Lab Gruppen E5:4 - 500 Watt Amplifier with 4 Flexible Output Channels for Installation Applications

Product Overview

The Lab Gruppen E 5:4 (SKU: E 54-UL) is a 500-watt, 4-channel Energy Star certified installation amplifier designed for commercial AV integrators deploying distributed audio in small-to-medium commercial spaces. Operating at 4 x 125 W across independently configurable Lo-Z (4–16Ω) and Hi-Z (70 V) channels in a single rack unit, the E 5:4 is a cost-effective solution for multi-zone ceiling speaker systems, paging networks, and background music applications in office buildings, huddle rooms, and retail environments.

Product Description

The E 5:4 delivers 500 W of total output power across four independently configurable channels, each capable of operating in either Lo-Z mode (4, 8, or 16 ohms) or Hi-Z constant-voltage mode at 70 V. This per-channel flexibility — managed through the Rail Sense Limiter's rear-panel mode switch — allows a single amplifier to serve multiple zone types within the same installation. A typical deployment might assign two channels to 70 V ceiling speakers in open office areas and two channels to direct-drive full-range loudspeakers in breakout rooms, all without additional transformers or hardware.

At the core of the E 5:4 is Lab Gruppen's IDEEA (IntelliDrive Energy Efficient Amplifier) Class-D platform. By maintaining net operating efficiency above 80%, the IDEEA architecture satisfies Energy Star certification requirements through low mains current draw and a sub-1 W auto-standby mode. After 20 minutes without an input signal, the amplifier switches to standby; it returns to full operation automatically when signal reappears, which reduces idle power consumption across large multi-amplifier installations.

The asymmetric channel loading capability of the RSL system allows the 500 W total budget to be allocated unequally across channels, accommodating zones with different load requirements. Rear-panel per-channel attenuation trimmers and signal LEDs enable straightforward field commissioning. A GPIO connector on the rear panel provides contact-closure GPI and GPO for remote power management via control systems. The front panel displays overall power and temperature status alongside per-channel signal and limit indicators.

Key Features

• 500 W Total Output, 4 Channels — 4 x 125 W at 4Ω, 8Ω, 16Ω Lo-Z, and 4 x 125 W at 70 V Hi-Z per channel.
• Energy Star Certified — Operating efficiency >80%; auto-standby <1 W after 20 minutes of no input signal.
• Per-Channel Lo-Z / Hi-Z Configuration — Each channel independently switchable between low-impedance and 70 V constant-voltage via rear-panel RSL switch.
• IDEEA Class-D Output Stage — Lab Gruppen's IntelliDrive platform provides high efficiency and low thermal output in the rack.
• Rail Sense Limiter (RSL) — Dynamic per-channel rail voltage monitoring minimizes clipping and simplifies Hi-Z/Lo-Z configuration.
• Asymmetric Channel Loading — Total output power distributable unequally across channels to match zone requirements.
• Built-In 50 Hz High-Pass Filter — Per-channel switchable from rear panel for speaker protection in distributed systems.
• GPIO Integration — Contact-closure GPI/GPO for control system power state management.
• 1RU Form Factor — 483 x 44 x 381 mm (19" x 1U x 15"), 6 kg; compact footprint for dense rack installations.

Typical Applications

• Huddle room and small meeting space multi-zone audio
• Commercial office building background music and paging
• Conference room distributed ceiling speaker systems
• House of worship overflow and lobby audio zones
• Government building paging and background audio
• Training room and multi-purpose room audio

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between the E 5:4 (E 54-UL) and the newer E 5:4 listing?

A: Both are the same amplifier model with identical specifications. They differ only in listing configuration. If you have questions about which SKU is appropriate for your order, contact our team before purchasing.

Q: Does this model support 100 V constant-voltage systems?

A: The E 5:4 Hi-Z mode operates at 70 V. For 100 V system compatibility, the amplifier can deliver 125 W to a 100 V load tapped at 250 W; however, it is primarily rated for 70 V operation. The newer E Series models (E 20:2, E 20:4, E 40:2, E 40:4) fully support both 70 V and 100 V Hi-Z modes.

Q: How many ceiling speakers can one channel of the E 5:4 drive at 70 V?

A: With 125 W available per channel at 70 V, the number of speakers depends on each speaker's wattage tap setting. For example, four ceiling speakers tapped at 30 W each would total 120 W — within the channel's rated output.

Q: Is the E 5:4 Energy Star certified?

A: Yes. The E 5:4 carries Energy Star certification, achieved through operating efficiency above 80% and auto-standby consumption below 1 W.

Q: Can channels be used in mixed Lo-Z and Hi-Z configurations simultaneously?

A: Yes. Each channel's RSL switch is independent, allowing mixed configurations across the four channels in a single installation.

Q: What control interfaces are available?

A: A GPIO connector provides contact-closure GPI (power control input) and GPO (power state output) for integration with Crestron, AMX, or other control systems. The unit does not include Ethernet or DSP control.