General Technical Information...48

Page 5

Using your dCS Purcell for the first time...54
Whats in the Box? Safety Notice Mains Voltage Setting Positioning the Unit Mains Supply Voltage Having Your Options Changed Service & Maintenance Obtaining Service Mains Fuse

Replacing a Blown Fuse x

Options....56
Maintenance and Support...58
Fitting or Replacing the Batteries in the Remote Control Opening the battery compartment and removing batteries Fitting new batteries and closing the case dCS Limited Warranty What This Warranty Covers What This Warranty Does Not Cover How To Obtain Service Updating your Purcell
Software Updates Hardware Updates x x
Safety and Electrical Safety Cleaning the Case

Troubleshooting....64

Fault Indication 64 Power interruption 64 Power up test errors 64 Non-Audio disk 64 The unit is overheating 64 Troubleshooting Guide 65 The unit fails to power up 65 The unit fails to lock to a digital audio source or displays No Input 65 The unit locks but the audio output is low or absent 65 The output is monophonic 65 The unit fails to respond to the controls 66 The Main Display turns on briefly when a control is operated, then turns off 66 The Left and Right channels are swapped 66 One audio output channel is low or absent 66 The sound has a peculiar tonal balance 66 Crackles or pops occur while playing music 66 Erratic operation when locked to 96 or 88.2kS/s on Toslink or ST inputs 67 The unit will not decode Dual AES 67 The unit drops out of Dual AES mode into AES1 or AESA digital recorder fails to record from the REC Output 67 The Remote Control fails to control the unit 68 While playing a DVD, a burst of noise is heard, Elgar Plus mutes and changes sample rate 68 CD Update is interrupted or fails 68 CD Update is interrupted and fails to recover 68 Troubleshooting the IEEE 1394 Interface 69 Upsampler or Transport displays Inactive 69 The Unit keeps displaying No Comms 69 The Unit keeps displaying Search. 69 The DAC displays Verdi Wordclock Missing 69 The DAC displays Missing Wordclock between Clk Out & Verdi Clk In 69 The DAC displays Please check source slaved to DAC Wordclock Out 69 The DAC displays Wrong Wordclock @ Verdi Clk In 69 The DAC remains muted 70 The DAC takes a long time to unmute 70
If You Need More Help...71

Other Information

Page 6
Indexes and Software Version Numbers..72
Software History Definitions and Abbreviations Key to Cable Identification List of Tables List of Figures Keywords and Phrases 75 76
If you have not used a Elgar Plus before, please read the section Using your dCS Elgar Plus for the first time on page 54. This manual has been arranged with the most commonly used sections placed first: table of contents (page 4) step-by-step (page 8) and applications guides (page 14) detailed software and hardware information (page 18) technical information (page 44) information for first time users (page 54) options, maintenance and troubleshooting (page 56) index section (page 72)

Page 9

PCM or DSD mode is automatically detected. The unit will lock to the source, displaying in sequence Locking, d xxx (the BASE sample rate) then the default display (probably 16/44.1 or DSD depending on the Disp menu setting and the source format). do this: Proceed to Step 2.

Page 10

Choose one of the following two sections: Using a preamplifier x do this: Set the preamplifier volume control to minimum. do this: Connect either the balanced (XLR connectors) or unbalanced (RCA phono connectors) outputs on Elgar Plus rear panel to matching line level inputs on your preamplifier (probably labelled CD or AUX). do this: Turn Elgar Plus rotary control clockwise to set the Volume to maximum (Vol 0.0 on the display). do this: Slowly increase the preamplifier volume until the music is at the right level. Using a power amplifier directly x do this: Turn Elgar Plus rotary control counter-clockwise to set the Volume to minimum (Vol -60.0 on the display). do this: Connect either the balanced (XLR connectors) or unbalanced (RCA phono connectors) outputs on Elgar Plus rear panel to matching inputs on your power amplifier. Switch on the power amplifier. do this: Turn Elgar Plus rotary control slowly clockwise until the music is at the right level.
If you connect the Elgar Plus directly to a power amplifier, DO NOT use the Burn-In routine while the power amplifier is switched on with the loudspeakers connected as this may cause loudspeaker damage. A basic setup with a CD player is shown below.

Proceed to Step 3.

