Bi-wiring and bi-amping loudspeakers

Before you start

Bi-amping your system

WARNING: Do not make any connections to your amplifier while it is switched on or connected to the mains supply.

Before switching on please check all connections thoroughly, making sure bare wires or cables are not touching the amplifier in the wrong places (which could cause short circuits) and you have connected positive

(+) to positive and negative (–) to negative.

Always ensure that the volume control on your amplifier is set to minimum before starting these procedures.

Bi-wiring your loudspeakers

Bi-wiring improves the sound of your system because it divides the high and low frequency signal currents into separate speaker cables. This avoids signal distortions arising from the high and low frequency currents interacting with one another within a single cable, as in conventionally wired systems.

The performance of your system can be further enhanced over that achieved with bi-wiring, by extending the principle one stage further to include separate amplification for the low and high frequency drive units in each loudspeaker enclosure.

Connect the integrated amplifier to the high frequency (HF) terminals and connect the power amplifier to the low frequency (LF) terminals.

You will need:

Speakers – with four input terminals each (as with bi-wiring): these will be marked HF (High Frequency) and LF (Low Frequency).

Two amplifiers – one of these would be the A85 and the other an Arcam power amplifier (e.g. P85).

Loudspeaker cables – two pairs of cables per loudspeaker or a suitably terminated cable set (a loom, probably prepared by your dealer and capable of being used for bi-amping in one length).

Interconnect cables – one pair of high quality interconnect cables.

You will need:

Speakers – with four input terminals each: these will be marked HF (High Frequency) and LF (Low Frequency).

Loudspeaker cables – two pairs of cables per loudspeaker (which may be joined at the amplifier end if your amplifier has only one pair of output terminals per channel). Or, a suitably terminated cable set (a loom, probably prepared by your dealer and capable of being used for bi-wiring in one length).

How to bi-wire loudspeakers

1.Remove the terminal links on the rear of your loudspeakers

WARNING: This step is essential or damage to your amplifier may result which is not covered under warranty.

How to set up a bi-amped system

1.Remove the terminal links on the rear of your loudspeakers.

WARNING: This step is essential or damage to your amplifier may result which is not covered under warranty.

2.Connect the cables as shown in the diagram below, ensuring correct polarity at all times.

3.Use the interconnect cables to connect the PRE OUT sockets of the A85 to the corresponding AUDIO IN sockets of the power amplifier.

2.Connect the cables as shown in the diagram below, ensuring correct polarity at all times.

 

 

Arcam A85 amplifier

 

 

 

+

 

+

 

 

R

 

 

L

 

 

 

 

 

Enciente

 

 

 

 

 

droite

+

HF

Right

+

HF

Left

+

LF

speaker

+

LF

speaker

 

Amplificateur Arcam A85

 

 

+

+

R

 

L

 

+

+

HF

 

HF

Enciente

LF

LF

gauche

 

+

+

+

+

R

 

L

 

Amplificateur de puissance Arcam P85

 

Bi-wiring using one set of connections on amplifier

Recommended bi-amping configuration

A85/P85

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Arcam P85/3, A85 manual Bi-wiring and bi-amping loudspeakers, Before you start, Bi-wiring your loudspeakers

A85, P85/3, P85 specifications

The Arcam P85 and A85 amplifiers are a testament to Arcam's commitment to high-quality audio performance. These components are well-known in the audiophile community for their unique blend of state-of-the-art technology and superior sound quality, catering to discerning listeners who value fidelity and craftsmanship.

The Arcam A85 is a high-performance integrated amplifier that features a robust design and advanced circuitry. It offers a powerful 85 watts per channel output, which is more than sufficient to drive a wide range of speakers with clarity and precision. The A85 incorporates a dual mono design with separate power supplies for the left and right channels, ensuring low crosstalk and high channel separation. This design choice also enhances the amplifier’s dynamic response, allowing it to handle complex musical passages with ease.

One of the standout features of the A85 is its use of high-quality components, including low-noise transistors and capacitors that are specifically chosen to minimize distortion. The amplifier exhibits an impressive signal-to-noise ratio, contributing to a clean audio signal that preserves the nuances of the music.

On the other hand, the Arcam P85 is a powerful, dedicated power amplifier that pairs perfectly with the A85. It utilizes a Class G amplification technology, which provides significant power efficiency. This means that the P85 can deliver peak power output without generating excessive heat, making it an ideal choice for long listening sessions.

The P85 offers 85 watts per channel into 8 ohms but can also deliver 140 watts into 4 ohms, allowing it to drive even the most demanding loudspeakers with authority. Its balanced XLR inputs, alongside standard RCA inputs, ensure compatibility with various audio sources, while the sturdy construction ensures durability and performance.

Both the A85 and P85 feature a simple yet elegant design, characterized by a sleek chassis that minimizes resonances and maximizes aesthetic appeal. They also come equipped with a variety of connection options, including multiple line-level inputs and outputs, making integration into an existing audio system straightforward.

In summary, the Arcam P85 and A85 amplifiers represent a harmonious fusion of innovative technology, impeccable sound quality, and user-friendly design. Their powerful performance, combined with high efficiency and low distortion, makes them a prized possession for any audiophile seeking to enhance their listening experience. Whether used in a stereo setup or as part of a more extensive home theater system, the A85 and P85 deliver exceptional audio performance that stands the test of time.