XLR and AES3 inputs, all within a 2U rack chassis. The factory-integrated Dante module routes networked audio to any or all of the eight amplifier input channels over a single Cat cable, eliminating long analog audio runs in large facilities. Each channel supports 70V and 100V constant-voltage output as well as 4-ohm and 8-ohm low-impedance operation. Onboard per-channel DSP handles limiting, EQ, crossover, and delay. AES67 interoperability enables connection with non-Dante networked audio devices. HiQnet protocol supports integration with Harman AV system control and monitoring platforms.

Key Features

• Integrated Dante / AES67 — Eight audio channels delivered over a single Cat cable from any Dante source on the network.
• 300W per channel at 4Ω, eight channels — 2400W total for large multi-zone distributed audio systems.
• 70V/100V constant-voltage output — All channels support distributed speaker systems with extended cable runs.
• Crown DriveCore technology — Integrated IC reduces thermal load in permanent rack installations.
• Onboard DSP per channel — Limiting, EQ, crossover, and delay built in.
• AES67 interoperability mode — Compatible with non-Dante AES67 audio network devices.
• HiQnet network control — Integration with Harman centralized system management.
• 2U rack-mount chassis — Eight channels plus Dante in a compact 2U footprint.
• Analog and AES3 backup inputs — Signal path redundancy available per channel.
• Comprehensive protection — DC, thermal, and short-circuit protection on all channels.

Typical Applications

• Multi-zone conference center and hotel distributed audio on Dante
• House of worship fill and lobby speaker systems on networked audio
• University campus and institutional distributed audio
• Government facility multi-zone paging on Dante infrastructure
• Large commercial facility background music systems
• Multi-purpose room and training facility distributed audio

Technical Specifications

Competitor Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Dante channels are available on the DCI8X300DA?

The Dante module supports 64x64 channels. Eight receive channels feed the amplifier inputs; remaining channels can be routed to other Dante devices on the network.

Can I use analog inputs if the Dante network goes down?

Yes. Analog XLR and AES3 inputs are available per channel and can be configured as primary or backup sources.

Is the DCI8X300DA AES67 compatible?

Yes. Enabling AES67 interoperability mode allows the amplifier to receive audio from non-Dante AES67-compliant devices.

What is the warranty?

Crown professional installation amplifiers carry a 3-year limited warranty. Contact Creation Networks for service information.