Audio Research REFERENCE 160S, Руководство пользователя

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REF 160M Manual.indd 17 4/4/18 8:54 AM
Operation
Auto Bias
The Reference 160S incorporates a highly sophisticated auto-bias circuit. There are no
user-adjustable bias controls. There should never be a need to check or adjust the auto-bias
circuit: once it is factory set, no additional adjustment is required. The auto-bias circuit will
“lock in” the idle current of each bank of four KT150 output tubes approximately two minutes
after the Reference 160S is turned on, and continually compensates to maintain the proper bias
as the tubes age. Auto-bias sets the idle current at 65mA per tube.
It is always recommended owners purchase replacement tubes from Audio Research Corp.
Since the auto bias adjusts pairs of tubes, not each individual tube, it is important that 2
matched sets of eight KT 150 output tubes be installed for optimum performance and longest
tube life.
The auto bias circuit will not accommodate output tubes with extremely high or low plate
current readings. Aftermarket tubes may not be tested to the same rigorous standards as
Audio Research tests, so care must be exercised when installing aftermarket tubes. If
uncertain about aftermarket tube requirements, please contact service@audioresearch.com
for recommendations.
Audio Research supplies the KT150 output tube in the Reference 160S, providing the highest power and
best sound possible in this amplifier design.
Audio Research has tested the Reference 160S with KT120, KT88 and 6550WE output tubes. The
Reference 160S will produce less power with any of these tubes and the sound will be degraded.
Under no circumstances should any tube not electrically equivelant to the KT150 or 6550WE be
installed. Tubes such as the EL34, KT77, 6L6 should never be installed. Installing tubes such as these
will void the factory warranty and Audio Research will not be liable for any damage.
Contact service@audioresearch.com if you have questions regarding tube compatability.
Hour Counter
An LCD hour counter of elapsed tube operating time can be viewed on the back panel. This
displays accumulated hours of vacuum tube service life. If the amplifier is unplugged from A.C.
supply, the total accumulated hours are retained. Next to the hour counter is a recessed hour
counter reset button; after replacing vacuum tubes, press this button to reset the hour counter
back to zero. Note that once the hour counter has been reset, it is no longer possible to recall
the previous hour count.
Break-in
All quality stereo equipment benefits from a break-in period; during this time, the various
components, wiring and solder connections change as electrical signals pass through them.
While your Reference 160S will sound very good out of the box, it will only improve with
continued use.