DIGITAL OUT
Hand Crafted by The Red Hot CD Player Co.

16 bit / 44.1kS/s

Elgar Plus
L R OUTPUT LEVEL HIGH DSD / SDIF

TOSLINK

IN - WORDCLOCK - OUT

REC OUT

- or -

Balanced Outputs

Unbalanced Outputs
To Power Amplifier or Preamplifier
Figure 1 Basic setup with a CD player

Page 11

Step 3 - Setting the Output Level
If the preamplifier volume setting for a comfortable listening level is too high or too low, you may need to change the Output Level setting. Similarly, if you are driving a power amplifier directly and Elgar Plus Volume setting for a comfortable listening level is higher than 10.0 or lower than 20.0 try changing the Output Level setting. do this: The Output Level switch is located on the back panel. If the Volume setting is too high, set it to the Low position. If the Volume setting is too low, set it to the High position.

OUTPUT LEVEL HIGH

DSD / SDIF
Figure 2 Output Level switch

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Step 4 - Using Elgar Plus in Master Mode

If your CD transport (or other source equipment sampling at 44.1kS/s) has a Wordclock input, you can reduce the jitter in your system by using Elgar Plus in Master mode and slaving the source to it. If not, you can miss out this step.
You can only use Master Mode if your source sample rate is 44.1kS/s. Connect Elgar Plus Wordclock Out connector to the wordclock input on the source equipment. You may need to set the source equipment to slave to wordclock. Hold down the Display button and press the Vol/Bal button to open the menu, then repeatedly press the Display button until the display shows MS:Slav. Press the Vol/Bal button repeatedly until the display changes to MS:Mastr. Allow the menu to time-out. If you are using an Upsampler, this MUST be set to convert a 44.1kS/s source to either 44.1kS/s, 88.2kS/s, 176.4kS/s or DSD. If not, Elgar Plus will be unable to lock. The equipment will take several seconds to re-lock and settle down, then Elgar Plus will unmute. A Master mode setup using a CD player is shown below.

WORDCLOCK

44.1kHz Wordclock

AES 2 RCA1

Balanced Unbalanced Outputs - or Outputs To Power Amplifier or Preamplifier
Figure 3 Using Master Mode with a CD player

Other Settings

The basic set-up procedure is complete. Many more features are available through the Menu. See the Menu section starting on page 18 for more information.

Page 13

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Using an Elgar Plus in Master Mode with Verdi
This setup allows you to play SACDs through the 1394 interface and CDs through the AES1 interface, with Elgar Plus in Master Mode.

dCS Verdi SACD Transport

CAUTION: VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION. WHEN OPEN, DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM.

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT

CH1 AES 1 AES 2 AES 3 RCA BNC TOSLINK ST
SDIF IN - WORDCLOCK - OUT

XLR cable

L R OUTPUT LEVEL HIGH L AES 1

BNC cable

1394 cable

CH2 SUC B

dCS Elgar Plus DAC

XLR cables

RCA phono cables Balanced - or - Unbalanced Outputs Outputs
Figure 4 - Using Elgar Plus in Master Mode with Verdi do this: do this: Connect up as shown above. Open Elgar Plus menu and run the Factory routine. Use the Input button to select the AES 1 input. Set the MS page to MS:Mastr and wait for the unit to settle. Use the Input button to select the 1394 input wait for the unit to settle. Set the MS menu page to MS:Mastr and wait for the unit to settle again. Use the Input button to select the AES1 input for playing CDs or the 1394 interface for playing SACDs. Verdi v1.2x with Elgar Plus v4.2x will automatically select the right input. do this: Use the Volume control to set a comfortable listening level. Open the menu again and choose a different Filter if you wish.

do this: do this:

Page 14
Using Elgar Plus and a 1394-Equipped Purcell with Verdi

A minor software update may change the order of the menu items or add an option. If this happens, the Control Summary sheet may be updated before the manual. The reports we receive from users suggest that Filter 2 is well suited to some classical music, and that Filters 3 and sometimes 4 suit rock. Filters 5 and 6 are too new to have reports on, although the user may wish to refer to Effects in High Sample Rate Audio Material, by M.J.Story, R.Kelly, D.A.McLeod, M.N.Harris, th presented at the 20 Tonmeister Tagung at Karlsruhe in November 1998. This paper is available from the dCS web-site.

