QSC PL380 2-Channel Power Amplifier

The flagship of QSC’s PowerLight series, the PL380 is a refined, all-switchmode, two-channel amplifier. With its innovative power supply technology in a lightweight build, the PL380 eliminates AC mains hum and improves audio quality. Combining a pair of 4000-watt Class D amplifier channels for a total of 8000 watts, this amp delivers more than twice as much audio power as its fellow PowerLight amps, while its sonic signature is characterized by immense headroom that handles the most difficult loads without stress or tonal changes.

Everything about the PL380 is designed with efficiency, performance, and safety in mind. Reactive “back EMF” from the speaker is recycled to the power supply. “Plug-to-plug” efficiency minimizes AC power needs so more energy can be diverted to the speaker. This amp offers 20 Hz – 20 kHz audio performance along with complete protection from normal hazards. Its silent, surge-free on-off switching contributes to keeping things running safely.

Connect the PL308 to a Q-SYS networked platform to achieve comprehensive remote control and monitoring of your sound system. Simpler DSP requirements can be met with the DSP-4 processing module. (Additional components sold separately.)

More about QSC’s PowerLight 3 Series

Building on nearly 40 years of engineering expertise, QSC’s PowerLight 3 Series redefines Class D audio quality, offering high power, excellent value, and zero signal latency. Characterized by an “Ultimate Analog” amplifier design, this series is comprised of three models ranging from 1250 watts to 4000 watts of power per channel at two ohms. From touring rigs to fixed installations, PowerLight 3 models are made to meet the most demanding requirements of concert and live sound reinforcement applications.

The PowerLight 3 Series offers higher input voltage, selectable sensitivity, and easily adjusted rear panel switches with color-coded LED indicators—all packed into a build that comfortably fits a two-rack space.

Common back panel layouts streamline the racking and connection process for faster setup. Back-to-front airflow enables long-term average power without dumping hot air into the rack.

Enjoy optimized compatibility and premium features with PowerLight 3. Each model includes a QSC DataPort that allows integration with advanced digital processing and QSControl.net™ BASIS™ networked audio platform, which offers comprehensive drag-and-drop DSP functionality.

QSC PL380 Features

• Class D topology provides efficient performance at extreme power loads
• Three-position Input Sensitivity switch ensures gain-matching with existing amp racks and power systems
• User defeatable clip limiters and selectable low-frequency filters (30 Hz, 50 Hz, Bypass)
• DataPort connection supports external amplifier control and monitoring via Q-SYS
• XLR and Block Input connectors and Binding post or Neutrik speakON® Output connectors
• Comprehensive internal protection protects amplifiers and loudspeakers against over-current, over-temperature and clipping – without compromising program signal
• PowerLight switch-mode power supply for highest efficiency and improved audio performance
• Flow-through air path and solid aluminum heat sinks for maximum cooling
• Detented gain controls with 1-dB steps for precise calibration
• Removable knobs with lock-out security plate to prevent unauthorized tampering
• Three selectable gain structures (26 dB, 32 dB, or 1.2 V)
• Front and rear panel LEDs indicate status of switch settings at a glance
• Parallel XLR/M and XLR/F connectors for simple loop-through connectivity
• Neutrik Speakon® and "Touch-Proof" binding post outputs
• Neutrik Powercon® power cable remains secure on the road
• Linear Class H output circuit offer double the typical efficiency of Class B, reducing AC current consumption and cooling requirements

• PL380 2-channel power amplifier1

• Output Power Per Channel, Stereo Mode (both channels driven)
  • 8Ω EIA 1 kHz 1% THD: 1500W
  • 4Ω EIA 1 kHz 1% THD: 2500W
  • 2Ω EIA 1 kHz 1% THD: 4000W
• Output Power, Bridge Mono Mode
  • 8Ω EIA 1 kHz 1% THD: 5000W
  • 4Ω EIA 1 kHz 1% THD: 8000W
• Typical Distortion
  • (20 Hz–3 kHz, 3 dB below clip, or 20 Hz–5 kHz, 10 dB below clip, or 20 Hz–20 kHz, 20 dB below clip)
  • 8Ω: 0.01-0.03%
  • 4Ω: 0.03-0.06%
  • 2Ω: 0.1%
• Max. Distortion
  • (20 Hz–20 kHz, 1 dB below rated power)
  • 4 to 8Ω: 0.2%
• Frequency Response (8Ω)20Hz - 20,000Hz ±0.2dB
• Noise (20Hz - 20kHz, 32dB gain)-104dB
• Dynamic Headroom (4Ω)2dB
• Damping Factor (8Ω)200
• Output CircuitryClass D
• Input Sensitivity
  • 26dB Setting: 5.27V
  • 32dB Setting: 2.67V
• Max. Gain (1.2V setting)39.1 dB
• Max. Input Level
  • 1.2V Setting: 10 V (+22 dBu)
  • 32 dBu Setting: 22 V (+29 dBu)
  • 26 dBu Setting: 25 V (+30 dBu)
• AC Power Requirements (Representative of current draw with typical music program material with occasional clipping)
  • 120V 50/60Hz: 18A
  • 230V 50Hz: 11A
• Cordset
  • 120V 50/60Hz: NEMA L5-30P
  • 230V 50Hz: CEE 7/7 16A
• Chassis Power Connector (all voltages)32A PowerCon
• Input Impedance> 10kΩ balanced, or unbalanced
• Coolingvariable-speed fan, rear-to-front airflow
• Connectors (each channel)
  • Input: XLR Male, XLR Female and 3-pin detachable terminal blocks (1 each per channel)
  • Output: Neutrik Speakon® (ch 1 wired to both channels) and 5-way binding posts
  • DataPort: HD-15, input signal in parallel with XLR input connectors
• Front Controls
  • AC power switch
  • Gain controls, 21 detents, 1dB steps (each channel)
• Front Indicators (and LED colors)
  • Power (blue)
  • Bridged (yellow)
  • Parallel (orange)
  • Clip/Prot (red x2)
  • Level -10 (orange x2)
  • Level -20 (green x2)
  • Signal -35 (green x2)
• Rear Controls (with LED indicators)
  • Input Mode: Bridge (Yellow), Stereo (Green), or Parallel (Orange)
  • Gain / Sensitivity: 26 dB (Orange), 32 dB (Green), or 1.2V (Yellow)
  • High Pass (each channel): 3 Hz (Off), 30 Hz (Yellow), or 50 Hz (Orange)
  • Clip Limiter (each channel): Off, on (Yellow)
• Amplifier and Load ProtectionShort circuit, open circuit, thermal, RF protection. On/off muting, DC fault shutdown, active inrush limiting
• Dimensions (HxWxD)3.5" x 19" x 15.63"
• Weight24 pounds