Martin Audio IK42-Dante

A Controller-Amplifier Designed for the Martin Audio Ecosystem

The iKON iK42 was conceived as a central control and amplification element for demanding Martin Audio setups, particularly Wavefront Precision systems and XE monitors. Its "all-in-one" approach combines multichannel amplification, digital processing, and network supervision to simplify integration, speed up commissioning, and maintain consistent sound reproduction across systems.

Beyond these target applications, its design also makes it a relevant choice for multichannel amplification within a Martin Audio speaker inventory, when seeking both headroom, precision, and comprehensive DSP tools in a 2U rack format.

Who and In What Uses the iKON iK42 Makes a Difference

The iK42 is aimed at sound contractors, integrators, and venue operators (halls, theaters, houses of worship, clubs) who need a powerful, reliable, and remotely manageable 4-channel amplifier. Front of house or stage monitors, it delivers excellent dynamic control and precise speaker management, useful when multiple zones or channels must be managed within the same rack.

Its high efficiency limits power drawn from mains and helps maintain useful power reserves when conditions become challenging (heavy use, temperature, long operating durations), while remaining focused on audio performance.

Processing, Network, and Security: An Amplifier Ready for Modern Systems

High-Precision Integrated DSP and FIR Filters

The digital processing is fully integrated into the iK42 to optimize overall system performance. The DSP operates at 96 kHz / 48 kHz on all inputs and outputs, offering comprehensive gain, delay, filtering, and equalization tools. For architectures requiring fine tuning and controlled phase, each output channel can benefit from up to 1000 FIR filter taps at 48 kHz, a key feature for implementing optimization strategies such as bandwidth extension on WP line array systems.

Network Control and Monitoring via Ethernet, Digital Audio via Dante

The iK42 integrates remote control and monitoring over Ethernet through the Martin Audio VU-NET application, useful for diagnostics, status monitoring, and daily operation. For digital infrastructures, Dante audio network inputs are provided, facilitating audio distribution, routing, and channel management in live sound or installation environments.

Additionally, the front panel interface is designed to allow full local control of functions, convenient in technical racks or on-site maintenance situations.

Comprehensive Protections for Amplifier and Speakers

To secure operation, the iK42 includes protection functions and a suite of integrated speaker limiters. Management includes peak limits, RMS limits, excursion limiting, as well as multiband limiting for passive 2-way systems. The goal is to maintain performance while ensuring safe operating conditions, even during intensive use.

Technical specifications

Category	Power amplifier	Output connector	Male XLR, Speakon
Mounting type (U-rack)	2.0000	DSP	Yes
Amplifier protection type	Limiter	Impedance	2 Ω
100 V direct mono power	5000 W	Signal-to-noise ratio	113 dB
Power per channel 2 Ohms	5000 W	Network	Dante
Power per channel 4 Ohms	3000 W	Operating temperature	20 CELSIUS
Power per channel 8 Ohms	1500 W	Number of local inputs	4
70 V Direct Stereo Power	3500 W	Number of local outputs	4
Amplification class	D	Cooling	Fan
Number of channels	4	Power supply	100 - 240 V AC - 50/60 Hz
Bandwidth +/- 3dB	7 Hz - 30 kHz	Weight	12.5 kg
Heat load (BTU/h)	853.0000	Dimensions (mm)	482 x 88 x 441
Input connector	Female XLR

Type	Class D four-channel amplifier	DSP output drive module	source filters, delay, gain, phase, mute, crossover filters, limiters, EQ: low shelf, 8 PEQ/bandpass filters and shelves
Output power (all channels driven)	5000W at 2 ohms	Maximum ambient temperature	40degC (104degF)
Output power	3000W at 4 ohms	Analog IN / LINK (4 channels)	4 x female XLR
Bridged mode power (per channel pair)	10000W at 4 ohms	Analog input impedance	20k ohms balanced to ground
Output line constant voltage	1250W line, 25V	Maximum analog input level	+20dBu
Sampling rate	96kHz (48kHz for FIR filter implementation)	AES3 IN / LINK (2 channels)	1 x female XLR, 1 x male Neutrik XLR, balanced
Physical inputs	4 x analog	Dante (4 channels)	2 x shielded RJ45, primary and secondary
Dante inputs	4 Dante inputs routable to four DSP player modules	Amplifier outputs	4 x Neutrik Speakon NL4
DSP module input	input signal routing, delay, gain, HPF, phase, mute, equalizer: 2 x low shelves, 6 PEQ/bandpass filters, and FIR