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OPERATION
For systems that are not operated by remote control:
(In-wall volume controls, touch pads, etc.)
Use the Input Level Controls to set a maximum “safe” volume level to protect
your speakers and / or optimize the signal-to-noise ratios between source
components and amplifier. Source component output level controls are
sometimes overly-sensitive near their minimum position. By reducing an
amplifier’s Input Level Controls, you urge the source component’s volume
control to operate in a more reasonable and enjoyable range. This is very
subjective, so trial adjustments and listening are in order to dial this for the
given application.
As identified in 5b above, with independent Input Level Controls for each
channel, volume balance between speakers within the same room are possible.
This flexibility allows for channel volume tuning (left/right channel balance) for
off-center listening positions.
LISTENING AT HIGHER VOLUMES
It requires more power to achieve a reasonable volume of sound in a large room
than it does in a small room. It is possible (even if you are not a teenager) to turn
the volume so high that the amplifier runs out of power. This creates “clipping”
distortion.
Clipping distortion can be first detected in the higher frequencies of your
musical content. Clipping distortion will make the treble sound very harsh and
unmusical. When you hear harsh sounding treble from any good speaker, turn
the volume down immediately! Those harsh sounds are masking some much
more powerful high frequency sound spikes which could quickly damage the
speaker and/or activate the amplifiers protection circuit. Clipping distortion
causes the amplifier to work harder in its attempt to reproduce the signal
resulting in an increase in heat generated by the amplifier.
If you continue to operate the amplifier at “clipping” power levels, the amplifier
protection circuits will activate when the amplifier overheats, shutting the
amplifier off. The protection circuits will reset automatically once the amplifier’s
internal circuitry cools. Should the protection circuit become activated, reduce
the master volume and re-check the Input Level Control adjustments to
minimize the chance of a reoccurrence. Perpetually overdriving your speakers
and amplifier is considered abuse and will void the manufacturer’s warranty of
all affected products.
