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Niles SI-1650 16-channel multi-room power amplifier

Item # 190SI1650

This amplifier offers the ultimate in convenience and control to handle big, whole-house installation projects.

This amplifier offers the ultimate in convenience and control to handle big, whole-house installation projects.

California customers:
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10 questions - 15 answers

Item # 190SI1650

About the Niles SI-1650

Dave Bar

Flexibile power and web-based control to meet your needs

The Niles SI-1650 multi-channel power amplifier offers the ultimate in convenience and control to handle big, whole-house installation projects. This powerful 16-channel amp connects to your home network, allowing you to customize it to best suit your specific multi-room audio system using Nile's unique web browser configuration tool. And the setup options are plentiful. Enjoy warm stereo sound in eight rooms, or bridge pairs of channels together to give your speakers more juice — a great option for power-hungry outdoor speakers. Use a single channel of power for mono sound in smaller listening areas, like a closet or bathroom.

Flexibile power and web-based control to meet your needs

The Niles SI-1650 multi-channel power amplifier offers the ultimate in convenience and control to handle big, whole-house installation projects. This powerful 16-channel amp connects to your home network, allowing you to customize it to best suit your specific multi-room audio system using Nile's unique web browser configuration tool. And the setup options are plentiful. Enjoy warm stereo sound in eight rooms, or bridge pairs of channels together to give your speakers more juice — a great option for power-hungry outdoor speakers. Use a single channel of power for mono sound in smaller listening areas, like a closet or bathroom.

Enjoy music your way throughout your home

The '1650 can distribute audio from a single source, like a CD changer, to play the same music in multiple rooms  — perfect for parties. You can also assign each individual speaker channel to any one of the amp's 16 discrete audio signal inputs and play a different source in every room, or any combination you wish. Niles' web-based IP configuration utility makes it easy to chose which sources you want, and where you want to listen to them. You also get independent volume and EQ adjustments for all 16 channels. Plus, individual high- and low-pass filters for each channel accommodate any combination of passive subwoofer and small, limited-range speakers you might use. The amp lets you acoustically optimize each speaker system for both its type and location.

Serious whole-house audio power

This amplifier provides your system with an impressive amount of power for big, room-filling sound. Driven simultaneously, all 16 channels produce 50 watts RMS, or 800 watts total. Bridging adjacent channels gives you 8 channels with 100 watts for each bridged pair.

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Product highlights:

  • 16-channel amplifier
  • 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.06% THD with all channels driven
  • 100 watts per channel into 4 ohms with all channels driven
  • 100 watts into 8 ohms (bridged)
  • includes a web-based configuration and setup tool using a web browser (requires a direct wired Ethernet connection between the amplifier and your home network)
  • sixteen to eight channel IP configurable power allocation
  • web-based independent level controls, EQ adjustments, and high/low crossover controls for all 16 channels
  • IP configurable BusMatrix™ selector allows each speaker channel to be assigned to any of the sixteen signal inputs for stereo or mono sound applications
  • three turn-on modes: music sensing, voltage trigger, and manual
  • total harmonic distortion: 0.05% (at 1kHz)
  • frequency response: 5-25,000 Hz (-3 dB)
  • signal-to-noise ratio: 102 dB (20-20,000 Hz)
  • total harmonic distortion: 0.06% (at 1kHz)
  • gold-plated binding post speaker connectors
  • dual digital power supply with massive toroidal transformer for powerful, dynamic sound
  • independent thermal and short-circuit protection circuits for each channel
  • front-panel status display for each channel makes troubleshooting easier
  • detachable AC power cord
  • weight: 35 lbs.
  • 17-1/4"W x 5-3/4"H x 17-1/2"D
  • warranty: 2 years
  • MFR # FG01705

What's in the box:

  • 16-Channel system integration amplifier
  • 6' AC power cord (3-prong IEC plug)
  • 2 Rack-mount ears
  • Two 10A fuses
  • Installation Guide

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More details on the Niles SI-1650

Stacey B.

