Introduction

The WHARFEDALE PRO WPR-26 (and its updated WPR-26 MKII iteration) is a high-power, studio-grade 2 x 6 loudspeaker and amplifier routing matrix engineered for professional audio environments. Designed primarily for retail demonstration showrooms, mixing studios, and commercial paging environments, this 1U rackmount router allows operators to compare different audio hardware combinations seamlessly. Finished in an eye-catching chassis with a bold digital display readout, it delivers an elegant, clutter-free solution for managing complex multi-monitor arrays without the friction of constantly replugging physical speaker lines.

Main Features

The technical foundation of the WPR-26 centers on its industrial-grade, high-power handling relays capable of safely routing massive power outputs (rated at 1000W+ to 3000W+ depending on the model generation) without introducing audio degradation, noise, or switching pops. The router accepts inputs from 2 independent dual-channel/stereo power amplifiers and distributes the active signal to up to 6 pairs of passive loudspeakers. To protect source amplifiers from dangerous impedance drops, the matrix is hardwired with an internal safety interlock that permits only one active speaker destination at a time. A distinct digital front-panel screen provides immediate visual confirmation of the active paths, while a dedicated infrared remote control and an external 6-meter tethered IR receiver module let you manage the entire rack safely from your optimal listening position.

Usage Scenarios
– Retail Audio Showrooms: Empowers sales professionals to demonstrate up to 6 distinct pairs of passive speakers driven by 2 different amplifiers at the push of a button.

– Recording & Mixing Studios: Allows audio engineers to sit back on the master couch and reference mixes instantly between main monitors, nearfields, and checking cubes.

– Commercial Paging Networks: Operates as a heavy-duty zone router for switching high-power public address amplifier lines across independent rooms or building sectors.

– Equipment Testing Labs: Provides a reliable matrix for benchmarking dynamic response and hardware tolerances across different speakers under identical signal chains.

– Hi-Fi Rehearsal Spaces: Simplifies passive speaker comparisons during multi-instrument tracking setups without creating workspace wire clutter.

Features
– High-power handling relay array switches high-wattage speaker paths smoothly without introducing line distortion or pops.

– 2 x 6 routing topology interfaces 2 stereo power amplifiers into 6 independent pairs of passive loudspeakers.

– Smart load protection logic restricts selection to one destination at a time to guard against low-impedance amplifier overloads.

– Convenient wireless IR remote control manages amplifier toggling, speaker switching, and system muting from up to 15 meters away.

– Tethered 6-meter IR receiver module allows the core hardware rack to be tucked completely out of sight.

– Dedicated front panel digital readout tracks real-time channel status and system selections in high-glare environments.

– Left Channel Only utility mode enables rapid mono check comparisons and space-restricted single-cabinet testing.

– Heavy-duty 5-way binding posts secure thick bare wire runs or standard banana jack connectors with pristine physical contact.

Technical Specs
– Chassis Form Factor: 19-inch, 1U Rackmount configuration

– Signal Routing Layout: 2 Stereo Inputs (Amp A / Amp B) to 6 Stereo Outputs

– Power Relay Rating: High-power capability supporting massive transient current loads (up to 30A per channel)

– Frequency Response Cleanliness: Linear 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (0.01 dB)

– Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): Less than 0.01

– System Residual Noise: Below -105 dBu

– Rear Terminal Ports: Color-coded heavy-duty universal binding posts

– Infrared Coverage Angle: 75 degrees at a 38 kHz modulation frequencyOperating Power Supply: AC 90–250V (50/60 Hz), auto-switching internal transformer

CK Music Staff Recommendation

The CK Music team recommends the WHARFEDALE PRO WPR-26 for commercial AV integrators, audio showroom managers, and multi-monitor recording studios that need a robust, hardware-based speaker switching array. Trying to build a custom DIY relay box to handle hundreds of watts of speaker-level current safely often introduces line noise, switching pops, or hazardous impedance loads. The WPR-26 solves this problem instantly out of the box with an industrial, rackable design, bulletproof internal protection logic, and a highly responsive remote control system that keeps your presentation environment running seamlessly.