Linea Research 88C20
Eight Channel Installation Amplifier
High Density Power
The Linea Research 88C20 is a powerful 8-channel installation amplifier with efficient Class D performance, integrated DSP, and network control. Ideal for multi-zone commercial audio systems, it offers flexibility, reliability, and high channel density in a compact design.
Description
The Linea Research 88C20 installation amplifier is engineered for high-density, multi-zone audio applications, delivering eight channels of efficient Class D amplification in a compact and installation-friendly form factor. Designed for professional AV environments, the 88C20 is ideal for large-scale commercial systems, including hospitality venues, retail spaces, corporate buildings, and public facilities.
With integrated high-resolution DSP, the 88C20 provides precise system optimisation, allowing for detailed control over EQ, crossover configuration, delay, and speaker protection. This ensures consistent, high-quality audio performance across multiple zones, even in complex distributed systems.
Network control capabilities enable remote configuration, monitoring, and system management, making installation and ongoing maintenance simple and scalable. The high channel count allows integrators to reduce rack space and system complexity while maintaining full control and flexibility.
Built for reliability, the 88C20 incorporates advanced protection systems to safeguard both the amplifier and connected loudspeakers. Its energy-efficient design minimises power consumption and heat output, making it a cost-effective solution for continuous operation in demanding environments.
The Linea Research 88C20 is the ideal choice for installers and system designers seeking a powerful, flexible, and space-saving amplifier for modern commercial audio installations.
88C20 Features
- Eight channels of sonically pure Class D amplification
- Unique, precise, 96kHz digital signal processing
- Over‐designed switch mode power supply
- 85V to 240V Auto-sensing PSU
- 3,000 to 20,000 watts RMS total output
- Tamperproof front panel
- Ethernet network for system operation and monitoring
- Analogue, AES3 and optional Dante™ / AES67 digital network audio
- Powerful grouping & multi‐layer EQ
- Accepts 48kHz and 96kHz FIR files via System Engineer (certain models)
- Fully designed and engineered in house by Linea Research
- Manufactured in the UK
Resources & Downloads
Data sheets, manuals and resources for the 88C20
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Quick Specs
- GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Number of output channels
- 8
- Total power output, all channels driven
- 20,000, 10,000, 6,000 and 3,000 Watts RMS
- Audio inputs
- 8x Analogue, 2x AES3 and 8x Dante™ / AES67 (factory fitted option)
- Digital Signal Processing
- High performance 96kHz DSP on all inputs and outputs
Technical Specifications
- GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Number of output channels
- 8
- Total power output, all channels driven
- 20,000, 10,000, 6,000 and 3,000 Watts RMS
- Audio inputs
- 8x Analogue, 2x AES3 and 8x Dante™ / AES67 (factory fitted option)
- Digital Signal Processing
- High performance 96kHz DSP on all inputs and outputs
- Control, monitoring and system status alarms
- Ethernet network, RS232 & RS485. Volt-free relay and contact closure ports. Heartbeat system health output
- Power-save modes
- Standby after user defined time with fast wake up on audio. Deep ECO sleep after user defined time with wake up on command
- System standby and wakeup
- Network command, audio detection & contact closure
- POWER OUTPUT
- Power specification
- RMS output power per channel, all channels driven with continuous program material and a nominal ambient temperature of 40ºC / 105ºF
- Crest Factor of 4 (12dB), 2-Ohm nominal load
- 1,500W
- Crest Factor of 2.8 (9dB), 4-Ohm nominal load
- 2,500W
- Crest Factor of 2 (6dB), 8-Ohm nominal load
- 1,500W
- Bridged, per channel pair, 4 or 8-Ohm load
- 3,000W / 5,000W
- 100V line (CV) operation, Crest Factor 4 (12dB)
- 2,500W
- 70V line (CV) operation, Crest Factor 4 (12dB)
- 1,937W
