Virtue Sensation Owner’s Manual
http://www.virtueaudio.com
Page 12 of 12
Troubleshooting
Issue:
“Hum coming through speakers.”
Recommendation:
Especially on units with the Dodd Audio tube buffer, humming is caused by
transformer interference. If a nearby piece of equipment has a large transformer in it (could be the JT
supply or Piano CD-player), consider moving it 6” or more away from Sensation. With Piano, the
transformer is on the left side and on Sensation, the Dodd tube buffer is on the right side. Placing
Sensation to the right of Piano is sufficient to eliminate hum emanating from the Piano transformer.
Issue:
“Hiss coming through speakers.”
Recommendation:
The Tripath technology we use does not reject hiss from the power stage and is not
completely quiet. Most hiss is related to power supply issues and with the Dodd Tube Buffer, tubes
especially new ones. Burning in the unit properly, changing tubes, and using battery supplies are the
best strategies for reducing hiss. If you are still unsatisfied, please consider returning your unit within
the warranty period.
Issue:
“I hear a big “thump” when I switch the tube buffer on and off with the unit on.”
Recommendation:
Don’t do that! Sensation should be completely off and unplugged before switching
the buffer or swapping out the tube.
Issue:
“I understand the tube buffer stays on as long as the main power switch on the back is
on. I’m worried the tube will burn out prematurely if I don’t fully turn Sensation off after
listening.”
Recommendation:
The JJ tube included with the Dodd Tube Buffer option is guaranteed to last 5 years
under regular use (and is rather inexpensive to replace). Gary Dodd says we’ll all be petrified before the
tube fails in this usage. Just leave it on and enjoy until petrification sets in.
Issue:
“Sensation shuts down and the yellow lights come on when I turn it on.”
Recommendation:
Use the master rocker switch to shut down Sensation and wait 90 seconds before
turning it on again. Then follow the power on sequence explained above.
Issue:
“Sensation feels very warm to the touch.”
Recommendation:
Virtue amplifiers tend to run warmer than other Tripath-based amps. Our innovative
heat sink system includes a heat pipe connected to the substantial metal case, which dissipates heat. If
Sensation feels warm to the touch, it means this system is working correctly by transferring the heat
away from the chip and onto the metal where it will radiate. On equipped units, the Dodd Tube Buffer
does not emit substantial heat.
Issue:
“I hear a slight fluttering sound heard when changing volume.”
Recommendation:
A few customers have reported a faint “swoosh” or “flutter” sound when the volume
knob is in motion, more noticeable with high efficiency speakers. This does not occur when the volume
is set and music is playing. This is a known issue that cannot be fixed. Your amplifier is not defective if
you hear this sound.
