Powersoft S.p.A. is a worldwide company, headquartered in Scandicci, Florence, Italy, that specialises in design, production and marketing of high-end patented technologies for professional audio market. The company is globally recognised as pioneering energy-efficient technology, setting industry standards and driving innovation.
Company background
Founding and early years
Powersoft’s story begins in 1995 in a small kitchen in Florence, when Luca Lastrucci, Claudio Lastrucci and their childhood friend Antonio Peruch, combining their passion for music and technology, developed the company’s first project: a new, class-D amplifier that was able to reliably deliver high power levels – something which had never been achieved before. The company had no employees at the time but a lot of ideas that eventually led to the introduction of extremely powerful, efficient and innovative products into the market. Years later, Powersoft has become one of the leading companies in the pro-audio industry to produce advanced products and technologies based on three product lines: touring amps, installation amps and amp modules, with several patents and in the fleet management market as well.
Governance
The current board of directors has seven members and was appointed by the shareholders' meeting on 23 April 2024. It will remain in office until the date of approval of the financial statements as of 31 December 2026. [1]
Chairman Carlo Lastrucci
CEO Luca Lastrucci
Director Claudio Lastrucci
Director Antonio Peruch
Director Luca Giorgi
Independent director Antonella Diana
Non-executive director Lorenzo Lepri
Products and technologies
Powersoft has earned its place among the top names in power amplification.[2]
DIGAM 3000, 5000 and 7000 models were the first amplifiers with increased power density and unprecedented performance, the single rack unit saving space and reducing weight. The amplifier came with a number of firsts for the industry:
Switch Mode: When class-D amplification was still a challenge, innovation became a must. Higher efficiency, lower current draw, compact circuits and much smaller heat sinks compared with old fashioned linear amps.
Fixed Frequency: Extremely stabile and reliable, Powersoft fixed frequency switching mode technology guaranteed low noise leakage, low crosstalk and a deterministic behaviour suiting any and all powering levels.
Power Factor Correction (PFC): Powersoft was the first company to introduce power factor correction in power amplifiers: PFC made it easier to optimise power distribution, reduce cable gauge and minimise distortion on the power line.
2000 - Q Series
4 channels in 1RU. Powersoft R&D continuously optimised the design and performance of power amplifiers by providing a Series with even higher power density and more compact and versatile solutions.
DSP on board. Sound shaping and live performance optimisation at a level unachievable with external signal processors: the implementation of digital signal processor (DSP) on-board of power amplifiers heralds a new and innovative era of system controllability.
AESOP Networking: A de facto standard in signal routing through traditional Cat5UTP cables that makes highly scalable audio distribution and remote system management effortless.
Step-up card: Increase the output power without the need to change amplifier, allowing systems to grow as required.
The M Series consists of five models with two four-channel and three two-channel versions. The amplifiers come in a one rack unit chassis, 358 mm/14.1" in depth and weighing just over 7 kg / 16 lb.
High channel count, high power density, massive processing power. A culmination of twenty years of innovation, the X Series is a technological powerhouse with the most complete feature set of any amplifier on the market. The high channel count, extraordinary processing capabilities and high power output make the X Series suitable for any audio application.
Three Phase supply with PFC.
Worldwide power supply, suitable for single, bi and three-phase operation from 85 V to 440 V, DC – 400 Hz providing versatility and reliability in any power distribution design.
Built-in matrix and signal routing.
Non-Boolean channel assignment from any input to any output and any level offers limitless configurations: a versatile and cost-effective solution for any and all applications.
SRM. Enhanced efficiency by means of the Smart Rails Management system of dynamic rails modulation: lower idle consumption, lower audible noise floor, reduced EMC issues.
Dual redundant power supply + DSP + Dante
Maximum reliability and efficiency: Powersoft Ottocanali implements a redundant power supply that uses green technologies. DSP, Dante, a very high channel count and a full non-Boolean matrix make the Ottocanali the amplifier of choice for multi-zone installations.
Class-D power amplification platform designed for small- to medium-scale installations
The Quattrocanali Series also features patented Smart Rail Management (SRM) technology, which recycles the reactive energy coming back from the loudspeakers, helping lower overall power consumption, reducing heat dissipation, and keeping operating costs to a minimum
Quattrocanali DSP+D versions enable extensive amplifier control, as well as system and load monitoring via PC and ArmoníaPlus.
1 RU unit, designed for small- and medium-scale systems
Available in both 4-channel and 2-channel with per channel power ranging from 750 W to 3,000 W
Includes AES3 and Dante by Audinate inputs, which are optimised for daisy-chained distribution of 2-channel audio to multiple amplifiers with no need for external switches or splitters.
