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Avionics

Audio Panel Demo: Garmin, PS Engineering

Larry Anglisano
Verified

Edited By:

Omar Filipovic

The value of an onboard display with softkey command is apparent when you count the bezel controls on these modern audio systems. Garmin’s GMA 345 (the box at the top) has 18 controls, many performing double duty using alternate key functions. PS Engineering’s OLED display-equipped menu-driven PMA450C (bottom) has 10 hard keys. Both panels have a bezel-mounted USB-C charging port.

With Garmin’s popular GMA 340 reaching the end of its service life (Garmin’s Service Advisory 21115, rev. C spells it out), there’s a brisk market for slide-in replacements. Garmin’s GMA 345 and PS Engineering’s PMA450C do just that, while stepping up the audio control capability to a high level.

For the customer who doesn’t know better, we hear that many shops fall short in not even offering customers the PS Engineering option, let alone a good demo—which we think shortchanges the buying decision. Since these units perform so many functions, you need to try them before you buy them. 

Larry Anglisano

Editor in Chief Larry Anglisano has been a staple at Aviation Consumer since 1995. An active land, sea and glider pilot, Larry has over 30 years’ experience as an avionics repairman and flight test pilot. He’s the editorial director overseeing sister publications Aviation Safety magazine, IFR magazine and is a regular contributor to KITPLANES magazine with his Avionics Bootcamp column.