Martin Audio IK81-DANTE – 8-Channel 10,000W Class D Amplifier

Dante Availability Notice: Due to the global shortage of Brooklyn II Dante network cards, iKON amplifiers no longer include Dante as standard. Dante-equipped units are available for approved projects. Contact technical@martin-audio.com for Dante system design support.

Product Overview

The Martin Audio iKON IK81-DANTE is an eight-channel Class D power amplifier delivering 10,000 Watts total output, purpose-engineered for the Martin Audio Wavefront Precision WPM compact line array and for high-channel-count multi-zone amplification across the broader Martin Audio loudspeaker range. Packing eight amplifier channels into a 2U rack unit, the IK81 provides the channel density required for complex line array system configurations where a large number of individually driven enclosures must be managed within a minimal rack footprint. Integrated 96kHz DSP, Dante digital audio networking, and Ethernet control via VU-NET software make the IK81 a complete amplification and loudspeaker processing solution for demanding commercial AV installations.

Product Description

The eight Class D amplifier channels in the IK81 operate at high efficiency, reducing thermal output and power consumption relative to the channel count compared to conventional linear designs. The internal DSP runs at 96kHz on all inputs and outputs, dropping to 48kHz output sampling when FIR linear-phase filter processing is engaged. FIR processing is essential for Martin Audio WPM line array configurations, where precise inter-enclosure time-alignment and phase-coherent crossover processing are required to maintain consistent directivity control across the operating bandwidth.

Audio inputs include analogue balanced, AES3 digital, and Dante via the Brooklyn II network card, enabling integration with analogue mixing consoles, digital stage-box systems, and Dante-based networked audio infrastructure over standard Ethernet cabling. System configuration, preset management, real-time metering, and remote fault monitoring are handled through Martin Audio VU-NET software over a dedicated Ethernet control network. The IK81's switch-mode power supply auto-senses mains voltage from 85V to 240V, supporting global deployment without manual voltage selection. Comprehensive protection circuits cover thermal management, clip limiting, impedance monitoring, and output short-circuit protection.

Key Features

• Eight-Channel Class D Amplification — 10,000W total output across eight channels in a 2U rack for high channel-density line array and multi-zone systems.
• 96kHz DSP on All Channels — Full-bandwidth processing with FIR linear-phase filter support for accurate line array time-alignment and loudspeaker correction.
• WPM Line Array Optimised — Dedicated system amplifier for the Martin Audio Wavefront Precision WPM with factory-loaded DSP presets.
• Dante Digital Audio Networking — Brooklyn II card enables low-latency audio distribution over standard IP network infrastructure.
• Analogue, AES3, and Dante Inputs — Flexible input format support for analogue, digital, and networked audio source environments.
• VU-NET Ethernet Control — Centralised remote preset management, real-time metering, and system monitoring across all networked IK81 amplifiers.
• Switch-Mode Global Power Supply — Auto-sensing 85V–240V mains operation for international touring and fixed installation projects.
• Comprehensive Loudspeaker Protection — Thermal management, clip limiting, impedance monitoring, and short-circuit protection across all eight output channels.

Typical Applications

• Houses of worship deploying Martin Audio Wavefront Precision WPM compact line array systems
• Auditoriums and performing arts centres with multi-enclosure line array configurations requiring high channel density
• Broadcast studios integrating Dante networked audio with high-channel-count loudspeaker amplification
• Multi-purpose venues with complex distributed audio systems across multiple zones
• Government and institutional facilities requiring centralised amplifier management and monitoring

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between the IK81 and the IK42?

The IK81 provides eight amplifier channels at 10,000W total output, versus the IK42's four channels at up to 20,000W. The IK81 is optimised for the WPM compact line array, while the IK42 targets the Wavefront Precision full-size series and XE stage monitors.

Is Dante included as standard on the IK81-DANTE?

Due to the global shortage of Brooklyn II Dante network cards, Dante is not currently included as standard. Dante-equipped units are available for approved projects. Contact technical@martin-audio.com for support.

Why does the IK81 drop to 48kHz output sampling with FIR filters enabled?

FIR linear-phase filters require significantly greater DSP computation per channel. The 48kHz output sample rate with FIR engaged is a processing trade-off that maintains full FIR filter resolution while keeping the DSP within available compute headroom.

Can the IK81 drive non-Martin Audio loudspeakers?

Yes. The IK81 can drive any compatible loudspeaker load. Custom DSP presets can be programmed via VU-NET for non-Martin Audio enclosures.

How does VU-NET handle a mixed IK42 and IK81 system?

VU-NET manages IK42 and IK81 amplifiers on the same Ethernet control network simultaneously, providing unified preset management, metering, and monitoring across all amplifiers in the system.

Is the IK81 suitable for permanent rack installation?

Yes. The 2U rack format, global mains power supply, and VU-NET remote control make the IK81 well-suited to permanent equipment room installation in auditoriums, houses of worship, and commercial AV facilities.

Where can I find compatible Martin Audio loudspeakers and accessories?

Visit creationnetworks.net/collections/martin-audio for the full range of Martin Audio products including WPM arrays, XE monitors, and DX4.0 processors.