Lab Gruppen PLM 5K44 5000W 4-Channel Amplifier with Lake DSP and Network (speakON + Binding Post) - PLM 5K44

Product Overview

The Lab Gruppen PLM 5K44 is a 5,000W four-channel touring power amplifier with integrated Lake Digital Signal Processing, Dante/AES67 digital audio networking, and both speakON NL4 and binding post speaker outputs on every channel. Built on a Class-D output stage with Rational Power Management (RPM), it is the entry point into the PLM+ platform — providing the same Lake Controller 6.3 DSP engine and Dante networking as the higher-power PLM series in a lightweight, cost-effective 2 RU chassis. The dual output connector format (NL4 speakON and binding post per channel) gives touring and installation operators full wiring flexibility from a single amplifier.

Product Description

The Lab Gruppen PLM 5K44 was developed to bring the PLM+ platform's network-managed loudspeaker processing to a broader range of touring and installation budgets, while maintaining the feature depth that defines the series. Its Class-D output stage with proprietary Intercooler high-efficiency cooling delivers up to 1,250W per channel at 4 ohms across four channels, with Rational Power Management (RPM) redistributing available power between channels as load demands shift. The Lake DSP engine provides MESA EQ asymmetric filters, FIR linear-phase crossovers with slopes exceeding 180 dB/octave, classical crossovers up to 48 dB/octave, parametric EQ, delay, and limiting — all with a dynamic range exceeding 112 dB and configurable via Lake Controller software on a Windows PC or tablet. Dante and AES67 networking is delivered via two Neutrik etherCON RJ45 ports, providing dual redundant Dante interfaces for integration into any Dante-based system alongside digital consoles, stage boxes, and other PLM+ amplifiers. Four balanced analog XLR inputs and four AES3 digital inputs with sample rates up to 192 kHz / 24-bit resolution cover the full range of signal source requirements. What distinguishes the PLM 5K44 from other PLM+ models is its dual output connector format: each of the four channels provides both a speakON NL4 and a binding post pair, covering both touring and installation wiring conventions without requiring an adapter. Undervoltage Limiting (UVL) allows continued amplifier operation during mains voltage drops. Power Factor Correction (PFC) with Current Draw Modeling reduces mains current demand and minimizes environmental impact. At 25.1 lbs (11.4 kg), it is the lightest PLM+ series amplifier and ships with a power cord and 100 factory presets.

Key Features

• 5,000W Total Output Power — Four channels at up to 1,250W each (4 ohms), with 70/100V high-impedance support.
• Dual Output Connectors Per Channel — Both speakON NL4 and binding post terminals on every channel for full wiring flexibility.
• Rational Power Management (RPM) — Redistributes available amplifier power across all four channels dynamically based on actual load demand.
• Lake Digital Signal Processing — FIR linear-phase crossovers (up to 180+ dB/octave), MESA EQ, parametric EQ, delay, limiting, and 100 presets via Lake Controller 6.3.
• Dante and AES67 Networking — Dual redundant etherCON Dante ports with 8x8 channel digital audio networking.
• 4-In / 4-Out Signal Architecture — Four analog XLR inputs and four AES3 digital inputs (up to 192 kHz / 24-bit).
• Class-D Output Stage with Intercooler Cooling — High-efficiency amplification with proprietary thermal management for touring use.
• Undervoltage Limiting (UVL) — Maintains operation during mains voltage sags for uninterrupted performance.
• Power Factor Correction (PFC) — Reduces mains current draw and minimizes energy consumption.
• Lightweight 2 RU Chassis — 25.1 lbs / 11.4 kg with front-to-rear temperature-controlled fans and a removable dust filter.

Typical Applications

• Auditorium
• House of worship
• Multi-purpose room
• All-hands room
• Training room

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes the PLM 5K44 different from the PLM 8K44, PLM 12K44, and PLM 20K44?

A: The PLM 5K44 uses a Class-D IDEEA output stage rather than the Class-TD topology used in the higher-power PLM models. It is lighter and more affordable while retaining the full Lake DSP engine and Dante/AES67 networking of the PLM+ platform. The key operational difference is total output power (5,000W vs. 8,000W, 12,000W, or 20,000W) and the presence of both speakON and binding post connectors on every channel.

Q: Does the PLM 5K44 include both speakON and binding post outputs?

A: Yes. Each of the four channels provides both a speakON NL4 connector and a binding post pair. Only one output per channel should be used at a time. This dual-connector format eliminates the need for adapters in mixed touring and installation environments.

Q: What is Rational Power Management (RPM)?

A: RPM is a proprietary Lab Gruppen feature that allows the amplifier to reallocate total available power across all four output channels based on actual load demand. If some channels are lightly loaded and others require more power, RPM transfers the available headroom to the channels where it is needed, rather than capping each channel at a fixed quarter of total power.

Q: Can the PLM 5K44 be managed alongside PLM 8K44, PLM 12K44, and PLM 20K44 units in the same Lake Controller session?

A: Yes. All PLM+ series amplifiers use the Lake Controller 6.3 software platform and share the same Dante network infrastructure, allowing them to be configured and monitored together from a single Lake Controller interface.

Q: What does Undervoltage Limiting (UVL) do?

A: UVL allows the PLM 5K44 to continue operating during mains voltage drops below normal levels, reducing the risk of unexpected amplifier shutdown during a performance due to temporary power supply fluctuations.

Q: Does the PLM 5K44 support 70V and 100V distributed audio systems?

A: Yes. The amplifier supports 70V and 100V high-impedance operation on all four channels, making it suitable for distributed ceiling speaker systems as well as low-impedance touring loudspeaker rigs.

Q: What is included in the box?

A: The PLM 5K44 ships with a detachable locking IEC power cable rated at 250V/15A. Lake Controller software is available as a free download from the Lab Gruppen support portal. The unit comes pre-loaded with 100 user presets.