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icon Audio LA 4 MK II Instructions page 3

Pure valve line preamplifier

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1 Unpack unit carefully. Make sure that it is in good
condition. It is important that you keep packaging for
warranty/service return.
2 Fit the rectifier valve 274B.
BEWARE ONLY FIT IN REAR CENTRE (see pic P1)
Otherwise the unit will not function, and damage to
both valves and unit will result. The valves are
normally numbered in order that they will be in the
same position when tested and aged. The 6SN7s are
normally left fitted. If there is no special order. Do not
pull the 6SN7s by the glass envelope! This could
cause the glass envelope to become detached from
the base causing irreparable damage.
align to "spigot" of the valve with the socket before
pushing in to place.
3 Connect to source & Output units, e.g. CD,
Tuner, Tape, Phono pre amp (if used) and power amp
etc via appropriate phono sockets and leads. OUT 1
is the high level output for ICON MB25s etc. OUT 2 is
a lower level, if you are not sure choose the output
that gives best results.
4 Connect to mains supply using supplied IEC
mains lead to 240v supply. If for some reason the
welded plug must be removed, please remove
fuse and dispose of immediately. (As they can be a
danger to children if plugged in). The replacement
plug should be wired in the following way Brown to
Live
terminal,
Blue
Green/Yellow to Earth terminal.
6 SWITCH ON! The blue mains indicator should light
up and unit will take approximately 40 seconds to
start working. All valves should have a visible orange
glow from the cathode heaters. With the volume
control set to minimum (fully anti-clockwise) there
should be no sound coming from the speakers except
a barely discernable gentle hum.
7 Your unit should now be functioning. If not check
wiring again and/Use selector/tape monitor/volume to
choose source program and suitable listening volume.
The best sound quality will be when the unit has
warmed up for at least 20 mins.
8 Health and Safety. The valves when operating
have high surface temperatures. Keep out of reach of
children and pets. The use of the optional guard is
recommend in these circumstances. Always unplug
when making adjustments. Like all amplifiers there
are potentially lethal high voltages inside (400v
DC), which when switched off can take up to 15
mins to discharge! Do not remove bottom panel
unless you are a competent engineer. There are no
user serviceable parts inside. Like other household
electrical appliances do not leave unattended
whilst switched on.
Connecting inputs & outputs
Many
problems
with
connecting leads which are usually either 'Bad, or
Wrong connection'. So it's worth making sure that
you have good connections and that your leads are
the right way round.
QUICK SET UP GUIDE
Be careful to
to
Neutral
terminal
hi
fi
equipment
involve
Inputs
The amplifier will work with any standard piece of hi fi
e.g. CD, Tuner, Tape Deck, Mini Disc, TV, Video
Recorder, DVD etc having an output of 200mv or
more, to get full power. The position of the volume
control will vary with the input voltage of different
units, this has no effect upon performance.
If you wish to use a turntable you will need a suitable
phono pre-amp. Your dealer or Icon can assist you.
Connecting a tape deck
The LA4 MK II will work with any tape deck having
suitable output, and it is possible to record from any
connected source using the terminals marked 'Pre-
out'. The LA4 MK II has a 'Tape Monitor' facility,
which enables you to use a 'three head deck' or an
equalizer.
Some tape decks 'Present a load' to the amplifier
terminals, even when not in use, which can affect
sound quality. (You can do an audible check for this
by removing the input and listening for a change in
sound quality). If so remove when not required.
Switching the pre-amp on before the power amp
will reduce "switch on thump, of the speakers"
Mobile phone 'breakthrough' is normal
A switch-off 'click' through the speakers is
and
normal.
Storage in damp conditions could damage
transformers.
Connecting Leads
Use good quality connecting leads, which are no
longer than they need to be.
Leaving the amp switched on
People sometimes ask if the amp should be left
running 24/7 without switching off. 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. It is using electricity and valves have a
finite
life.
components are stressed more at switch on; therefore
do not switch on and off unnecessarily. Although the
amplifier should sound good within about 20
mins, like most hi fi units it can take up to an hour
to sound at its best and will take a couple of
months of regular use before it is 'run in'.
Cabinet Care
To remove dust from the cabinet and valves we
suggest gentle brushing with a soft paintbrush and a
duster. Finger marks can usually be removed with a
damp cloth. The Perspex valve cover (if fitted) may
need a gentle wipe with soapy water and drying with
a duster. On no account use anything wet on the
amplifier,
and
disconnected.
CAUTION – HEALTH & SAFETY!
When making any adjustments remember to
isolate from power supply, and remember that
high voltages can remain present inside for some
time after switch off.
General points
Conversely
the
valves
always
clean
with
and
other
the
power
Page 3

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