Operational Notes

SWITCHING ON -- SOFT START

The MANLEY NEO-CLASSIC 250's & 500's are equipped with a SOFT-START circuit which reduces the cold-start current draw which makes things easier for your house breakers and the poor tubes and capacitors in the amps. We recommend that you use this soft start turn-on feature sequence whenever you turn the amplifier on and especially when you turn it on from cold.

1.Ensure that the right-most "mains" switch on the front panel is in the "off" or "0" or DOWN position and the OPERATE / STANDBY switch is also DOWN in the STANDBY mode.

2.Turn on preamplifiers and all your source components and let them warm up for a minute.

3.Switch the right-hand mains power switch to the ON position and allow the amplifier a minute or so to 'warm up'. The blinking LED will indicate that the amplifier is in STANDBY mode.

4.After a minute or so, or more if you like, engage the soft-start switch UP to the OPERATE position. The blinking standby LED will extinguish.

5.The MUTE switch just prevents tunes coming into the amplifier. It grounds them out. UN- MUTE this switch if you had it on, turn up the volume on your preamp and enjoy.

6.To shut the amps off, you can flip the mains power switch down first, which will shut off power to the amplifier.

THE EVER-WARM MODE

After your listening session, if you wish to leave the amplifier in the energy-saving and 'EVER-WARM' STANDBY mode, engage the OPERATE/STANDBY switch to the STANDBY position. The standby blinking LED will remind you that the amplifier is in STANDBY mode. The amplifier will draw only 400mA (30 watts @120VAC) from the mains outlet-- certainly an energy saving way to keep your amplifiers warmed up and always ready to listen to!

TRIODE / TETRODE OPERATION:

With the TRIODE / TETRODE switch, the amplifier may be set for TRIODE or TETRODE operation. When the switch is in the lower position, the amplifier is in TETRODE mode which will produce just over 250 watts in the 250 model, and, as you might expect, just over 500 watts in the 500 model. When the switch is in the upper position, the amplifier is in TRIODE mode which will produce about half the power of TETRODE operation. For some more demanding energetic music, large rooms, or for power hungry inefficient loadspeakers, you might find you will need the extra power of tetrode operation. Other times and other situations will find you very well satisfied with the sweet and seductive triode mode. One major rule applies for switching between triode and tetrode:

THE AMPLIFIER MUST BE TURNED OFF BEFORE SWITCHING BETWEEN TRIODE AND TETRODE!!!!

Follow turn on SOFT START procedure above when re-powering up the unit. Do not ever flip rapidly back and forth between triode and tetrode or you'll probably blow something up. Set it. And forget it.

TUBE LIFE

You should expect extended life from the tubes in your MANLEY 250's & 500's if you adhere to the procedures described above and check your bias at least once every 2-3 months.

FUSES

The fuses used in your amplifier are standard 1/4" x 1 1/4" SLO-BLO Ceramic types. The correctly rated fuse has been installed at the factory for your country's voltage. If replacing a fuse, always unplug the amplifier's power cord from the wall outlet and always use the exact same type and ampere rating fuse as the one you are replacing. Failure to do so will void your warranty and can be a dangerous fire hazard. NEVER replace a fuse with thick wire, tin foil, gum wrappers, or anything else other than the correct fuse!

AMPLIFIERS specifications

Manley Labs, a renowned name in high-fidelity audio equipment, has established a reputation for its premium amplifiers, celebrated for their exceptional sound quality and innovative design. With a commitment to craftsmanship and the integration of cutting-edge technology, Manley amplifiers cater to audiophiles and professionals alike, delivering a listening experience that is both immersive and authentic.

One of the hallmark features of Manley amplifiers is their use of high-quality vacuum tubes in many of their models. The warmth and richness that tubes impart to the audio signal are particularly appealing to music lovers who seek a classic analog sound. Models like the Manley Stingray and the Manley 300B offer a distinctive tonal character, allowing musicians and listeners to experience the nuances of recordings as intended by the artists.

In addition to tube technology, Manley amplifiers frequently incorporate advanced solid-state circuitry, striking a balance between traditional warmth and modern reliability. The Manley Reference Amplifier exemplifies this hybrid approach, featuring a robust power supply and precision engineering that ensures a clean, dynamic sound. This versatility allows the amplifiers to perform beautifully in various listening environments, from home setups to professional studio applications.

Manley Labs is also notable for its attention to build quality. The amplifiers are crafted in the USA, utilizing high-grade components and rigorous quality control processes. This commitment to craftsmanship means that every unit is built to last, ensuring long-term reliability and performance. The aesthetic appeal of Manley amplifiers, with their distinctive vintage-inspired designs and premium finishes, further enhances their desirability.

Another key characteristic of Manley amplifiers is their versatility in handling various types of audio signals. Models like the Manley Neo-Classic 300B can accommodate both low-impedance and high-efficiency speakers, making them suitable for a wide range of setups. Additionally, features such as customized input and output transformers help to optimize the performance for different audio sources.

In conclusion, Manley Labs amplifiers embody a blend of vintage charm and contemporary engineering. Their proprietary tube designs, robust solid-state options, and unwavering quality make them a standout choice for anyone seeking an exceptional audio experience. Whether in a casual listening room or a high-end studio, Manley amplifiers promise to deliver richness, clarity, and a connection to the music that transcends the ordinary.