Input Connection Considerations
High quality, fully shielded RCA or XLR cables are recommended for use with Ultra amplifiers. ‘Twisted Pair’ cables are not recommended. Ultra amplifiers have an extremely high bandwidth, and twisted, non‐shielded cables can actually act as an ‘antenna’, receiving outside interference and signals (EMI and RFI), which will cause the amplifier to go into protect mode.
Whenever possible, keep preamplifier level audio cables away from amplifier electrical power cords by at least a few inches. Amplifier AC power cords are carrying much more current than other source and preamplifier components, which means there is a larger degree of noise or “hum” potential with the amplifier power cord in close proximity.
Output Connection Considerations
The output connectors provided on each channel of Ultra amplifiers are standard “binding post” speaker connectors with industry standard spacing. These are sometimes called 5‐way binding posts because of the many ways in which the speaker wire can connect into the posts. The posts can accept bare wire, spade terminals, or single banana connectors. Keep in mind that if you use “dual banana” plugs and “stack” them, you will be creating a parallel connection. For more details on series and parallel connections, see pages 23‐24.
It is important to observe polarity so that the speaker wire connects to the red and black terminals on the amplifier and the corresponding terminals at the speaker. Also, make sure that the positive speaker wires do not touch the negative speaker wires, or any chassis metal. This will cause a short circuit and activate the protection circuitry.
Connection Tips for Superior Sound
Before setting up your new system, please consider the following:
•Always make sure the amplifier is turned off before making or changing ANY connections.
•Whenever possible, route the power cords away from the signal cables or speaker wires to prevent any hum or interference heard in the speakers.
•Many RCA type patch cords can be a very tight fit and there is usually a preferred method of removing them. Some have to be removed with a twisting action. Be gentle or you may damage the jacks of your amplifier, the cables themselves, or other components.
•Many audiophile signal cables are intended to be hooked up in one direction. If this is the case, the cables will be marked with arrows indicating the direction of signal flow.
•It is usual for the right channel RCA patch cord plugs to be red and the left channel connections to be white, grey, or black (depending on the cable brand). RCA connectors that are gold will be designated with a colored band to designate the channel.
22
