Behringer EP2000 Europower Power Amp 2 x 750W

Everything you need, nothing you don't

The über-simple front panel controls of these amps give you all of your sound's vital signs at a glance. After flipping the MAIN switch, the POWER LED will light when the amp is ready for action. Both channels have independent gain dials as well as clip LEDs that indicate when the signal is distorted and you need to reduce the gain. There are also SIGNAL LEDs that light up when a signal is present at the input.

Panel discussion

A panel of switches found on the back panel offers an array of cool options to apply to both channels of the EP2000 and EP4000. The Clip Limiter lets you get even more out of the amplifier without overdriving either it or your speaker system. Built-in circuitry automatically senses when the EP2000 or EP4000 is being overdriven into "clipping" and then momentarily reduces the input level to avoid clipping distortion. This all happens in a few thousandths of a second, so it's an inaudible way of avoiding audible clipping distortion. Of course, you can turn the Limiter off if you're feeling lucky.

Ultra-low frequency sounds (infrasonics) are caused by rickety stage vibrations, mic thumps and wind noise. While technically inaudible, they can cause a huge drain on amp power, potential damage to your speakers and a sludgy sound in the audible bass ranges. Both EP models feature a defeatable Low Cut Filter that chops off unwanted frequencies below 50 Hz or 30 Hz (depending on your PA system's capabilities).

The same panel contains the switches that allow you to put these amps to work in either stereo or bridge (mono) mode. Both the EP2000 and EP4000 can be linked to additional power amps by switching into parallel mode.

These amps have guts

There's plenty of awesome features on the outside of the EP2000 and EP4000, but there's also a team of cool components on the inside helping it work its magic. They come loaded with famously reliable Toshiba/Fairchild power transistors as well as a high-current toroidal transformer for ultra-high transient response and further reliability. Independent DC and thermal overload protection on each channel automatically protects the amplifier and speakers from any show-stopping meltdowns. There's no need for fuses, giving you one fewer potential mid-gig headache.

The EP2000 and EP4000 have both XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs. Even the outputs are totally flexible, consisting of Speakon-compatible outputs and five-way binding posts. Whether you're dealing with bare wire or boutique audiophile cabling, the EP2000 and EP4000 are right at home.

The exhaust fan, visible on the back panel, is the final stage of an internal front-to-back cooling system that keeps these amps working in the mild temperatures they love, even through periods of extended use. Finally, an impact-resistant, all-steel 2U rackmount chassis helps these workhorses stand up to all the rigors of the road.

The legend powers on

If you read the reviews of the EP2000 and EP4000's older brothers, the EP1500 and EP2500, and it's clear that those amps are renowned not only for their performance and durability, but also their astoundingly low price tags. The EP2000 and EP4000 are built to carry on that tradition, but with even more power. Why shell out for a "Brand-X" amp when you can get a BEHRINGER EUROPOWER amp and have money left over for other gear?