Features & specs

General
Number of Channels 16
Power Output per Channel (8 ohms) 50
Power Output per Channel (6 ohms) ---
Power Output per Channel (4 ohms) 100
Frequency Bandwidth 20-20k
THD 0.06%
Minimum Impedance 4
Bridged Power per Channel 100 (x 8 chan) 8 ohms watts
Speaker Outputs 16
THX Certification No
Width (inches) 17-1/4
Height (inches) 5-3/4
Depth (inches) 17-1/2
Weight 35 pounds
Parts Warranty 3 Years
Labor Warranty 3 Years
Inputs & Outputs
Number of Inputs 16
Input Type RCA
Removable Power Cord IEC 3-prong
Level Controls Yes
Speaker Connectors Binding Post
The Niles SI-1650 replaces these items:

Product Research

Features

Overview: The Niles Audio SI (System Integration) Amplifiers are designed to power your custom-installed Audio-Video system. They are constructed with the finest materials available, including 1% metal film resistors, high quality capacitors, and oversized heat sinks, that can properly cool the unit without the need for a noisy fan. The SI-1650 is a high-current 16-channel amplifier that can help you interface multiple sources into multiple zones.

IP Configurable: Each of the amplifier's 16 channels are fully configurable via a unique web browser configuration tool that allows each channel to select from any of the 16 inputs or combination of inputs. The BusMatrix Selector gives you total control of every channel's EQ adjustment, volume level, and high-pass or low-pass filter settings, all from the web browser. The SI-1650 has its own IP address, and an RJ-45 TCP/IP network connection to the LAN or Ethernet switch. The BusMatrix Selector can be used on a PC, iPad, or Tablet.

Power Output: The SI-1650 16-channel power amplifier provides 50 watts RMS per channel at 8 ohms, and 100 watts RMS per channel at 4 ohms with all channels driven. You can bridge adjacent channels to 100 watts RMS into 8 ohms.

Bus Matrix Line Level Inputs: The SI-1650 amplifier has a single gold-plated RCA input jack for each channel.

Cascade Audio Outputs: The unit's Cascade Audio Outputs enable you to daisy-chain another amplifier, by connecting the preamp outputs of the SI-1650 to the input of the second amplifier. Each channel has a single gold-plated RCA output jack. The outputs are not buffered, so if you wish to daisy-chain more than 5 Niles SI Amplifiers, you will need a buffered distribution amplifier, such as the Niles AVDA-3.

Bridging Adjacent Channels: The amplifier's 16 channels are configured in pairs (1&2, 3&4, etc.). Each channel can be used independently (50 watts) or bridged to provide more power (100 watts) to speakers in large rooms or for outdoor speakers. During bridging, the odd-numbered amplifier channels will output the bridged signal, while its even-numbered adjacent amplifier channel is deactivated. There is no physical bridging switch on the amplifier; the bridging configuration is set up through the BusMatrix Selector web browser application.

Speaker Terminals: The amplifier is equipped with binding post speaker terminals. The terminals will accept single-banana plugs, pin connectors, and bare wire up to 12-gauge. For most applications, 16- or 18-gauge wire is recommended. For wiring runs longer than 80 feet, 14-gauge wire is recommended.

Note: The speaker terminals are spaced too far apart for dual-banana plugs. They also have a collar around them that prohibits the use of spade lugs.

Speaker Loads: Each channel can drive a 4-ohm load, allowing you to connect no more than two 8-ohm speakers, or no more than one 4-6 ohm speaker. A channel pair that has been bridged can handle an 8-ohm load. Proper ventilation of the amplifier is required when driving lower impedance loads or if bridging channels.

Independent Level Controls: Through the Configuration and Setup Tool, the SI-1650 offers independent level controls for each channel, allowing you to set the volume in each zone, or compensate for sonic imbalances created by room size or architecture. You can also use the volume controls to limit the volume to certain zones to prevent abuse.

Equalization: Equalization can be applied to each of the 16 channels, through Room EQ Presets or Manual EQ. You can assign a Room EQ preset to any channel as Flat, Small, Large, or Outdoor. Manually, you can select or deselect Loudness, Low Cut, or High Cut, plus you can use the individual arrow buttons on the browser to adjust volume, bass, midrange, treble, midrange center frequency, and midrange bandwidth.

Turn-on Modes: For convenience, the SI-1650 offers three turn-on modes. Using the 3-way switch on the back panel, you can choose from the following modes:

  • Manual Turn-on: The amplifier is turned on and off using the front panel Master power switch. The automatic turn-on circuitry is turned off. (Switch position: Constant)
  • Music Sense: The amplifier turns on automatically when the presence of an audio signal is detected on any of the audio inputs. When the audio signal is no longer detected, the amplifier turns itself off after approximately 2 minutes. (The front panel Master switch must be in the On position, and the Turn-on Mode switch position is set to Audio Sense.)
  • External Trigger: The amplifier turns on automatically when a signal is detected at the 3.5mm AC/DC trigger input. Once the Trigger voltage is turned off, the amplifier automatically turns itself off. Voltage triggers can be supplied by a variety of sources, including surround sound processors, video projectors, and automated switchers. The trigger signal must be 3-24 volts AC or DC, 20 mA or greater. (The front panel Master switch must be in the On position, and the Turn-on Mode switch position is set to 3-30V AC/DC Trigger Input.)