Page 20

There is a slight delay whilst the unit changes filters, during which it will not respond to further button presses. Selecting the most appropriate filter is simply a matter of flipping through the options as you play a CD and choosing the one that you think sounds best. Try listening for changes in imaging, ambience and low level information, bass definition and vocal clarity. You can change filters more quickly from the listening position using the Filter button on the Remote Control, see page 43. MS Master/Slave Operation This is set on a per input basis, and determines whether that input acts as a master or a slave. The options available (independently, for each input) are: MS:Slav MS:Mastr (Slave) In slave mode (most DACs operate in this mode) the PLL locks to the incoming signal, and tracks it. This setting is not available in DSD mode. (Master) In master mode, Elgar Plus acts as a master clock, and outputs an autonomous 44.1kHz clock on Wordclock Out. This might go, for example, to a CD transport. The CD transport output is then locked to the DAC VCXO, and the DAC only has to decode the data coming in it knows the clock frequency. In sync mode, the PLL locks to a master clock (or other clock source) connected to Wordclock In while taking data from the selected input. The source must also be locked to the master clock, or generating the clock. If the Wordclock is not at a standard frequency, is out of capture range or is a superclock, the unit will display Locking, Fs=??? for 1 minute, then Revert to Slave for 10 seconds and reset itself to MS:Slav.

MS:Sync

There are some restrictions on master mode operation. The source (usually a CD transport or player) must run at 44.1kS/s ONLY. Elgar Plus may be used in this mode with an Upsampler, but the Upsampler output must be set to 44.1kS/s, 88.2kS/s, 176.4kS/s or DSD. Setting to Master Mode x

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dCS Elgar Plus User Manual dCS Ltd
Applying the same Volume setting to all inputs (Global volume). Using different settings for each input (Local volume, or Input specific). This is useful where the average loudness (and so the preferred Volume setting) changes from source to source.
To change this setting: do this: do this: Open the Function Menu and step through until you reach the Vol page. The display shows Vol:Glob or Vol:Inp. Press the Select button to choose one of these settings and wait for time out.
TimeOut Menu Time Out Setting If you find the 5 second time out period for the menu is too short, use this option to change the time out period to 30 seconds. do this: do this: do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Timeout. Press the Select button once and the display will show Normal. Press the Select button again and the display will change to Long. Repeat this if you want to change back.
PLL - PLL Tracking bandwidth In slave mode, the PLL (Phase Locked Loop) synchronises Elgar Plus internal crystal clocks to the incoming data stream. The system runs through two different modes while locking. The final mode (fine lock) has a very narrow bandwidth which rejects jitter generated by the source. This is the normal PLL setting and gives best results with a stable source. It takes about 6 seconds to lock. Some CD players (even some very expensive ones!) generate a high level of jitter and this can cause Elgar Plus to intermittently lose fine lock and mute the Analogue Outputs. This menu option forces the PLL to stay in a wide-band mode, allowing it to track larger variations in the source sample rate. In this mode, the unit locks in less than 100 milliseconds. do this: do this: To change the setting: Open the Function Menu and step through until the display shows PLL: Fine or PLL: Wide. Press the Select button to change between these two settings. Select PLL:Wide if you are having locking problems. If you are using Elgar Plus in master mode or with a Master Clock, the PLL should be set to PLL:Fine, otherwise the jitter improvement will be lost.

Page 25

NAud - Non Audio Muting Elgar Plus is normally set to mute if the Non-Audio message flag in the incoming data stream is On identifying the source as a corrupt data stream, CD-ROM or other non-audio format. We have found that some audio CDs actually have the Non-Audio flag set! To listen to such disks, the automatic muting must be TEMPORARILY disabled.
Listening to a CD-ROM is very unpleasant and can cause damage to your ears, power amplifier and loudspeakers. Use this mode with care. You should turn Non-Audio Muting back on as soon as possible we advise you not to leave Elgar Plus in this mode. x
Override Non-Audio Muting

