Octave MRE 220 SE, Manual

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1. DESCRIPTION OF THE MRE 220 SE
The possibility of setting the damping factor is not the only difference between the MRE220 and the
MRE220SE.
New Driver Level
In addition the driver level was new designed and produces an even more beautiful sound
The Octave-specific features that characterize all Octave power amplifiers
BIAS Measurement
The MRE 220 SE is fixed BIAS , and utilizes external precision BIAS trim pots and LED confirmation
which allows the user to readily monitor the output tubes and simply correct their BIAS individually
at the front panel of the unit without the need of a micrometer let alone any special knowledge or
tools – just the supplied 3 mm flat-head screwdriver.
Black Box Option
The MRE 220 SE is fitted with a connector for the optional Octave “Black Box” capacitance modules
– available in normal and “Super” versions. The use of the Black Box or Super Black Box significantly
increases power supply capacitance to stabilize current delivery and reduce impedance interaction
of the load, thus improving dynamic range, separation, depth, soundstage size and articulation. This
enables optimizing the MRE 220 SE in respect to the speaker, which is a tremendous benefit if the
speaker is difficult to drive.
Input Section
Unlike other designs, the MRE 220 SE offers single ended RCA and true balanced XLR inputs with
a very high common mode rejection ratio that eliminates unwanted hum and high frequency
distortion induced in the small signal connection to the preamp.
Power Management
The MRE 220 SE input and output tube heaters as well as its high-voltage rails are logic-controlled
to ensure that the conduction of the output tubes as well as the input stage voltages are constantly
monitored and controlled by the
Power Management System , which serves to protect the vital
internal parts (tubes, rectifier, electrolytic caps, switches, etc.) against excessive turn-on current. This
increases the lifetime of not only the tubes, but all power related components as each derives benefit
through this system.
Ecomode
The Ecomode serves to reduce heat and unnecessary power consumption when the unit is switched
on but not in use. After approximately 8-12 minutes without receiving signal, the MRE 220 SE
Ecomode is activated, turning down the power. In this “sleep” mode, the MRE 220 SE draws only 20
W Idle current. Therefore, the unit produces no heat while it remains switched on. When a music
signal is once again detected by the MRE 220 SE, the Ecomode circuit will power the unit back on,
with a short warm-up/start-up delay (approximately 20 - 30 seconds) before the unit will operate.
The Ecomode also serves to increase the lifetime of the tubes, while providing an added benefit of
increased safety allowing the MRE 220 SE owner a level of security against any problems when
leaving the unit switched on.