MA880 4 Zone Amplifier 8Ch X 80W Class D, 6 Input, Distributed Audio

The Dayton Audio MA880 8-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 MA880 delivers powerful, high-quality sound to up to four rooms with ease.

The Dayton Audio MA880 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 four zones can be bridged to deliver up to 160 watts RMS per channel into an 8-ohm load.

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.

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.

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 MA880 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 MA880 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 MA880 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 MA880 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.