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Niles SI-1230 Series 2 12-channel multi-room power amplifier

Item # 190SI12302

You can customize this powerful 12-channel amp to best suit your specific multi-room setup.

You can customize this powerful 12-channel amp to best suit your specific multi-room setup.

California customers:
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7 questions - 14 answers

Item # 190SI12302

In stock
$749.00

About the Niles SI-1230 Series 2

Dave Bar

Flexibile power to meet your needs

Planning a whole-house audio system? Take a look at the Niles SI-1230 Series 2 multi-channel power amplifier. You can customize this powerful 12-channel amp to best suit your specific multi-room setup. Enjoy warm stereo sound in six rooms, or combine two channels into one 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 to meet your needs

Planning a whole-house audio system? Take a look at the Niles SI-1230 Series 2 multi-channel power amplifier. You can customize this powerful 12-channel amp to best suit your specific multi-room setup. Enjoy warm stereo sound in six rooms, or combine two channels into one 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 throughout your home

The '1230 Series 2 can distribute music from one audio source, like a networked music streamer, to multiple rooms in your home. Or you can connect additional sources directly to the amplifier and assign each one to a single listening room. And by adding one or more preamps to your system, you can send additional sources to more than one listening room.

Serious whole-house audio power

This amplifier provides your system with an impressive amount of power for big, room-filling sound. Driven simultaneously, all 12 channels produce 30 watts RMS, or 360 watts total. "Bridging" or combining adjacent channels gives you 80 watts for each bridged pair, or 480 watts total.

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Product highlights:

  • 12-channel amplifier
  • 30 watts per channel into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.05% THD with all channels driven
  • 40 watts per channel into 4 ohms with all channels driven
  • bridgeable to 80 watts into 8 ohms with all channels driven
  • frequency response: 5-25,000 Hz (-3 dB)
  • signal-to-noise ratio: 102 dB (20-20,000 Hz)
  • total harmonic distortion: 0.05% (at 1kHz)
  • BusMatrix™ Selector allows four audio options for each channel: left, right, left plus right (mono), or the channel's dedicated input
  • independent level controls for all 12 channels
  • three turn-on modes: music sense, voltage trigger, and manual
  • gold-plated 5-way binding post speaker connectors spaced to accommodate dual banana plugs
  • cascade outputs for "daisy-chaining" amplifiers
  • independent thermal and short-circuit protection circuits for each channel
  • detachable AC power cord
  • weight: 35 lbs.
  • 17-1/4"W x 5-3/4"H x 17-1/4"D
  • warranty: 2 years
  • MFR # FG01704

What's in the box:

  • 12-Channel system integration amplifier
  • 6' AC power cord (3-prong IEC plug)
  • 2 Rack-mount ears
  • Installation Guide

Customer reviews for Niles SI-1230 Series 2

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4.5 out of 5 stars
36 reviews

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More details on the Niles SI-1230 Series 2

Stacey B.

Features & specs

General
Number of Channels 12
Power Output per Channel (8 ohms) 30
Power Output per Channel (6 ohms) ---
Power Output per Channel (4 ohms) 40
Frequency Bandwidth 20-20k
THD 0.05%
Minimum Impedance 4
Bridged Power per Channel 80 (x 6 channels) watts
Speaker Outputs 12
THX Certification No
Width (inches) 17-1/4
Height (inches) 5-3/4
Depth (inches) 17-1/4
Weight 35 pounds
Parts Warranty 2 Years
Labor Warranty 2 Years
Inputs & Outputs
Number of Inputs 7
Input Type RCA
Removable Power Cord IEC 3-prong
Level Controls Yes
Speaker Connectors Binding Post

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-1230 Series 2 is a high-current 12-channel amplifier that can help you interface multiple sources into multiple zones.

BusMatrix Selectors: Each of the amplifier's 12 channels are fully configurable. The unique BusMatrix selector found on each channel on the back panel, allows each channel to select the left bus input, right bus input, left + right bus inputs in summed stereo, or the channel's dedicated input via dip switches. Each channel also has independent rotary level controls.

