Operating instructions

The 840E has a custom-made display on the front of the unit that shows the current status and allows you to access the 840E System Configuration menus. Here you can adjust the listening settings of the amplifier to personal preference. The menu system is easy to navigate and control, simply by using the input select buttons to turn a feature on (solid circle) or off (no circle) and the volume control knob to increase/decrease settings.

Volume

Mode

Volume

Adjust the volume control knob on the front panel (or using the remote control). The display will show the change in volume in decibels (dB). ‘OdB’ indicates maximum volume while lower volume settings progress into the negative range. This can also be changed to arbitrary volume units (0-96) in the System Configure menu.

Balance, Bass, Treble

Mode

Volume

Press the Mode button to scroll through the options of Balance, Treble or Bass modes. BALANCE, TREBLE or BASS will appear on the display depending on which mode you have entered. Adjustments can then be made using the volume control. This allows subtle adjustments to the tonal balance of the sound. These modify the sound through your loudspeakers and the Pre-Out sockets only; they do not affect the signals sent through the Tape Out connections.

Press the Mode button again to return to Volume mode or wait 5 seconds for the 840E to automatically exit and return to Volume mode.

Direct

With a well produced CD and a good system the tone controls are unnecessary and can be switched out by pressing the Direct button:

Direct

This completely removes them from the signal path for maximum fidelity. If the musical recording is of poor quality or other factors are affecting the sound quality, you can adjust the tone controls to compensate. To use the tone controls press the Direct button so that the Bass/Treble icon ( ) lights in the display indicating that they are active and direct mode is Off.

The 840E stores whether Direct mode is on or off for each input individually. For example it is possible to have the tone controls automatically active for the Tuner source but not the CD source.

azur 840E

Pre-amplifier setup

The 840E features many advanced settings that allow its use to be customised to user preference. The inputs can be named to reflect the actual source units you have, each input can be trimmed so that each sounds the same in terms of loudness when you switch between them and other options.

Changing input names / source naming

Mode

Volume

Press and hold the relevant input select button for four seconds to change its name. For example, if Input 1 is a CD player, name it “CD” etc. Letters are selected by turning the volume control to scroll through the available characters. Press LEFT or RIGHT to select which character you wish to edit. Press EXT CHAR to access an extended character set. Press OK to confirm and exit the input name change menu.

System Configure menu

Mode

Volume

Press and hold the Mode button to access the System Configure menu. The menu options are LCD brightness, Front IR, Input gain trim, Volume ramp, Volume display, and Fixed input gain.

To exit the System Configure menu and its sub-menus, press the Mode button again.

LCD brightness

Mode

Volume

In the System Configure menu press the LCD input select button to scroll through bright/dim/off settings for the front panel display. Press the Mode button to exit.

Volume ramp

Mode

Volume

The 840E automatically ramps the volume down when going into Standby mode and up when coming out of Standby mode. To turn this feature off, press the VOL RAMP input select button in the System Configure menu and set to off. Press the Mode button to exit.

Volume display

Mode

Volume

To change the volume display from decibels (-95 to 0dB) to arbitrary volume units (0 to 96 units) select VOL DB in the System Configure menu. Press the input select button to turn off the volume in decibels. Press the Mode button to exit.

ENGLISH

Azur 840E specifications

The Cambridge Audio Azur 840E is a high-performance preamplifier that embodies the brand's commitment to delivering exceptional sound quality and innovative design. Known for its rich heritage in audio engineering, Cambridge Audio has built the 840E to cater to discerning audiophiles who seek a refined listening experience.

One of the standout features of the Azur 840E is its dual mono design. This architecture allows the audio signal to remain as pure as possible by using separate circuits for the left and right channels. This isolation minimizes crosstalk and enhances the overall clarity, ensuring a more immersive audio experience. The preamp's selection of high-quality components further contributes to its superior sound performance, allowing it to accurately reproduce music with depth and detail.

Integrating advanced technologies, the 840E includes Cambridge's proprietary 'ALPS Blue Velvet' volume control. This high-end potentiometer offers smooth and precise volume adjustments, eliminating channel imbalance and enhancing the precision of your sound. The preamp also features custom-designed capacitors and resistors, ensuring that only the best components are used to optimize sound quality.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the Azur 840E is its extensive connectivity options. It offers a comprehensive selection of inputs and outputs, including balanced XLR outputs, unbalanced RCA outputs, and a range of inputs for connecting various audio sources. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for audio enthusiasts who want to integrate the preamp into a more complex audio setup.

Moreover, the 840E also features a sophisticated remote control system, providing users convenience without compromising on performance. The intuitive layout allows for easy access to key functions, making it simple to tailor your listening experience.

In terms of build quality, the Cambridge Audio Azur 840E is designed with a robust metal chassis that reduces resonance and interference, further improving sound fidelity. Its sleek, modern aesthetics make it an attractive addition to any audio system.

In summary, the Cambridge Audio Azur 840E is a premium preamplifier that combines high-end audio performance with striking design and advanced features. Its dual mono architecture, superior volume control, extensive connectivity, and high-quality components make it a standout choice for audiophiles looking to elevate their audio experience.