Arcam A38, P38 manual Placing the unit, Power, Interconnect cables, Stand-by power

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Placing the unit

<Place the amplifier on a level, firm surface, avoiding direct sunlight and sources of heat or damp.

<Do not place the A38 on top of a power amplifier or other source of heat.

<Do not place the amplifier in an enclosed space such as a bookcase or closed cabinet unless there is good provision for ventilation. The A38 and P38 are designed to run warm during normal operation.

<Do not place any other component or item on top of the amplifier as this may obstruct airflow around the heat-sink, causing the amplifier to run hot. (The unit placed on top of the amplifier would become hot, too.)

<Make sure the remote-control receiver to the left of the front panel display is unobstructed, otherwise this will impair the use of the remote- control. If line-of-sight is impractical, a remote- control repeater can be used with the rear panel connector (see page 7).

<Do not place your record deck on top of this unit. Record decks are very sensitive to the noise generated by mains power supplies which will be heard as a background ‘hum’ if the record deck is too close.

Power

The amplifier is supplied with a moulded mains plug already fitted to the lead. Check that the plug supplied fits your supply – should you require a new mains lead, please contact your Arcam dealer.

If your mains supply voltage or mains plug is different, please contact your Arcam dealer immediately

Push the IEC plug end of the power cable into the socket on the back of the amplifier, making sure that it is pushed in firmly. Plug the other end of the cable into your mains socket and, if necessary, switch the socket on.

Stand-by power

For remote stand-by operation, the amplifier’s control power-supply is kept powered on all the time the unit is connected to the mains supply. The front-panel power- switch powers all other circuitry down and power consumption in this mode is less than 2W.

This means that even though the power-switch is off, it may be possible to hear a slight residual hum coming from the mains transformer inside the amplifier. This is perfectly normal. However, if the unit is to be left unused for an extended period, we recommend that you disconnect it from the mains supply.

Interconnect cables

We recommend the use of high-quality screened cables that are designed for the particular application. Other cables will have different impedance characteristics that will degrade the performance of your system (for example, do not use cabling intended for video use to carry audio signals). All cables should be kept as short as is practically possible.

It is good practice when connecting your equipment to make sure that the mains power-supply cabling is kept as far away as possible from your audio cables. Failure to do so may result in unwanted noise in the audio signals.

English

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Contents A38/P38 HA N D B O O K Integrated and power amplifiersImportant safety instructions Safety GuidelinesSafety compliance Locate any outdoor antenna/aerial away from power linesEnglish ContentsWelcome Overview Stand-by power PowerPlacing the unit Interconnect cablesA38 Connections Audio inputs Pre-/power-amplifier connectionsRecording loops Phono inputBi-wiring Single wiringLoudspeakers Bi-ampingBi-amping Single wiringEnglish Bi-wiring Changing the volume Switching the A38 onA38 Operation Selecting an audio sourceAdjusting listening settings A38 setupInserting batteries into the remote control CR90 Universal remote controllerSource keys Select the source key firstAmp commands P38 Connections Connecting to loudspeakersOther connections Mono LinkEnglish Remote switching Continual improvement policy SpecificationsSound cuts-out unexpectedly Amplifier does not switch back onNo sound Worldwide Guarantee Product GuaranteeClaims under guarantee Problems?

A38, P38 specifications

The Arcam A38 and P38 are high-performance audio products designed for discerning listeners seeking exceptional sound quality and user-friendly features. These models represent a commitment to delivering a rich and immersive listening experience, suitable for both music enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.

The Arcam A38 is an integrated amplifier that combines high power with an elegant aesthetic. Its design reflects a blend of modern engineering and classic audio principles. The A38 boasts a robust Class G amplification technology, which allows it to deliver high-quality sound with exceptional efficiency. This amplifier produces up to 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms, providing ample power to drive a wide range of speakers. The Class G system operates in a standard Class A mode under normal conditions, switching to Class AB when more power is demanded, thus delivering a dynamic and refined audio performance.

One of the standout features of the A38 is its advanced digital signal processing capabilities. It includes a high-quality digital-to-analog converter (DAC), ensuring that digital audio sources are rendered with exceptional clarity and accuracy. The A38 supports multiple input options including analogue, digital optical, and coaxial inputs, offering versatility for connecting various sources such as CD players, streaming devices, and televisions.

Complementing the A38, the Arcam P38 is a power amplifier specifically designed to enhance the power and performance of any audio system. It is engineered for compatibility with the A38, making them an ideal pair for a high-fidelity set-up. The P38 also uses Class G technology and delivers up to 150 watts per channel into 8 ohms. Its robust build and superior component quality contribute to an impressive dynamic range and low distortion, which are essential for an impactful listening experience.

Both the A38 and P38 feature a sophisticated layout that minimizes electrical interference, ensuring clean signal paths and optimal performance. Additionally, they are designed with user convenience in mind, featuring easy-to-use front panel controls and remote operation capabilities.

In summary, the Arcam A38 and P38 are remarkable audio components that emphasize innovation, power, and quality. Together, they create a synergistic audio experience that fulfills the demands of serious music lovers, providing a pathway to experiencing sound in its truest form. With advanced technologies and a commitment to fidelity, these models stand out in the competitive landscape of high-end audio equipment.
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