Bi-wiring and Bi-amping Loudspeakers with Arcam A80 and P80 Models

Arcam Understanding Bi-wiring and Bi-amping Techniques for High-Quality Audio

Bi-wiring and bi-amping loudspeakers

Before you start

Bi-amping your system

A80/P80

WARNING: Do not make any connections to your amplifier while it is switched on or connected to the mains supply.

Before switching on please check all connections thoroughly, making sure bare wires or cables are not touching the amplifier in the wrong places (which could cause short circuits) and you have connected positive

(+) to positive and negative (–) to negative.

Always ensure that the volume control on your amplifier is set to minimum before starting these procedures.

Bi-wiring your loudspeakers

Bi-wiring improves the sound of your system because it divides the high and low frequency signal currents into separate speaker cables. This avoids signal distortions arising from the high and low frequency currents interacting with one another within a single cable, as in conventionally wired systems.

You will need:

Speakers – with four input terminals each: these will be marked HF (High Frequency) and LF (Low Frequency).

Loudspeaker cables – two pairs of cables per loudspeaker (which may be joined at the amplifier end if your amplifier has only one pair of output terminals per channel), or a suitably terminated cable set (a loom, probably prepared by your dealer and capable of being used for bi-amping in one length).

How to bi-wire loudspeakers

1.Remove the terminal links on the rear of your loudspeakers

WARNING: This step is essential or damage to your amplifier may result which is not covered under warranty.

2.Connect the cables as shown in the diagram below, ensuring correct polarity at all times.

		Arcam A80 amplifier
	+	–		+	–
		R			L
+	HF	– Right	+	HF	– Left
+	LF	– speaker	+	LF	– speaker

The performance of your system can be further enhanced over that achieved with bi-wiring, by extending the principle one stage further to include separate amplification for the low and high frequency drive units in each loudspeaker enclosure.

Connect the integrated amplifier to the high frequency (HF) terminals and connect the power amplifier to the low frequency (LF) terminals.

You will need:

Speakers – with four input terminals each (as with bi-wiring): these will be marked HF (High Frequency) and LF (Low Frequency).

Two amplifiers – one of these would be the A80 and the other an Arcam power amplifier (e.g. P80).

Loudspeaker cables – two pairs of cables per loudspeaker or a suitably terminated cable set (a loom, probably prepared by your dealer and capable of being used for bi-amping in one length).

Interconnect cables – one pair of high quality interconnect cables.

How to set up a bi-amped system

1.Remove the terminal links on the rear of your loudspeakers.

WARNING: This step is essential or damage to your amplifier may result which is not covered under warranty.

2.Connect the cables as shown in the diagram below, ensuring correct polarity at all times.

3.Use the interconnect cables to connect the PRE OUT sockets of the A80 to the corresponding AUDIO IN sockets of the power amplifier.

+	–	Arcam A80 amplifier		–
+	–	+		–
	R		L
+	–	+		–
Right	HF		HF	Left
speaker	LF –	–	LF	speaker
		–
+		+		–
+	–	+		–
	R	Arcam P80 power amplifier	L
		Arcam P80 power amplifier

Bi-wiring using one set of connections on amplifier

Recommended bi-amping configuration

P80, A80 specifications

The Arcam P80 and A80 are two prominent products in the realm of high-fidelity audio, designed to offer audiophiles superior sound quality and a seamless listening experience. Arcam, renowned for its dedication to innovation and excellence, has equipped these models with advanced technologies that elevate their performance.

The Arcam P80 is a robust power amplifier that delivers a remarkable 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms. This powerful amplification ensures that even the most demanding speakers will be driven effortlessly, providing dynamic sound reproduction. One of the standout features of the P80 is its Class G amplification design. This technology enhances efficiency by utilizing multiple output stages, allowing the amplifier to switch between power levels depending on the signal demands. This minimizes distortion and maximizes sound quality, resulting in crystal-clear audio across various frequencies.

Equipped with high-quality components, the P80 employs a toroidal transformer that minimizes electromagnetic interference and optimizes power delivery. This attention to detail translates to a more refined sound, making it an excellent choice for both music enthusiasts and home theater setups. The amplifier also features multiple input options, including both balanced and unbalanced connections, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio sources.

On the other hand, the Arcam A80 is an integrated amplifier that combines both preamplifier and power amplifier functionalities into a single unit. With an output of 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms, it shares the P80's commitment to power and performance. The A80 incorporates a high-quality digital-to-analog converter, enhancing the sound quality of digital sources, and features multiple inputs for flexibility when connecting various devices.

The A80 also utilizes a high-grade phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts, enabling users to connect turntables directly and enjoy their favorite records with outstanding fidelity. The design emphasizes simplicity and elegance, with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls, making it a perfect addition to both contemporary and traditional home audio setups.

In summary, the Arcam P80 and A80 represent the pinnacle of audio engineering, incorporating advanced technologies such as Class G amplification, high-quality DACs, and versatile input options. They deliver an exceptional listening experience, providing power, clarity, and musicality that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles. Whether used individually or as a part of a comprehensive audio system, these amplifiers exemplify the quality that has made Arcam a trusted name in high-fidelity sound.