The Elipson Connect 250 is a class D integrated amplifier delivering 2 × 50 watts at 4 ohms. Compact (240 g), it features network capabilities that allow you to connect a pair of passive speakers to a multiroom audio system. Designed for discreet integration, it meets the needs of new home audio uses, especially in the context of streaming and connected listening.
A Metal Chassis Designed for Absolute Discretion
The Connect 250 adopts a remarkably compact cubic format: 120 × 30 × 120 mm for just 240 grams. This extreme miniaturization is based on a fully metal chassis that ensures both rigidity and optimal heat dissipation for the digital amplification. The robust construction allows use in various environments, including damp rooms, thanks to the protective caps provided for the rear audio connections.
The device stands out for its modular design, allowing wall or ceiling installation using the two supplied metal brackets. This installation flexibility, combined with the remote infrared sensor on a cable, enables completely invisible integration in a false ceiling, behind furniture, or in any technical cavity. The top panel features minimalist touch controls for power and volume adjustment, while three discreet LEDs on the front indicate connectivity status: red for the auxiliary input, blue for Bluetooth, green for Wi-Fi.
The connectivity, protected by removable rubber caps, includes screw terminals for 4/8 ohm speakers, an RJ45 Ethernet port, a 3.5 mm mini-jack auxiliary input, a mini-jack line output for chaining with a second amplifier, and a socket for the infrared repeater. The external 24V/5A (120W) power supply moves the mains transformation outside the unit, contributing to the overall compactness while limiting electromagnetic interference in the main enclosure.
Class D Digital Amplification and Measured Performance
At the heart of the Connect 250, a class D digital amplification module delivers a comfortable 2 × 50 watts at 4 ohms and 2 × 30 watts at 8 ohms. This switching amplification technology offers several advantages in this compact format: energy efficiency above 90%, minimal heat output, and no bulky toroidal transformer. Total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) remains below 0.1% at 1 kHz, reflecting careful design despite the miniaturization.
The signal-to-noise ratio reaches 102 dB, a remarkable value for this category of device, ensuring appreciable silence even at low volume. The input sensitivity of 300 mV allows compatibility with most analog sources, while the maximum input voltage of 1.5 V RMS provides a comfortable margin against saturation. The integrated digital-to-analog converter processes streams up to 24 bits/44.1 kHz, corresponding to CD quality and current high-definition streaming standards.
Automatic standby after 30 minutes of inactivity limits power consumption to less than 0.5 watts, in line with European environmental standards. Wake-up is instantaneous upon detection of an audio signal or by pressing the remote control, making daily use completely seamless.
Advanced Network Connectivity and Multiroom Integration
The Connect 250 features dual 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) and Ethernet network controllers, ensuring a stable connection to streaming services. The Bluetooth 5.0 module with SBC codec allows direct streaming from any mobile device within a range of about 10 meters. This dual wireless connectivity enables various uses: high-quality streaming via Wi-Fi for critical listening, or quick Bluetooth connection for on-the-go use.
The Elipson mobile app, available on iOS and Android, is the system’s nerve center. It provides direct access to major streaming services Spotify, Deezer, Qobuz, Tidal, as well as thousands of global web radios via TuneIn. The interface also allows playback of music files stored on a NAS server or a computer on the local network. Five radio presets, which can be stored directly from the remote control, make it easy to access favorite stations.
The multiroom function, compatible with the entire Elipson Connect range, allows synchronization of up to 10 zones depending on network quality. Each amplifier can be individually renamed via the app for clear identification (living room, bedroom, kitchen, etc.). Playback can be identical in all rooms or differentiated by zone, with individual volume and source control for each amplifier.
Meeting the Needs of Modern Home Audio
The Connect 250 is part of Elipson’s “Connected Audio” strategy for 2021, aiming to make multiroom audio systems accessible to all. Its design addresses several contemporary challenges: integration into small spaces (studio, bedroom, kitchen), reuse of existing passive speakers, and simplified access to streaming services without a complex system.
Wall or ceiling installation, combined with the remote infrared repeater, allows configurations impossible with a traditional amplifier. In a bathroom with waterproof built-in speakers, the amplifier can be hidden in the false ceiling while remaining controllable. For commercial installations (restaurant, shop, medical office), the robust construction and protected connections ensure long-term reliability.
Compatibility with other Elipson Connect products, notably the W35 wireless speaker, the Music Centre Connect HD, and the Connect Wi-Fi Receiver, allows the system to be expanded as needed. This modular approach prevents premature obsolescence by allowing new zones to be added without replacing the existing installation.
