Front panel controls

azur 840E

Pre-Amplifier

					9
Standby / On	Phones	Mode		Direct
1	2	3	5	6
1	2	3	4	8	Volume

1 Standby/On

8 Direct

Switches the unit between Standby mode (indicated by dim power LED) and On (indicated by bright power LED). Standby is a low power mode where the power consumption is less than 30 Watts. The unit can be left in Standby mode when not in use. If the unit is not going to be used for a long period of time it should be switched off via the Power On/Off switch on the rear panel.

Note: As default the 840E ramps the volume up or down when switched on and when going into Standby mode. This feature can be turned off if desired; please refer to the ‘Pre-amplifier setup’ section of this manual for more information.

2Phones

Allows for the connection of stereo headphones with a ¼" Jack plug. Headphones with an impedance of between 32 and 600 ohms are recommended. When the headphones are connected, the loudspeaker relays are released switching off the output to the loudspeakers (speakers A and B).

3Mode

Press to switch between Volume, Balance, Bass and Treble modes. Press and hold to to enter the 840E System Configure menu.

This control gives the audio signal a more direct path by bypassing the tone control circuits for the purest possible sound quality.

The Bass/Treble icon ( ) appears in the display when the bass and treble circuit is active (in circuit) and is not present when they are bypassed.

Note: Direct can be set on or off individually for each input. This setting is recalled each time a source is selected.

9Volume

Use to increase/decrease the level of the sound from the outputs of the amplifier. This control affects the level of the loudspeaker output, the pre-amp output and the headphone output. It does not affect the Tape Out connections.

As the 840E uses a very high quality passive resistor ladder switched by relays to achieve volume and balance, audible control clicks can be heard from the unit when the volume or balance is adjusted.

The Volume control is also used in navigating the 840E System Configure menus on the front panel display.

4Infrared sensor

Receives IR commands from the supplied Azur remote control. A clear unobstructed line of sight between the remote control and the sensor is required.

5& 6 Input select buttons

Push the appropriate input selection button to select the source component that you wish to listen to (highlighted by a solid circle on the display). The signal selected is also fed to the Rec Out sockets so that it may be recorded. The input should not be changed whilst recording.

7Display

LCD used to control the 840E. Please refer to the ‘Operating instructions’ and ‘Pre-amplifier setup’ section of this manual for more information.

Please refer to the ‘Operating instructions’ section of this manual for more information on some functions of these buttons.

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.