M8 500S - Receiver Musical Fidelity - Free user manual and instructions
Find the device manual for free M8 500S Musical Fidelity in PDF.
| Type | Stereo Integrated Amplifier |
| Brand | Musical Fidelity |
| Model | M8 500S |
| Power Output | 500W per channel into 8 ohms (stereo) |
| Frequency Response | 10 Hz - 20 kHz ±0.1 dB |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | < 0.003% at 1 kHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | > 120 dB (A-weighted) |
| Inputs | 4x RCA, 2x XLR balanced, 1x Phono (MM/MC), 1x USB (DAC) |
| Outputs | 2x speaker binding posts, 1x pre-out, 1x headphone (6.35mm) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 440 x 150 x 400 mm |
| Weight | 22 kg |
| Power Consumption | 1000W maximum, < 0.5W standby |
| Color | Black or Silver |
| Features | Balanced XLR inputs, MM/MC phono stage, USB DAC (24-bit/192kHz), trigger input/output, mono/stereo switch |
| Protection | Overcurrent, overvoltage, DC offset, thermal shutdown |
| Cooling | Passive heatsinks (fanless) |
| Accessories Included | Power cord, remote control, user manual |
| Warranty | 2 years (may vary by region) |
| Remarks | High-current design, class AB topology |
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USER MANUAL M8 500S Musical Fidelity
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MusICAL FIDELITY Power 1.0 Power 2.0 Power 3.0 Power 4.0 Power 5.0 Power 6.0 Power 7.0 Power 8.0 Power 9.0 Power 10.0 Power 11.0 Power 12.0 Power 13.0 Power 14.0 Power 15.0 Power 16.0 Power 17.0 Power 18.0 Power 19.0 Power 20.0 Power 21.0 Power 22.0 Power 23.0 Power 24.0 Power 25.0 Power 26.0 Power 27.0 Power 28.0 Power 29.0 Power 30.0 Power 31.0 Power 32.0 Power 33.0 Power 34.0 Power 35.0 Power 36.0 Power 37.0 Power 38.0 Power 39.0 Power 40.0 Power 41.0 Power 42.0 Power 43.0 Power 44.0 Power 45.0 Power 46.0 Power 47.0 Power 48.0 Power 49.0 Power 50.0 Power 51.0 Power 52.0 Power 53.0 Power 54.0 Power 55.0 Power 56.0 Power 57.0 Power 58.0 Power 59.0 Power 60.0 Power 61.0 Power 62.0 Power 63.0 Power 64.0 Power 65.0 Power 66.0 Power 67.0 Power 68.0 Power 69.0 Power 70.0 Power 71.0 Power 72.0 Power 73.0 Power 74.0 Power 75.0 Power 76.0 Power 77.0 Power 78.0 Power 79.0 Power 80.0Instructions for use
Thank you for purchasing the Musical Fidelity M8 500S fully balanced dual mono power amplifier.
The M8 500S is designed to be partnered with present and future M8 series products. It is, in fact, based on the Titan design. It features a pair of twin high-current power amplifier sections connected in bridged mono configuration for the absolute best in dynamics and drive capabilities. Two generous over specified power supplies also ensure unsurpassed supply noise filtering, transient handling and massive power reserve possible in a single box power amplifier.
Phase splitting between the two internal amplifiers is achieved using a high performance fully balanced converter circuit with wide flat frequency response uniform in-band characteristics and immeasurably low distortion and noise.
Fully balanced as well as single ended inputs are catered for along with loop outputs for both types, to enable bi-amping etc. Trigger input/output allows the unit to be controlled/controller for switch on/off function.
This combination yields one of the best high-fidelity power amplifiers available at any price.
Used properly and carefully, it should give many years of outstanding musical reproduction.
Dust regularly with a soft duster or soft brush, but be careful when using cleaning or polishing agents - they may harm the surface finish.
If there are any questions about the product or related, please consult the dealer who is there to help and advice.
| S e c t i o n | ||
| Safety Information | - Mains plug (UK only) | 3 |
| - Modification warning | ||
| General advice | - Installation precautions 4 | |
| Disposal information | - EU disposal information 5 | |
| Installation | - Introduction, cleaning, installation, power connections, audio connections | 6 |
| Facilities and connections | - Illustrations, main unit front & rear panels 7 | |
| Operation | - Single ended (RCA) inputs | 8 |
| - Balanced (XLR) inputs | 9 | |
| - Speaker Bi-wiring | 10 | |
| - Starting | ||
| Problems? | - Basic fault finding 11 | |
| Specifications | 12 | |
| Manual history | 13 | |
IMPORTANT! (U.K. only)
This unit is supplied in the U.K. with mains lead fitted with a moulded 13 amp plug. If, for any reason, it is necessary to remove the plug, please remove the fuse holder and dispose of the plug safely, out of reach of children.
