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4 How to get the best out of your amplifier
Do not leave the amplifier switched on all the time. This is not necessary. Use “Standby” for short
periods if not required (max 2 hours) (not recommended for W.E. 300Bs).
Do not switch off and on without a short rest of at least 60 seconds
Do not adjust the output valve grid bias unless you know how, see section 6 below
Do not operate the amplifier without loudspeakers connected
Do not use valves other than listed as there could be danger of shock or damage to the amplifier
Do check the bias regularly about once a month for best performance.
Make sure the loudspeakers are in phase.
Use the best possible source material.
Using larger, more efficient well-designed speakers will give a huge benefit in overall sound.
What is safe maximum volume?
The Stereo 300 is designed to work continuously
at any sound level that is not distorted. Some
recordings have a large dynamic range so if
operating at a high volume beware loud transients
which could become distorted.
The meter is set to read 100% when both
channels reach maximum sine wave power (one
channel only will read 70%). As music is generally
consists of fast “transients” which the meter will
not show, meter indications of around 70% will
approximate the maximum undistorted power.
Should this not be enough for your loudspeakers,
this may indicate that a more powerful amplifier is
required.
Leaving the amplifier switched on
The Stereo 300 will start working within 60
seconds and will be fully warmed up in about ten
minutes. Should the amplifier not be needed for a
limited time it may be left in the “standby mode”,
this will save power. (Not W.E. 300Bs)
Do not leave the amplifier switched on 24/7. Your
valves will be worn out in approximately nine
months!
Never leave the amplifier switched on
when unattended. Always switch off when not
in use.
Standby Switch.
This facility is not strictly necessary for 300Bs and
the heat up time is almost instant.
Western Electric have informed us that they do
not recommend using “Standby”.
It is possible that some other brands of 300B we
are not aware of may recommend not using
“Standby”, we suggest you contact your valve
supplier.
“Standby” allows you to save power if the amplifier
is not needed for a short time (say up to 2 hours)
reducing the power consumption to 50w, with the
valves remaining hot and ready for use.
‘
Burning in’
A new amplifier can take up to approximately 6
months of regular use to be reach its optimum
sound. This is a slow process and will continue for
several months as it involves all the various
components settling within the amplifier as well as
the valves.
Upgrading Valves!
Good quality new valves will generally sound
better and more lively than worn valves . It is
important to have the valves “matched” in pairs or
quads. This includes the 6SN7/CV181s having
both halves matched.
The valves supplied with this amplifier have been
tested, matched and aged for the best
performance. New valves need testing, grading
and matching. Ideally they will have been tested
and aged in a ST300 to ensure best performance.
You are welcome to contact us for this service.
Cabinet Care
To remove dust use a small paint brush.
Other marks can usually be removed with a damp
cloth and dry with a duster.
Never use anything wet on the amplifier, and
always clean with the power disconnected.
