PMC Active Twenty5 Upgrade – Active Retrofit Kit

The PMC Active Twenty5 Upgrade is an active retrofit module that turns passive PMC Twenty5 and Twenty5i speakers into fully active speakers by swapping out the rear panel.

Passive becomes active – without buying new speakers. The module combines an amplifier and an active crossover in a single unit that you fit in place of the existing end plate. PMC has been building studio and hi-fi speakers for over three decades; this kit brings the range's active technology to your existing cabinets.

Why the Active Twenty5 Upgrade?

Because it's the shortest route to active sound if you already own a passive Twenty5 or Twenty5i. With 100 W per driver and a model-specific active crossover, you gain resolution, control and transparency – and save yourself the separate power amp. A selector switch tunes the electronics precisely to your model (21, 22, 23 or 24).

What you get

More detail, dynamics and calm in the sound, because the amplification sits right at the drivers and controls the chassis better. Plus a tidier setup: fewer boxes, fewer cables. The two modules, mains cables, model selector switch and mounting tools are included.

Who is the upgrade for – and who isn't it for?

For owners of passive PMC Twenty5 / Twenty5i (21–24) who want to switch to active operation without replacing their speakers. Plainly: if you don't own a matching PMC, the kit is of no use to you – it's not a universal active module. And if you're planning new speakers anyway, a ready-made Active model is usually the more direct route.

Our verdict

A clever way to lift a proven passive PMC into the active world – five minutes of screwdriver work instead of a new purchase. Honestly: if you love your speakers but want to declutter the rack, this is exactly it.

Technical data

• Type: Active retrofit module (amplifier + active crossover)
• Compatibility: PMC Twenty5 and Twenty5i, models 21, 22, 23 and 24
• Amplification: 100 W RMS per driver (tweeter and woofer)
• Crossover: active, analogue – model-specific tuning (via selector switch)
• Frequency response: 46 Hz – 25 kHz (model-dependent)
• Sensitivity: 1 Vrms = 96.5 dB SPL @ 1 m (low) / 106.5 dB SPL @ 1 m (high)
• Inputs: balanced XLR + unbalanced RCA
• Input impedance: >14 kΩ
• Mains voltage: 90–260 V, IEC-C14
• Installation time: approx. 5 minutes (rear panel swap)
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 435 × 130 × 315 mm (packaged per pair)
• Weight: 4 kg per pair
• Included: 2× active modules, 2× mains cables, 1× model selector switch, 1× Allen key, 12× mounting screws

Frequently asked questions

Which speakers can I upgrade with the PMC Active Twenty5 Upgrade?

Passive PMC Twenty5 and Twenty5i in the 21, 22, 23 and 24 models. The module replaces the rear panel of the passive speaker; a selector switch tunes the electronics to your specific model. Other ranges or third-party makes aren't compatible.

How involved is the installation?

Manageable: you swap the rear end plate of your passive cabinet for the active unit – usually in under five minutes, no soldering required. Allen key and screws are included. If you'd rather not do it yourself, our technician Mauri takes care of it.

What else do I need after the upgrade?

After the conversion your speaker is active and no longer needs a separate power amp. You just connect it to a source that controls the level – a preamp or a streamer with volume control, via XLR or RCA. That significantly reduces your component count.

Is the upgrade worth it compared to new active speakers?

If you already own passive Twenty5 or Twenty5i speakers, the upgrade is the direct route to active sound – higher resolution, more control and transparency, without buying new speakers. Whether it pays off in your case is something we're happy to work through with you.

Why buy the PMC Active Twenty5 Upgrade at HD Zürisee?

Because as an authorised PMC dealer in Wädenswil, we know exactly which module suits which model and what to watch for during the conversion. Mauri can handle the installation on request, and we'll tell you honestly whether the upgrade or another route makes more sense for you.

Pairs well with

More from the same sonic universe: Active speakers, Floorstanding speakers, Bookshelf speakers, Streamers & network players.