SLP-2002 USERS MANUAL

Congratulations Cary Audiophile!

All of us at Cary Audio thank you for buying an SLP-2002 preamplifier for your home audio system. This design has many innovative features to offer ease of use and superb reproduction of your favorite music.

This preamplifier includes fully balanced vacuum tube circuitry with dual triode 6922 and 5814 tubes. The remote volume control uses an Alps four gang motorized volume potentiometer, chosen for both its intrinsic sound quality and its remote control convenience. We have XLR balanced or RCA unbalanced connections for the Cinema bypass and RCA or XLR inputs for the CD player and the main preamplifier outputs. The circuit uses five fully regulated power supplies. Proper operation of the preamplifier power supply circuits is confirmed by red or green LED’s that are mounted on the power supply PCB board, visible through perforations in the top panel.

This is our first balanced circuit preamplifier. As such, we felt we should offer a new way to mix stereo and home theater surround sound systems together. The Cinema bypass input allows this to happen. Connect the main Left and Right outputs from your home theater processor to the Cinema bypass inputs. You can have musical, superb reproduction of your two-channel source material or surround sound from your processor in this way. Connect your CD player to the SLP-2002 for 2 channel stereo playback. We naturally suggest using a Cary Cinema P 8 surround processor due its XLR analog bypass capability for two channel listening! The Cinema Bypass input will pass a signal when the SLP-2002 preamplifier is On or Off, exactly as its’ name implies.

For audiophiles with balanced design CD players and power amplifiers, the balanced CD input on the SLP-2002 allows you to have a balanced system, from the input source to the power amplifier. Balanced cables offer excellent shielding from external noise sources, like radio frequency (RFI) interference. In systems where very long runs of cable are needed, balanced operation is the best way to wire a system. Both the CD- 303/200 and CD-306/200 offer balanced XLR analog outputs.

In extensive listening tests we have come to admire the sound reproduction capabilities of the 6922 tube. We use it as a driver stage tube in our V-12i and Rocket 88 power amplifiers. Using the 6922 driver and 5814 buffer stage has the added benefit of creating a non-inverting preamplifier design. (6H30, 6CG7 or 6FQ7 tubes could be substituted for the 6922 tubes or 12AU7 tubes for 5814 tubes if you desire.)

We hope you find the extensive input switching, the choice of XLR or RCA inputs and outputs, a tape monitor loop and Cinema bypass to be all you need for complete control in your stereo system. Our designs are famous for quality, durability and musicality. We hope you enjoy the music through your stereo sound system and thank you again for buying a Cary Audio Design preamplifier for your listening pleasure.

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Cary Audio Design SLP-2002 user manual Congratulations Cary Audiophile
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SLP-2002 specifications

Cary Audio Design has long been a respected name in the realm of high-fidelity audio equipment, and the SLP-2002 tube preamplifier is no exception. This preamp is a testament to Cary's commitment to delivering a pure, rich, and dynamic listening experience.

One of the standout features of the SLP-2002 is its all-tube design, which employs a combination of 6SN7 and 6SL7 vacuum tubes. This selection provides a lush, warm sound signature that is characteristic of vacuum tube amplifiers. The SLP-2002's hybrid design integrates both traditional analog circuitry and modern engineering techniques, making it a versatile choice for audiophiles who value tube warmth alongside contemporary performance.

The SLP-2002 operates with high-quality components throughout, including precision resistors and capacitors that are chosen for their superior audio fidelity. This attention to detail ensures minimal signal loss and distortion, resulting in clear and transparent sound reproduction. With a signal-to-noise ratio of 95 dB, users can expect a quiet operation, allowing the finer nuances of music to shine through.

One of the unique characteristics of the SLP-2002 is its user-friendly interface. It features a sleek front panel with easy-to-read LED indicators and a discreet remote control, allowing users to manage their listening experience effortlessly. The preamp is equipped with multiple inputs, including both single-ended and balanced connections, making it compatible with a wide range of audio sources.

Another notable technology integrated into the SLP-2002 is its variable gain control. This feature allows users to adjust the volume in a more refined manner, providing better control over their listening levels and ensuring a smooth transition between softer and louder passages of music.

Cary Audio Design has also placed a strong emphasis on aesthetics with the SLP-2002. The unit features a classic design with a brushed aluminum chassis, elegant knobs, and a vintage look that appeals to audiophiles and design enthusiasts alike. Its robust build quality not only enhances durability but also helps in reducing external interference, contributing to an overall refined listening experience.

Overall, the Cary Audio Design SLP-2002 tube preamplifier encapsulates a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation. Whether for vinyl enthusiasts or digital audio lovers, this preamp is designed to elevate your audio experience, making it a worthy addition to any high-fidelity system.
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