QSC CX-Q 8K8 – Eight-Channel Q-SYS Network Amplifier (1000W/ch)

Product Overview

The QSC CX-Q 8K8 is the highest-power model in the CX-Q eight-channel Q-SYS network amplifier family, delivering 1,000W per channel into 8Ω across all eight channels simultaneously — up to 8,000W total output from a single 2U rack-mount chassis. Designed for large-scale commercial AV installations requiring both high channel count and substantial per-channel power, the CX-Q 8K8 is suited for large distributed speaker systems, multi-zone high-SPL environments, and complex house of worship or auditorium designs where eight independent high-power zones must be driven from one amplifier. Like all CX-Q Series amplifiers, it integrates natively into Q-SYS Designer Software for complete signal routing, processing, monitoring, and GPIO automation.

Built on the PL380 PowerLight™ platform with 5th-generation Class-D hybrid powertrain, the CX-Q 8K8 features FlexAmp™ and FAST for dynamic channel summing and bridging. Eight mic/line inputs with +12V phantom power provide signal access at the amplifier chassis, and eight bi-directional GPIO connections enable third-party device integration. The PowerLight universal PSU with PFC supports 100–240 VAC for global deployment.

Key Features

• 8 independent channels at 1,000W/ch (8Ω); 8,000W total — The highest combined output power in the CX-Q family from a single chassis; suited for large-format multi-zone speaker systems.
• Low-Z, 70V, and 100V on all 8 channels independently — Each channel independently configurable for impedance mode in Q-SYS Designer.
• FlexAmp™ + FAST technology — Channel bridging, paralleling, and power summing configurable in software.
• Native Q-SYS integration — Complete signal routing, gain, muting, metering, and GPIO management from the Q-SYS Core without separate amplifier management software.
• 8 mic/line inputs with +12V phantom power — Eight signal on-ramps at the amplifier for microphones, paging, or program sources.
• 8 bi-directional GPIO — LED indicators, sensors, mute triggers, third-party control.
• PowerLight universal PSU with PFC; 100–240 VAC — Global compliance, high efficiency.
• Full amplifier and load protection — Short circuit, thermal, over-current, over-voltage, RF, DC fault, inrush limiting.

Typical Applications

• House of worship (large-format main + fill + delay system)
• Auditorium
• All-hands room (high-SPL multi-zone)
• Government space (large chamber or command facility)
• Multi-purpose event room
• Boardroom (high-headroom, multi-zone)
• Higher education (large lecture hall)

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the CX-Q 8K8 compare to the CX-Q 4K8?
Both are eight-channel Q-SYS network amplifiers in a 2U chassis with identical feature sets and integration architecture. The 4K8 delivers 500W/ch at 8Ω; the 8K8 delivers 1,000W/ch — double the per-channel power. Select the 8K8 when speaker sensitivity, coverage area, or SPL headroom requirements exceed what the 4K8 can provide.

Is 8,000W total output achievable simultaneously across all 8 channels?
Yes, within thermal limits and supply capacity. The PowerLight PSU and 5th-generation Class-D powertrain are rated for sustained high-output operation. QSC's amplifier protection suite monitors thermal and electrical conditions continuously to protect the amplifier and connected speakers under sustained load.

Can the CX-Q 8K8 be managed alongside CX-Q 4-channel models in the same Q-SYS design?
Yes. All CX-Q Series models appear as Q-SYS network devices in Q-SYS Designer, regardless of channel count or power tier. They can coexist in the same design file and be managed from the same Core processor, simplifying system-wide routing, gain, and monitoring from a single interface.

What warranty applies to the CX-Q 8K8?
QSC provides a 3-year limited warranty. Creation Networks provides pre-sales amplifier sizing and system design support. Contact us at creationnetworks.net.