New Products

Theory Audio Design is expanding beyond its residential-focused DLC controllers with a new PLC series designed for large and complex systems:residential, commercial, large‑venue, and live sound. The lineup consists of two 8‑channel and two 4‑channel models built on Powersoft class‑D amplification and DSP.

Models and power ratings (per channel):

• PLC‑4K8 — 8 × 500W
• PLC‑8K8 — 8 × 1,000W
• PLC‑9K4 — 4 × 2,250W
• PLC‑16K4 — 4 × 4,000W

All four are 1RU designs; Theory emphasizes power density and scalability. Impedance, test conditions, and whether ratings are continuous or burst were not specified.

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Platform and Features

Theory says the PLC platform leverages Powersoft’s patented Class‑D topologies, SmartRail energy‑management power supplies, Power Factor Correction, and an advanced DSP architecture that supports linear‑phase FIR filtering and Active Damping Control. Networking is native Dante and AES67. Additional features include all‑channel power sharing, three 1GbE ports (one with PoE), USB‑key “amplifier restore,” and maritime compliance. Theory’s loudspeaker presets will be available across the PLC line.

Paul Hales, Theory’s CEO, frames the move as a response to integrators asking for Theory’s “high‑fidelity and high‑output” sound in larger projects.

“With our recently introduced SR Series loudspeakers and manifold subwoofers, paired with the new PLC loudspeaker controllers, we are going after that segment head on,” Hales said. Marc Bertrand, CSO, called the Powersoft collaboration “a no‑brainer,” citing installer feedback on large, networked deployments using Dante or AES67.

Powersoft CEO Luca Lastrucci said the partnership “places Powersoft’s patented amplification and DSP technologies at the heart of the new PLC line,” positioning both companies for large‑venue and complex networked applications.

For integrators already using Theory speakers and subs, the PLC controllers extend the ecosystem into higher‑scale, networked systems without leaving the brand. The spec sheet hits current pro‑install checkboxes: AoIP (Dante/AES67), PoE on one port, power sharing, FIR‑capable DSP in a compact 1RU chassis.

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Availability

Theory says the PLC‑4K8, PLC‑8K8, PLC‑9K4, and PLC‑16K4 will ship in Q4 2025. Pricing was not provided. Demo units will be on display at CEDIA Expo 2025, Booth 2933 and High Performance Audio Room 202.