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Do not leave the amplifier switched on all the time. This is not necessary. Use "Standby" if not required
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Do not switch off and on without a short rest of 60 seconds
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Do not adjust the output valve grid bias unless you know how, see section 6 below
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Do not switch from Ultralinear to Triode without switching to Standby or switching off
•
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
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Do check the bias regularly at least once a month for best performance.
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Make sure the speakers are in phase.
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Use the best possible source material.
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Using larger, more efficient well-designed speakers will give a huge benefit in overall sound.
What is safe maximum volume?
If you can hear distortion when operating at high
sound levels ensure that you use "UL" mode for
higher power. If you cannot get a high level this
means your speakers "dB efficiency" is too low.
With a pure "sine" wave full power, both channels =
100% on the meter scale in Ultralinear, Triode is
lower at 70%, however because music is intermittent
with high transients the maximum volume will
normally read around 2/3 of this.
Triode Switch. This switch causes the KT150s to
operate as Triode valves. Please remember to put
the amplifier into "Standby" first as switching will
stress the output transformers. The majority of
listeners prefer the "triode" sound believing it to be
more pleasant to listen to, the maximum power
available is 18w. The volume in triode mode is almost
the same. But if you hear distortion at higher volumes
you need more power, in which case switch to
ULTRALINEAR.
Leaving the amplifier switched on
Do not leave the amplifier switched on 24/7. Your
valves will be worn out in approximately nine months!
Whilst the amplifier will sound at its best when it is
properly warmed up, there is no advantage leaving it
switched on when it is not in use. Never leave the
amplifier switched on when unattended. Always
switch off when not in use.
Standby Switch. This switch has 3 functions. One to
allow the amplifier to warm up before applying power
to the KT150 output valves.
1. Amplifier Dead
Check the 3 amp (5 amp USA) mains fuse at the back of
the amplifier. To gain access, remove the mains lead.
The fuse is in a small plastic drawer, which forms part of
the socket assembly. To open insert a flat bade
screwdriver or similar and prise open. The fuse in use
is the innermost the outer is a spare. Should the
replacement
fuse
also
Replacements should be 3 (or 5 amp USA) amp 'anti-
surge'. Available from Icon Audio free in the UK (outside
the UK you must pay postage).
The fuse in the power cord plug (if any) should be a 5
amp fuse, although unlikely, this should be checked if
the amplifier fuse is OK.
2. No sound
Have you selected the right input? Are the connections
OK? Is everything switched on? Are the speakers
connected? Is the amp in "standby"?
4 How to get the best out of your amplifier
5 Trouble Shooting
blow
there
is
a
Two, when switching between Ultralinear to Triode
(and back again) use the "Standby" function to
prevent damage to the output transformers by high
voltages "spikes".
Three, power saving. If the amplifier is temporarily
not required about 75% of normal power will be
saved. This enables the valves to be fully warmed
and ready to use the instant you put the standby
switch down.
'Burning in'
Although the amp should sound good within
about 10 mins it can take up to an 20 mins to
sound at its best and will take several months of
regular use before it is fully 'run in'.
Upgrading Valves!
Good quality new valves sound better, have good
performance and reliability. The upgraded valves
supplied with selected models are the result of
careful comparison with other makes. But beware of
paying excessive amounts for "New Old Stock",
second hand or "Fake", valves. At this time we
recommend Tung Sol, our Russian and US NOS,
Shuguang, Treasure, Full Music, JJ.
Cabinet Care
To remove dust we suggest gentle brushing of the
painted steel cabinet and alloy plate with a soft
paintbrush. Other marks can usually be removed with
a damp cloth. The Perspex valve cover may need a
gentle wipe with damp cloth with a gentle detergent
to remove finger marks etc, and dry with a duster. On
no account use anything wet on the amplifier, and
always clean with the power disconnected.
If you think you have tried everything and the meter
light is working and the heaters are glowing the two
internal fuses may have blown. They are located
inside the amplifier and should be replaced by a
competent engineer. Replacements free on request
from Icon Audio. Contact us or your dealer for further
guidance.
fault.
Remote control not working
This is usually due to either: Batteries worn out or
corroded terminals. Try replacing or cleaning the
terminals. Make sure the blue LED is working.
Maximum distance is 4-5m. if still not working it could
be the sensor, control board or motor drive, in which
case return to Icon or dealer for service.
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