Phoenix Gold Amplifiers - Test Report

FeaturesThe ZX600ti has a bunch of extras that one would expect at this price point. Checking the crossover section, it is a 24 dB slope and is variable over the rated frequency range. Using the optional LPL44 low pass level controller was a breeze. It attenuates the amp's output up to 22 dB. I did not test the RDDP which duplicates the tri-color LED as well as displaying voltage at the amplifier.

A note about the LPL44 low pass level controller and the crossover. It only works when the crossover is set to lowpass. That makes sense because it's called a low pass level controller. The crossover is high pass or low pass, but not both, meaning you couldn't use the lowpass on the ZX600ti's speaker outputs and the highpass RCA outputs to drive another amplifier.

Testing the TAIM (Timed Acoustically Integrated Muting) circuit, I found that it works as advertised. There were no turn-on or turn-off noises and thumps. The bass boost circuit added quite a bit of thump as well. Be careful with this one. Centered at 45 Hz, you can dial in as much as 18 dB of boost, enough to potentially overload some woofers. Connecting the speaker outputs together to simulate a short engaged the amp's protection circuit saving the amp from frying.

OverallPhoenix Gold's Titanium Series is pretty bold looking. Not meant for simple installations or hiding under a seat, you'll want to put this amp on display. It meets all the manufacturer's specs from their Web site, and has the expected premium features. Power output into low impedances is solid, but it does get very hot into 2 ohms stereo.

The crossover, bass boost and remote level control make it super flexible. Efficiency is normal for a regulated amp and its fully protected against abusive owners. If you're a competitor, you'll like the amp because according to Phoenix Gold, its IASCA and USAC power rating is only 75 watts per channel. All told, a good pick for a flashy or competition system.