3.5 Watt Decora Audio Amplifier-SS

Ideal Use Cases

The RDL DS-PA3 is designed for wall-mounted audio installations that need to drive a 4- or 8-ohm speaker from either of two connected sources. Its rear-panel balanced input supports permanent system wiring, while the front-panel mini-jack provides convenient access for another source. This arrangement suits installations where source flexibility is required without adding a separate external switcher.

The compact Decora-format amplifier is also appropriate where equipment space is limited. Front-panel gain adjustment keeps level control accessible, while the rear speaker output and detachable terminal block support an orderly installed connection.

Why Choose This Model

The DS-PA3 combines two-input source management and speaker amplification in an ultra-compact, all-metal unit. Automatic switching eliminates the need to select sources manually, and solid-state switching handles the source-selection function without a mechanical selector. These features create a direct signal path from the connected source to a local speaker.

Its high-efficiency Class D design delivers 3.5 watts RMS into 8 ohms or 6.5 watts RMS into 4 ohms. Thermal and short-circuit protection are included to protect the amplifier during abnormal operating conditions.

Installation and Integration

Installation centers on the rear balanced input, rear speaker output, front mini-jack input, and 24 Vdc power requirement. The amplifier accepts a 20 kΩ balanced or unbalanced bridging input. Input sensitivity is specified at +4 dBu nominal for the balanced low-sensitivity input and -15 dBV nominal for the unbalanced high-sensitivity input.

Connect a compatible 4- or 8-ohm speaker to the detachable rear-panel terminal block, then set the listening level with the single-turn, audio-taper front-panel gain control. Recommended power supplies are the PS-24AS for the USA and PS-24AX for international applications.

The unit measures 4.13 inches high, 1.7 inches wide, and 2.05 inches deep. Its specified operating environment is 0°C to 40°C maximum, with 20°C recommended.

Performance Highlights

Rated output reaches 3.5 W RMS maximum into 8 ohms and 6.5 W RMS maximum into 4 ohms. Frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 20 kHz within ±1 dB, covering the stated audio band without requiring an external power amplifier for the supported output load.

THD+N is specified below 0.1% at 1 kHz and 1 watt. Noise is below -80 dB relative to 1 W RMS when using the balanced input and below -70 dB relative to 1 W RMS through the mini-jack input. Common-mode rejection is greater than 50 dB from 50 Hz to 120 Hz.

Current requirements are 30 mA at idle, 55 mA at one-eighth power with normal voice or music, and 225 mA when producing 3.5 watts into 8 ohms.

What Makes It Different

The DS-PA3 places two distinct input connections where they are most useful: the balanced connection on the rear for installed wiring and the mini-jack on the front for accessible source connection. Automatic source switching and solid-state selection are built into the amplifier, reducing the number of separate components required for a two-source wall-mounted audio point.

The front panel retains only the user-facing gain adjustment, while the speaker connection remains on the rear. The detachable speaker terminal block simplifies connection and servicing. Ultra-compact all-metal construction, Class D operation, and integrated thermal and short-circuit protection complete the design.

Final Assessment

The RDL DS-PA3 is a focused wall-mounted amplifier for installations requiring two inputs, automatic source switching, and direct support for a 4- or 8-ohm speaker. It pairs a rear balanced input with a front mini-jack and provides accessible gain adjustment without exposing the installed speaker wiring.

With output ratings of 3.5 W RMS into 8 ohms and 6.5 W RMS into 4 ohms, a 20 Hz to 20 kHz response, compact dimensions, and specified protection circuitry, it offers a clearly defined solution for localized audio amplification.