It must not be plugged into a mains outlet.
The wires in the mains lead supplied with this appliance are coloured in accordance with the following code:
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Green and yellow ... Blue.......... Brown..........WARNING – This appliance MUST be earthed
As the colours of the wires of the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in the plug, proceed as follows:
- The wire which is coloured green-and-yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or coloured green or green-and-yellow, or by the earth symbol:
- The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured red.
- The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black.
- If connecting to a BS1363 plug, a 13 amp fuse must be used.
WARNING:
ANY MODIFICATIONS TO THIS PRODUCT NOT EXPRESSLY APPROVED BY MUSICAL FIDELITY WHO IS THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE FOR STANDARDS COMPLIANCE COULD VOID THE USER'S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT.
Installation, Precautions & User Information
This new M8 500S is designed and built to provide trouble-free performance, but as with all electronic devices it is necessary to observe a few precautions:
- This unit features a BRIDGED speaker output and should NOT be grounded on either speaker output terminal as both red and black speaker terminals are effectively "hot", i.e. carry high current signals. Please check if using any active "sub", electrostatic, or other non standard potentially grounded speaker types directly connected to the speaker outputs of the M8 500S. Consult speaker manual or supplier if in doubt.
- Heed all warnings shown on the back of the product.
- Only connect the M8 500S to a mains outlet having the same voltage as marked at the back of the unit.
• Always ensure that when disconnecting and reconnecting audio equipment the mains supply is switched off. - Position the mains lead and signal interconnects where they are not likely to be walked on or trapped by items placed on them.
- Do not use near water, or place water-filled containers on the M8 500S, for example, a flower vase or potted plants. If water does spill inside, immediately pull out the mains plug from the wall socket and inform the dealer, who should then check the unit before further use. Entry of liquid into the M8 500S is dangerous, and may cause electric shock or fire hazard.
- Do not place the unit near direct heat sources such as radiators, direct sunlight or other equipment.
- Do not remove any covers or try to gain access to the inside. There are no end-user changeable internal adjustments or components. Refer all service work to an authorised Musical Fidelity agent. * Note: Unauthorised opening of the equipment will invalidate any warranty claim.
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth or soft brush but be careful when using cleaning or polishing agents - they may harm the surface finish.
- The electronics in modern hi-fi equipment is complex and may, therefore, be adversely affected or damaged by lightning. For protection of the audio system during electrical storms, remove the mains plugs.
If after-sales service is required, to help the dealer identify the M8 500S please quote the serial number located on the rear panel of the unit.
DISPOSAL
The crossed out wheeled bin label that appears on the back panel of the product indicates that the product must not be disposed of as normal household waste. To prevent possible harm to the environment please separate the product from other waste to ensure that it can be recycled in an environmentally safe manner. Please contact local government office or retailer for available collection facilities.
DISPOSITION
Congratulations on the purchase of the new M8 500S power amplifier. Great attention has been paid to internal layout, isolating each circuit section to prevent possible interaction.
The unit features two monoblock high current bridged amplifiers with generous supplies for the absolute best in transients and dynamics. With their high output current rating, these are enough to drive even the most demanding loudspeakers with ease. Low distortion and very quiet they will deliver all music types exactly as the artist originally intended. The resultant performance achieved by this unit is among the best in the world. It has excellent signal to noise ratio, low distortion, wide bandwidth and dynamic range, with extraordinary resolution and fine detail.
Cleaning
Before cleaning the unit, switch off power at the mains switch and remove the mains plug from the wall socket. Clean the cabinet and remote control unit using a moist cloth. Using solvents, white spirit or thinners is not advised, as they could damage the surface finish.
Installation
Position the M8 500S on a stable, horizontal surface where there is no risk of it being knocked, or subjected to vibration such as from loudspeakers.
Important note:
In normal operation, the unit dissipates a significant quantity of power at all times, and it is important that it is adequately ventilated. The top and bottom are ventilated to allow the smooth flow of heat through the unit. It is therefore not recommended that the unit is enclosed in a cabinet or placed where the ventilation holes are impeded as this could result in excessive heat build-up.
The M8 500S must be protected from humidity – if the unit is moved from a cold place to a warm room, leave the unit for an hour or so to allow sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate.
Power Connections
The M8 500S is supplied with a standard IEC mains cable which plugs into the IEC socket at the back of the unit (see page 7)
Audio Connections
XLR Inputs: Connect any XLR balanced source to balanced analogue inputs (see page 7 for more information). Use good quality fully connected (signals and ground) balanced XLR cables for all XLR signal connections.
