Preface
Please take the time to carefully read this instruction manu-
al prior to installation or use of your Ref Phono 2 phono
preamplifier. Because it is a highly advanced electronic
instrument, there are several facts and procedures you
should know before you place it in operation.
Just as you would not purchase and attempt to operate an
expensive camera, computer system or high-performance
automobile without first learning something about perfor-
mance parameters and correct operating procedures, so too
your phono preamplifier requires some familiarization
before you make it part of your music reproduction system.
Your reward, in terms of maximum performance and a long
service life, will be well worth the effort.
Warnings
1.
To prevent fire, or shock hazard, do not expose your Ref
Phono 2 to rain or moisture.
2.
This unit contains voltages which can cause serious
injury or death. Do not operate with cover removed.
Refer servicing to your authorized Audio Research dealer
or other qualified personnel.
3.
The power cord on your Ref Phono 2 is equipped with a
standard three-prong grounding plug. For absolute
protection,
do not defeat the ground power plug.
This
provides powerline grounding of the Ref Phono 2 chassis
to provide absolute protection from electrical shock.
4.
For continued protection against fire hazard, replace the
fuse only with the same type and rating as specified at
the fuse holder.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE THIS
EQUIPMENT BEFORE INSTALLING THE VACUUM
TUBES IN THEIR PROPER SOCKETS.
Packaging
Save all packaging in a dry place away from fire
hazard. Your Ref Phono 2 phono preamplifier is a precision
electronic instrument and should be properly cartoned any
time shipment is made. You may not have occasion to
return your unit to the factory for service, but if that should
prove necessary, or other occasion requiring shipment
occurs, the original packaging will protect your Ref Phono 2
from unnecessary damage or delay.
Note that your Ref Phono 2 has been shipped with the vac-
uum tubes installed in protective foam blocks under the top
cover. With the Ref Phono 2 unplugged, use a phillips-head
screwdriver to loosen the fastening screws, remove the top
cover and set aside. Install the numbered tubes in their re-
spective sockets, refasten the top cover and store the foam
blocks with your carton.
Front Panel Controls
POWER ON / O F F :
The unit is off when the front panel
display (including the pilot light when in display “Off ”
mode) is completely unlit. Unit defaults to “Off” whenever
it is unplugged and then plugged in. When first plugged in
and the power switch is pressed, MUTE ON will flash on
the display for 40 seconds during the auto muting warm-up
cycle. When the MUTE ON indicator stops flashing the unit
initially defaults to INPUT 1 and is ready to operate.
MUTE:
After completion of the 40 -second warm-up cycle,
pressing mute button once will unmute unit and display
will read MUTE OFF. Press mute button again to mute unit
(display will read MUTE ON.)
INPUT
:
Selects INPUT 1 or INPUT 2, indicated on display.
When switching inputs, individually selected GAIN, LOAD
and RIAA/alternate Decca or Columbia EQ settings are
retained for each input position.
G A I N :
Selects between LOW (51dB BAL, 45dB SE) and
HIGH (74dB BAL, 68dB SE) gain settings. When switching
from LOW to HIGH gain position, unit automatically
defaults to MUTE ON status each time as a precaution and
reminder to lower the volume level of your preamplifier, to
prevent possible system overload and damage to loud-
speakers. The 23dB gain difference between the LOW and
HIGH gain positions is substantial.
LOAD:
Pressing the LOAD button allows the user to step
through six pre-set cartridge resistance loading options
(47K, 1000, 500, 200, 100 and 50 ohms) as well as a
custom value resistive loading option. Contact your
Audio Research dealer or Audio Research Customer Service
(763-577-9700) for assistance with custom loading setup
procedure. The display will indicate the currently selected
load resistance for each input setting. It is suggested that
you select the loading value nearest the cartridge manufac-
Model Ref Phono 2
FINAL / 1-09 - Ref Phono 2
- 4-16-09
1
TUBE LOCATIONS
TOP VIEW
REAR
FRONT
V 1
V 6
V 5
V 2
V 3
V 4
