Recorder Connections t
[See Figure 2.]
The Tape inputs and outputs can be connected to any record/playback device that accepts standard line level analog input and output signals. Typically that will be a conventional tape recorder.
When connecting a recorder to the RA-04 remember that the outputs of the recorder must be connected to the tape inputs of the RA-04. Similarly the tape outputs of the RA-04 must be connected to the inputs of the recorder. As with other sources be sure to connect the Left and Right channels of each device to the proper channels on the associated components. Use high quality connecting cables to prevent loss of sound quality.
NOTE: The Tape Outputs are not affected by the Volume, Balance or Tone controls. They receive a fixed level signal.
Preamp Outputs y
The RA-04 has a set of preamp outputs. The signal from the source selected with the Function Selector is always available from these outputs. Typically these outputs are used to provide a signal to another integrated amplifier or power amplifier, which is used to drive remote speakers
NOTE: Changes to the settings of the Vol- ume, Balance or Tone controls affect the signal from the Preamp Outputs.
Speaker Outputs ui Speaker Selector Switch 6
[See Figure 2.]
The RA-04 has two sets of speaker outputs, labeled “A” u and “B” i. The speaker outputs are controlled by the switch 6 on the front panel.
Speaker Selection
If only one set of speakers will be used at any given time, the speakers may have an imped- ance as low as 4 ohms. If there are times when both the A and B speakers will be used, all
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the speakers should have an impedance of 8 ohms or more. Speaker impedance ratings are less than precise. In practice, very few loudspeakers will present any problems for the RA-04. See your authorized Rotel dealer if you have any questions.
Speaker Wire Selection
Use insulated two-conductor stranded wire to connect the RA-04 to the speakers. The size and quality of the wire can have an audible effect on the performance of the system. Stan- dard speaker wire will work, but can result in lower output or diminished bass response, particularly over longer distances. In general, heavier wire will improve the sound. For best performance, you may want to consider special high-quality speaker cables. Your authorized Rotel dealer can help in the selection of cables for your system.
Polarity and Phasing
The polarity – the positive/negative orientation of the connections – for every speaker and amplifier connection must be consistent so all the speakers will be in phase. If the polarity of one connection is reversed, bass output will be very weak and stereo imaging degraded. All wire is marked so you can identify the two conductors. There may be ribs or a stripe on the insulation of one conductor. The wire may have clear insulation with different color conductors (copper and silver). There may be polarity indications printed on the insulation. Identify the positive and negative conductors and be consistent with every speaker and amplifier connection.
Speaker Connection
Turn off all the components in the system before connecting the speakers. The RA-04 has color- coded binding post type speaker connectors on the back panel (except in European Community countries where their use is not permitted). These connectors accept bare wire, connector lugs, or dual banana type connectors.
Route the wire from the RA-04 to the speakers. Give yourself enough slack so you can move the components to allow access to the speaker connectors. If you are using dual banana plugs, connect them to the wires and then plug into the backs of the binding posts. The thumbscrews of the binding posts should be screwed in all the way (clockwise).
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If you are using terminal lugs, connect them to the wires. If you are attaching bare wires directly to the binding posts, separate the wire conductors and strip the insulation from the end of each conductor. Be careful not to cut into the wire strands. Unscrew (turn counterclockwise) the binding post thumbscrews. Place the connec- tor lug or wire around the binding post shaft. Turn the thumbscrews clockwise to clamp the connector lug or wire firmly in place.
NOTE: Be sure there are no loose wire strands that could touch adjacent wires or connectors.
Phones Output 4
The Phones output allows you to connect headphones for private listening. This output accommodates standard stereo phone (1/8”) plugs. Plugging in a set of headphones does not cut off the signal to the outputs. Use the Speaker Selector to turn off the speakers. The settings of the Function Selector and the Tape Monitor Control determines which source is heard. To listen to or monitor the component connected to the Tape input set the Monitor Control to the Tape position. For all other inputs leave the Monitor Control in the Source position and select the source you want to listen to with the front panel Function Selector .
Media Player 5
A 3.5mm (1/8”) stereo input socket for a “Media Player” is provided on the front of the amplifier and is selected by setting the function control to (AUX2). Any portable stereo cassette, compact disc player or hard disc playback device can be connected via this input. If the device you are connecting has its output via the headphone socket then note that you must adjust the volume control on the player for sound to be heard. Should the sound be loud and distorted turn down the volume on the player and if it is only just audible through the speakers even when the amplifier volume control is turned up fairly high then adjust the volume control on the player.
NOTE: When the 3.5mm (mimi jack) is inserted into the Media Player socket the rear input called AUX2 is disconnected. Removing the 3.5mm plug from the Media player socket will allow the rear AUX2 input to function.
