Valcom S-560 20 Watt Wall Mount Attenuator

Overview

The Valcom S-560 is a 20 watt wall-mounted attenuator designed to control audio output levels from speakers and horns without requiring changes to existing speaker wiring connections. This passive device simplifies audio system configuration by allowing technicians to set speaker volume at the mounting point rather than at the amplifier source, reducing the need for rewiring during commissioning or reconfiguration.

Key Features

• 20 Watt Power Rating: Handles standard speaker installations in commercial audio and public address applications
• Wall Mount Form Factor: Compact, permanent installation at speaker location for direct level adjustment
• Tap-Select Audio Levels: Permits selection of multiple audio levels without altering existing speaker wiring connections
• Stainless Steel Construction: Durable metal enclosure suitable for indoor commercial environments
• Microphone Support: Compatible with microphone input applications for integrated audio systems
• No Rewiring Required: Simplifies installation by allowing audio level changes at the speaker without modifying amplifier connections or speaker runs
• Passive Design: Operates without external power, reducing maintenance and installation complexity

Integration and Compatibility

The S-560 integrates into existing speaker systems by tapping speaker-level audio and providing switchable attenuation options. This approach preserves the integrity of installed speaker wiring while offering flexible volume control. The attenuator is compatible with standard horn and speaker loads commonly deployed in commercial audio systems, including classroom, office, and facility-wide paging installations.

Deployment Scenarios

Security integrators and audio technicians deploy the S-560 when standardized speaker installations require variable volume output at specific zones or when system commissioning demands non-destructive audio level adjustment. The wall mount design integrates seamlessly into finished spaces without requiring conduit modifications or additional infrastructure. The S-560 (often searched as S 560) is particularly suited for retrofit applications where rewiring costs or structural constraints limit amplifier-side adjustments.

Ted Perry

Perspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.

I've specified the Valcom S-560 in several multi-zone audio deployments where client requirements shifted after initial amplifier configuration. The S-560 provides a straightforward passive solution without the cost and complexity of running new control lines or changing amplifier settings. For integrators managing retrofit paging systems, this attenuator eliminates the need to expose or modify existing speaker runs.

Technical Highlights:

• Passive Attenuation: Speaker-level input design eliminates power supply dependencies and reduces points of failure
• Tap-Based Level Selection: Multiple fixed output levels provide discrete volume choices without requiring variable controls or external adjustment
• 20W Capacity: Suitable for standard commercial audio horns and speakers found in office and facility installations
• Microphone Integration: Audio input support allows the S-560 to serve mixed-source applications where microphone and speaker outputs require unified level control

Deployment Considerations:

• Install the S-560 at the speaker mounting point to minimize audio cable runs and simplify troubleshooting during system verification
• Confirm speaker impedance and wattage rating compatibility with the 20W design before installation to ensure proper attenuation performance
• Use the tap-select levels during commissioning to identify optimal volume settings for each zone without revisiting amplifier racks
• Stainless steel construction provides corrosion resistance in typical office and commercial environments; confirm suitability for high-moisture or outdoor applications with the manufacturer

For installers working within budget constraints or managing systems with complex wiring layouts, the S-560 delivers straightforward passive level control without requiring additional infrastructure investment. Its wall-mount design and direct speaker-level input make it a practical choice for retrofits and phased system expansions.