Front panel controls

1 Standby/On

8 Volume

Switches the unit between Standby mode (indicated by dim power LED) and On (indicated by bright power LED). Standby is an eco power mode where the power consumption is less than one watt. The unit is designed so that it can be left safely in Standby mode when not in use.

Use to increase or 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. It is advisable to turn the Volume control fully anti-clockwise before switching the ampliﬁer on.

2Phones

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

9Balance

This control allows you to adjust the relative output levels of the left and right channels. In the central position the output from each channel is equal. This control only modiﬁes the sound through your loudspeakers and the Pre-Out sockets – it does not affect the signals sent through the Tape Out connections.

3Infrared 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.

4Protection

LED ﬂashes to indicate activation of CAP5 protection system. Refer to the CAP5 section of this manual for more information.

5Speaker LEDs

Indicator shows the speaker terminals that are selected. The speaker terminals selected are changed with the remote control.

10MP3 Input

This source input allows you to connect a portable audio device such as an MP3 player, plugged into either the rear panel Phono/RCA input pair (labelled ‘MP3’) or the front panel 3.5mm stereo-jack input (labelled ‘MP3 In’).

Press the MP3 button on the front panel to select the input, or insert a device into the front panel socket which automatically selects the input and overrides the rear Phono/RCA sockets.

Note: Whilst plugging a device into the front panel automatically selects the MP3 input, any other input can still be selected once this has been done. As a result you may, if desired, leave a device permanently plugged into the front panel.

6Direct

This control gives the audio signal a more direct path to the power ampliﬁer stage of your ampliﬁer, bypassing the bass and treble control circuits for the purest possible sound quality.

7Bass and Treble

These controls allow subtle adjustments to the tonal balance of the sound. In the central position these controls have no effect. They only modify the sound through your loudspeakers and the Pre-Out sockets, and do not affect the signals sent through the Tape Out connections. With a well-produced CD and a good system, the tone controls are unnecessary and can be switched out by the ‘Direct’ switch. If the musical recording is of poor quality or other factors are affecting the sound quality, it may be necessary to adjust the tone controls to compensate.

11CD, Tuner/DAB, DVD, Aux

Push the appropriate input selection button to select the source component that you wish to listen to. The signal selected is also fed to the Tape Out sockets so that it may be recorded. The input should not be changed whilst recording (but the recorded signal can be checked using the tape input Tape Monitor).

12Tape Monitor

This control lets you listen to the output signal from a tape recorder or signal processor connected to the ampliﬁer's Tape In/Rec Out sockets. When Tape Monitor is selected, the source component chosen by the input selection buttons continues to be routed to the Rec Out sockets for recording or processing.

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.