2 or 4 channel install amplifier in a ½ rack unit form factor
All models offer multiple analogue input options, and the 2 channel versions feature line-level outputs
AD versions of Mezzo add audio networking capabilities with DanteTM/AES67 and an internal Gigabit Ethernetswitch with a second port so that multiple products can share the same network
Control4 plug-in makes it easy for SIs to integrate Mezzo with one of the most popular systems for home automation and signals a renewed focus on the residential market for Powersoft[12]
Featuring four 4-channel models and four 8-channel models, Unica provides a comprehensive and consistent lineup, all packed into a compact 1RU form factor
Three configurable 1 Gb ports allow daisy-chain as well as Dante-redundant network topologies, via two operating modes: Switched and Split-Redundant. The Split-Redundant mode allows one port dedicated to control and two ports for Dante/AES67, allowing network traffic separation. Lastly, a dedicated network-security webpage allows advanced configuration to meet stringent network-security requirements.
The Power over Ethernet (PoE) input allows keeping the network ports and amplifier logic circuitry powered in case of mains loss, ensuring a short wake-up time when power is restored. Unica also allows monitoring of the loudspeakers and amplifier outputs circuitry without mains, when powered by PoE++.
Access to the amplifier’s status and general information is granted via the front panel LCD display, which is useful for troubleshooting, monitoring, and maintenance purposes.
Certified for use in naval applications when used with a purposely designed maritime kit; the rigorous testing that Unica underwent to earn the IEC 60945 and IACS-E10 certifications.
Streamlined device integration with Dolby Atmos Connect Patching allows users to input basic information from Dolby processors, seamlessly managed by ArmoníaPlus. This enables direct amplifier setup without external devices or software.
DC-powered compact amplifier engineered for ultra-high-end audio applications in theme park attractions
It allows driving loudspeakers, subwoofers, and haptic transducers for an immersive audio experience
Equipped with advanced heat dissipation capabilities, it can be installed in confined spaces without the risk of overheating
The built-in DSP allows for advanced signal processing, including equalization and delay compensation, all within a single unit
Available in 8 or 16 output channel versions, the DC Rider delivers outstanding power in a compact design. Each version provides up to 50 W per channel at 4 Ohms, with the ability to boost power to 180 W through its power sharing feature.
Within MyUniverso users can store and access projects and monitor systems from anywhere
Dashboard lets user manage all sites from a single page
Integration with ArmoníaPlus enables swift transfer of project files from the software to MyUniverso Cloud
Data is safe and user privacy is covered: any communication between the Cloud, Unica, and ArmoníaPlus is secured either behind encryption and authentication or behind login credentials.
Half RU device that links Powersoft amplifiers and MyUniverso Cloud Platform
Integrates with the complete Powersoft portfolio, spanning Unica, Quattrocanali, Duecanali, Mezzo, T Series, X Series, and WMT
The dual-isolated networking architecture enhances security, with LAN and cloud access separated for optimal protection
Transducers
2007 - IpalMod
DPC: Differential Pressure Control offered loudspeaker manufacturers an effective tool to arbitrarily modify the Thiele/Small parameters of the driver, adapting the transducer's physical characteristics to the acoustic design.
Zero Latency DSP: Real-time signal processing allowed for the transducer behaviour to be modified adaptively and ensured consistent system performance over time.
2013 - M-Force Technology
A moving magnet linear motor structure capable of truly unrivaled performance in terms of power handling, electromagnetic conversion, reliability and maximum SPL.
Adaptable to various purposes, including 4D cinemas, theme parks, or venues with vibrating acoustic floors
Mover can be used in direct-drive applications in which the transducer is anchored to an immovable surface and the moving magnet is connected to a movable surface, such as a floating floor or a chair.
Compact design, ultra-Low frequency extension, DC moving capabilities, no mounting plane limitations, adaptable for various purposes, external coupler allows to connect the transducer’s moving mass to the receiving surface, thermal protection: internal thermal switch.
Amplification modules
2002 - DigiMod 1000
A Class-D amplifier module with specifically designed DSP boards boasting advanced processing, remote control and networking capabilities, the DigiMod 1000 provided granular control of sonic parameters and performance. The introduction of signal processing on-board of active loudspeakers marked a huge step forward in system flexibility and customisation.
2007 - DigiMod 3000
PFC in Modules: At higher power levels, control over the AC mains supply and input power management became essential. PFC integrated into the amp module ensured power grid stability, less dissipation and improved system performance.
2007 - D-Cell 504
2010 - Litemod
2012 - DSP-4
Networkable amp module: Granular remote control of any single sound source; highly scalable and versatile performance management and sound shaping from single point source to high power complex sound systems.
2013 - MiniMod
2015 - LiteMod 4HC
2019 - Loto DSP
Safety multimedia devices
2013 - DEVA
The all-in-one multimedia unit with integrated solar panel. A Wi-Fi manageable multifunctional system that implements the latest generation technology for distributing audio signal across large areas and perform audio/video surveillance in any operating conditions.
