Installations
Matica 500/900 Reference Manual
7
Electrical Installation
One of the most important considerations for proper installation and operation of a
power amplifier is the capacity of the line feeding the mains voltage to the
amplifier. If the line does not have sufficient current capacity, the amplifier may
not be able to deliver its full rated output, both steady state and peak, with the
result that the sound character can dramatically suffer.
For best performance, assure that the power line feeding each amplifier can supply
adequate line voltage and current. Under most circumstances, normal household or
commercial power outlets will be adequate. However, when low impedance loads
are used with high maximum output power, additional current capacity may be
required.
The Audio Ground is DC isolated from the chassis, although there is an RF bypass
capacitor between Audio Ground and the chassis ground as part of the MaticaÕs RFI
protection circuitry. If a hard-wired connection between Audio Ground and the
chassis is desired, a jumper wire may be connected between the Audio Ground screw
on the input barrier strip and the adjacent ground screw on the chassis. The
amplifier is shipped with no connection between these screws, which is the
preferred method of use.
The AC cord is designed to be fed by an outlet that includes a solid earth ground.
This ground connection is an important safety feature designed to keep the chassis
of electronic devices such as the Matica amplifiers at ground potential.
Unfortunately, the presence of a ground contact in an AC socket does not always
indicate that an outlet is properly grounded. Use an AC line tester to determine
this. If the outlet is not grounded, consult with a licensed electrician.
Do not operate any electrical equipment with ungrounded outlets. Plugging a Matica
amplifier into an ungrounded outlet or ÒliftingÓ the unit off ground with a three-to-
two wire adapter can create a hazardous condition. Alesis cannot be responsible for
problems caused by using Matica amplifiers or any associated equipment with
improper AC wiring.
Note:
Alesis amplifiers are pre-wired at the factory for the line voltage in the
country where the amplifier is intended for sale and are supplied with appropriate
line cords. They are not readily convertible to other voltages. Before connecting
them to the power line, check to be certain that they are properly wired for use in
your country.
When wiring a rack, it is good installation practice to route all AC wiring along one
side of the rack and all audio wiring along the other side to avoid coupling AC-
borne interference into the audio.
