Alto Aviation’s new Acapella DZ-290 aircraft cabin audio amplifier is designed for easy upgrades for new or legacy in-flight entertainment (IFE) systems. The DZ-290 includes a four-channel amplifier and more than 160 watts of power “to bypass the existing PA/IFE amp,” according to Alto, which introduced the new amplifier at the AEA Convention this week in Orlando.

“The unique feature of the DZ-290 is its ability to interface directly with speaker level outputs from a PA-AV unit,” the company said. Other features include four-source selection, volume and mute control, which all can be selected by ground logic or optional software. PA override, chime inputs and default to PA “make it well suited to override existing PA-AV controllers,” Alto Aviation noted.

Once installed, the DZ-290 can be controlled using “an Alto keypad, an existing legacy switch panel or optional software. It also features chimes control for NS and FSB ordinance connections. It supports minimal disruption to the existing wiring.” 

In aircraft with an Audio International RS-485 databus, the DZ-290 can interface directly to that bus. “This interface allows former Audio International equipment to remain in the aircraft and might provide obsolescence support for legacy Audio International and Baker systems alike,” the company explained.