The most convenient way to over-ride the Non-Audio muting for individual tracks is as follows. do this: When NonAudio is displayed, press the Mute button. Elgar Plus will play the track normally. Press the Mute button again to mute the outputs and restore Non-Audio muting. The over-ride is cancelled at power down or when the unit re-locks, avoiding the risk that the unit will be left for extended periods without protection. Disabling Non-Audio Muting x
If for some reason, you need to disable Non-Audio muting for longer periods, you can turn it off in the Function Menu as follows. do this: do this: Open the Function Menu and step through until the display shows NAud:Mut. To ignore the non-audio flag, press the Select button once and the display will change to NAud:Ign. Elgar Plus is now set to ignore non-audio message flags and your protection against playing non-audio data is removed. When powered up in this mode, Ignoring Non-Audio Flag scrolls across the display to warn you. Restoring Non-Audio Muting x
To turn non-audio muting back on: do this: do this: Open the Function Menu and step through until the display shows NAud:Ign. Press the Select button once and the display will change to NAud:Mut.

Page 26

Ch.Check - Channel Check Test Use this feature to check if the stereo outputs on your system are swapped. It is disabled when in DSD/SACD mode. do this: do this: Set up your system to play music at a comfortable level. Open the Menu and step through until the display shows: Ch.Check do this: Press the Select button once to start the test. After briefly displaying Wait, the following sequence occurs: Left A modulated tone should appear on the left channel only for several seconds. None Both outputs are muted for a second. Right A modulated tone should appear on the right channel only for several seconds. Done This is displayed briefly at the end of the test. If the channels are swapped, check for wiring errors from the unit output onwards. If you correct this temporarily using the Swap function on a dCS DAC, note that the Swap setting is NOT remembered at power down. Ph.Check - Phase Check Test Use this feature to check if one channel in your system is phase inverted. It is disabled when in DSD/SACD mode. do this: do this: Set up your system to play music at a comfortable level. Open the Menu and step through until the display shows: Ph.Check do this: Press the Select button once to start the test. After briefly displaying Wait, the following sequence occurs: Normal In-phase noise appears on both channels for several seconds. None Both outputs are muted for a second. Inverted

The ear responds to positive pressure substantially more than it does to negative pressure for low frequencies, so it is worth getting the phasing correct.

Page 27

A second burst of noise appears on both channels with the right channel inverted for several seconds. Done This is displayed briefly at the end of the test. If both channels are in-phase the first burst of noise will produce a stable central image but the second burst will not. If one channel is out of phase, the second burst will produce a stable stereo image but the first will not. If there is a phasing error, check for wiring errors from the unit output onwards. You cannot correct this error on a dCS DAC using the Phase feature as this inverts both channels. Burn In - Burn-In Signal Generation

IMPORTANT! IMPORTANT!

Read all the steps in this section before starting the System Burn-in routine. The Burn-in routine outputs a signal at maximum volume. This routine is NOT suitable for burning-in loudspeakers. Ensure your loudspeakers are disconnected, or your power amplifier is switched off before starting this routine. Use this feature to burn-in your system components with modulated pink noise. It is disabled when in DSD/SACD mode.
Set up your system volume control to the usual setting. Open the Menu and step through until the display shows: Burn In
Press the Select button once to start the burn-in routine. Elgar Plus will show the warning messages Caution and Loud in the main display for 20 seconds and then the burn-in signal will ramp-up from zero to maximum level over a period of about 10 seconds. The display cycles through Burn in, Caution and Loud while the Burn In routine is running.
To stop the Burn-in signal, press either a Step or Select button once. The display will briefly show: Done
Test - Display Test This runs a test routine to ensure the display is working correctly. do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Test. Press the Select button once to start the test. The main display lights up then fades from bottom to top. The indicator LEDs light up briefly in sequence. All indicators light up, along with small squares on the main display. This flashes off and on once. The display shows Done.

Page 28

dCS Elgar Plus User Manual dCS Ltd Issue Software Issue State
This displays the issue number of the software fitted to your unit. You will need to check this if you are considering a software upgrade or if your unit malfunctions. do this: do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Issue. Press the Select button once to display the software issue. For units fitted with a 1394 interface, press the Select button again to display the 1394 interface software issue.

If the CD transport stops or becomes disconnected during an update, dont worry! The original software is backed up inside the unit. Proceed as follows: The checking routine will find a sequencing error and Non Seq or Bad CD! will appear on the display.
Turn the power off and on to reboot. This message will scroll across the display: Bad CheckSum Press Function button to attempt recovery or Bad CheckSum Press Mute button to attempt recovery or Bad CheckSum Press Menu button to attempt recovery, depending on the model. Press the appropriate button once. The original software is retrieved from the internal backup while displaying Wait. This may take a few minutes. When recovery is complete, the unit re-boots.
Run the CD Update routine again to load the new software.