The balanced input and outputs sockets are fully balanced, i.e. there is signal on both hot and cold signal terminals. Please ensure for maximum benefit, that any balanced leads used with this product are fully connected both ends and that the cold lead is separate from ground connection. Consult lead manufacturer if there is any doubt.
RCA Inputs: Connect RCA single-ended source to relevant analogue inputs (see page 7 for more information). Use good quality fully connected (signal and ground) coaxial phono cables for all RCA signal connections.
SPEAKER OUTPUTS: Connect loudspeaker(s) to the terminals on the back panel marked as SPEAKER OUTPUTS. Take care no short circuits can occur and all connections are firm and stable.
LOOP OUT: loop outputs (XLR and RCA) allow the input signals to be passed on to a second amplifier, or other component. This is useful for example, for bi-amping.
Cables note: Musical Fidelity does not make any interconnecting cables, nor do we endorse any particular third-party manufacturer's cables. If advice is required, please refer to the Musical Fidelity or other local Hi-Fi dealer who can demonstrate suitable quality cable(s) for any particular setup.
Trigger connections
Trigger input: Connect trigger output of controlling device to input socket. Use good quality 3.5mm jack cables (fully connected signal and ground) Unit accepts ±4 to ±15V DC trigger inputs. The M8 500S can then be switched on or off by remote device(s) connected to its trigger input.
Trigger output: Connect trigger input of controlling device to output socket. Use good quality 3.5mm jack cables (fully connected signal and ground). The M8 500S PWR then becomes the main controlling device and its power button will automatically switch on/off all devices thus connected to the trigger output.
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M8 by MUSICAL FIDELITY 1 2 31 POWER LED blue
3 STANDBY LED
2 ON/STANDBY switch
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4 5 6 7 RIGHT SPOKER OUTPUT RIGHT RCA INPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT BALANCED LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT BALANCED LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT RIGHT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT SPOKER OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT RCA LOOP OUTPUT LEFT SPOKER NUMBER 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 184 RIGHT SPEAKER OUTPUTS Insulated 4mm banana posts
11 RIGHT BALANCED XLR (male) loop output
5 TRIGGER input jack socket
12 RIGHT RCA loop output socket
6 TRIGGER output jack socket
13 IEC MAINS INPUT
7 LEFT SPEAKER OUTPUTS Insulated 4mm banana posts
14 LEFT RCA loop output socket
8 RIGHT RCA input socket
15 LEFT BALANCED XLR (male) loop output
9 RIGHT BALANCED XLR (female) input
16 LEFT RCA/BALANCED Selector
10 RIGHT RCA/BALANCED Selector
17 LEFT BALANCED XLR (female) input
XLR Balanced input and output lead connections:
(for reference only, no XLR signal leads supplied)
Pin functions:
1 Ground (cable shield)
2 Signal + (normal polarity or "hot")
3 Signal – (inverted polarity or "cold")
SINGLE-ENDED (RCA) INPUT
To use the RCA INPUT, connect RCA source outputs to the INPUT RCA sockets. Make sure the BALANCED/RCA switch is set for RCA.
flowchart
graph TD
A["Pre-amplifier"] --> B["BALANCED/RCA switches set to RCA (UP)"]
B --> C["LEFT Speaker"]
B --> D["RIGHT Speaker"]
B --> E["LEFT RCA output"]
B --> F["RIGHT RCA output"]
Rear view RCA leads connection diagram.
(Trigger and mains leads omitted for clarity).
Note: On the left hand speaker terminals, the two RED speaker terminals are internally connected together, and the two BLACK speaker terminals are also internally connected together.
Likewise, on the right hand speaker terminals, the two RED speaker terminals are internally connected together, and the two BLACK speaker terminals are also internally connected together.
The diagram above shows the speakers connected to the "outer" output posts. It is therefore also perfectly acceptable to use the inner output posts as they are exactly the same connections internally.
IMPORTANT: BALANCED/RCA switch
The BALANCED/RCA switches (see page 7) are included to minimise noise when using the unit in RCA mode. In most cases it will operate in BALANCED position on RCA inputs with no appreciable audible increase in noise. There is no harm in operating the unit in this way.
However it is important, that if using the XLR (BALANCED) input, the switch must be set for BALANCED. If the switch is not set for BALANCED on an XLR input, a 6dB reduction in loudness will occur and the benefits of BALANCED operation will be lost.
BALANCED (XLR) INPUT
To use the XLR INPUT, connect XLR source outputs to the INPUT XLR sockets (see page 7). Make sure the BALANCED/RCA switches are set for BALANCED (down).
