F03A - Receiver Esoteric - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL F03A Esoteric

Integrated Amplifier

OWNER'S MANUAL......3

MODE D'EMPLOI......29

MANUAL DEL USUARIO......55

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION

●DO NOT REMOVE THE EXTERNAL CASES OR CABINETS TO EXPOSE THE ELECTRONICS. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE.
- IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THIS PRODUCT, CONTACT THE STORE WHERE YOU PURCHASED THE UNIT FOR A SERVICE REFERRAL. DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT UNTIL IT HAS BEEN REPAIRED.
- USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.

IN USA/CANADA, USE ONLY ON 120 V SUPPLY.

Model for USA

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the equipment and/or the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Model for Canada

Industry Canada's Compliance Statement:

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Model for Europe

This product complies with the European Directives request, and the other Commission Regulations.

CAUTION

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

• The information in the following table is only applicable to products for sale in the People's Republic of China.
  ● The products sold in the European area are manufactured in accordance with the European RoHS Directive.

产品有毒有害物质或元素的名称及含量

1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
12) Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/ apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

14) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

●The apparatus draws nominal non-operating power from the AC outlet with its POWER or STANDBY/ON switch not in the ON position.

- The mains plug is used as the disconnect device; the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.

●Caution should be taken when using earphones or headphones with the product because excessive sound pressure (volume) from earphones or headphones can cause hearing loss.

WARNING

Products with Class I construction are equipped with a power supply cord that has a grounding plug. The cord of such a product must be plugged into an AC outlet that has a protective grounding connection.

CAUTION

• Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
• Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
• Do not install this apparatus in a confined space such as a book case or similar unit.
  ●The apparatus should be located close enough to the AC outlet so that you can easily reach the power cord plug at any time.
• If the product uses batteries (including a battery pack or installed batteries), they should not be exposed to sunshine, fire or excessive heat.
• CAUTION for products that use replaceable lithium batteries: there is danger of explosion if a battery is replaced with an incorrect type of battery. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.

Precautions concerning batteries

Misuse of batteries could cause them to rupture or leak leading to fire, injury or the staining of nearby things. Please read and observe the following precautions carefully.

• Be sure to insert the batteries with correct positive (⊕) and negative (⊖) orientations.
• Use batteries of the same type. Never use different types of batteries together.
• If the remote control is not used for a long time (more than a month), remove the batteries to prevent them from leaking.
• If the batteries leak, wipe away the leakage inside the battery compartment and replace the batteries with new ones.
• Do not use batteries of types other than those specified. Do not mix new batteries with old ones or use different types of batteries together.
• Do not heat or disassemble batteries. Never throw batteries into fire or water.
• Do not carry or store batteries with other metallic objects. The batteries could short circuit, leak or explode.
• Never recharge a battery unless it is confirmed to be a rechargeable type.

For European Customers

Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment and batteries and/or accumulators

a) All electrical/electronic equipment and waste batteries/accumulators should be disposed of separately from the municipal waste stream via collection facilities designated by the government or local authorities.
b) By disposing of electrical/electronic equipment and waste batteries/accumulators correctly, you will help save valuable resources and prevent any potential negative effects on human health and the environment.
c) Improper disposal of waste electrical/electronic equipment and batteries/accumulators can have serious effects on the environment and human health because of the presence of hazardous substances in the equipment.
d) The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) symbols, which show wheeled bins that have been crossed out, indicate that electrical/electronic equipment and batteries/accumulators must be collected and disposed of separately from household waste.
If a battery or accumulator contains more than the specified values of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and/or cadmium (Cd) as defined in the Battery Directive (2006/66/EC), then the chemical symbols for those elements will be indicated beneath the WEEE symbol.
e) Return and collection systems are available to end users. For more detailed information about the disposal of old electrical/electronic equipment and waste batteries/accumulators, please contact your city office, waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the equipment.

Contents

Thank you for purchasing this Esoteric product.

Read this manual carefully to get the best performance from this product. After reading it, keep it in a safe place with the warranty card for future reference.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 3

Before use....6

Precautions for use 7

Connections....8

Connecting speakers 10

Notes about the protection circuits....11

Connections for use as a preamp 12

Connections for use as a power amp....12

Notes about the remote control 13

Names and functions of parts (main unit) 14

Using headphones 15

Names and functions of parts (remote control)....16

Basic operation....17

Settings 21

Settings Menu 1....22

Settings Menu 2....23

Settings Menu 3....24

Restoring factory settings....25

Troubleshooting....26

Specifications....27

Dimensional drawings....28

Before use

What's in the box

Check to be sure the box includes all the supplied accessories shown below. Please contact the store where you purchased this unit if any of these accessories are missing or have been damaged during transportation.

