A1 FBP
INSTALLATION
Issue 1: 20
th
May 2008
Page 6
of
15
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on the purchase of the new A1 FBP
(Fully Balanced Preamplifier). The FBP features fully
balanced signal paths from input via fully balanced input
switches and balanced volume control right the way
through to the balanced outputs. This helps to keep noise
and interference to an absolute minimum, inherently
allowing 6dB more headroom within the circuitry.
The single-ended side features our finely tuned and
tweaked preamplifier circuits, for smooth sound coupled
with low noise and virtually no distortion. The preamp
section includes a top quality low noise phono stage
which caters for MM or MC cartridge users. The A1
FBP also features a top quality USB input DAC to allow
direct connection to a PC or MAC for listening to
MP3/WAV or other digital music storage formats.
Great attention has been paid to internal layout,
isolating each circuit section to prevent possible
interaction.
The resultant performance achieved by this unit is
among the best in the world. It has excellent signal to
noise ratio, low distortion, wide bandwidth and dynamic
range, with extraordinary resolution and fine detail.
CLEANING
Before cleaning the units, switch off power at the mains
switch and remove the mains plug from the wall socket.
Clean the cabinets and remote control unit using a moist
cloth. Using solvents, white spirit or thinners is not
advised, as they could damage the surface finish.
INSTALLATION
Position the A1 FBP and its power supply on a stable,
horizontal surface where there is no risk of it being
knocked, or subjected to vibration such as from
loudspeakers.
POWER CONNECTIONS
The A1 FBP is supplied with a matching power supply,
standard IEC mains cable which plugs into the IEC
socket at the back of the power supply unit, and a 5-way
XLR power lead which connects between the preamp
and power supply.
A1 Fully Balanced Preamplifier
A1 Fully Balanced Preamplifier Power Supply Unit
5-way XLR power lead Mains lead
AUDIO CONNECTIONS
Analogue Inputs:
Connect all analogue sources to
relevant analogue input RCA sockets (see p.7 For more
information). Use good quality fully connected (signal
and ground) coaxial phono cables for all RCA signal
connections.
Fully balanced inputs (XLR) are available for
connecting to suitable components. For these, we
recommend any good quality straight-through balanced
cables.
USB Input:
Connect a USB A to B (not supplied)
cable between computer and USB input if required.
Please note: The USB input is a USB Digital to
Analogue Converter (DAC), not a “host controller”. It
therefore does NOT support direct streaming from
USB players, media, drives etc. It only functions with a
personal computer/PDA or equivalent attached.
Outputs
: Connect power amplifier(s) to the RCA
sockets on the back panel marked as
LEFT
and
RIGHT
outputs
Fully balanced outputs are available for connecting to
suitable components. For these, we recommend any
good quality straight-through balanced cables
The
TAPE
output allows loop through of analogue
signals for example, to pass on to recorder or monitor. It
is also the ideal output to connect our headphone amps
into.
