Getting Started -
About Your Amplifier
Your
model i84
amplifier was designed to provide a significant value based on a high performance to price
ratio that will exceed the sonic quality of good solid state amplifiers with its musical accuracy.
The
model i84
uses 2 sets of matched pairs (total of 4) of EL84 power output tubes and two ECC83/12AX7
preamp tubes. The
model i84
is designed to work in a pure class A for the first 8W of output power. Should it be
driven above 8 W, the amplifier will seamlessly switch to class AB and deliver up to 15W of clean power. Parts are
carefully chosen for the optimum sound quality and the overall circuit layout is maximized for sonic purity.
Construction and Testing
Like every Vista Audio product, your power amplifier has been carefully crafted by skilled mechanics. To assure
consistent performance, each
model i84
amplifier goes through the full battery of electrical tests, extended
burn-in and listening evaluation before being shipped. This time-consuming perfectionist approach in the design
and manufacturing of audio equipment is intended to provide the best in musical satisfaction with lasting value.
Handling Vacuum Tubes
Many people have never had experience handling vacuum tubes. Process is very similar to handling
incandescent light bulbs. As with light bulbs, you should not touch a vacuum tube when it is operating since
you can burn yourself. Similarly, if a tube is dropped on a hard surface it will break. When replacing the tubes
allow sufficient time, minimum 30 minutes, for tubes to cool down and internal capacitors to discharge. Before
you insert a tube you should make certain the unit is disconnected from the AC outlet and that the tube has
cooled down. Inspect the tube for cracks and physical damage. Make sure that the pins are straight. If you need
to straighten the pins, be very careful as it may cause the glass envelope to break, causing the tube to lose the
vacuum and fail as soon as the amplifier is powered on. Carefully align the pins with the socket and gently insert
the tube.
Never force a tube into a socket.
Should you decide to buy replacement tubes from Vista Audio,
rest assured that they were fully tested before the shipment.
Packaging
Save all the packaging in a dry place. Your amplifier is a precision electronic instrument and should be properly
packaged any time shipment is made. Because of its weight it is highly probable that the unit will be damaged
during shipment if repackaged in a box and packing other than that designed for the unit.
Preparation for Use
Place your amplifier on a flat surface.
model i84
amplifier
is delivered with matched quad or two matched pairs of output tubes EL84. If matched
quad, position of the output tubes is not critical. When delivered with matched pairs, the markings on the tube
packaging should be followed for optimum performance. Matched tubes should be used in the same channel
for maximum reliability and performance.
Before inserting the tubes, inspect them for cracks and physical damage. Make sure that the pins are straight. If
you need to straighten the pins, be very careful as that may cause the glass envelope to break, causing the
tube to lose the vacuum and fail as soon as the amplifier is powered on. Refer to the drawing below to locate
correct location for each tube. Carefully align the pins with the socket and gently insert the tube according to the
drawing below.
Never force a tube into a socket.
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