Power cord × 1

Remote control (RC-1301) × 1

Batteries for remote control (AAA) × 2

Felt pads* × 4

Owner's manual (this document) × 1

Warranty card × 1

* Apply the included felt pads to the bottoms of the feet to avoid scratching the surface where the unit is placed.

• Place the unit in a stable location near the audio system that you will use with it.
• Do not install this unit in a location that could become hot. This includes places that are exposed to direct sunlight or near a radiator, heater, stove or other heating equipment. Moreover, do not place it on top of another amplifier or equipment that generates heat.
• Avoid locations that are subject to vibrations or exposed to excessive dust, cold or moisture.
• In order to enable good heat dissipation, leave at least 20 cm (8") between this unit and walls and other equipment when installing it. If you put it in a rack, take precautions to prevent overheating by leaving at least 20 cm (8") open above the top of the unit and at least 10 cm (4") open behind it. Failure to provide these gaps could cause heat to build up inside and result in fire.
• Do not install the unit face up or on its side.
• Do not place anything, not even CDs, CD-Rs, LP records or cassette tapes, on top of the unit. Do not put cloth on top of the unit or place the unit on top of bedding or thick carpet.
• Do not move the unit during use.
• Be careful to avoid injury when moving the unit due to its weight. Have someone help you move it if necessary.
• The voltage supplied to the unit should match the voltage printed on the rear panel. If you are in any doubt regarding this matter, consult an electrician.
• Do not open the body of the unit as this might result in damage to the circuitry or cause electric shock. If a foreign object should get into the unit, contact your dealer.
• When removing the power plug from the wall outlet, always pull directly on the plug; never yank on the cord.

Maintenance

Use a soft dry cloth to wipe the surface of the unit clean.

For stubborn smudges, use a damp cloth that has been thoroughly wrung out to remove excess moisture.

For safety, disconnect the power plug from the outlet before cleaning.

● Never spray liquid directly on this unit.
- Do not use chemically-treated wipes, thinner or similar substances because they could damage the surface of the unit.
- Avoid allowing rubber or plastic materials to touch the unit for long periods of time because they could damage the cabinet.

Note about pinpoint feet

High-precision metal pinpoint feet are attached firmly to the bottom plate of this unit.

Chassis Pinpoint foot (metal) Foot-stand (metal) Screws that attach foot-stand

The stands for these feet are loose, but when the unit is placed in position, it is supported by these pinpoint feet, which will effectively disperse vibrations.

- Apply the included felt pads to the bottoms of the foot-stands to avoid scratching the surface where the unit is placed.

Precautions when making connections

● After completing all other connections, plug the power plug into a power outlet.
- Read the owner's manuals of all devices that will be connected, and follow their instructions.
- Do not bundle connecting cables with power cords. Doing so could cause noise.

graph TD
    A["Record player"] --> B["CD recorder, etc."]
    B --> C["Audio input (AUDIO IN, etc.)"]
    A --> D["Speaker Impedance (A+B 42-182) (A+B 50-182) CLASS 2 WIRING"]
    D --> E["Super Audio CD player, etc."]
    A --> F["Speaker Impedance (A+B 42-182) (A+B 50-182) CLASS 2 WIRING"]
    F --> G["Super Audio CD player, tuner, etc."]
    A --> H["Audio outputs (AUDIO OUT, etc.)"]
    H --> I["Super Audio CD player, etc."]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#cff,stroke:#333
    style F fill:#ffc,stroke:#333
    style G fill:#fcf,stroke:#333
    style H fill:#cff,stroke:#333
    style I fill:#ffc,stroke:#333

A Analog input (INPUTS) connectors

Connect the analog output connectors of Super Audio CD players, DVD players, cassette decks, tuners and other equipment to these connectors.

Connect the R connector of a pair on this unit to the right (R) connector of an output device and the L connector of the same pair on this unit to the left (L) connector of the output device.

Use commercially-available cables for connections.

For XLR connectors: Use a balanced XLR audio cable.

Insert a balanced XLR plug until the connector lever locks. Press this lever when disconnecting.

For RCA connectors: Use an RCA audio cable.

Connect the white pin plugs to the white (L) connectors and connect the red pin plugs to the red (R) connectors.

- The XLR input connectors can be switched to 3 HOT (+) (page 22).

Connecting record players

This unit has a built-in phono equalizer. When connecting a record player, use the PHONO connectors.

- Always connect the record player's ground to the SIGNAL GND grounding connector on this unit.

- Use the PHONO MM/MC button to set the cartridge type being used (page 19).