- 25V line (CV) operation, Crest Factor 4 (12dB)
- 625W
- AUDIO PERFORMANCE
- Amplifier topology
- Linea Research high performance Class D
- Amplifier modulation scheme
- Low feedback, multiple loop, with feed-forward error correction
- Dynamic range, Measured relative to the amplifier output
- Analogue input, better than 113dBA typical. AES / Dante™ input, better than 114dBA typical
- Gain (with all the DSP level controls set to 0dB)
- 32dB
- Frequency response, 4 Ohm load
- <7Hz to >30kHz, 4 Ohms, -2.5dB points
- Total harmonic distortion, THD
- <0.05% typical, 1kHz signal, AES17 filter, 4 Ohm load
- Inter-channel crosstalk, worst case combination
- better than -85dBr at 1kHz and -75dBr at 10kHz
- Slew rate
- >60V per microsecond typical
- Damping factor (Ref 8 Ohms)
- >800 at amplifier output (see Linea’s “Damping factor debunked” white paper)
- Maximum analogue input level
- +20dBu
- Analogue input sensitivity range for full output
- 0dBu to +20dBu, continuously adjustable
- Analogue input (four channels)
- Input 20k Ohm, electronically balanced, link directly connected to input
- Analogue ground scheme
- AES48 standard compliant
- AES3 input (two audio channels)
- Transformer isolated with unique active cable equalisation for extended range
- AES3 link (two audio channels)
- Active AES3 signal regeneration. Automatic direct bypass to the AES3 input ensuring the audio signal will still flow even when the amplifier is powered down
- AES3 supported sampling rates
- 24kHz to 192kHz (auto locking)
- DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING
- Resolution
- 40 bit, Linea Research proprietary algorithms
- Sample rate
- 96kHz throughout
- Physical inputs to DSP drive modules
- 8x analogue, 2x AES & 8x Dante™ inputs can be routed to eight DSP drive modules
- Drive module input processing
- Input signal routing, delay, gain, HPF, Phase, Mute. EQ: 2x low shelf, 6x PEQ / band pass and FIR shelving filters
- Drive module output processing
- Source, delay, gain, Phase, Mute, crossover filters, VX limiters. EQ: low shelf, 8x PEQ / band pass and shelving filters
- Preset management
- 10 snapshots for device wide setup, 50 presets for loudspeaker settings. Presets can be recalled to sets of outputs or individual outputs as required
- Unique high performance processing
- Overlays
- Twelve additional independent overlays of EQ, Delay and Gain. Flexible grouping for effective control of many amplifier channels in large systems
- Class leading VX limiters
- See the ‘speaker protection systems’ section in the manual
- Hardman crossover filters
- Better out of band rejection than Linkwitz-Riley
- LIR crossover filters
- Unique Linear Phase alignments without the compromises of FIR filters
- POWER SUPPLY
- Topology (main power supply)
- Linea Research high performance Series Resonant
- Topology (auxiliary and standby supplies)
- Low quiescent Eco-Flyback
- Internally stored energy
- >600 Joules
- Nominal mains input voltage range
- 85V to 240V, Power supply automatically detects voltage and configures accordingly
- Mains input frequency range
- 47Hz to 63Hz
- Mains inrush current (max for <10ms)
- 6A at 115V, 12A at 230V
- PROTECTION SYSTEMS
- See the 'Protection Systems' section in the manual
- PHYSICAL
- Cooling
- Dual vari-speed fans, front to back airflow. Washable, tool-less change filter media.
- Analogue IN and LINK
- Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied)
- AES3 IN and LINK
- Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied)
- Amplifier output
- Neutrik Speakon™ NL4 connectors
- Mains input connector
- Neutrik 32A Powercon™
- Dante Primary and Secondary
- 2x Shielded RJ45
- Ethernet network
- Shielded RJ45
- RS232 and RS485
- Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied)
- Relay, ‘heatbeat’ outputs
- Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied)
- Contact closure inputs
- Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied)
- Front panel LED indicators
- Per channel – Input level, output level & status
- Enclosure, all models
- Standard 19” 2U (88mm), 357mm (14”) deep with handles and optional rear support
- Net Weight
- 12.5kg (27.5 pounds).