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BALANCED pre-amplifier LEFT XLR output RIGHT XLR output BALANCED/RCA switches set to BALANCED (DOWN) RIGHT Speaker + - LEFT Speaker +Rear view RCA leads connection diagram.
(Trigger and mains leads omitted for clarity).
Speaker bi-wiring
It is possible to "bi-wire" the outputs with suitable speakers. Such speakers must have at least four terminals; two for the treble, high frequency (or HF) driver and two more for the bass, low frequency (or LF) driver. Any "shorting links" between treble and bass input terminals (on the speakers) must be removed for maximum benefit. These links normally are visible under the speaker's terminals as gold plates/bars connecting the terminals up in pairs. Please consult speaker manuals/user support for more details.
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RIGHT Speaker +HF -HF +LF -LF MB CAUTION LEFT Speaker +HF -HF +LF -LFRear view bi-wiring speaker leads connection diagram.
(Preamp, trigger and mains leads omitted for clarity).
Starting
Once all connections are made, switch on the unit, using the POWER button front of the unit. The MUTE LED will light. Speaker outputs are muted for about 6 seconds, so no sound will be heard from the speakers. Once the 6 seconds is up the MUTE LED goes out, indicating unit is settled, and ready for use.
Basic problem-solving with an amplifier is similar to troubleshooting other electrical or electronic equipment. Always check the most obvious possible causes first, such as the following examples:
| Problem | Probable | Cause | Remedy |
| No power when POWER button is pressed. | Mains power plug is not fully inserted into rear socket. | Plug in securely. | |
| No sound Mute function is still active. | Wait for the MUTE LED to go out. Check audio input lead connections. Check speaker cables. | ||
| Sound cut Loose connection | Check speaker and input connections. Switch unit off. Check speaker connections for shorting strands or wires. When all has been double-checked reduce volume and switch unit back on. N.B. Take great care when bi-wiring or bi-amping that speaker bass and treble linking straps are removed; see speaker manual for more information. | ||
| Sound is not precise, lacking in bass and stereo image. | Speakers are connected out of phase, i.e., connections to one speaker (+ and -) are reversed. | Ensure speakers are connected with same polarity at amplifier and speaker ends. | |
| Hum. Audio connector plug not fully pushed in Cable Fault Unsuitable cable (e.g. cable grounds not connected) | Insert plug securely. Check cable is connected at both ends. N.B. Some esoteric cables have internal wiring intentionally disconnected/modified. For best results on all inputs analogue AND digital, please use good quality screened coax; signal and screens both separately connected at both ends. | ||
| No audio output, or too low level output. | Incorrect or missing connections | Check connections and make sure they are secure. | |
If none of these actions affect a cure, please contact the dealer, or an authorised Musical Fidelity service agent. Remember; never open the case of the M8 500S, as this will invalidate the guarantee.
Output
Power 500 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms (27 dBW)
Voltage 63.4 Volts RMS, 20Hz to 20 kHz; onset of clipping
(179 Volts peak-to-peak)
Current peak-to-peak 200 Amps
Damping factor >330
Output devices 6 pairs per channel
Line input
THD+N <0.007% typical, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Signal / noise ratio >120 dB 'A'-weighted
Input impedance 50k Ohms
Frequency response +0, -1dB, 10Hz to 80 kHz
Connections
Line level inputs 1 pair line level XLR (fully balanced) connectors
1 pair line level RCA connectors
Line level outputs 1 pair line level XLR (balanced) connector loop output
1 pair line level RCA connector loop output
Speaker outputs 2 sets of 2 pairs 4mm banana plug/binding posts
Trigger input 3.5mm ( 18 ) mono jack ±4.5 to ±15V DC
Trigger output 3.5mm ( 18 ) mono jack +12V DC
Power requirement
Mains voltages 115/230VAC 50/60Hz (factory pre-set)
100VAC 50/60Hz (alternative)
| Consumption | 0.25 Watts standby | (Orange LED lit) | |
| 150 Watts on, idle | (Blue LED lit, no signal output) | ||
| 2000 Watts | maximum | (Blue LED lit, full power output) |
Weight
Unit only, unboxed 29 kg (63 ^3/4 lbs)
In shipping carton 34.5 kg (76 lbs)
Dimensions
Width 440 mm (17½")
Height (including feet) 160 mm (6 ^1/3 )
Depth (front to back) including terminals 460 mm (18%")
Standard accessories
IEC type mains lead (10-Amp type)
Musical Fidelity reserves the right to make improvements which may result in specification or feature changes without notice. E&OE.
| RELEASE | DATE | CHANGES |
| Issue 1 30 | ^th October 2013 1st issue |