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NEW Dayton Audio MA1280 8 Input 80W X 12 Channel Class D Amplifier

Dayton AudioPart # 300-775
Model: MA1280
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From whole-home audio to home theater, the Dayton Audio MA Series multi-channel amplifiers deliver the perfect balance of power, efficiency, flexibility, and reliability. Featuring both global and individual channel inputs, these amplifiers can be configured for a wide range of applications. Their efficient, lightweight Class D design keeps energy consumption low without compromising on output performance.

Key Features

  • Powerful Multi-Channel Amplification – 12 Class D channels delivering 80W RMS per channel at 8 ohms or up to 160W per zone in bridged mode, perfect for driving whole-home or theater systems
  • Flexible Audio Routing – Use 8 independent line inputs, 2 stereo bus inputs, or a combination of both to send music exactly where you want it
  • Whole-Home or Single-Room Use – Distribute audio to 6 zones for up to 6 rooms, or power a full multi-channel home theater setup with ease
  • Smart Installation Features – 2RU rack-mountable design with removable ears, manual or auto-on signal sensing, and 12V trigger input for automation systems
  • Clean, Detailed Sound – Wide 20Hz–20kHz frequency response, high 106 dB signal-to-noise ratio, and low <1% THD for professional-quality audio
  • Zone Status at a Glance – Bi-color LEDs show each channel pair’s operational status for quick troubleshooting
  • Efficient & Reliable – Lightweight Class D design runs cool while delivering consistent, dependable performance in demanding setups
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Overview

Dayton Audio MA1280 8 Input 80W X 12 Channel Class D Amplifier

Dayton Audio MA1280 8 Input 80W X 12 Channel Class D Amplifier

The best solution for the challenges of multi-channel audio

The Dayton Audio MA1280 features a Class-D output circuit that delivers superior audiophile sound quality and stable performance. Each of the installation's zones can benefit from the MA1280's clean audio reproduction and exceptional functionality. The MA1280 can be stacked with other audio components and includes removable ears for mounting in standard audio racks (2RU).

Key Specs:

  • Channels: 12
  • Power Handling @ 8ohms (RMS): 80 Watts
  • Power Handling @ 4ohms (RMS): 160 Watts
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz- 20kHz
  • Inputs: 2 Stereo Bus Inputs, 1 mono input per channel
  • Outputs: 2 Stereo Bus Outputs

Flexibility Redefined

The Dayton Audio MA1280 12-channel amplifier offers outstanding flexibility, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of whole-home audio configurations. Use it with a single global music streamer, assign individual streamers to each of its four zones, or pair it with a multi-channel matrix like Dayton’s own Matrix88 for complete app-based control. No matter the setup, the MA1280 delivers powerful, high-quality sound to up to six rooms with ease.

Home Theater Powerhouse


The Dayton Audio MA1280 is equally capable in a single-room setup, serving as the main power source for multi-channel surround systems when your receiver needs extra muscle or lacks built-in amplification. For even greater output, each of the six zones can be bridged to deliver up to 160 watts RMS per channel into an 8-ohm load.

Channel Monitoring


Each zone is equipped with bi-color LED indicators that provide clear, real-time feedback on its operational status. The dual-color design allows users to quickly distinguish between different states, ensuring at-a-glance monitoring and simplified system management.

Six Bridgeable Stereo Amps in One Chassis

The system features two versatile Bus inputs that can be routed to any channel, giving you the ability to distribute shared audio sources across multiple zones with ease. For greater control, each channel can also be configured with its own dedicated input, allowing independent source selection when needed.

For applications that demand higher output, two channels can be easily bridged together with the flip of a single switch. This configuration combines their power into a single, more robust channel, effectively boosting the total wattage available to that zone.

Inputs and Outputs

Two common or BUS inputs feed audio signals from standard line-level audio sources to any or all channels. Each of the twelve channels has its own dedicated input and independent level adjustment to provide further flexibility. By simply flipping a single switch, two channels can be bridged to increase the total power output for that zone. This is helpful when extra power is needed in certain areas.

Convenient Features

Manual, automatic on/off, or triggered 12V input turn-on modes facilitate easy integration into automated systems. For quick and easy troubleshooting of the system, each pair of channels or zones has a bi-color LED to indicate its operational status. Use 14-18 AWG stranded two-conductor loudspeaker wire with Phoenix style connectors.

NOTE: See setup addendum when using in-wall volume controls. You can find this document under "Manuals and Resources" on this page.