B SIGNAL GND grounding connector

Using a commercially-available sheathed wire to connect this to the grounding terminal of a Super Audio CD player, power amplifier or other device might improve the audio quality.

● This is not an electrical safety ground.

C Preamp input (EXT. PRE IN) connectors

Connect an external preamp here to use this unit as a power amp (page 12).

D Analog output (PRE OUT/REC OUT) connectors

These output 2 channels of analog audio.

Connect these to the analog input connectors on another device.

When connecting these to a CD recorder or other audio input device, set the PRE OUT output (page 23) according to the use.

To use this unit as a preamp, see "Connections for use as a pre-amp" on page 12.

Connect the R connector of a pair on this unit to the right (R) connector of an input device and the L connector of the same pair on this unit to the left (L) connector of the input device.

Use commercially-available cables for connections.

For XLR connectors: Use a balanced XLR audio cable.

Insert a balanced XLR plug into the connector until it locks.

For RCA connectors: Use an RCA audio cable.

Connect the white pin plugs to the white (L) connectors and connect the red pin plugs to the red (R) connectors.

E Optional board slot

This slot is for installing optional boards that are sold separately.

F AC power inlet (\~IN)

Connect the included power cord to this socket. After completing all other connections, plug the power plug into a power outlet.

Use only a genuine Esoteric power cord. Use of other power cords could result in fire or electric shock.

At Esoteric, we use Esoteric MEXCEL stressfree cables for reference.

For detailed information, access the following website.

http://www.esoteric.jp/products/esoteric/accessory/indexe.html

Right speaker Left speaker R L SPEAKER IMPEDANCE (A+B 140-180) (A+B 360-180) CLASS 2 WRING SPEAKER IMPEDANCE (A+B 140-180) (A+B 360-180) CLASS 2 WRING INPUTS XLR 2 XLR 1 RCA 4 RCA 2 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCA 1 RCR SIGNAL OUT FIRE OUT/REC OUT XLR XLR RCA L R IN

Notes about speaker cables

• Use commercially-available speaker cables to connect the speakers.
• Use the shortest speaker cables possible. The longer the cable, the greater the resistance value and the more that damping performance is reduced. Moreover, length also increases impedance and capacitance, degrading the sound quality of high frequencies.
• Use left and right speaker cables that have the same length.

How to connect speaker cables

Use commercially-available speaker cables to connect the + terminal of the unit to the + terminal of the speaker and the - terminal of the unit to the - terminal of the speaker.

• Use speakers with at least 4Ω impedance.
• If you plan to output sound from two sets of speakers at the same time, use speakers with at least 8Ω impedance.
• If the exposed tip of the core wire of a speaker cable contacts another cord or terminal, a short could occur. Never allow a speaker cable to short.
• Do not connect more than one amplifier to a speaker.
• Do not bundle speaker cables with power cords. Doing so could cause noise.

The power plug should always be disconnected when connecting speaker cables.

Notes about the protection circuits

When using bare wires

Loosen the cap and insert the core wire into the hole in the terminal. Then, tighten the cap.

Diagram illustrating the process of connecting a cable to a motor, showing step-by-step assembly and rotation.

When using spade lugs

Loosen the cap and insert the lug between the cap and base of the terminal. Then, tighten the cap.

Illustration of a hand holding a cylindrical object with rotation arrows indicating clockwise motion (no text or symbols)

- When using a spade lug to connect, use one with an inside diameter of at least 8 mm (3/8").

When using banana plugs

With the cap tightened, insert the plug into the opening in the end of the terminal.

- Carefully read the instructions for the banana plugs that you are using.

Notice about the European model

In accordance with European safety regulations, connecting banana plugs to speaker terminals is not allowed on European models. The holes into which banana plugs could be inserted have been covered with black caps. Connect speakers using bare wires or spade lugs. If a black cap should become separated from its terminal, return it to its original position.

This unit has a DC protection circuit, an overcurrent protection circuit and an overheating protection circuit built-in.

When a protection circuit is operating, the ring around the POWER button blinks and one of the following error messages blinks on the display.

DCout ERR!

The DC protection circuit is active.

Turn the unit off once and wait several minutes before turning it on again.

OverCURNT!

The overcurrent protection circuit is active.

A short might have occurred with the +/- speaker cables. In this case, turn the unit off and check the speaker cable connections.

Over TEMP!

The overheating protection circuit is active.

The internal temperature has become high. Turn the unit off and wait a while for the temperature to decrease. You can also change the installation conditions to improve ventilation.

- If the overheating protection circuit continues to operate for 30 seconds, the unit will automatically turn itself off. After this, the POWER button will be disabled for as long as the internal temperature remains high.

