INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Sonamp® 275 SE/275X3 SE. These amps
incorporate Sonance’s exclusive SAT™ (Smart Amp Technology) module that
allows you to customize the amplifier to the installation by simply removing
two screws on the back panel and inserting the desired module.
The 275 SE/275X3 SE (Sound Enhancement) amplifiers include a factory-
installed BBE® Sound Enhancement SAT module. The BBE process improves
presence and detail of speakers, especially at lower listening volumes. This
makes it particularly effective at improving the sound quality of distributed
audio systems playing background music. BBE restores clarity and definition
(or focus) to spoken voices, making paging systems easier to understand with-
out having to run them at high volumes. The BBE process is so effective that
it can even compensate for inferior sound from poor-quality source material
or compressed sources like MP3, etc. In addition to manual control, the BBE
effect can also be triggered on/off and the effect amount changed
(+6dB or +9dB) by an external control voltage.
The 275 SE/275X3 SE also includes these important features:
• Recessed power switch that prevents accidental turn-off
• Tamper-resistant, recessed input level and auto-on sensitivity controls
• Auto-on dip switch for turn-on delay (2, 4, 6, 8, 12 seconds)
• Defeatable high-pass filter to protect in-wall volume controls
• Bridge/mono switch (not available on 275X3 SE)
• Ground lift switch
• High-current amplifier topology that can operate at 2.66 ohms
• Defeatable auto-on signal sensing
• Active current limit, short-circuit and speaker protection
• Signal preset LEDs
• Protect/Clipping LEDs for easy level setup
• Auto-resetting thermal protection shutoff
• Inrush current-limiting circuit
This manual applies to the 275 SE, 273X3 SE and their rack-mount versions.
Except where noted, the installation, connection and use instructions are
identical for all models.
BOX CONTENTS
Your Sonamp 275 SE/275X3 SE box should contain the following items:
(1) Sonamp 275 SE or 275X3 SE amplifier
(1) IEC Power cord (Note: A power cord is not included with 230V models)
(1) Rack-mount hardware package (RMF versions only)
(1) Speaker zone label sheet (275X3 SE only)
UNPACKING
Save the carton and the styrofoam inserts for future safe transport in case you
move or the amplifier ever requires shipping for repair. Note, it is best if you
place it into an additional outer "overcarton" before shipment to minimize a
chance of theft in shipment.
Before you proceed, find the serial number which is located on the rear panel
of the amplifier and note it here for future reference:
S/N __________________________________________
PLACING THE AMPLIFIER
• Keep the amplifier out of direct sunlight and away from windows that could
let in rain.
• The amplifier should be placed away from heat sources such as hot air ducts
or radiators.
• Do not place the amplifier directly on carpet that could interfere with airflow
into its bottom vent openings.
• If you place your amplifier on the floor near your speakers, elevate it up off
the carpet.
• If you stack your components, it is better to place the amplifier above or
alongside your other components. When driven hard, the amplifier creates
significant heat and can affect components stacked on top of it.
• If you place the amplifier inside a cabinet, allow ample ventilation and at
least 2" clearance on top and both sides.
• Very sensitive low-level sources might pick up some hum radiated from the
amplifier’s power supply.
POWERING THE AMPLIFIER
AC Line Cord
The Sonamp 275 SE/275X3 SE feature a removable IEC power cord to allow
for easy installation. Plug the female end of the power cord into the connector
on the rear panel (
Figure 1
, #23) and plug the male end into a grounded wall
socket.
DO NOT plug the power cord into an AC outlet on your preamplifier/
receiver.
CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT DEFEAT THE
THIRD PRONG OF THE POWER CORD PLUG.
ATTENTION: AFIN D’EVITER TOUT RISQUE D’ELECTROCUTION,
NEPAS ENLEVER LA 3EME FICHE DE LA PRISEELECTRIQUE.
Use only a heavy-duty extension cord, if required, to avoid starving the
amplifier of all the current necessary for full-power operation.
A.C. On LED
(
Figure 1, #3)
This LED indicates that the AC power line cord is plugged into a live AC out-
let. If the main AC line fuse ever opens, this LED will go out. To use the Auto-
On feature, this LED must remain on at all times. The Power switch has no
effect on this LED.
AC Fuse
(
Figure 1, #22)
This will blow to protect the unit from possible internal parts failure.
NEVER replace the fuse with any size other than that indicated on the rear
panel to avoid more serious damage. Substitution of a larger fuse may create
serious damage to internal parts and will void your Sonance warranty.
CAUTION: For continued protection against fire, replace the fuse with
only the same type and rating.
Ground Lift Switch
(
Figure 1, #20)
The Sonamp 275 SE/275X3 SE feature a ground lift switch to eliminate hum
caused by ground loops. This is often set up by the chassis making contact
in a rack system. This eliminates the need to insulate the rack mount
faceplates with nylon washers.
MAKING CONNECTIONS
Before making any signal or speaker connections, make sure the amplifier’s
power is turned
OFF
and its power cord is unplugged.
When making connections, make sure there is no strain or tension on input
leads or speaker wires that could cause them to pull loose later on.
2
I N S T R U C T I O N M A N U A L
S O N A M P
®
2 7 5 S E / 2 7 5 X 3 S E
S T E R E O P O W E R A M P L I F I E R
