3.5 Watt Decora Audio Power Amplifier (Compatible with Guest Room Audio System)

The RDL D-TPA1A is an ultra-compact Decora audio power amplifier designed for RDL Format-A systems and compatibility with guest room audio systems. Its high-efficiency Class D output delivers up to 3.5 watts RMS into an 8-ohm speaker or 6.5 watts RMS into a 4-ohm speaker. Audio input and operating power share an RJ45 connection, while the amplified speaker output is provided on a detachable terminal block.

Ideal Use Cases

This model is suited to guest room audio systems and other installations that need a compact amplifier at the listening location. It accepts an RDL Format-A input from a compatible sender over twisted-pair cable and can directly drive a 4- or 8-ohm speaker. The local, single-turn audio-taper level control makes it appropriate where convenient volume adjustment is required without installing a separate power amplifier nearby.

Why Choose This Model

The D-TPA1A combines speaker amplification, level adjustment, and Format-A connectivity in an all-metal Decora-format assembly. Its VCA attenuator provides level adjustment designed for scratch-free, long-term operation. High-efficiency Class D circuitry supports useful output from a very compact enclosure, while built-in thermal and short-circuit protection safeguards the amplifier during abnormal operating conditions. The model is available in white, black, and stainless-steel finishes for coordination with different installation environments.

Installation and Integration

Integration begins with an RDL Format-A sender. A twisted-pair cable carries the Format-A audio signal and power to the amplifier through its RJ45 input, so separate audio and power connectors are not required at the D-TPA1A. The speaker connects through a detachable terminal block, simplifying termination and service access. Recommended power-supply models are the PS-24AS for the USA and PS-24AX for international applications.

The amplifier measures 4.13 inches high by 1.7 inches wide by 2.15 inches deep, equivalent to 10.49 by 4.32 by 5.47 centimeters. Its specified ambient operating range is 0 degrees C to 40 degrees C maximum, with 20 degrees C recommended. These installation requirements should be considered when selecting the mounting location and planning ventilation around the unit.

Performance Highlights

Maximum rated output is 3.5 watts RMS into 8 ohms and 6.5 watts RMS into 4 ohms. Frequency response extends from 50 Hz to 20 kHz within plus or minus 1.5 dB. Total harmonic distortion plus noise is less than 0.1 percent at 1 kHz with a 1-watt output, and common-mode rejection is greater than 50 dB from 50 Hz to 120 Hz.

Specified current consumption is 45 mA while idle, 95 mA when producing 1 watt into 8 ohms, and 150 mA when producing 1 watt into 4 ohms. Consumption rises to 215 mA at the rated 3.5-watt output into 8 ohms. These published figures provide concrete operating values for Format-A system and power planning.

What Makes It Different

Turning the level control to minimum activates an energy-saving sleep mode with power consumption below 0.3 watt. This places the power-saving function directly on the same control used for listening-level adjustment. The combination of RJ45 input and power, twisted-pair Format-A operation, detachable speaker wiring, VCA level control, and integrated protection gives the D-TPA1A a focused feature set for compact distributed-audio installations.

Final Assessment

The RDL D-TPA1A provides a direct way to convert an RDL Format-A signal into amplified output for a 4- or 8-ohm speaker. It delivers up to 6.5 watts RMS, includes local VCA level adjustment, and enters a sub-0.3-watt sleep mode when the level is set to minimum. Its compact all-metal construction, shared RJ45 audio and power connection, detachable speaker terminal, and documented protection features make it a practical match for compatible guest room audio systems.