If the indicator continues to blink even after likely causes have been eliminated, contact the store where you purchased the unit.

Connections for use as a preamp

Power amplifier AUDIO IN R L R L XLR audio cables Connect using a set of only one type. RCA audio cables

Connections

Use commercially-available XLR or RCA cables to connect the analog output (PRE OUT/REC OUT) connectors on this unit to the analog input connectors on the power amp.

Settings

Using Settings Menu 3, set the operation mode to PREAMP (page 25).

Precautions when making connections

After completing all other connections, plug the power plug into a power outlet.

Read the owner's manuals of all devices that will be connected, and follow their instructions.

Do not bundle connecting cables with power cords. Doing so could cause noise.

Connections for use as a power amp

Preamplifier AUDIO OUT R L X Audio cables

Connections

Use commercially-available XLR cables to connect the preamp input (EXT, PRE IN) connectors on this unit to the audio output connectors on the preamp.

Settings

Using Settings Menu 3, set the operation mode to PWRAMP (page 25).

Precautions when making connections

After completing all other connections, plug the power plug into a power outlet.

Read the owner's manuals of all devices that will be connected, and follow their instructions.

Do not bundle connecting cables with power cords. Doing so could cause noise.

Precautions for use

When using the remote control, point it toward the remote control signal receiver on the main unit from a distance of 7 m (23 ft) or less. Do not place obstructions between the main unit and the remote control.

Moreover, operation from an angle can make reception difficult, so use the remote facing the front of the main unit as much as possible.

Remote control signal receiver Eprex 7 m/23 ft

• The remote control might not work if the remote control signal receiver is exposed to direct sunlight or bright light.
• Beware that use of this remote control could cause the unintentional operation of other devices that can be controlled by infrared rays.

Installing batteries

Remove the cover from the back of the remote control and insert two AAA batteries with their / oriented as shown in the case. Replace the cover.

Technical line drawing of a mechanical device with labeled components and directional arrows (no text or symbols)

When to replace batteries

If the distance required between the remote and the main unit decreases or if the unit stops responding to the remote buttons, replace both batteries with new ones.

Dispose of the used batteries according to the instructions on them or requirements set by your local municipality.

CAUTION

Misuse of batteries could cause them to rupture or leak, which might result in fire, injury or the staining of nearby materials.

Please read and observe the precautions on page 5 carefully.

A B C D INPUT VOLUME POWER SASS MODULE TREELE TONE SYNKE PHOAO MIME BEASER SELECT BALANCE R OPEN MUTE PHONES F-G3A FGHIJKL M N

● The control cover is open in the illustration above.

A INPUT knob

Turn this knob to select the active input. Select the input that is connected to the device you want to use.

- You can change the names that are shown on the display for the connectors (page 22).

When the Settings Screen is open, use this to change setting values.

When inputting a source name, use this to move the cursor.

B Remote control signal receiver

This receives signals from the remote control. When using the remote control, point the end of it toward this receiver panel (page 13).

C Display

Shows the current input source name, volume, setting items, etc.

D VOLUME knob

Use to adjust the volume.

Turn this knob clockwise to increase the volume and counterclockwise to decrease it.

- The VOLUME knob will not affect input sources set to through output (page 24).

Sudden loud noises might cause hearing damage and other trouble. Always minimize the volume before starting playback, and adjust it to an appropriate level after playback begins.

E POWER button

Press to turn the unit on and off.

When the unit is on, the ring around the button lights blue.

• When not using the unit, turn it off.
• To protect your speakers, follow the proper procedures when you turn the unit on or off (pages 17 and 18).

F Control cover

Using headphones

G Tone controls

Use these to adjust the levels of different frequency ranges.

Turn toward + to increase the level, and turn toward - to decrease it.

Set to the ● mark for a flat response (no adjustment).

BASS

Adjust the level of low frequencies.

MIDDLE

Adjust the level of medium frequencies.

TREBLE

Adjust the level of high frequencies.

• These adjustments only effect the output when TONE BYPASS is off.
• When TONE BYPASS is off, "TONE" appears at the top of the display.

H TONE BYPASS button

Use this to turn tone bypass on and off.

Press at least three seconds to open the Settings Screen.

I PHONO MM/MC button

Set for the cartridge type (MM/MC) used by the player connected to the PHONO connectors (page 19).

J SPEAKER SELECT button

This selects which speaker connectors to use.

When the Settings Screen is open, press this to close it.

K BALANCE knob

Adjust the left-right volume balance.

L OPEN button

Press to open the control cover below the display.

M MUTE button

Press this button to temporarily mute the sound.

- When muted, "MUTE" blinks on the screen.