The Linea Research 88C20 installation amplifier is engineered for high-density, multi-zone audio applications, delivering eight channels of efficient Class D amplification in a compact and installation-friendly form factor. Designed for professional AV environments, the 88C20 is ideal for large-scale commercial systems, including hospitality venues, retail spaces, corporate buildings, and public facilities.
With integrated high-resolution DSP, the 88C20 provides precise system optimisation, allowing for detailed control over EQ, crossover configuration, delay, and speaker protection. This ensures consistent, high-quality audio performance across multiple zones, even in complex distributed systems.
Network control capabilities enable remote configuration, monitoring, and system management, making installation and ongoing maintenance simple and scalable. The high channel count allows integrators to reduce rack space and system complexity while maintaining full control and flexibility.
Built for reliability, the 88C20 incorporates advanced protection systems to safeguard both the amplifier and connected loudspeakers. Its energy-efficient design minimises power consumption and heat output, making it a cost-effective solution for continuous operation in demanding environments.
The Linea Research 88C20 is the ideal choice for installers and system designers seeking a powerful, flexible, and space-saving amplifier for modern commercial audio installations.
- Eight channels of sonically pure Class D amplification
- Unique, precise, 96kHz digital signal processing
- Over‐designed switch mode power supply
- 85V to 240V Auto-sensing PSU
- 3,000 to 20,000 watts RMS total output
- Tamperproof front panel
- Ethernet network for system operation and monitoring
- Analogue, AES3 and optional Dante™ / AES67 digital network audio
- Powerful grouping & multi‐layer EQ
- Accepts 48kHz and 96kHz FIR files via System Engineer (certain models)
- Fully designed and engineered in house by Linea Research
- Manufactured in the UK
| GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS | |
| Number of output channels | 8 |
| Total power output, all channels driven | 20,000, 10,000, 6,000 and 3,000 Watts RMS |
| Audio inputs | 8x Analogue, 2x AES3 and 8x Dante™ / AES67 (factory fitted option) |
| Digital Signal Processing | High performance 96kHz DSP on all inputs and outputs |
| Control, monitoring and system status alarms | Ethernet network, RS232 & RS485. Volt-free relay and contact closure ports. Heartbeat system health output |
| Power-save modes | Standby after user defined time with fast wake up on audio. Deep ECO sleep after user defined time with wake up on command |
| System standby and wakeup | Network command, audio detection & contact closure |
| POWER OUTPUT | |
| Power specification | RMS output power per channel, all channels driven with continuous program material and a nominal ambient temperature of 40ºC / 105ºF |
| Crest Factor of 4 (12dB), 2-Ohm nominal load | 1,500W |
| Crest Factor of 2.8 (9dB), 4-Ohm nominal load | 2,500W |
| Crest Factor of 2 (6dB), 8-Ohm nominal load | 1,500W |
| Bridged, per channel pair, 4 or 8-Ohm load | 3,000W / 5,000W |
| 100V line (CV) operation, Crest Factor 4 (12dB) | 2,500W |
| 70V line (CV) operation, Crest Factor 4 (12dB) | 1,937W |
| 25V line (CV) operation, Crest Factor 4 (12dB) | 625W |
| AUDIO PERFORMANCE | |
| Amplifier topology | Linea Research high performance Class D |
| Amplifier modulation scheme | Low feedback, multiple loop, with feed-forward error correction |
| Dynamic range, Measured relative to the amplifier output | Analogue input, better than 113dBA typical. AES / Dante™ input, better than 114dBA typical |
| Gain (with all the DSP level controls set to 0dB) | 32dB |
| Frequency response, 4 Ohm load | <7Hz to >30kHz, 4 Ohms, -2.5dB points |
| Total harmonic distortion, THD | <0.05% typical, 1kHz signal, AES17 filter, 4 Ohm load |
| Inter-channel crosstalk, worst case combination | better than -85dBr at 1kHz and -75dBr at 10kHz |
