Musical Fidelity A1, Class A Integrated Amplifier manual Installation, Introduction

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A1 Integrated

INSTALLATION

 

 

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on the purchase of the new A1 Class A Integrated amplifier. Great attention has been paid to internal layout, isolating each circuit section to prevent possible interaction.

The unit features a top quality USB input DAC to allow direct connection to a PC or MAC for listening to MP3/WAV or other digital music storage formats.

The preamplifier sections are our finely tuned and tweaked preamplifier, for smooth sound coupled with low noise and virtually no distortion. The preamp section includes a top quality low noise phono stage which caters for MM cartridge users.

The power amplifier consists of two class-A amplifier modules with separate supplies for the absolute best in separation and imaging. Generously rated, they are enough to drive even the most demanding loudspeakers with ease. Low distortion and very quiet they will deliver all music types exactly as the artist originally intended.

The resultant performance achieved by this unit is among the best in the world. It has excellent signal to noise ratio, low distortion, wide bandwidth and dynamic range, with extraordinary resolution and fine detail.

CLEANING

Before cleaning the unit, switch off power at the mains switch and remove the mains plug from the wall socket.

Clean the cabinet and remote control unit using a moist cloth. Using solvents, white spirit or thinners is not advised, as they could damage the surface finish.

INSTALLATION

Position the A1 on a stable, horizontal surface where there is no risk of it being knocked, or subjected to vibration such as from loudspeakers.

Important note:

As a “CLASS A” amplifier, the unit dissipates a quantity of power at all times, and it is important that it is adequately ventilated. The sides are perforated to allow the smooth flow of heat through the unit. It is therefore not recommended that the unit is enclosed in a cabinet or placed where the ventilation holes on the sides are impeded as this could result in the unit cutting out due to excessive heat build-up.

The A1 must be protected from humidity - if the unit is moved from a cold place to a warm room, leave the unit for an hour or so to allow sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate.

POWER CONNECTIONS

The A1 is supplied with a standard IEC mains cable which plugs into the IEC socket at the back of the unit (see P.7)

AUDIO CONNECTIONS

Analogue Inputs: Connect all analogue sources to relevant analogue inputs (see p.7 For more information). Use good quality fully connected (signal and ground) coaxial phono cables for all signal connections.

USB Input: Connect a USB A to B (not supplied) cable between computer and USB input if required.

Please note: The USB input is a USB Digital to Analogue Converter (DAC), not a “host controller”. It therefore does NOT support direct streaming from USB players, media, drives etc. It only functions with a personal computer/PDA or equivalent attached.

Outputs: Connect loudspeakers to the terminals on the back panel marked as LEFT and RIGHT SPEAKER outputs

The TAPE output allows loop through of analogue signals for example, to pass on to recorder or monitor. It is also the ideal output to connect our headphone amps into.

The PRE-OUToutput allows analogue signals controlled by the volume, to pass on to a second amplifier. This is useful for bi-amping.

Issue 2: 05th March 2008

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Contents A1 Integrated Contents A1 IntegratedSafety Information IMPORTANT! U.K. onlyGeneral Advice Installation Precautions & User InformationItem Disposal Information DisposalInstallation IntroductionA1 Integrated Facilities and ConnectionRemote Control Remote control HandsetAmplifier Operation StartingTape A1 IntegratedAMPLIFIER PROBLEMS? Amplifier Specifications A1 IntegratedManual Revision

Class A Integrated Amplifier, A1 specifications

The Musical Fidelity A1 is a distinguished Class A integrated amplifier renowned for its exceptional audio performance and elegant design. This amplifier stands out in the crowded hi-fi market due to its focus on delivering pure and uncolored sound. The A1 is designed to reproduce music as it was intended by the artist, making it a favored choice among audiophiles and music enthusiasts.

One of the central features of the A1 is its all-analog Class A circuitry. This design ensures that the amplifier operates with minimal distortion, providing a warm and natural sound signature. With its class A architecture, the A1 is capable of delivering high-quality sound even at low power levels, maintaining excellent fidelity across various volume settings. The output power of the A1 is substantial for its size, typically around 30 watts per channel, which is typical for Class A amplifiers.

The Musical Fidelity A1 is equipped with a robust power supply that underpins its performance. A well-designed power supply is crucial for maintaining stability during high dynamic range passages in music. This amplifier boasts a high-quality toroidal transformer, which offers better electromagnetic shielding and reduces noise, resulting in clearer audio production.

In terms of connectivity, the A1 comes with multiple inputs, including RCA line-level inputs, allowing users to connect various audio sources such as CD players, turntables, and streaming devices. The inclusion of a high-quality phono stage is a notable feature, enabling vinyl lovers to connect their turntables without needing an additional phono preamp.

The build quality of the A1 is equally impressive. Encased in a sturdy chassis, the amplifier features an elegant front panel with straightforward rotary controls for volume and input selection, along with a power switch. Its minimalist design not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also enhances durability.

Musical Fidelity has always prioritized user experience, and the A1 is no exception. The amplifier is engineered to be user-friendly, with a simple setup process and intuitive controls. It perfectly complements a wide range of speakers, providing an engaging listening experience that highlights the subtleties of any music genre.

In summary, the Musical Fidelity A1 Class A Integrated Amplifier is a remarkable component for anyone serious about sound quality. Its high-performance characteristics, solid build quality, and user-centric design make it a standout choice for music enthusiasts seeking an immersive audio experience.
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