N PHONES jack

Connect standard 6.3mm stereo plugs here.

- When a headphone plug is inserted, speaker sound output will stop.

Line drawing of an electronic device with headphones connected to a power cord (no text or symbols)

Connect a headphone plug (standard 6.3mm stereo) to the PHONES jack, and adjust the volume to a suitable level.

When using headphones, be careful not to turn the volume up too much.

STANDBY/ ON OPEN/ CLOSE ▲ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10 0 DISPLAY REPEAT PLAY AREA INPUT VOLUME SETUP DIMMER MUTE e c f d ESOTERIC RC-1301

If both the main unit and the remote control have buttons with the same function, we only explain procedures using one of them in this manual. However, the other can also be used in the same manner.

• The buttons not explained here do not function with this unit.
  ● This remote control can also be used for other Esoteric products.

a Setting (STANDBY/ON) button

On the Settings Screen, use to confirm selection of some settings and to input connector names.

- This button does not turn the unit on/off.

b INPUT (^^/∨) buttons

Press these buttons to switch between input sources. Select the connector that is connected to the device you want to play.

When the Settings Screen is open, use this to change setting values.

When inputting a source name, use this to move the cursor.

c SETUP button

Use with Settings Screen Menus 1 and 2 (page 21).

d DIMMER button

Use to adjust the brightness of the display and indicators (page 20).

e VOLUME buttons (+/-)

Use to adjust the volume. Press the + button to increase the volume and the - button to decrease it.

- The VOLUME buttons (+/-) will not affect input sources set to through output (page 24).

f MUTE button

Press this button to temporarily mute the sound.

Press again to restore the volume setting (page 18).

- When muted, "MUTE" blinks on the screen.

Turning the unit on

1 Turn on the connected input source devices.
2 Press the POWER button to turn the unit on.

Line drawing of a portable electronic device with buttons and a central screen (no text or symbols)

POWER

The ring around the button lights blue.

- When using this unit as a preamp, turn on the power amplifier last.

3 Turn the INPUT knob to select an input source.

Line drawing of a portable electronic device with control knobs and a central display (no text or symbols)

INPUT

Simple line drawing of a hand holding a circular object (no text or symbols)

4 Play the source, and then adjust the volume by turning the VOLUME knob.

Line drawing of a portable electronic device with control knobs and a central screen (no text or symbols)

VOLUME

Simple line drawing of a hand holding a circular object (no text or symbols)

Sudden loud noises might cause hearing damage and other trouble. Always minimize the volume before starting playback, and adjust it to an appropriate level after playback begins.

Turning the unit off

There might be noise from the speakers if the unit is turned off suddenly. When you turn the unit off, follow the steps below.

1 If a connected device is playing back, stop playback.

- When using this unit as a preamp, turn off the power amplifier first.

2 Turn the unit's VOLUME knob counterclockwise to minimize the volume.

Line drawing of a portable electronic device with buttons and a central screen (no text or symbols)

VOLUME

Hand holding a circular object with an arrow indicating rotation (no text or symbols)

Always turn the volume to the minimum level before you turn the unit on or off. Failure to do so could cause sudden loud noises that might result in harm to your hearing or damage to the speakers when you turn the unit on.

3 Press the POWER button to turn the unit off.

Line drawing of a portable electronic device with front panel and control buttons (no text or symbols)

POWER

4 Turn off the connected input source devices.

Muting the output

Line drawing of a portable electronic device with buttons and a central display (no text or symbols)

MUTE

Press the MUTE button to temporarily mute the sound. Press again to restore the volume setting.

- When muted, "MUTE" blinks on the screen.

- You can also restore the sound by turning the VOLUME knob or by pressing the VOLUME buttons (+/-).

Opening the control cover

Igronsec OPEN

Press the OPEN button to open the control cover.

Tone controls

You can separately adjust the levels of low (BASS), medium (MIDDLE) and high (TREBLE) frequencies.

Diagram showing a device with a control panel and a hand gesture, labeled with polarity indicators.

The ● at the center marks the unadjusted level.

- These adjustments have no effect when TONE BYPASS is on. Before adjusting them, press the TONE BYPASS button so that "TONE" appears at the top of the display.

Tone bypass

TONE BYPASS

When TONE BYPASS is on, audio signals do not pass through the tone circuit before amplification.

When TONE BYPASS is off, "TONE" appears at the top of the display.

Setting the cartridge type

Set the cartridge type being used by the record player connected to the PHONO connectors.

PHONO MM/MC

Turn the INPUT knob to set the input source to PHONO before pressing the PHONO MM/MC button to change the setting.

Selecting speakers

SPEAKER SELECT

Press the SPEAKER SELECT button to cycle through the following speaker selections.