12-volt Control Output: In addition to the 12-volt Trigger Input, the SI-1650 can be used to control other devices using 12-volt triggers, such as motorized screens and curtains. When the amplifier is powered on, a 12-volt DC (150 mA) signal is present at the 12V Control Out 3.5mm mini-jack. (Polarity: tip = +)

Rack-mount Ears: The SI-1650 comes with a pair of rack-mount ears to allow you to mount the amplifier in a standard equipment rack. The rack ears attach to the sides of the amplifier chassis using the 4 installed screws. The amp requires three rack spaces (3U) with the feet removed.

Note: A minimum of 7" of free air space must be provided above the amplifier for proper ventilation.

Independent Protection Circuits: Each channel his its own independent thermal and short circuit protection. If a problem occurs on one of the channels, that channel will shut down, while the other channels continue to play. Once the short has been removed or the temperature returns to normal, the channel will resume regular operations. Separate bi-color LEDs on the front panel for each channel will glow red if the protection circuit has been activated on that channel, or green to indicate the amplifier is operating normally.

Removable AC Cord: The SI-1650 comes with a 6' detachable, heavy-duty power cord that allows you to unplug it either at the amp or at the wall outlet. The amplifier uses an IEC 3-prong cord. The amplifier features an auto-switching, 110V-230V power supply.

