 |
 |
 |
DEI 2102 www.directed.com |
||
| by Brian Smith | |||
| Description The 2102 is a two-channel amplifier featuring a MOSFET power supply, an internal crossover with variable corner frequency, line outputs, and variable bass boost. Performance The 2102 fared quite well in most of our tests. Signal-to-noise measured just under 100 dB and output power was slightly higher than the rating in all categories, as long as the supply voltage was above 12V or so (126.6 watts x 2 @ 14 V; 103.4 watts x 2 @ 12.8 V). However, when we did our standard test at 10.5V, the 2102 experienced a severe drop in output (28 watts x 2 @ 10.5 V). This test simulates the operation of the amp in a car where the system is played for too long with the engine off. (By the time your battery is at 10.5 V you’re possibly in danger of not getting your car started, unless you have a secondary battery.) The 2102 also has the benefit of a wide range of input sensitivity; unfortunately, the channel imbalance at lower sensitivity can be as much as 2.5 dB. Overall, the 2102 seems to be a capable amp with a few small quirks that are relatively easy to overcome. Connections & Adjustments All connections to the 2102 are gold plated and include RCA inputs, RCA outputs, and 3/8-inch spade receptacles for power and speaker connections. Adjustments include input sensitivity, crossover mode select, crossover cutoff frequency, variable bass boost, and subsonic filter enable. Installation Installing the 2102 should be pretty straightforward, its relatively small footprint and low profile will allow under-seat mounting in many applications. Manual The manual for this unit covers six amplifiers and it seems reasonably thorough. DEI responds: DEI states that the op-amps in the front end of the 2102 transition to non-linear operation below about 11.8 VDC. The ECLC power supply for the op-amps offers improved (quiter) operation within the 12–16 VDC range. It’s worth noting that the 2102 has been used successfully in competition, including a second-place finish at the 1998 USAC Finals. |
|||
| Price & Contact: $370; 619-598-6200; www.directed.com |
 |
  |