The PMA-450 is essentially a digital version of the PMA-8000BT (with Bluetooth connectivity).

The biggest advance is called IntelliAudio, and it comes courtesy of the United States Air Force. IntelliAudio provides True Dimensional Sound audio processing. When used with stereo headsets, the PMA-450 presents each audio source from a specific virtual location. For example, Com 1 will appear to come from the pilot’s 10 o’clock position while Com 2 will appear to come from the 2 o’clock position. This additional information helps isolate and indentify each audio source, even with simultaneous reception.

The digital processing makes audio very crisp and clear. The intelligent 6-place intercom provides automatic squelch.

The PMA-450 is easily configured, thanks to 3 soft keys and a digital display. In addition to 2 x Com and 2 x Nav inputs, there are 3 inputs that may be given customized names. This allows the label to match the actual installed equipment.

The PMA-450 is a direct slide-in replacement for the Garmin GMA-340 and PS Engineering PMA-8000 series. (However, please note that if a third COMM Transceiver is connected to the GMA-340, it will not be supported by the PMA-450. The PMA-450 supports Com 1 and Com 2 only.)

Other PMA-450 features include:

• Automatic voice activated 6-place stero intercom with 3 music muting modes
• 4 unswitched audio inputs for warnings (traffic, terrain, autopilot disconnect, radar altimeter, etc.
• Split mode, which allows the pilot to transmit on Com 1, while the copilot transmits on Com 2
• Marker Beacon Receiver and Indicator
• 2 hardwired music inputs, plus Bluetooth audio
• USB charging port, so you can land with a charged phone!