Power Output: The SI-1230 Series 2 12-channel power amplifier provides 30 watts RMS per channel at 8 ohms, and 40 watts RMS per channel at 4 ohms with all channels driven. You can bridge adjacent channels to 80 watts RMS into 8 ohms.

Line Level Inputs: The SI-1230 Series 2 amplifier has a single gold-plated RCA input jack for each channel, plus a stereo bus input. If you are bridging any of the adjacent channel pairs, the single input from the even-numbered channel is used. The bus input provides an audio signal to all 12 channels.

Cascade Audio Outputs: The unit's Cascade Audio Outputs enable you to daisy-chain another amplifier, by connecting the preamp output of the SI-1230 Series 2 to the input of the second amplifier. 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 12 channels are configured in pairs (1&2, 3&4, etc.). Each channel can be used independently (30 watts) or bridged to provide more power (80 watts) to speakers in large rooms or for outdoor speakers. Each pair of channels has a bridging switch, which can be activated to provide a more powerful speaker output.

Speaker Terminals: The amplifier is equipped with binding post speaker terminals. The terminals will accept single- and dual-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 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: The SI-1230 Series 2 has 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.

Turn-on Modes: For convenience, the SI-1230 Series 2 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-1230 Series 2 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-1230 Series 2 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. A bi-color LED on the front panel will glow red if the protection circuit has been activated, or green to indicate the amplifier is operating normally.

Removable AC Cord: The SI-1230 Series 2 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