Adjusting the balance

Adjust the balance between the left and right output channels.

BALANCE L R

Dimmer

DIMMER

Each time you press the DIMMER button, the brightness of the display and indicators change as follows.

graph TD
    A["DIMMER1"] --> B["DIMMER2 (normal brightness)"]
    B --> C["DIMMER3"]
    C --> D["Off"]

- Even when set to off, the display will light at normal brightness for a few seconds when you press a button or turn a knob. If TONE BYPASS is on, however, this will not light when the tone controls are turned.

- In setting mode, the display lights at normal brightness.

Basic operation

1 Press and hold the TONE BYPASS button for at least 3 seconds.

Line drawing of a portable electronic device with front panel, buttons, and indicator lights (no text or symbols)

TONE BYPASS Press for at least 3 seconds.

The MENU 1 icon appears on the display.

- You can also press the SETUP button on the remote control.

Opening Settings Menu 2

When Settings Menu 1 is open, press and hold the TONE BYPASS button for at least 3 seconds.

- You can also press and hold the SETUP button on the remote control for at least 3 seconds.

Opening Settings Menu 3

Show "goto MENU3" on Settings Menu 2, and press the PHONO MM/MC button.

- You can also press the setting (STANDBY/ON) button on the remote control.

2 Press the TONE BYPASS button repeatedly to select the item to change.

• You can also repeatedly press the SETUP button on the remote control.
• When making settings, the MENU icon appears on the display.
• If you do nothing for 10 or more seconds, setting mode will end and ordinary display will resume.

3 Turn the INPUT knob to change the setting.

Line drawing of a portable electronic device with control knobs and a central display (no text or symbols)

INPUT

Simple line drawing of a hand holding a circular object (no text or symbols)

4 Press the SPEAKER SELECT button to complete making settings.

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SPEAKER SELECT

If you do nothing for 10 or more seconds, setting mode will end and ordinary display will resume.

- Settings are retained even if the power plug is disconnected.

In Settings Menu 1, you can make settings for the selected input source.

You can set the output level adjustment, phase inversion and input source name. You can set these independently for each of the inputs.

Adjusting the output level

Level>\*\*\*

You can adjust the output level for the selected input.

You can set this to values between -18.0 dB and +18.0 dB in 0.5dB increments.

The default value is 0.0 dB.

Note about settings and sound quality

The Level (output level adjustment) setting items affect the volume. This unit's microcomputer analyzes these settings and the volume level value comprehensively to conduct unified control of volume amplification.

For this reason, unlike ordinary amplifiers that pass audio signals through multiple circuits, these settings will not degrade the audio quality.

Phase inversion

PHASE>\*\*\*

This switches the phase of the selected input connector.

This can be used to reverse the phase of the audio signal output. If the XLR connector of the audio output device is pin 3 HOT, select INV.

By default, this is set to NOR.

NOR

No phase inversion

When using XLR input connectors, pin 2 is HOT.

INV

Phase inversion enabled

When using XLR input connectors, pin 3 is HOT.

Input source name

XLR1>\*\*\*

(This appears when the input source is XLR 1.)

You can change the names shown on the display for the unit's connectors when you turn the INPUT knob. You can set the names as you like (up to five characters).

EDIT

Use to change input source names.

Changing input source names

1 Show "EDIT", and press the PHONO MM/MC button.

You can also press the setting (STANDBY/ON) button on the remote control.

2 Enter the characters.

The cursor blinks beneath the character being input.

Use the INPUT knob to move the cursor, and use the VOLUME knob to select characters.

You can also use the remote control INPUT (∧/∨) buttons to move the cursor and its VOLUME (+/-) buttons to change the character.

3 When you have finished input, press the PHONO MM/MC button to confirm the change.

• While entering the name, the volume and input connector cannot be changed.
  • Available characters

English letters: A-Z, a-z

Numbers: 0–9

Symbols:!" # \$ % & ' () * + , - . / \ : ; <= > ? @ (blank)

In Settings Menu 2, you can make the following settings.

PRE OUT output

Illumination

Automatic display backlight off

Automatic power saving function

Volume display

You can also open Settings Menu 3 from this menu.

PRE OUT output

PREOUT>\*\*\*

Use this to set the output from the analog output (PRE OUT/REC OUT) connectors.

OFF

Disable audio output.

PRE

Preamp output is output.

Turning the VOLUME knob will change the volume.

REC

Input signals are output unchanged.

Illumination

Light>\*\*\*

You can set whether or not the rings around the INPUT and VOLUME knobs light.

The default setting is "AUTO".

AUTO

When the knobs are operated, their rings light.

