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

The Gato Audio DPA-2506 is a configurable amplifier with six Class-D channels that works as a multiroom hub just as well as a powerful driver for a handful of demanding speakers.

Three amplifier modules sit in the chassis, each with two channels, each bridgeable. Depending on need, this becomes a six-channel distributor for the whole house or a trio of powerful mono channels. Signals come in balanced via XLR or unbalanced via RCA, six speaker pairs go back out at the rear, and a 12-volt trigger makes sure the amplifier wakes up together with the system. This version carries genuine walnut veneer under gloss lacquer – an amplifier that cuts a fine figure even when it doesn't disappear into a cabinet. Supplied as a single unit.

Why the Gato Audio DPA-2506?

Because it doesn't answer the question "six small or three large channels" for you – it leaves that to you. That very flexibility is what most multi-channel amplifiers lack: they deliver a fixed number of channels and that's that. The DPA-2506 can be reconfigured when a room is added, a speaker changes, or the multiroom project turns into a home cinema after all.

What you get

Reserves you allocate yourself. 250 watts into 8 ohms per channel in six-channel operation, up to 900 watts into 8 ohms on one bridged channel, and into 4 ohms 500 or 1050 watts respectively. The frequency response spans 2 Hz to 70 kHz, and total harmonic distortion stays below 0.01 percent at rated power. The non-magnetic chassis and balanced signal path make sure six channels in a tight space leave each other in peace.

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

For anyone who wants to feed several zones, a home cinema, or a bi-amplified chain from a single unit. Plainly put: as the heart of a simple stereo system it is simply too much of a good thing – an integrated amplifier or a stereo power amp is enough here, and the budget is better spent on speakers. Anyone who has no interest in configuration will also never use this unit's real strength.

Our verdict

The DPA-2506 is the rare combination of installation tool and living-room-worthy piece of furniture – dressed in walnut it may well stand in view. Technically clean, flexible, without showing off. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we work out the configuration together with you, and tell you honestly when a smaller amplifier would be the wiser choice for your project.

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: walnut veneer, gloss
• 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 do I allocate the DPA-2506's power across my rooms?

Through the configuration of the three modules. Each module delivers either two channels at 250 watts into 8 ohms each, or bridged, one channel at 900 watts. That gives you six weaker channels or three strong ones – and any mix in between.

How warm does the DPA-2506 get in the rack?

Thanks to Class-D technology, waste heat stays moderate: around 75 watts idle consumption, under one watt in standby. Even so, the usual rule for enclosed cabinets applies – leave air above and behind the unit. We're happy to help with rack planning.

Which preamp suits the DPA-2506?

Any preamp, AV preamp, or integrated amplifier with a preamp output. The DPA-2506 itself has neither volume control nor source selection. Balanced via XLR is the more stable solution for long cable runs, unbalanced via RCA is enough for short distances within the same rack.

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

Because this unit only makes sense with the right planning. We go through it room by room with you, work out channel allocation and cabling, and set up the trigger control. Our practiced team of specialists delivers, installs, and stays reachable afterwards – just get in touch.

Goes well with

As a signal source ahead of it, the units under Preamplifiers are a good fit. Speakers for the zones being fed can be found under Floorstanding speakers and Wall speakers, cabling for six channels under Cables & Connectors. Anyone thinking of film should check out Home cinema, and anyone wanting to compare should look under Power amplifiers.