Connectivity

1. AC Voltage Switch: The unit is set at the factory for 120V U.S. operation; simply connect the included IEC power cord to your wall outlet. For 240V operation, move the voltage selector switch to the 240V position. When operating at 240V the internal fuse located in the IEC socket should also be changed. In most 240V applications a separate power cord will be required and is not included.

3. Mains Fuse: The IEC socket also houses the main fuse holder. Plug the power cord supplied with the amplifier into the amplifier and wall outlet or appropriate surge protector.

5. Individual Channel Input: All twelve channels have their own dedicated input that allows the connection of audio sources in addition to the common BUS inputs. This is useful when using the MA1280 with an audio matrix switcher

7. Channel Gain Control: Each channel has its own independent level adjustment. This allows the output level of each speaker to be perfectly matched to its area. It can also be used to limit the maximum audio level in a certain area.

9. Remote Turn-on Switch: This switch selects the turn-on stimuli that will put the amplifier in ready mode. “Trigger” setting relies on 3-30V AC/DC voltage going into the trigger input to activate the amplifier. “Auto” setting senses a signal on the RCA line-level inputs and automatically puts the amp in ready mode. “On” setting puts the amp constantly in ready mode so that it can be controlled by the master power switch on the front panel. In “Auto” mode, the amplifier will take approximately 15 minutes to return from ready to standby mode.

11.Trigger Output: The MA1280 can also provide an output trigger voltage (12DC @500mA max.) from each zone to turn on and off other devices in the audio system. When the amplifier turns off (standby mode), the voltage will drop to zero.1



    2. IEC Power Connector: The unit comes with an IEC jack that permits removal of the AC power cord. This allows the flexibility of changing the power cord for different countries. The IEC socket also houses the main fuse holder. Plug the power cord supplied with the amplifier into the amplifier and wall outlet or appropriate surge protector.

    4. BUS Line I/O: The MA1280 has two common or BUS inputs that receives audio signals from standard line-level audio sources and sends them to any or all channels. The BUS line outputs are direct feed-through to allow the BUS inputs to be fed to other amplifiers. Be sure to use high quality RCA cables that feature low impedance, shielding and high quality connectors.

    6. Input Selection Switch: Each channel is capable of delivering the source from many inputs. The three main inputs are BUS 1, BUS 2 and LINE IN. The selection for these inputs is done via the Input Selection switch associated with each channel. Select the desired source input. Set the Input Selection switch to BUS 1 (will play source connected to the BUS 1 input), BUS 2 (will play source connected to the BUS 2 input) or LINE IN (will play source connected to that channel’s LINE IN).

    8. Trigger Input: Each zone has its own trigger input and output. The trigger input is a handy feature when connecting the amplifier to an automated audio system. The 3.5mm miniplug jack will accept a 3-30V AC/DC output from another device, or from a separate power supply. When the trigger input is energized, the zone turns from standby to ON mode.

    10. Speaker Output Terminals: The MA1280 uses high quality Phoenix style connectors (5 mm pitch) for the speaker connections. Use 14-18 gauge stranded two-conductor loudspeaker wire. Ensure that at least 2 inches of each conductor are separated. Strip away 1/4 inch of insulation from each conductor. Connect the appropriate conductor to each screw terminal, observing correct polarity. Also, please observe proper speaker wiring when bridging channels.

      MA1280 Specifications

      Channels12
      Power Handling (RMS)
      		80 WPC @ 4 ohm
      Power Handling (RMS)160 WPC @ 4 ohm
      Power Handling (Bridged)160 W @ 8 Ohm
      Frequency Response20 Hz - 20 kHz
      Input Sensitivity
      		680 mV
      SNR, A-Weighted102 dB
      Total Harmonic Distortion<1% @ rated power
      Inputs4 Individual Line Inputs, 2 Stereo Bus Inputs
      Outputs2 Stereo Bus Outputs
      Power Requirements120 - 240 VAC
      Standby Consumption5 Watts
      Dimensions19" W x 14.25" D x 4" H (width includes rack ears)
      Weight17.13 lbs.

      In The Box

      • 1 x MA1280 Amplifier
      • 2 x Rack Mounting Brackets
      • 1 x Rack Mount Installation Kit
      • 6 x 4 pole Phoenix Connectors
      • 1 x 6' Power Cable
      • 1 x User Manual

      Product Details

      BrandDayton Audio
      ModelMA1280
      Part Number300-775
      UPC848791010903
      Unit of MeasureEach
      Weight20.2

      Product Specifications

      Power (RMS/Channel 8 ohms)51 - 100 Watts
      Weight Range10 to 19 lbs.

      Specifications

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      Manuals & Resources

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