Related Manuals for VAC Phi Beta Triode
Summary of Contents for VAC Phi Beta Triode
- Page 1 The VAC Phi Beta Triode Preamplifier Operation & Maintenance Information Valve Amplification Company Manual issued 02/15/2008...
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Page 2: Table Of Contents
CAUTION THE PREAMPLIFIER AND POWER SUPPLY CONTAIN POTENTIALLY LETHAL VOLTAGES, AND TUBES THAT BECOME HOT IN USE. NEVER OPERATE THE PREAMPLIFIER OR POWER SUPPLY WITH THE COVERS REMOVED. DO NOT REMOVE THE CHASSIS COVERS EXCEPT TO CHANGE TUBES OR LIGHT BULBS. BEFORE OPENING A CHASSIS TO CHANGE TUBES OR LAMPS, DISCONNECT THE POWER SUPPLY FROM AC POWER AND THE AUDIO CHASSIS FROM ALL OTHER COMPONENTS. -
Page 3: Introduction
INTRODUCTION The Phi Beta Preamplifier is the world's finest audio preamplifier and an absolutely unique component. Its unusual topology, premium parts, and flexibility make it a pleasure to hear and operate. The line stage is, in effect, a small Class A power amplifier, capable of driving loads as low as a few hundred ohms. -
Page 4: Installation
INSTALLATION Provide adequate ventilation. Do not operate on carpet or any other surface that might block air flow. The chassis will become warm in normal use. Do not allow the chassis to touch any metal parts, such as the frame of an equipment rack. - Page 5 Pay close attention to power quality, and be aware that different power cords can alter the sound. The power supply’s backlit meters show variation in power line voltage as reflected to the audio circuitry. 12 volt triggers are provided for control of other audio components.
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Page 6: Inputs (Back Panel)
INPUTS (back panel) Inputs #1, #2, and Cinema may be either unbalanced or balanced. Three connections are possible: 1) Single ended signal on RCA connector. Set adjacent switch to “RCA.” 2) Balanced signal on XLR connector. Set adjacent switch to “BAL.” 3) Single ended signal on XLR connector. -
Page 7: Operation
Note that although your VAC System has been run for 48 hours at the factory, it will continue to "break in" for approximately 150 hours. Also be aware that many components display the need for a new break in period after being transported in unheated cargo aircraft. -
Page 8: Front Panel Controls
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS Although most of the front panel controls (Volume, Power, Mute) are self explanatory, VAC has outfitted this unit with several advanced features which bear further description: Power: Turns the unit off and on. Mute: Toggles between the "Mute" and "Operate" condition. When muted, the indicator light is illuminated. - Page 9 Phono: Selects between the MM and MC inputs. Overall phono function is selected with the main Selector switch (phono is one click counterclockwise from “1” or one click clockwise from “6”). PH1 is the MC phono input. It has 64 dB of gain, making it suitable for most low output cartridges.
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Page 10: Remote Control
REMOTE CONTROL The remote control allows for wireless adjustment of POWER, SELECTOR, TAPE MONITOR, CINEMA, MUTE, and VOLUME. The remote wand is powered by two "AAA" batteries. These should be of the alkaline type. You will need to install them in the wand before using the remote. Since batteries can leak, they should be removed from the wand if it is not going to be used for an extended period of time. - Page 11 Tubes are like the tires on a car; they will eventually need replacement. Murphy's Law states that a tube will probably fail right at the start of a long holiday weekend. Therefore, many audiophiles keep a spare tube of each type on hand, just in case! VAC can test tubes for concerned customers.
- Page 12 If the problem is only audible on phono, swap the rear pair, then the middle pair, then the front pair, each time listening to see if the symptom follows the tube. VAC can test tubes for concerned customers.
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Page 13: Care Of Chassis
CARE OF CHASSIS VAC chassis are made from aluminum for superior electromagnetic performance. The main chassis is finished in a durable black powder coat paint, while the fascias are hand rubbed acrylic lacquer. The lacquer should be treated in much the same fashion as a high quality automotive finish. - Page 14 Your equipment is warranted for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of purchase. In addition, if the registration form is received by VAC along with a copy of your sales receipt from an authorized VAC dealer within this thirty days, a service contract will be extended to cover your equipment for two (2) years (tubes excepted).