ON

The rings around the knobs will stay lit.

OFF

The rings around the knobs do not light.

Automatic display backlight off

DPaOFF>\*\*\*

You can set the display backlight to automatically turn off if no operation is conducted for a certain amount of time. By default, the setting is ON.

ON

If no operation is conducted for 10 minutes, the display automatically turns off.

OFF

The display will not turn off, but it will dim to the same brightness as DIMMER1 to protect the display from wear.

- We recommend setting this to "ON" because brightness irregularities might occur if the same information is shown without change on the display for a long time.

Automatic power saving function

APS>\*\*\*

- By default, the setting is 30m.

If there is no audio input (continuous silence) from the selected input source for the set amount of time, the unit will turn off automatically.

- Audio input from input sources other than the one selected has no effect on the operation of the automatic power saving function.

30m

30 minutes

60m

60 minutes

90m

90 minutes

120m

120 minutes

OFF

The automatic power saving function is disabled.

Settings Menu 2 (continued)

Volume display

Vdp>\*\*\*

This sets the size of the characters and the units used to show the volume on the display.

L dB

Large characters show dB units.

The volume can be adjusted from -95.0 to +24.5 dB in 0.5dB steps.

N\_dB

Normal-sized characters show dB units.

The volume can be adjusted from -95.0 to +24.5 dB in 0.5dB steps.

L\_strp

Large characters show steps.

The volume can be adjusted from 0.5 to 120.0 in 0.5 steps.

N\_step

Normal-sized characters show steps.

The volume can be adjusted from 0.5 to 120.0 in 0.5 steps.

Open Settings Menu 3

goto MENU3

Press the PHONO MM/MC button to open Settings Menu 3.

You can also press the setting (STANDBY/ON) button on the remote control.

Settings Menu 3

Settings Menu 3 includes setting items related to amplification. These settings could result in damage to speakers if set incorrectly.

In Settings Menu 3, you can make the following settings.

Through output

Operation mode

Through output

THRU>\*\*\*

Set whether to use the input connectors as signal through connectors. By default, the setting is OFF.

OFF

No through inputs are set.

XLR1

XLR2

RCA1

RCA2

RCA3

RCA4

Only the signals from the selected input connectors bypass the preamp and are input directly to the power amplifier.

If you select inputs connected to an ordinary line-level device, signals that are too strong could be output to the speakers, resulting in damage to them.

"THRU" appears on the display instead of the volume level set by using the VOLUME knob.

For example, if you connect the pre-out connectors (for example, FRONT L/R) of an AV amplifier to this unit's RCA 2 connectors, and set RCA2 to THRU, you can use the speakers connected to this unit as the front speakers of the AV amplifier. (The AV amplifier controls volume adjustment when the input source is set to "RCA2".)

- The VOLUME knob will not affect the volume of the input connectors set to THRU.

Always connect a device that has a volume control to the input connectors set to THRU. Use that device to minimize the volume before switching the input source, and then gradually raise the volume level.

Restoring factory settings

Operation mode

AMP>\*\*\*

This sets the operation mode of the unit.

NORMAL

The unit will operate normally using its preamp and power amplifier.

PREAMP

The unit will be used as a preamp.

Use this setting when connecting the analog output (PRE OUT/REC OUT) connectors to an external power amplifier and not using this unit's power amplifier.

Regardless of the PRE OUT output setting made in Settings Menu 2, the unit's preamp output will be output from its analog output (PRE OUT/REC OUT) connectors.

PWRAMP

The unit will be used as a power amplifier.

Use this setting when connecting the preamplifier output from other devices to the preamp input (EXT. PRE IN) connectors on this unit and adjusting the volume with those devices. The input audio will be input directly to the power amplifier without passing through the preamp circuit.

You can restore the factory default settings, erasing all changes in memory.

Turn the unit on while pressing and holding the TONE BYPASS button.

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POWER

TONE BYPASS

If you experience a problem with this unit, please take a moment to review the following information before requesting service. Moreover, the problem might be caused by something other than this unit. Please also check the operation of the connected units. If this product still does not operate correctly, contact the retailer where you purchased it.

The unit does not turn on.

→ Check that the power cord is plugged into a working power outlet.
→ Check that the power cord is properly connected to this unit.

The unit automatically turns off.

→ This is because the automatic power saving function turned it off.
Press the POWER button on the main unit to turn it on. Change the automatic power saving setting if necessary (page 23).

Remote control does not work.

→ Turn the main unit on (page 17).
If the batteries are exhausted, replace both of them with new ones (page 13).
The remote control will not work if there is an obstruction between it and the main unit. Point the remote control toward the main unit and use it within 7 m (23 ft) of the front panel (page 13).

