Cary Audio Design CAD 120S owner manual Welcome, Thank YOU

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WELCOME

THANK YOU

Dear Cary Audio Customer:

I am so pleased and excited about the Cary Audio Design CAD 120S stereo vacuum tube power amplifier. I have spent countless hours designing and refining this very special vacuum tube power amplifier. The CAD 120S started life in September of 2006 as a 60 watt ultra-linear push pull amplifier. Billy Wright, my business partner, was concerned that we needed more output power for difficult loudspeaker loads. At this time, I had just completed the new Cary Audio SLP 03 preamplifier as well. Gregg Dunn, our Sales Director came to me in the lab with a suggestion. He suggested that a 120 watt per channel power amplifier made to match the new SLP 03 balanced vacuum tube preamplifier would be a nice combination. I thought this idea had merit and began percolating the design in my head.

In November of 2006, three months after the initial prototype, I had the cosmetic package complete. I needed to have this new baby on display at the January 2007 CES Show. During the CES Show it became evident we had a winner of a product. Countless people wanted to listen to the CAD 120S. The only problem was there was nothing inside. All the circuitry was in my head! My only response to the question of “How does it sound?”, was “You’re going to love it!”

I am once again an excited “design-boy” proudly displaying the CAD 120S, which went into full production in May 2007 at our “toy” shop in Apex, North Carolina. I can now answer the question: “How does it sound?” “Amazing, I love it, I love it!!!!!!”

Enjoy the music in your home with your CAD 120S and thank you for your support.

God Bless you and your family.

Dennis and the Cary Audio Team

WARNING

Electrical hazard! Misuse or failure to follow instructions properly may result in personal injury or death!

CAUTION

No risk or personal injury; however, misuse or failure to follow instructions may result in damage to equipment.

NOTE

No risk of personal injury or equipment damage; however, misuse or failure to follow instructions may prevent proper performance of the equipment.

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Contents CAD 120S Table of Contents Important Safety Instructions Important Safety Instructions FCC Information for User Welcome Thank YOUProduct Features Unpacking and Installation UnpackingSpecifications Circuit TypeControls and Displays Front PanelTOP Panel Rear Panel Operation Triode or ULTRA-LINEAR Mode SwitchesPower on / OFF Switch Speaker Binding PostsTube Replacement BREAK-IN PeriodFactory Service Service and CareCare and Cleaning NON-WARRANTY RepairsUnited States Limited Warranty Warranty DisclaimerCary Audio Design

CAD 120S specifications

Cary Audio Design has long been synonymous with high-fidelity audio equipment, and their CAD 120S amplifier exemplifies this commitment to quality and innovation. The CAD 120S is a stunning piece that bridges the gap between the classic analog warmth of tube amplification and the precision of modern technology.

At the heart of the CAD 120S lies a premium dual-triode design using 6550 power tubes, offering an impressive output of 120 watts per channel. This robust power allows the amplifier to drive a wide range of loudspeakers with ease, delivering a dynamic listening experience. The amplifier features a push-pull circuitry configuration, which enhances linearity and minimizes distortion, ensuring that both subtle nuances and loud crescendos are reproduced faithfully.

One of the standout features of the CAD 120S is its sophisticated power supply. Designed with separate power transformers for each channel, it maintains low noise levels and provides exceptional headroom. This approach not only enhances sonic clarity but also contributes to the longevity of the components, a hallmark of Cary's design philosophy.

Additionally, the CAD 120S boasts a fully-balanced input stage, which is essential for preserving the integrity of the audio signal over longer cable runs. The use of high-quality components throughout the signal path ensures that the amplifier delivers a warm, rich sound, devoid of harshness. Cary Audio Design's commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the CAD 120S's construction, featuring a sturdy chassis and a meticulously finished front panel that is as visually appealing as it is functional.

For audiophiles, the CAD 120S is not just an amplifier; it is a gateway to a lifelike musical experience. Its ability to handle a wide frequency range contributes to a soundstage that is expansive and immersive. The depth and detail provided by this amplifier allow listeners to engage with their favorite records in a way that is both fulfilling and exciting.

In conclusion, the Cary Audio Design CAD 120S is a remarkable amplifier that fuses traditional tube warmth with cutting-edge engineering. Its powerful output, balanced design, and high-quality components make it a standout choice for any serious music lover looking to elevate their audio system. With its timeless design and exceptional performance, the CAD 120S continues to build on Cary's legacy of audio excellence.