Phono (for an external phono preamp), CD, Tuner, and AUX 1. There is also one pair of Balanced XLR inputs.
Connecting the Hera to multi channel sources using the Unity Gain Input: The Hera features a unity gain bypass allowing you to integrate your two channel music systems into a multichannel home theater system. This conveniently enables you to share speakers and amps between systems without switching interconnect or speaker cables. In this configuration the Hera is then used with two channel sources such as CD Players, turntables, tuners etc, while a separate processor or multi channel receiver is used with multichannel sources such as DVD movies. Simply connect the left and right front outputs from your processor to the unity gain inputs on the Hera. These inputs route the home theater signal directly to the power amp completely bypassing the active circuitry in the Hera. To activate this unity gain input, the bypass switch on the front of the preamplifier must be pushed in (see Figure 3). Once this switch is on, all other inputs are deactivated and the preamplifier is in bypass mode. Note that if the preamplifier is turned off it automatically goes into bypass mode.
Connecting an audio processor to the Hera:
The Hera features a processor loop which allows processors (equalizer, room correction, bass enhancement, etc.. ) to be used. There are two sets of RCA jacks on the rear of the preamp for connecting to/from a processor. When the processor button is pushed in a blue LED below the button will light indicating that the source signal is going through the processor. With the button out the signal bypasses the processor. Note that if no processor is connected and the button is pushed in then the signal is interrupted and there will be no output from the preamplifier.
Connecting a tape or CD recorder to the Hera:
The Hera features a buffered tape loop and tape monitor for recording from other sources and for monitoring the recording as it is being made. The buffered tape output prevents “loading down” of the preamp by the recording equipment thus providing a higher level of fidelity in the recording process as well as the monitored playback. Connect the output jacks from the recording device to the “Tape In” jacks on the back of the Hera. Connect the “Tape Out” jacks on the Hera to the input jacks of the recording device. Note that if the Tape Monitor button is pushed in on the Hera that the source will be the output from the recording device.
Connecting the Hera to the power amplifier:
There are two RCA outputs and two Balanced XLR outputs. These are used to connect the Preamplifier to the Power Amplifier in your system. Note that the output in balanced mode is 3dB higher than for single ended mode.
Connecting a subwoofer to the Hera:
A second set of both RCA and XLR outputs are provided that can be used for connecting a subwoofer to the Hera. The signal to these outputs is identical to the signal going to the power amp and varies with the volume control. Note that these outputs can also be used for biamping or running a second power amp located elsewhere.
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