The BYPASS functions
The GamuT D3 has two bypass functions. These bypass functions are as default switched off. If
you want to use one or both of them, each has a designated small chrome breaker switch placed
on the rear panel, one on each side of the CD XLR inputs. This enables you to enjoy the shortest
possible signal path for e.g. your CD source without having to unplug the preamplifier, while you
still have the preamplifier ready for your tuner and other sources when using the other input
selector positions.
The first bypass is for connecting an XLR-connected source like a high-quality CD player or DAC
with built-in level control directly to your power amplifier. The switch on the rear panel marked
Bypass enable
for the XLR input must be activated (pressed down) before the function is
available on the input selector’s BYPASS position. After activating the breaker switch, turn the
input selector clockwise until you reach the position where the WARNING! LED starts flashing.
This is to warn you that if you turn one more click clockwise, the signal from the XLR input sockets
will be connected directly to the output sockets, and therefore directly to your power amplifier,
which immediately will play at full volume level if it is turned on.
The second bypass is for any RCA/phono source connected to the HTH input, e.g. if you wish to
use your power amplifier to drive the Main L and R output signals from a surround processor.
Although HTH stands for Home Theater, you can use this input for any normal line source. Activate
the switch on the rear panel marked
HTH direct enable
by pressing it downwards. The function is
now available on the input selector’s HTH position.
You must reduce the output level on the source unit when using any of the BYPASS
functions or the resulting sound level will be extremely loud
and potentially harmful to your
hearing sense and your loudspeakers. It may also frighten people and animals.
The GamuT D3 preamplifier’s active parts are now bypassed, and the signal will now only pass
through a high-quality relay, the connectors, and circuit board tracks.
However, the built-in level control in some CD players and DACs does not sound good, especially
at low levels. This is often due to a low-quality potentiometer or to calculation errors made when
rounding off in the digital level control. 24-bit calculations are not good enough for a 16-bit signal;
you need 32-bit calculations. Also reducing the level by 20dB will bring many DACs in trouble, as
you are reducing the signal to noise ratio by the same 20dB, and increasing the distortion level.
You will in these cases get the best sound quality by using the level control of the GamuT D3 and
setting the CD player or DAC output level to maximum.
Cleaning the cabinet
The lid and the front panel are made of aluminium, which is non-magnetic. The chassis is made of
non-magnetic stainless steel. The front panel letters are engraved down into a panel. Do take care
not to scratch the soft polished surface.
Clean only with a little pure alcohol on a soft cloth or tissue paper.
Do not use brass polish or other abrasives. You will ruin the protective coating finish
.
