Gato Audio DPA-2506 Multi-Channel Power Amplifier, Gloss White

The Gato Audio DPA-2506 is a six-channel power amplifier in Class-D design, whose three amplifier modules can be freely configured into three to six output channels.

One module serves two channels each. If you need more punch on one channel, bridge the pair; if you need width, run all six channels individually. Each channel pair accepts its signal either balanced via XLR or unbalanced via RCA, the rear panel has room for six speaker pairs, and a 12-volt trigger handles switching on and off. This version comes in gloss white and looks great where the electronics should stay light and not dominate. Supplied as a single unit.

Why the Gato Audio DPA-2506?

Because six channels from one chassis save you three separate power amplifiers and a lot of cable clutter. You decide per module whether you want width or power – and you can revise that decision later as the system grows. For installations that develop over years, that is worth more than any single number on the spec sheet.

What you get

Controlled power, finely divisible. Six channels each deliver 250 watts into 8 ohms, bridged up to 900 watts into 8 ohms are available on one channel, and into 4 ohms the six-channel figure doubles to 500 watts. Add a signal-to-noise ratio above 110 dB and total harmonic distortion below 0.01 percent at rated power – figures at which the amplifier audibly steps into the background. The non-magnetic chassis keeps the modules apart from one another, and with 75 watts idle consumption the equipment cabinet stays pleasantly cool.

Who is the DPA-2506 suited for – and who is it not?

For home cinemas, multiroom zones and custom installations where one central unit feeds several rooms or channels. Plainly put: anyone who simply wants to drive a stereo pair in the living room also buys four channels they will never switch on – a stereo power amplifier is the more sensible choice there. As a pure subwoofer amplifier, too, the DPA-2506 is over-qualified. Its territory begins where several zones are meant to play at once.

Our verdict

A workhorse with Danish manners: quiet, compact for what it holds, and remarkably flexible in channel allocation. Anyone planning a system across several rooms gets a lot of order here in little rack height. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we work out the configuration with you beforehand – so that in the end no channels are missing and none are left over.

Technical data

• Type: configurable multi-channel amplifier, 6 channels, Class D
• Amplifier modules: 3 modules, bridgeable in pairs
• Power at 8 Ω: 6× 250 W · 3× 900 W (bridged) · 2× 900 W + 2× 250 W · 1× 900 W + 4× 250 W
• Power at 4 Ω: 6× 500 W · 3× 1050 W (bridged) · 2× 1050 W + 2× 500 W · 1× 1050 W + 4× 500 W
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (−0.5 dB), 2 Hz – 70 kHz (−3 dB)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 0.01 % at rated power
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 110 dB
• Input impedance: 20 kΩ (RCA) / 40 kΩ (XLR)
• Voltage gain: 26 dB
• Balanced inputs: 3 pairs XLR, gold-plated (Neutrik)
• Unbalanced inputs: 3 pairs RCA, gold-plated
• Speaker outputs: 6 pairs gold-plated safety banana jacks
• Trigger: 12V standby trigger (mini-jack)
• Power supply: 115/230 V AC, 50/60 Hz, max. 2000 W
• Power consumption: < 1 W standby, 75 W idle, max. 2000 W
• Chassis: non-magnetic
• Finish: gloss white
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 32.5 × 10.5 × 42 cm
• Weight: 13 kg
• Manufacturer: Gato Audio, Copenhagen (Denmark)
• Scope of delivery: single unit

Frequently asked questions

How many channels does the DPA-2506 really have?

Six output channels, spread across three Class-D modules. Depending on configuration you keep six channels at 250 watts into 8 ohms each, or you bridge modules and get up to three channels at 900 watts each. Mixed forms of strong and normal channels are also possible.

Is the DPA-2506 suitable for bi-amping?

Yes. Since each channel pair can be bridged or run individually, one speaker pair can be driven with separate channels for the tweeter and woofer sections. Whether your speaker supports this, we check together based on its connection panel.

Can I run the DPA-2506 without a preamplifier?

No. It has neither volume control nor source switching and works exclusively behind a preamp, an AV preamp, or an integrated amplifier with a preamp output. Connection is made balanced via XLR or unbalanced via RCA, freely selectable per channel pair.

Why buy the Gato Audio DPA-2506 at HD Zürisee?

Because for nearly three decades we have been planning systems, not just shipping boxes. We work out channel allocation, speaker matching and control with you, take care of delivery and installation, and stay reachable afterwards too. Get in touch by phone, WhatsApp or email.

Goes well with

Ahead of the DPA-2506 belongs a preamp – the selection is under Preamplifiers. Speakers for the individual zones can be found under Floorstanding speakers and Wall speakers, the matching cabling under Cables & Connectors. Heading towards film, the Home cinema category helps; alternative powerhouses can be found under Power amplifiers.