Rear panel connections

azur 550A/650A

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ENGLISH

1Power On/Off

Switches the unit on and off. This switch is a master on/off control that, when switched off, overrides the Standby/On button on the front of the unit and that on the remote control.

2AC power socket

Once you have completed all connections to the ampliﬁer, plug the AC power cable into an appropriate mains socket and turn the unit on. Your ampliﬁer is now ready for use.

3Loudspeaker terminals

Two sets of loudspeaker terminals are available, A (main loudspeaker terminals, top row) and B (secondary switchable loudspeaker terminals, bottom row). Connect the wires from your left channel loudspeaker to the LEFT positive and negative terminals, and the wires from the right channel loudspeaker to the RIGHT positive and negative terminals. In each case, the red terminal is the positive output and the black terminal is the negative output.

Care should be taken to ensure no stray strands of wire are shorting speaker outputs together. Please ensure that the loudspeaker terminals have been tightened adequately to provide a good electrical connection. It is possible for the sound quality to be affected if the screw terminals are loose.

The use of A and B speakers affords you an easy and inexpensive way to create a simple multi-room system.

Note: When using two pairs of speakers, use speakers with a nominal impedance of 8ohms.

4IR (Infrared) Emitter In

Allows modulated IR commands from multi-room systems or IR repeater systems to be received by the ampliﬁer. Commands received here are not looped out of the Control Bus. Refer to the ‘Custom Installation’ section for more information.

5Control Bus

In Allows un-modulated commands from multi-room systems or other components to be received by the unit.

Out Loop out for control bus commands to another unit.

6Pre-Out

Connect these sockets to the inputs on an external power ampliﬁer(s), such as Cambridge Audio’s 840W model, or an active subwoofer, etc.

7Tape In

Connect to a tape deck or to the analogue output sockets on a MiniDisc, portable digital music player or CD recorder using an interconnect cable from the recorder's Line Out sockets to the ampliﬁer's Tape In sockets.

The Tape Input circuit of the 550A/650A is a ‘monitor’ type, different from the other ﬁve inputs. For the ﬁve normal inputs, the source selected for listening to will also be sent out of the Rec 1/Rec 2 outputs for recording. The source currently being listened to and (optionally) recorded is then shown on the front panel by a corresponding blue LED.

However, when the Tape Mon Input is selected the Tape Mon LED will also illuminate, indicating that the Tape Monitor Input is now being listened to with a different source being sent out of the Rec1/Rec2 outputs for recording. The recording source is shown by the ﬁrst LED and can be changed by pressing the other source buttons. To switch Tape Monitor off, simply press the Tape Mon button again, toggling this function off.

This feature is most useful when using three-head analogue cassette decks which allow the signal being recorded to be played back live off tape (via a third head) whilst it is simultaneously recorded. It is then possible, by toggling the Tape Monitor input on and off, to compare directly in real time the original and recorded signal so that adjustments to the recording parameters of the tape machine can be made. (Consult the manual of your three-head analogue cassette deck for full details.)

8Record Out 1/2

These two identical output sockets can be connected to a tape deck or to the analogue Record In sockets on a MiniDisc or CD recorder.

9Aux, DVD, Tuner/DAB, CD, MP3

These inputs are suitable for any 'line level' source equipment such as DVD players, DAB or FM/AM tuners, CD players, MP3 players, etc.

Note: These inputs are for analogue audio signals only. They should not be connected to the digital output of a CD player or any other digital device.

Connecting a turntable

If it is desired to connect a turntable without a built-in phono stage, an external phono stage such as our 540P or 640P models should be used. Contact your Cambridge Audio dealer for more details.

Note: A very few turntables have built-in phono stages, in which case it is not necessary to use a separate phono stage ampliﬁer. If you’re unsure, please consult your turntable user manual.

550A, 650A specifications

Cambridge Audio, a revered name in the audio industry, is renowned for producing high-quality amplification solutions. Among its distinguished lineup, the 650A and 550A integrated amplifiers stand out for their exceptional performance and innovative features, making them favorites for both audiophiles and casual listeners.

The Cambridge Audio 650A amplifier is designed to deliver powerful and precise sound, harnessing a robust 75 watts per channel into 8 ohms. This amplifier features an advanced toroidal transformer, which enhances efficiency and reduces electromagnetic interference, ultimately providing cleaner audio. The 650A employs Cambridge's proprietary Class A/B amplifier technology, ensuring a rich and warm sound signature that appeals to lovers of diverse music genres. Additionally, the inclusion of a high-quality headphone output allows for a private listening experience with minimal signal degradation.

In contrast, the 550A model offers a more straightforward approach while still maintaining impressive audio fidelity. Delivering 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the 550A is perfect for smaller setups or compact spaces. Its Simple and elegant design hides sophisticated technologies aimed at achieving high-performance output. The amplifier features a high-quality pre-amp section, making it versatile enough to accommodate various audio sources, including vinyl players, CD players, and digital streaming devices.

Both amplifiers feature a solid metal chassis that minimizes vibrations, preserving sound integrity. They also come equipped with multiple inputs, allowing users to connect different sources easily. The 650A and 550A include tone controls to customize the sound signature according to personal preferences, and discrete circuit design to enhance signal clarity further.

Additionally, both amplifiers showcase Cambridge Audio's commitment to user-friendly design principles. With intuitive controls and a clear display, users can enjoy a hassle-free experience, whether adjusting settings or switching sources.

In conclusion, the Cambridge Audio 650A and 550A integrated amplifiers exemplify the brand's dedication to high-quality audio performance. With advanced technologies, robust power, and versatile connectivity, these amplifiers cater to a broad range of listening preferences and environments, ensuring that music is experienced as the artist intended. Whether opt for the powerful 650A or the conveniently efficient 550A, users can expect an unparalleled audio experience that elevates their musical journey.