QSC DCA1644 – 4-Channel 250W Digital Cinema Amplifier

Product Overview

The QSC DCA1644 is a four-channel digital cinema amplifier built to power screen and surround channels in Q-SYS-enabled and traditional cinema auditoriums. Part of QSC's DataPort cinema amplifier family, the DCA1644 delivers 250 watts per channel at 8 ohms (400 watts at 4 ohms) from a single 2U chassis, driving four independent low-impedance loudspeaker loads. It connects to QSC DCP cinema processors, DCM cinema monitors, or a Q-SYS Core via the CODP4 DataPort output card, making it a flexible building block for multi-screen complexes and screening rooms.

Product Description

The DCA1644 uses QSC's PowerLight switch-mode power supply to deliver consistent, low-distortion output while keeping the chassis to a compact 2U height. Four discrete amplifier channels let a single unit drive multiple surround zones or bi-amplified screen components, reducing rack count in dense projection booths. Output connections use Neutrik Speakon and safety-shrouded barrier-strip terminals, while patented Output Averaging short-circuit protection and Active Inrush Limiting protect both the amplifier and connected loudspeakers. Variable-speed fan cooling with back-to-front airflow suits enclosed booth racks. For Q-SYS-based theatres, pair the DCA1644 with the CODP4 DataPort output card; for higher-power channels, see the QSC DCA1824.

Key Features

• Four channels, 250 W per channel at 8Ω — Drives four independent low-impedance cinema loudspeaker loads from one chassis (400 W per channel at 4Ω).
• DataPort connectivity — Integrates directly with QSC DCP cinema processors, DCM monitors, and Q-SYS Cores via the CODP4 card.
• PowerLight switch-mode supply — Provides efficient, lightweight, low-distortion power in a 2U footprint.
• Output Averaging short-circuit protection — QSC's patented protection guards the amplifier and loudspeakers against fault conditions.
• Active Inrush Limiting — Prevents circuit-breaker trips at power-up in multi-amplifier racks.
• Neutrik Speakon and barrier-strip outputs — Professional, secure loudspeaker terminations for installed systems.
• Variable-speed fan cooling — Back-to-front airflow keeps the amplifier stable in enclosed projection-booth racks.

Typical Applications

• Auditorium and cinema screening rooms
• House of worship
• Multi-purpose room

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the DCA1644 a networked Q-SYS amplifier? No. It is a DataPort/analog low-impedance amplifier. To use it in a Q-SYS theatre, drive it from a Q-SYS Core through the CODP4 DataPort output card.

What processors and sources is it compatible with? DataPort-equipped QSC DCP cinema processors, DCM cinema monitors, and Q-SYS Cores via the CODP4 card, as well as standard analog line-level sources.

How many loudspeakers can one unit drive? Four independent low-impedance channels, suitable for surround zones or bi-amplified screen components.

What about warranty and support? Coverage follows QSC's published warranty terms. For configuration help or warranty questions, contact Creation Networks support.