Introduction to the Penton TERRA-AMP (ITM003605) and its key features
Product:Penton TERRA-AMP IP/PoE Amplified Audio Terminal, 2 715W, Mic/Line, SIP, ITM003605Subtitle:IP/PoE Amplified Paging Terminal (2 715W)
The Penton TERRA-AMP (ITM003605) is a compact, networked IP audio endpoint that combines SIP/network audio functionality with on-board analogue amplification. Designed for paging, public address, intercom and background music applications, the TERRA-AMP supports bidirectional audio, a balanced mic/line input, balanced line outputs and direct speaker drive via two independent 15 W amplifier channels. It supports common codecs and network streaming modes, and offers local storage and scheduling options on later variants. For sites seeking a flexible, space-saving IP audio solution with built-in amplification, the TERRA-AMP is positioned as a strong contender.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The TERRA-AMP delivers 2 715 W into 8 5ounding channels ( independent), enabling small to medium speaker configurations without the need for a separate amplifier. Key audio specs include a balanced mic/line input with a wide 20 Hz 60Hz bandwidth, stereo-capable balanced line outputs (or two mono outputs), and a front-panel headphone mini-jack for local monitoring.
Benefits:The on-board amplification reduces system complexity and rack-space requirements, simplifies cabling and can lower total installation cost when compared with a separate amplifier and IP decoder combination. Independent channels allow simple stereo or dual-zone arrangements from a single compact device.
On the network side, the TERRA-AMP supports SIP for integration with standard VoIP/PBX platforms, and multicast/unicast streaming for distributed audio. Supported codecs include G.711, G.722, G.726, G.727, G.729 and MP3; some G2 variants add AAC+ support. These codecs balance low-latency paging and intercom calls with higher-quality streaming for music and recorded content.
Benefits:SIP compatibility makes the unit easy to fit into existing telephony environments for paging from desk phones and paging servers. Multicast and unicast streaming allow flexible deployment in single- or multi-site systems while preserving network bandwidth through appropriate configuration.
The terminal includes 3 contact inputs and 2 relay outputs, plus an RS-232 Euro block for external control and integration. Later G2 models add improved removable storage options: a USB port and SD card support (noted up to 512 GB in some documentation) for playlists, schedule files and pre-recorded messages. Internal memory is modest (around 200 MB on some variants) but sufficient for system audio messages and configuration data.
Benefits:Contact and relay I/O allow local triggering of messages or interfacing with alarm and building management systems. Local storage plus scheduler capability makes the device useful for unattended playback scenarios such as timed announcements and background music rotation.
Power options include PoE/PoE+ or an external 24 V DC supply. The device draws approximately 5.7 W when operating in basic PoE mode and can reach higher consumption when driving the amplifiers; for full 2 715 W amplifier output a PoE+ source or 24 V DC supply is recommended. Physically the unit is compact (approx. 109 7 104 7 32 mm) and lightweight (~0.46 kg), which helps when mounting in constrained locations.
Benefits:PoE connectivity reduces wiring complexity and allows placement where AC power outlets are not convenient. The compact footprint makes it easy to conceal the terminal near speaker clusters, behind counters or in AV cabinets.
Use cases and scenarios where the TERRA-AMP excels
- Retail stores:Small-to-medium shops can use a single TERRA-AMP to serve background music and live paging, driving a pair of speakers in a store zone while connecting to the store phone system via SIP.
- Education and classrooms:Lectures, classroom paging and corridor notifications benefit from the units bidirectional audio and local mic input. Integrators can implement scheduled bell tones or recorded messages from local storage.
- Hospitality and restaurants:Hotels, bars and restaurants can use the TERRA-AMP for zone paging, ambient music and event announcements, with local storage enabling music playlists without continuous streaming from a central server.
- Corporate offices:Reception desks and meeting-room zones can be served by TERRA-AMPs for PA announcements integrated with corporate PBX and AV control systems via RS-232 or relay I/O.
- Transport hubs and small terminals:For smaller concourses or station platforms the device supports paging, pre-recorded messages and alarm-triggered announcements using contact inputs and relay outputs.
In each of these scenarios the compact size, PoE option and integrated amplification make deployment simpler and often more cost-effective than multiple separate devices.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
Within the IP audio space there are several categories of competing solutions: pure network audio decoders (that require external amplifiers), IP amplifiers (like the TERRA-AMP), and full PA system controllers. Compared with pure decoders, the TERRA-AMPs integrated 2 715 W amplification reduces the need for additional rack-mounted amplifiers and simplifies installations in small zones.
Against other IP amplifiers, the TERRA-AMP is competitive on codec support and SIP interoperability while offering the convenience of local storage (on G2 variants) and multiple I/O options. Some higher-end networked amplifiers deliver more power or multi-channel DSP, which is beneficial in large or acoustically challenging environments; those products are aimed at specialist AV integrators and larger venues. The TERRA-AMP sits in the small-to-medium zone niche where compactness, price and network capability are balanced.
Key decision points when comparing the TERRA-AMP to other options are:
- Power requirements:If you need multi-hundred-watt zones, a larger amplifier or distributed amplifier array will be necessary. For small zones, TERRA-AMPs 2x15 W is often sufficient.
- Codecs and fidelity:Models with AAC+ or higher bitrate options may offer better music quality. Verify the firmware variant (G2 vs original) if music fidelity is a priority.
- Integration:< /strong> If deep, centralized control with advanced DSP or mass notification is required, a dedicated PA controller may be preferable.
