Lab Gruppen PLM 20K44 SP 20,000W 4-Channel Amplifier with Lake DSP and Network (speakON) - PLM20K44/SP

Product Overview

The Lab Gruppen PLM 20K44 SP is a 20,000W four-channel touring power amplifier built around Lake Digital Signal Processing and Dante/AES67 digital audio networking. Designed for large-format live sound reinforcement, it delivers 4 x 5,000W across flexible impedance loads from 2 to 16 ohms and 70/100V. Output connections are industry-standard Neutrik speakON NL8 and NL4 twist-lock connectors, making the PLM 20K44 SP the preferred choice for touring engineers who require fast, secure cable connections on stage and in the rack.

Product Description

The Lab Gruppen PLM 20K44 SP succeeds the iconic PLM 20000Q, adding a full 4-in, 4-out configuration and twice the DSP processing power through the Lake Controller 6.3 software platform. Its Class-TD amplifier topology combines the low-distortion characteristics of Class-B operation with the thermal efficiency of Class-D, allowing the unit to run reliably in demanding touring environments without excessive heat buildup. Dante and AES67 networking is provided via dual redundant etherCON ports, enabling the amplifier to slot directly into any Dante-based audio infrastructure alongside digital consoles, stage boxes, and other network-enabled devices. The 4-in analog signal path accepts four balanced XLR inputs, while AES3 digital inputs provide an additional connection option for systems running AES digital feeds. Lake DSP provides comprehensive loudspeaker management including crossovers up to 48 dB/octave, FIR linear-phase filtering, parametric EQ, limiting, and delay — all configurable and recallable via the Lake Controller software. The selectable gain and Voltage Peak Limiter (VPL) allow engineers to precisely match output levels to any loudspeaker load, protecting drivers while preserving headroom. At 2 RU, the PLM 20K44 SP fits standard touring racks and ships with power cord and rear rack support brackets. For commercial AV integrators and touring companies specifying amplification for large auditoriums, outdoor events, or fixed-installation main PA systems, the PLM 20K44 SP represents the top of the PLM+ series line.

Key Features

• 20,000W Total Output Power — Four channels at 5,000W each, scalable across 2, 4, 8, 16 ohm and 70/100V loads.
• Class-TD Amplifier Topology — Delivers the sonic quality of Class-B with the power efficiency of Class-D for reliable high-output touring use.
• Lake Digital Signal Processing — Full loudspeaker management including FIR linear-phase crossovers, parametric EQ, limiting, delay, and 100 user presets via Lake Controller 6.3.
• Dante and AES67 Networking — Dual redundant etherCON ports integrate the amplifier into any Dante-based audio network with AES67 interoperability.
• speakON Output Connectors — One NL8 and two NL4 Neutrik speakON outputs provide secure twist-lock connections for touring speaker rigs.
• 4-In / 4-Out Signal Architecture — Four balanced XLR analog inputs plus AES3 digital inputs give full flexibility for any system topology.
• Voltage Peak Limiter (VPL) — Per-channel adjustable limiter protects loudspeaker loads and maximizes usable headroom.
• Selectable Input Gain — Allows precise level alignment within any amplifier rack without external attenuation.
• Comprehensive Circuit Protection — DC, short-circuit, thermal, and inrush protection for reliable operation in uncontrolled touring environments.
• 2 RU Rack-Mount Chassis — Ships with power cord and rear rack support brackets for immediate deployment.

Typical Applications

• Auditorium
• House of worship
• Multi-purpose room
• Broadcast studio

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between the PLM 20K44 SP and the PLM 20K44 BP?

A: The SP variant uses Neutrik speakON twist-lock connectors (one NL8 and two NL4) for speaker outputs, which are the standard for touring and live sound applications. The BP variant uses binding post terminals, which are preferred for permanent installation environments where cable management and termination style differ from touring rigs.

Q: Does the PLM 20K44 SP require a dedicated power circuit?

A: Yes. At 20,000W of output power, the PLM 20K44 SP should be deployed on a dedicated high-current mains circuit. Consult the Lab Gruppen specification sheet for exact current draw figures and comply with local electrical codes when planning the power infrastructure.

Q: Is the PLM 20K44 SP compatible with existing Dante networks?

A: Yes. The PLM 20K44 SP includes dual redundant etherCON Dante ports with AES67 support. It can be routed and managed using Dante Controller software alongside any other Dante-enabled devices on the network.

Q: What software is required to configure the Lake DSP?

A: Lake Controller 6.3 software is used to configure processing parameters, load presets, and monitor the amplifier remotely. The software runs on a standard Windows PC and communicates with the amplifier over the Ethernet network.

Q: Can the PLM 20K44 SP drive 70V or 100V distributed audio systems?

A: Yes. The amplifier supports 70V and 100V high-impedance operation, making it suitable for large distributed speaker systems in addition to low-impedance touring loudspeaker arrays.

Q: How many rack units does the PLM 20K44 SP occupy?

A: The unit occupies 2 rack units (2 RU) and ships with rear rack support brackets for secure mounting in standard 19-inch equipment racks.

Q: What warranty does Lab Gruppen provide on the PLM 20K44 SP?

A: Lab Gruppen products are backed by the manufacturer warranty. Contact Creation Networks for current warranty terms and to register your product after purchase.

Q: What is included in the box with the PLM 20K44 SP?

A: The PLM 20K44 SP ships with a power cord and rear rack support brackets. Lake Controller software is available for download from the Lab Gruppen support portal.