7 questions already asked

Q
Will this have enough power to drive 5 outdoor speakers (Klipsch AWR-650s)? The speakers are stereo (4 wires). They will be about 40-60' away from the amp.
faiz  Mar 30, 2022
1 answer
A
Hey Faiz, Looking at your amp it has 480 total watts available depending how you bridge your outputs. That is plenty of power to drive these speakers. I drive two with a sonos 125 x 2 at 8 ohm amp and the speakers sing! I also have them well over 60' from the amp.
kenny  Mar 30, 2022
Q
I would like to replace my Niles 1260 with the 1230, but the 1230 has half of the cascade audio outputs as the 1260. Is there a a way to replace the 1260 with the 1230 if my current 1260 setup is using all cascade outputs?
justin  Jul 16, 2021
1 answer
A
Thanks for your question. For information on comparing two or more models I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to help determine the differences and help you make the best choice for your system and your budget.
kenneth  Jul 26, 2021 (Staff)
Q
Is the audio input on the SI-1230 digital or analog? I want to drive this amp with a Sonos connect, and the three options for audio out of the Sonos are: analog audio, digital coax, and fiber optic. Which options are possible for audio in with the SI-1230 and which are best? (I want to use the same music source to all channels, by the way).
suleiman  Dec 12, 2019
5 answers
A
if you only use one Sonos connect you will only have the ability to run one zone. I have 6 connects on the amp and consequently 6 zones. You will have to connect to the cascade input and set the switches for the other channels to use the cascade input that means when you turn on all speakers will play at same time without any separate controls for each speaker. You will have one zone with six speakers if the speakers are connected directly to the amp.
ken  Jan 06, 2020
A
The only inputs are analog.
marcelo  Jan 06, 2020
A
The SI-1330 has RCA analog inputs. I have a Sonos connected to it. Wonderful performance at a fair price,
richard  Jan 06, 2020
A
Analog input only. There is NO decoding or processing ability, or pre-amp function (outside of the small volume corrections for each channel. This is a power amp only.
eugene yuanzhi  Jan 06, 2020
A
Our low volt guy suggested this product and set it up...sorry, I don't have an answer for you.
bonnie  Jan 06, 2020
Q
With this amp, how would I get more watts per channel if using it to power a 7.2 channel home theater ?
erick  Nov 06, 2019
2 answers
A
As long as your speakers are 8 ohms, you can bridge the channels to get 80 watts RMS from them. You should do this for your front stage, and use the normal (non-bridged) for your surrounds. This would be the best way to do it. If you speakers are lower impedance than 8-ohms you cannot bridge this amp to get more power.
thomas  Nov 20, 2019 (Staff)
A
You can bridge 2-channels to get more power per speaker, but that means you'd only be able to power 6 speakers with this 12-channel amp (or you can bridge 6 channels for your FL, C, and FR and then power your 4 surround speakers with one channel each...this should be plenty of power).
adam  Nov 20, 2019
Q
Can I use a Russound SDB 6.1 speaker selector as a central volume control for a Niles SI 1230 amp? I am setting up system for 6 rooms, but the rear volume controls on the SI 1230 are annoying.
william h  Dec 31, 2017
1 answer
A
No. Selectors are for safely connecting multiple speaker pairs to the same channels of amplification. The SI-1230 is a multi-channel amp so you shouldn't need to use a selector with it. You can add external volume controls for each speaker pair (in-line on the speaker wire between the amp and speakers). If you want a single volume control for all of the connected speakers together, you can add an external pre-amp as the primary source input for the Niles. For additional assistance and personalized recommendations, feel free to contact the Crutchfield A/V Design Group: https://www.crutchfield.com/Institutional/diy.aspx
ryan  Jan 05, 2018 (Staff)
Q
I am looking for a product to hook up to an existing, wired home speaker system. There are 11 pairs of in-ceiling speakers. I have 4 rooms (main living area) set up on an airport express and receiver, so we can play from itunes or any ios device. I would like to allow the kids to each play their own music from an ipod or iphone to their own speakers. Had considered doing this with individual airport expresses + a T class amplifier. It looks like this SI1230 would allow us to all play our own music in our own rooms, if desired. The only thing better would be not having to purchase 5 or 6 airport expresses. Maybe there is a small airplay enabled receiver for each set of speakers?
doobsdad  Aug 27, 2015
3 answers
A
I'm not sure I can fully answer your question. However, I use the SI1230 to take a pre-amp output from my surround sound system to power speakers in other rooms for music. Since the surround sound receiver is just one audio source, all of the remote speakers play the same music. In other words, if I had multiple audio pre-amp output sources, I could send them to individual channels in the SI1230 to play different music in each room. However, those individual audio sources would have to be either locally placed where the music is intended to be played and then wired back to the SI1230, which typically isn't possible, or they need to be stacked with the SI1230 and somehow remotely controlled. For your situation, I'm not sure how you intend on connecting the airport express to the SI1230. The SI1230 only has RCA type connectors to take in a pre-amp type signal. I don't know much about the airport express, but it looks like it only has a mini jack output and only one apple device can use it at a time. So if more than one of your kids would want to play music in their rooms, there would have to be more than one airport express wired into the SI1230 (see paragraph above). Not sure if that is what you were thinking but like I said, I haven't used an airport express. I forgot to mention that I had to bridge my channels in the SI1230 to get enough power output to my speakers. So that only gave me 6 total channels to use. My advice....go with a local solution in each room and don't try to use the ceiling speakers. It generally takes a lot of hardware to power up multiple speakers in multiple rooms with multiple audio sources, and it gets very expensive. It generally requires an audio specialist to sell and install it for you. There are much better wireless options like SONOS that can give you quality sound. Hope that helps.
mike  Aug 30, 2015
A
The SI-1230 does not have the ability to play different music on different speakers. It has limited volume control for individual speakers, but the same music must come out of all speakers.
peter  Aug 28, 2015
A
The Niles SI-1230 is nothing more than a 12 channel power amplifier capable of driving 6 sets of stereo speakers. Two sets of 8 ohm speakers can be connected to any of the 6 stereo outputs, so if all 11 pairs of speakers are 8 ohms, all could be connected -- 2 sets to each output. The SI-1230's inputs can be bussed (all receive a single input source) or can be individually sourced, which is what I think you're asking about. If you want each of the 6 outputs to have individually selectable inputs, you probably do need 6 receivers. I'm not familiar with what kind of airport express receivers are available.
robert  Aug 28, 2015
Q
Bought a Niles 1230 SI was running my IPhone thru the AMP and all was well and then one of the red lights with out and only one speaker in each room was operating.. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance
tony cummings  May 27, 2014
1 answer
A
If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. They can walk you through the settings on the product and see if there may be a fix. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer. You can also post your question in our forums: http://community.crutchfield.com. Or try our online support center: http://crutchfield.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/kw/.
kristina  May 28, 2014 (Staff)
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