Parasound ZM12 12-Zone Channel Amplifier

12-Zone Audio Power—Compact, Precise, and Ready

The ZM12 packs twelve channels of powerful amplification into a compact 2U rack unit—perfect for delivering music or voice across multiple rooms without taking up space. It combines robust power with flexibility, making it ideal for home or commercial multi-room sound systems.

The ZM12 powers 12 channels across 6 zones, with Zone 1 at 120 W/ch into 8 Ω (150 W into 4/2 Ω) and Zones 2–6 at 60/100 W. A Class‑AB input stage feeds premium Class‑D modules that are stable at 2 Ω, while A/B speaker outputs per channel (24 total) and stereo/mono per‑zone switching simplify real‑world wiring. Integration is painless with per‑zone audio‑sensing and 12 V triggers plus a speaker‑level input for systems without pre‑outs. 

Why installers choose it

• One amp, whole house: 6 independent zones with higher‑power Zone 1 for the main living area. 
• Flexible wiring: A/B outputs per channel (up to 24 speakers) and summed‑mono for single‑speaker areas.
• Easy automation & retrofits: Per‑zone audio‑sense/12 V triggers, bus inputs/loop‑outs, and a speaker‑level input when there are no pre‑outs. 

Specifications: 

Power Output : Zone 1 (Channel 1–2)
120 watts x 2 @ 8Ω
150 watts x 2 @ 4Ω or 2Ω

Power Output : Zone 2-6 (Channels 3–12)
60 watts x 10 @ 8Ω
100 watts x 10 @ 4Ω or 2Ω
Note: Power ratings are RMS, All Channels Driven (20 Hz - 20 kHz)

Minimum Speaker Impedance:
A+B Outputs of a Single Channel: 2 Ω
Note: Continuous operation at this minimum impedance might require additional ventilation for the amplifier.

Frequency Response:
20 Hz - 20 kHz, +0/-0.25 dB
5 Hz - 50 kHz, +0/-3 dB

Total Harmonic Distortion:
< 0.05 % at typical listening levels
< 1.0% at full power

Interchannel Crosstalk: 70 dB at 20 kHz

Total Gain: 29 dB (Level controls set to Maximum)

S/N Ratio: >112 dB, input shorted, IHF A-weighted

DC Trigger Requirements: +9 Vdc to +12 Vdc, 5 mA

Audio Trigger Requirements: 2 mV audio signal

AC Power Requirement:
1550 Watts maximum
150 Watts typical (audio playing on all zones)
55 Watts idle (all zones on)
15 Watts idle (one zone on)
0.5 Watts standby
100-250 VAC 50/60 Hz (automatic)

Dimensions:
Width: 17.25" (437 mm)
Depth: 14.5" (369 mm)
Depth, with cables: 16" (406 mm)
Height, with feet: 4.15" (105 mm)
Height, without feet: 3.5" (89 mm)

Weight:
Net: 21 lbs (9.5kg)
Shipping: 27 lbs (12.2kg)