Key technologies
Class D Technology - Introduced by Powersoft, switching technology that brought new levels of amplification efficiency to the industry
PFC – Powersoft has always been very focused on energy saving and the use of the Power Factor Correction (PFC) has been a trademark for improving performance and containing mains current draw and consumption.
SRM - In any amplifier output stage, the efficiency is a function of the difference in the output voltage delivered to the load and the rails voltage delivered from the power supply.
Recycling energy - This technology not only increases the efficiency of the amplifier, it also protect the loudspeaker from overheating by removing the reactive energy.
Active Damping Control - With Active Damping Control, the effects of the added resistance by the length of the loudspeaker cable, are automatically balanced.
Powersharing - enables part of the power to be shared across all output channels so that it can be used where it is needed the most.
DSP Technology - Signal processing in the digital domain is the operation that allows one to modify the audio response of a complex system. Powersoft, is always attentive to the sonic quality.
Audio-networking – Powersoft line of amplifier offers Dante™ either as standard or as an option on any model, for audio over IP networking.
Remote Control - Controlling and monitoring of a Powersoft amplifier can be done through ArmoníaPlus. With various levels of control are granted by the different models.
Monitoring and Diagnostics - The new ArmoníaPlus' Health+ function offers advanced status monitoring of the entire audio system.
Moving Magnet - Moving Magnet drivers are composed of a series of multiple permanent magnets that are mechanically held together and sandwiched between two coils.
Corporate social responsibility
Whether it’s sharing its passion for audio and technology at university programmes, supplying its products for charity events and art installations, or supporting charitable giving initiatives, Powersoft sponsors activities that align with its core values. Powersoft believes that that caring and sharing go hand in hand, and advocacy is the way it has chosen to give back to the community.
This attitude came to the fore during the COVID-19 pandemic, when restrictions on touring devastated the live sound industry. Despite a handful of initiatives, many touring crew were unable to work for the best part of two years, leaving tens of thousands of career roadies stuck in financial, emotional and professional limbo.
Promoter Live Nation took note of this upheaval early on and, in mid-2020, established charitable fund Crew Nation, which was intended to extend a helping hand to those hard-working touring and venue crews, many of whom had already fallen on hard times.
The fund, administered by charitable organisation Music Forward Foundation, was kickstarted by Live Nation with an initial US$5 million contribution, and a further commitment to match the next $5m given by artists, fans and employees. This endeavour even moved international superstars such as Coldplay, Miley Cyrus, Metallica and John Mayer to show their support and donate.
Over in Italy, one of the original countries to witness the devastating effects of COVID-19 first hand, Powersoft was also inspired to do what they could to help the touring and venue crews whose fortunes have been so intrinsically linked to the company since its inception.
With this in mind, Powersoft pledged to donate a percentage of the proceeds from all of the touring amplifier platforms sold between 27th July and 15th October 2020 to Crew Nation,[19] as well as launching an awareness campaign that was spread over several different media, including web banners, banner newsletters, social channels and in print in the international trade media.
Industry awards and recognition
2012
ProSoundWeb & Live Sound International The Readers’ Choice Award – Winner - M Series HDSP
2013
AV Awards 2013 Highly Commended – Winner - Ottocanali 1204
2014
ProSoundWeb & Live Sound International The Readers’ Choice Award – Winner - Ottocanali 12K4
ProSoundWeb & Live Sound International The Readers’ Choice Award – Winner - Deva
2015
ProSoundWeb & Live Sound International The Readers’ Choice Award – Winner - X Series
Install Awards 2015 – Winner - M-Force
2016
InAVation Awards Technology 2016 – Winner - Ottocanali Series
2017
Mondo DR Awards 2017 – Winner - Ottocanali Series
2018
InAVation Awards Technology 2018 – Winner - Quattrocanali Series
2019
ProSoundWeb & Live Sound International The Readers’ Choice Award – Winner - ArmoníaPlus
SoundVideoContractor Best of Show – Winner - Mezzo Series
2020
FOH Gold Star Product Award Most Innovative Touring Amplifier – Winner - T Series
ProSoundWeb & Live Sound International The Readers’ Choice Award – Winner - T Series
InAVation Awards AV Industry Influencer – Winner - Claudio Lastrucci
2021
InAVation Awards Corporate Social Responsibility – Winner - Crew Nation support campaign
InAVation Awards Best project of the year, Leisure & Entertainment Facility - Winner - Xi’an Olympic Sports Centre Stadium, China
2022
Mondo DR Awards Sustainability Award – Winner - Climate Pledge Arena
2023
Installation Best of Show at ISE 2023 – Winner - Unica Cloud Based Amplifier Platform
InAVation Awards Manufacturer of the Year – Winner - Powersoft
2024
Mondo DR Awards Stadium - Winner - Olympic Stadium of Ebimpé
InAVation Award Applied Technology – Winner - Sphere, USA
Powersoft has a global network of authorised distributors and certified technical service centers. This includes 67 distributors across 138 countries and 28 authorised service centres worldwide. [24]