| Slew rate | >60V per microsecond typical |
| Damping factor (Ref 8 Ohms) | >800 at amplifier output (see Linea’s “Damping factor debunked” white paper) |
| Maximum analogue input level | +20dBu |
| Analogue input sensitivity range for full output | 0dBu to +20dBu, continuously adjustable |
| Analogue input (four channels) | Input 20k Ohm, electronically balanced, link directly connected to input |
| Analogue ground scheme | AES48 standard compliant |
| AES3 input (two audio channels) | Transformer isolated with unique active cable equalisation for extended range |
| AES3 link (two audio channels) | Active AES3 signal regeneration. Automatic direct bypass to the AES3 input ensuring the audio signal will still flow even when the amplifier is powered down |
| AES3 supported sampling rates | 24kHz to 192kHz (auto locking) |
| DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING | |
| Resolution | 40 bit, Linea Research proprietary algorithms |
| Sample rate | 96kHz throughout |
| Physical inputs to DSP drive modules | 8x analogue, 2x AES & 8x Dante™ inputs can be routed to eight DSP drive modules |
| Drive module input processing | Input signal routing, delay, gain, HPF, Phase, Mute. EQ: 2x low shelf, 6x PEQ / band pass and FIR shelving filters |
| Drive module output processing | Source, delay, gain, Phase, Mute, crossover filters, VX limiters. EQ: low shelf, 8x PEQ / band pass and shelving filters |
| Preset management | 10 snapshots for device wide setup, 50 presets for loudspeaker settings. Presets can be recalled to sets of outputs or individual outputs as required |
| Unique high performance processing | |
| Overlays | Twelve additional independent overlays of EQ, Delay and Gain. Flexible grouping for effective control of many amplifier channels in large systems |
| Class leading VX limiters | See the ‘speaker protection systems’ section in the manual |
| Hardman crossover filters | Better out of band rejection than Linkwitz-Riley |
| LIR crossover filters | Unique Linear Phase alignments without the compromises of FIR filters |
| POWER SUPPLY | |
| Topology (main power supply) | Linea Research high performance Series Resonant |
| Topology (auxiliary and standby supplies) | Low quiescent Eco-Flyback |
| Internally stored energy | >600 Joules |
| Nominal mains input voltage range | 85V to 240V, Power supply automatically detects voltage and configures accordingly |
| Mains input frequency range | 47Hz to 63Hz |
| Mains inrush current (max for <10ms) | 6A at 115V, 12A at 230V |
| PROTECTION SYSTEMS | See the 'Protection Systems' section in the manual |
| PHYSICAL | |
| Cooling | Dual vari-speed fans, front to back airflow. Washable, tool-less change filter media. |
| Analogue IN and LINK | Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied) |
| AES3 IN and LINK | Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied) |
| Amplifier output | Neutrik Speakon™ NL4 connectors |
| Mains input connector | Neutrik 32A Powercon™ |
| Dante Primary and Secondary | 2x Shielded RJ45 |
| Ethernet network | Shielded RJ45 |
| RS232 and RS485 | Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied) |
| Relay, ‘heatbeat’ outputs | Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied) |
| Contact closure inputs | Phoenix™ pluggable terminal block (mating plug supplied) |
| Front panel LED indicators | Per channel – Input level, output level & status |
| Enclosure, all models | Standard 19” 2U (88mm), 357mm (14”) deep with handles and optional rear support |
| Net Weight | 12.5kg (27.5 pounds). |
About Penguin Media Solutions
Penguin Media Solutions is a professional audio, video, and lighting design, installation, and maintenance company based in Brighton, UK. As an authorised Martin Audio dealer, we provide high-performance AV systems for commercial venues, hospitality, and event spaces across Brighton, London, and South-East England.
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