Output Connectors; Impedance Matching; Remote Turn On - Audio Research High Definition Reference 80S User Manual

Output Connectors

Heavy-duty output terminals are provided
on the rear panel for 4, 8, or 16-ohm
speaker impedance loads. Using high-
quality speaker cables, securely fasten
the (-) speaker lead to the appropriate
(black) terminal, then the (+) lead to the
matching (red) terminal. It is important
sonically that your entire system be
connected so that the audio signal
arriving at the speakers has correct, or
'absolute' polarity (i.e., non- inverted).
Do not over tighten the output terminal
connectors on the amp (use a hex driver
and tighten snugly - do not over tighten).
Follow your speaker manufacturer's
impedance specification. The Reference
80S puts out the same amount of power
whether the 4, 8, or 16-ohm terminals are
used.

Impedance Matching

It is important to use as close as possible
an impedance match between the
amplifier and speaker for optimum transfer
of power to the speaker with minimum
distortion. In the case of speaker systems
with significant variations in impedance
throughout the frequency spectrum,
such as most electrostatic types,
determine the best impedance match
empirically for best overall sonic results by
trying different output taps. Connect the
Reference 80S input to the preamplifier
or electronic crossover using only the
highest grade of audio interconnect
cables. To avoid sonic degradation use
the shortest practical length of cables.
Important
Use the best available speaker wires
and interconnects. Audio Research
cannot emphasize this enough. As better
components and systems are developed,
it becomes increasingly important to
avoid the limitations of inferior system
interconnections.
Remote Turn-on
The Reference 80S has a built-in 12V DC
remote turn-on/off circuit for operation by
a master control system in a home theater
or large audio system. Use a 3.5mm (.140")
diameter mini plug to connect to the +12V
IN jack on the rear of the Reference 80S.
The tip of the mini plug is +12V and the
sleeve is ground.
The +12V IN jack should be connected to
the +12V DC output of the master control
system, using a continuous +12V DC
signal at 12mA for the duration of amplifier
on-time. Do not use a momentary or data
pulse control signal.
The +12V DC remote jacks have polarity
protection, so they will not operate if
a-12V DC signal is accidentally connected,
or if the control wires are reversed.
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