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Customer Q&A

10 questions already asked

Q
Can multiple input sources (eg 2 sonos ports) be playing at the same time? To different channels, of course.
steven  Aug 12, 2020
1 answer
A
Yes, it has full matrix switching capability. This means you can route any input channel to any output channel or to multiple output channels simultaneously. You could have your first sonos for example connected to input channels 1/2 (L/R) and the second sonos to input channels 3/4. You could then route input channel 1 to output channels 1,3,5 and input channel 2 to outputs 2/4/6 allowing that Sonos to play to three stereo zones. At the same time you could route input channel 3 to outputs 7/9 and input channel 4 to outputs 8/10 allowing the second sonos to simultaneously play to 2 other stereo zones. The configuration is done via the amp's web interface. Unlike a multi-source / multi-zone controller like the Russound MCA-88X, you probably won't be accessing the 1650's web interface daily to make new source/routing selections. It's more intended for initial setup in my experience. I use it together with a Russound MCA-88X.
donald  Aug 12, 2020
Q
Will this amp accept a passive subwoofer with a RCA jack? Mark.
mark  Aug 01, 2020
1 answer
A
Hi Mark, Should be fine, but you'll need to buy an adapter cable to connect your subwoofer to the screw terminal / banana speaker output jacks on one of the outputs of the amp. Best, Evan
evan  Aug 02, 2020
Q
I'm buying the Niles SI 1650 for my whole house stereo. Is there a way to control this amp, receiver, NAS and TV with a single tablet? I'm building a home so everything will wired 19inch rack(I don't like buying batteries)
randy  Apr 24, 2020
1 answer
A
The Crutchfield A/V Design Group will be best suited to help you with this: http://www.crutchfield.com/Institutional/diy.aspx This specially-trained group of advisors can go over what you have, what you want, and recommend the components & cabling you'll need to get the performance and capabilities you require in each location. I hope that helps!
thomas  Apr 28, 2020 (Staff)
Q
I am upgrading an existing whole house audio system and am considering this amp. Two questions: Are there compatible touch screen wall panels, connectable through cat6 wire that can control the input sources, zones and volume on this amp? For a kitchen that presently has 3 ceiling speakers would bridging 2 zones be the best solution for driving reasonable sound from all three speakers from this amp?
francis  Jul 30, 2016
1 answer
A
The Crutchfield A/V Design Group will be best suited to help you with this: http://www.crutchfield.com/Institutional/diy.aspx This specially-trained group of advisors can go over what you have, what you want, and recommend the components & cabling you'll need to get the performance and capabilities you require in each location. I hope that helps!
david  Jul 31, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Is there an API for control in addition to the web pages? For example can I adjust the volume from a control system application? Is there a tcp/ip protocol document for this device?
david  Jul 16, 2016
1 answer
A
Each of the amplifier's 16 channels are fully configurable via a unique web browser configuration tool that allows each channel to select from any of the 16 inputs or combination of inputs. It also provides total control of every channel's EQ adjustment, volume level, and high-pass or low-pass filter settings, all from the web browser. The SI-1650 has its own IP address, and an RJ-45 TCP/IP network connection to the LAN or Ethernet switch. The BusMatrix Selector can be used on a PC, iPad, or Tablet. You can find more details about that in the Owner's Manual located under the "Details" tab on our website. I hope that helps. http://www.crutchfield.com/Support/Bio.aspx?bio=159
david  Jul 20, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Can you use this for 9 rooms? 7 pairs and 2 single speakers for closets or bathrooms? Thank you.
alex  Mar 29, 2015
1 answer
A
I forwarded your question to an Advisor and they responded with the following: Doing a single speaker in a smaller room is just fine, but it will need to be a stereo input speaker. Meaning it will get left and right signal into one speaker so you get full sound in that room. That will take up two channels on the amp just like a normal pair of speakers would. So if you need 9 total rooms you would still be just short. I would recommend taking advantage of our A/V design group to help with a whole home multi room audio set-up. They can be reached at 1-800-653-1007.
kristina  Apr 02, 2015 (Staff)
Q
Can you daisy chain two of these together to get 32 channels? If so, please explain.
alex  Mar 29, 2015
4 answers
A
One solution would be to use 2 RCA Splitters to split the left and right inputs into 2 and then connect the outputs of the splitter to the inputs of the 2 Niles Amps. This splitter should work: http://www.crutchfield.com/p_703F22M/AudioQuest-FLX-X-RCA-Y-Adapter.html Also, I recommend you call Crutchfield, their techs are great and helped me improve my system even though I thought I had designed it perfectly. It sounds awesome!
daniel j.  Mar 30, 2015
A
If you wanted 32 channels then I would split the input. In my case I would run the output of the pre-amp to a 2:1 splitter and then take the output of the splitter to each Niles amp.
thomas  Mar 29, 2015
A
Yes- and you can daisy chain as many as you like. In fact im daisy chaining 2 niles 12 channel amps and my 16 channel amp to make 40 total channels
mark  Mar 29, 2015
A
Yes, I have 2 connected running off the same airport express input. You just take an output for the one and input it to the other. I actually use mine in bridge mode so I gave fewer but higher power output to each speaker. I use them to run my speakers on my deck.
mark  Mar 29, 2015
Q
How do you adjust the volume on this unit (or other similar multi-channel amps) I will be using iPods for my source of audio input for every channel. Can i just use the volume control on the iPods or must i buy seperate, in-wall volume control knobs?
rich  Jan 06, 2015
3 answers
A
Yes, the quickest and easiest method would be to use the volume control directly on your iPod(s). This would work just fine. The only downside would be that you would have to walk back to the amp where your iPod(s) is/are connected each time you wish to adjust the volume. You could also install in-wall volume control knobs that would allow independent volume control at your destination(s). Then you could just leave your iPod(s) at a preset constant level and easily make adjustments at each location with the wall control. So you are aware, this multi-channel amp also has the ability to be controlled and configured via network. As a result, you can actually go in and adjust the volume, eq, etc, using a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network. However, this is not the most convenient method if you want to make quick volume adjustments on a regular basis. It is more of a means to set a permanent base volume level for specific locations
isaac  Jan 06, 2015
A
Rich, You can just control the volume from your iPod, or if you wish you can get volume controls for each area or room. There is no way physically to control the volume on the amp its self, but you can web in to it and adjust the input levels on each input and EQ's. The web interface is very simple but also has a lot of programing options so you can configure this amp for almost any application. I would recommend this amp over others because of the web interface. We have two of these now both running 12hrs a day at a moderate volume with not a single problem.
alex  Jan 06, 2015
A
I use an Apple Airport Express with mine and I adjust the volume thru iTunes. I have set each speaker level in the Niles so that certain ones are permanently louder or softer than others but the overall volume I adjust from iTunes, plus I use an iTunes remote app on my phone to adjust the volume of the iTunes on my computer. It works great.
mark  Jan 06, 2015
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