Amplifiers/Processors

The hi-fi community still argues about Class D power versus more traditional Class A/B and Class A approaches, but for multichannel audio and specifically movie soundtracks, driving multiple speakers simultaneously and with power to spare is key. The Amplitude16 has this in spades, rated for all channels at 200W/8ohm and 400W/4ohm. What's more, you can bridge channel pairs for a suggested output of 800W/8ohm and 1000W/4ohm. This is a useful feature, allowing greater clout to be delivered to L/C/R speakers – which do much of the heavy lifting – and one that installers will appreciate.

They'll like Trinnov's connection choices as well, with the Amplitude16 eschewing the usual input options for a pair of DB25 connectors. The beauty of this is you eliminate the need for 16 XLR cables, thus keeping the amount of spaghetti around the back to a minimum. Of course, this works best if the connecting processor also has DB25 outputs, which Trinnov's Altitude32 does. Annoyingly the Altitude16 doesn't, nor does it have an upgrade path, so you have to use cables with eight XLRs on one end and a DB25 connector on the other. Not quite as tidy.

Another benefit of the DB25 inputs is increased real estate on the Amplitude16's back panel for its 5-way binding posts, which are evenly spaced out and clearly labelled – each pair of outputs has a switch for bridging the channels. There's then another switch for turning off the front LEDs, plus 12V in and out triggers. Finally, Trinnov offers an optional Audio over IP input board, which again will appeal to the CI community.

Connected to my regular Altitude16, and running a 9.2.6-channel system, I put the amp through its paces with the Dolby Atmos bombast of Michael Bay's Ambulance (4K Blu-ray). You won't find a more aggressive and dynamic object-based soundtrack, and the Amplitude16 proved the perfect foil for the processor's slick decoding and steering.

The film's chase narrative provides plenty of opportunity to engage all the system channels as vehicles roar down streets, helicopters buzz and those in the back of the titular vehicle are buffeted by constant collisions. A sequence involving a remote control car and a mini-gun was especially memorable as the powerful, lively Trinnov rendered gunshots and car crashes with depth and clarity.

The efficiencies offered by Class D are obvious as the Amplitude16 energises the entire soundstage, and its ability to generate massive amounts of output was readily apparent. But it's not all brute force; there's a remarkable finesse to its delivery, easing into transients with a seamless fluidity, and producing waves of attack with a sudden ferocity. It's like Muhammad Ali, dazzling you with fancy footwork before sending a pile-driver to the head.

Trinnov claims the input level sensitivity of the Amplitude16 is designed to perfectly match the Altitude's output level, thus maximising dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio. I like to imagine this tech trick helps explain the uniform soundstage, with responsive dynamics and pinpoint accuracy, that I experienced from a 15-speaker setup.

Morbius (4K Blu-ray) is, let's face it, a bit of mess. But its complex sound design is nothing of the sort, especially during the vampire bat sequence. Winged rodents swarm around every part of the room and Trinnov's amp doesn't break a sweat as it drives all channels to create a soundfield that feels terrifying believable.

Our anti-hero has an echo-location ability that projects a powerful sonic pulse out in every direction. Sound-wise it's wonderfully visceral, even if the associated visual effect makes it look like he's broken wind in epic fashion. The Amplitude16 handles these scenes with admirable skill, sending these overlapping waves of sound through each speaker in a manner that is precise and punchy, creating a sense of an acoustic framework all around you.

A quick dive into the shuttle launch sequence in Moonfall (4K Blu-ray) demonstrates the importance of headroom, and the Amplitude16's knack for it. Even while the audio in this scene is undeniably overwhelming, it never feels distorted or strained. There's a composure and balance to the amp that's easy to fall in love with.

Sonic Nirvana
Overall, a seriously classy unit that combines stylish looks, a superb build, and exceptional performance to easily justify a hefty price tag. More importantly, this amplifier will elevate any multichannel system with its clean, powerful, responsive delivery. Partner it with the Altitude16 and you'll be immersed in sonic nirvana, but whatever your processor, the Amplitude16 is an amplifier you can rely on.

HCC Verdict

Trinnov Amplitude16

Price: £10,275
www.trinnov.com

We say: Trinnov has developed the perfect partner for its peerless AV processors by squeezing 16 channels of agile, nuanced and staggeringly powerful grunt into a single box.

Overall: 5/5

Specifications

POWER OUTPUT (CLAIMED): 16 x 200W (8ohm); 16 x 400W (4ohm); bridged pairs rated at 800W (8ohm) and 1,000W (4ohm) CONNECTIONS: 2 x DB25 female inputs; 16 x 5-way binding posts; 12V input; 12V output DIMENSIONS: 482(w) x 132(h) x 452(d)mm WEIGHT: 20.5kg

FEATURES: Dual eight-channel ICEpower Class D amplifiers with separate power supplies/sockets; bridgeable channel pairs; maximum 3,200W total power output across 16 channels; status LEDs (can be turned off); clipping sensor; rack ears