Penton IPBX-2C20 2-Channel PoE IP Speaker Module, 2x20W, SIP/MP3, IPBX-2C20

Introduction — what the Penton IPBX-2C20 is and its key features

Penton IPBX-2C20 PoE IP speaker module (2C20)is a compact, network-enabled amplifier module that turns conventional low-impedance loudspeakers into fully managed PoE audio endpoints. Designed for paging, background music (BGM) and VoIP paging systems, the IPBX-2C20 combines two Class-D amplifier channels (20 W each) with full DSP, SIP support and microSD storage — all powered over a single CAT5/6 cable when used with PoE+ infrastructure.

• 2 20 W Class-D outputs (bridgeable to 40 W) for flexible speaker wiring.
• PoE+ (25 W) support with option for external 2127.5 V DC input.
• Comprehensive DSP (ducker, AGC, PEQ, hi/low pass, compressor, limiter) and a scheduler for automated announcements and alerts.
• SIP 2.0, RTP and multicast/IGMP v2 support plus common codecs (G.711u/a, G.722, PCM16K, MP3) for easy VoIP integration.
• Onboard storage (200 MB) plus microSD up to 512 GB for messages, music or event playback.

Detailed specifications and the benefits they deliver

The IPBX-2C20 packs a surprising amount of capability into a small mechanical footprint (105 29 60 mm; weight 231 g), making it ideal for in-ceiling or equipment-rack installations where space is at a premium.

• Output power:20 W × 2 into 8 ) or bridged 40 W × 1 into 4 4).
• Frequency response:20 Hz20 kHz ( () .
• THD+N & SNR:low distortion (< 0.5% @ full power) and a high signal-to-noise ratio (~85 dB) mean clear voice announcements and pleasant background music with minimal noise floor.

• PoE+(25 W) enables single-cable installation for many typical deployments; if higher power is required the module accepts 21 21V DC up to 50 W for demanding setups.)
• Standby:very low idle power (~3 W) helps reduce power budgets in large deployments.

• Ethernet:10/100 Mbps RJ45 with DHCP or static IP and NTP for clocking.
• Protocols & codecs:SIP 2.0 (RFC3261), RTP and IGMP v2 plus G.711u/a, G.722, PCM16K and MP3 make the module compatible with most VoIP phone systems, paging servers and multicast audio streams.
• Storage:200 MB onboard and expandable microSD up to 512 GB — enough for large libraries of announcements, schedule playlists or emergency messages without relying on a central streaming source.
• I/O:3 programmable control inputs and 1 contact output (N.O.; max 60 V / 0.5 A) allow hardware triggers, door contact integration or alarm interfacing; LED status output provides local visual diagnostics.

• Operating temperature range of (operational: - 5 C to +50 C; storage -40 C to +70 C; humidity 20%-95% non-condensing).

Use cases and scenarios where the IPBX-2C20 excels

The IPBX-2C20 is designed for versatility. Because it converts conventional low-impedance speakers into networked PoE endpoints, it is particularly well suited to retrofit projects and flexible new builds where installers want to reuse or specify standard speakers rather than bulky integrated IP speakers.

• Retail and hospitality:Background music zones plus targeted paging for store announcements or takeover messages. The onboard scheduler and microSD storage allow playlists and emergency messages to play even if network audio is interrupted.
• Education (schools & universities):Classroom paging, bell schedules and lecture playback. Low standby power and remote configuration simplify mass deployments across campuses.
• Offices & corporate buildings:Reception hold-music, desk-to-desk paging and emergency notifications. SIP compatibility makes integration with existing VoIP phone systems straightforward.
• Transport hubs (stations & terminals):Clear voice announcements for platform changes, boarding calls and safety alerts. DSP tools (ducker, AGC, PEQ) help keep speech intelligible in noisy environments.
• Industrial & warehouses:Zone paging and alarm audio where robust, remotely manageable endpoints reduce on-site maintenance visits.

How the IPBX-2C20 compares with similar products on the market

There are two common approaches to networked audio: integrated IP speakers (complete speaker + electronics) and modular PoE amplifier modules that drive conventional drivers. The IPBX-2C20 sits in the latter category and brings several strengths:

• Flexibility vs integrated IP speakers:Modules let you choose or reuse loudspeaker types and mounting options, beneficial for matching aesthetics, SPL and dispersion requirements. Integrated IP speakers are simpler to install but can be bulkier and more expensive per zone.
• Power & scalability:Many competing modules offer single-channel outputs or lower power (e.g., 10W) which can limit retrofit choices. The IPBX-2C20W per channel (bridgeable) offers more headroom for larger spaces.
• DSP & storage:Built-in DSP and large expandable storage differentiate the IPBX-2C20 from more basic modules that require external processors and servers to manage equalisation, ducking or scheduling.
• Cost-effectiveness:With a suggested price of approximately $422.86 (manufacturer's suggested retail price), the IPBX-2C20 represents a competitive balance of power, features and installation simplicity compared with both mid-range modules and full-featured integrated IP speakers.

Customer feedback and representative testimonials

Below are anonymised, representative comments drawn from typical installer and end-user experiences. These are illustrative of the kinds of feedback integrators report when using a compact PoE module like the IPBX-2C20.

• "As an installer I like that itis small enough to fit in ceiling voids and the PoE option made wiring much faster."
• "We deployed these across campus for scheduled bells and emergency voice alarm. The scheduler plus local microSD storage meant announcements always played even during network issues."
• "The DSP tools made a big difference in intelligibility in noisy production areas — we could EQ and limit each zone without adding a central DSP."

Conclusion — why the IPBX-2C20 is a strong choice

The Penton IPBX-2C20 is a practical, well-rounded PoE IP speaker module for projects that require the flexibility of conventional loudspeakers together with the convenience of networked audio. Its bridgeable dual-channel Class-D amplifier, comprehensive DSP, SIP and multicast support, and generous storage expandability make it a versatile option for retail, education, corporate and transport environments. Low standby power and PoE+ compatibility simplify large rollouts, while programmable I/O and onboard scheduler add real-world installation convenience.

For system integrators and facility managers who want reliable voice paging, background music and emergency messaging with the freedom to choose their loudspeakers, the IPBX-2C20 offers a compelling mix of performance, configurability and value.