A television or other device is operating improperly.

The use of this unit's remote control might cause some televisions with wireless remote control functions to operate incorrectly.

VOLUME knob does not work.

The VOLUME knob will not affect input sources set to through output (page 24).

Volume display blinks.

The volume value exceeds the maximum total gain of this unit. Lower the volume until the display stops blinking.

An error message appears.

A protection circuit is active. Turn the unit off and eliminate the cause (page 11).
→ A short might have occurred with the +/- speaker cables Check the speaker cable connections (page 11).

The stereo sound position is irregular.

→ Check that neither of the speakers has a connection cable with +/- reversed.

This unit uses a microprocessor, so noise and other external interference could cause it to stop functioning properly. If this occurs, turn the unit off once, and then restart it after waiting for about one minute.

Speaker output

Rated output 30 W + 30 W (8 Ω)

60 W + 60 W (4 Ω)

Total harmonic distortion 0.006%

(1 kHz, 8 Ω, 30 W)

Frequency response 10 Hz - 100 kHz

(+0/-3.0 dB at 1W output)

S/N ratio....104 dB (IHF-A)

Damping factor....370

Minimum compatible impedance 4 Ω

Speaker output connectors....2 pairs (L/R)

(screw type)

Inputs

XLR connectors....2 pairs (L/R)

RCA connectors ....4 pairs (L/R)

PHONO connectors....1 pair (L/R)

(MM/MC switchable)

EXT. PRE IN connectors ....1 pair (L/R)

Input impedance

XLR, RCA 10 kΩ

PHONO (MM)....47 kΩ

PHONO (MC)....100 Ω

EXT. PRE IN 47 kΩ

Outputs

XLR connectors....1 pair (L/R)

(combined PRE OUT and REC OUT)

RCA connectors ....1 pair (L/R)

(combined PRE OUT and REC OUT)

PHONES jack 1

Output impedance

XLR, RCA 100 Ω

PRE OUT S/N ratio (at 1V output)

XLR, RCA input 110 dB

PHONO (MM) input....93 dB

PHONO (MC) input 75 dB

Gain

Preamplifier 24.5 dB

(when VOLUME at maximum)

Power amplifier....29 dB

Tone controls

BASS ±12 dB (63 Hz)

MIDDLE ±12 dB (630 Hz)

TREBLE....±12 dB (14 kHz)

General

Power supply

Model for Europe/Hong Kong....AC 230 V, 50 Hz

Model for USA/Canada AC 120 V, 60 Hz

Power consumption

Model for Europe/Hong Kong 290 W

290 W (when no signal)

Model for USA/Canada 290 W

215 W (when no signal)

External dimensions

445×191×468 mm (17 5/8"×7 5/8"×18 1/2")

(W × H × D) (including protrusions)

Weight 32 kg (70 5/8 lb)

Operating temperature....+5°C to +35°C

Included accessories

Power cord × 1

Remote control (RC-1301) × 1

Batteries for remote control (AAA) × 2

Felt pads × 4

Owner's manual (this document) × 1

Warranty card × 1

- Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice.

● Weight and dimensions are approximate.

- Illustrations in this Owner's Manual might differ slightly from production models.

Котякс 191 403 445

359 420 468

Dimensions in millimeters (mm)

Front panel of an electronic device with labeled ports and control knobs, including a 10Ω power supply and display.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

ATTENTION : POUR RÉDUIRE LE RISQUE D'ÉLECTROCUTION, NE RETIREZ PAS LE CAPOT (OU L'ARRIÈRE). AUCUNE PIÈCE INTERNE N'EST RÉPARABLE PAR L'UTILISATEUR. CONFIEZ TOUTE RÉPARATION À UN SERVICE APRÈS-VENTE QUALIFIÉ.

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AVERTISSEMENT

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POWER

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VOLUME

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VOLUME

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POWER

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MUTE

Igronsec OPEN

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TONE BYPASS

BALANCE L R

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INPUT

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SPEAKER SELECT

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POWER

TONE BYPASS

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CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

Silhouette of a person climbing a ladder inside a circular frame (no text or symbols)

Diagram illustrating the process of connecting a cable to a motor, showing step-by-step assembly and rotation.

Illustration of a hand holding a cylindrical object with rotation arrows indicating clockwise motion (no text or symbols)

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POWER

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INPUT

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VOLUME

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EcoTMEC MUTE

Igorac OPEN

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TONE BYPASS

BALANCE L R

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POWER

TONE BYPASS

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This appliance has a serial number located on the rear panel. Please record the serial number and retain it for your records.

Model name: F-03A Serial number