Acoustic Image Focus SA Power Amp to run a Berg NV412?

Don't know why not, however, it's probably not going to deliver the levels of a 1200w Sunn; I am not familiar with that amp, but assume, due to its age, it has a conventional power amp section. The Focus is a Class D amp, with it's delightfully and ridiculously low weight. IME, while Class D is a giant bonus in the weight department, the headroom is not the same as a conventional solid state power section, so if you are running close to the high end of the output range, the Class D will poop out sooner and more abruptly.

If you carry more power that necessary, which is what I do, it's never a problem.

Disclaimer: I am (and was at the time the Focus SA was a current product) Acoustic Image's largest dealer, so I know of what I speak, I gig an AI Coda, Euphonic Audio Doubler, and GenzBenz Streamliner 900, which are all Class D amps.

And to them and Neodymium Speakers, my back sez, "Thank You. Thank you very much."

 

I owned the AI SA and was a great amp. 800w into a 412 should be plenty loud. If you need more than that you really should be in the PA.

Another option is to use the GK MB800, which Bass Gear Magazine has bench tested, and rated as a truly accurate 800w. They gave it a great review. Anyway, you could bypass the front end preamp and use it as a power amp.

One thing to be aware of is to make sure your VT matches the input sensitivity of whatever power amp you use otherwise you wont utilize all the juice.

 

Yup, I gigged a Focus of that series into a pair of Euphonic Audio cabs on two or three gigs and it performed well; I take most everything out for real world experience.

 

I could be wrong but I thought the SA was the Focus I head without the preamp. If so, it was [email protected] and [email protected]

 

You're right. Ah, the curse of imperfect human memory. Too many amp generations to remember.

 

Ultimately, that's why I sold my SA. Personally, I like my cables all pre plugged in as I find it more convenient that way. A 2u power amp works better for that vs the SA. There are a number of decent light-ish power amps that are cheaper than the SA and more powerful.

I currently use a Carvin HD1500 in a DIY rack (that weighs 4LBS) and carry my preamp/mini pedal board in a small case that goes into the outside pocket of my gig bag. Easy to setup, light, versatile and powerful.