Sonifex PS-AMP – IP to Speakers Streaming Decoder Sonifex

The PS-AMP is a freestanding unit which converts an IP audio stream directly to speaker outputs. It is also available in a 1U rack-mount as the PS-AMPS. The PS-AMP has the same feature-set as the PS-PLAY except that there are no individual audio outputs other than the speaker terminals. The PS-AMP uses an integrated 2 x 15W D-class amplifier to deliver audio directly to a pair of connected speakers.

All the configuration settings for the unit are accessed via a local web-server built into it. The unit can decode one of a number of audio streams, such as those generated by the PS-SEND (MP3, G.711 and PCM) and including Ogg Vorbis audio files from external USB as well as from sources such as Shoutcast, Icecast (Internet radio), VLC and from RTP servers. The unit can receive streams from HTTP (TCP/IP) and  RTP (UDP) protocols, as well as raw TCP and UDP packets. The unit can also configure its own IP address using  DHCP/BOOTP, IPzator or AutoIP. A readout of the set IP address can be heard on every reset using SONICIP technology, if selected.

Two red and green front panel LEDs indicate what state the unit is currently in, be it normal operational mode or bootstrap mode, and also indicates the current network connection status. A blue LED denotes power to the unit. The audio output can be monitored on the front panel ¼” (6.35mm) stereo jack socket in combination with a headphone volume knob. The analogue audio outputs can be switched to be either a fixed level output or to be controlled by the front panel volume knob. The volume can also be adjusted, as well as many other features, using an infra-red remote control (included).

The PS-AMP can be configured with up to 3 sources. The sources are prioritized in number order. If one has failed, the next one will attempt to play. If all fail, an external USB drive will be used as a back-up source. The external USB plugs into the USB socket on the front of the unit. This enables the PS-AMP to act as a USB audio player, playing any of the audio formats previously mentioned. 

The rear panel has 2 x RJ45 connectors, one for the 10/100Mbit Ethernet interface and one for GPIO connections. The PS-AMP has 2 output relay contacts which can triggered remotely over IP from a connected PS-SEND unit. There is a 9 way D-type RS232 serial connection for control of the unit by automation systems and for firmware updates. The unit can be remote controlled via serial connection, TCP or UDP and remote management of the unit is also possible using SNMP traps.