Page 31

Factory Restoring Factory Defaults This feature sets most of the parameters back to the factory default settings. This can be useful if the settings are accidentally changed and you need to reset the unit to a standard configuration, or your children play with it. do this: do this: Open the Menu and step back until the display shows Factory. Press Select and leave the menu to time out. After a few seconds, the unit will re-boot and return to normal operation set up as follows: Input to AES1. The Input selection is automatic if the unit is connected by a 1394 cable to another dCS unit with current software. Filters to Filter1 Phase to Normal Swap to Off Master/Slave to MS:Slav on all inputs Brightness to Bright 4 Display to Fs+ Mute to Off, Normal speed Dual AES to Auto if an Upsampler is detected, otherwise Off Fade to On De-Emphasis to Auto Balance to centre Balance display to Bal:Num Volume to 30, Global Timeout to Normal PLL mode to Fine Non-Audio to Mute Delius only: Output level to Out :2V Other settings as you last used them.
Rst Sync Setting all Inputs to Slave Mode This feature resets the 1394 input to Sync mode and all other inputs to slave mode. This can be useful if you have problems setting master mode, or your children play with it. do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Rst Sync. Press Select and leave the menu to time out. The display will show Reset. After a few seconds, the unit will re-boot and return to normal operation set up as follows: Master/Slave to MS:Sync on 1394 input Master/Slave to MS:Slav on all inputs except 1394 Other settings as you last used them.

Page 32

Page 33
THE HARDWARE CONTROLS AND CONNECTORS

Front Panel

A B C D
Standby Display Phase De-Emphasis

x Phase button do this: If you need to correct a phase error on both channels, press the Phase button to reverse the phase of the Analogue Outputs. The LED above the Phase button will light to indicate this and the Main display will briefly show Inverted. do this: Press the Phase button again to restore correct phase. The Main display will briefly show Normal. x

De-Emphasis button

Recording with 50/15s high frequency emphasis is a hangover from the days of recording onto noisy magnetic tapes. To combat tape hiss, the high frequency part of the music was recorded at a higher level (pre-emphasis). The high frequency response was corrected at playback by a de-emphasis filter, reducing the hiss level as well. Some early CDs were recorded with emphasis, but more recent disks have a flat frequency response. The emphasis used is recorded in message flags, encoded into the data stream. On some disks, these flags are incorrect, resulting in a bumpy frequency response. Elgar Plus can apply de-emphasis for PCM sources with sample rates of 32, 44.1 or 48kS/s - it is not used at higher sample rates. CCITT emphasis is used in digital radio transmissions. do this: Press the De-Emphasis button repeatedly and the Main display will cycle through the options:

Page 35

None Auto

50/15us CCITT

Applies no de-emphasis and ignores message flags. Automatically applies the de-emphasis curve indicated by the message flags in the data stream. When Emphasis is detected, the Main Display briefly shows the de-emphasis applied. Applies 50/15s de-emphasis curve and ignores message flags. Applies CCITT J17 de-emphasis curve and ignores message flags.
The De-Emphasis setting is displayed for 5 seconds after the last button press, then the display reverts to its default setting. do this: It is most convenient to leave Elgar Plus in Auto mode. If the emphasis flag is wrong, this can be corrected manually using the other 3 settings. x

Status Indicator

This consists of 4 indicators: PWR is lit when the unit is powered up. OPT is intended for future enhancements. SDIF and DSD are input indicators. x

Remote Control Sensor

Point the end of the Remote Control unit towards the sensor for best control range.

Main Display

x The Main Display tells you what Elgar Plus is doing. When not locked to a digital source, the display shows No Input. During normal operation, the display will show Volume, Sample Rate (Fs), Input Wordlength & Sample Rate or Input, depending on the setting of the Disp option in the Menu (see page 24). While locking to a source, the display shows in sequence Locking, followed by d xxx (detecting the base sample rate) and finally the normal display. When adjusting the Volume setting, the display changes to Vol -xx.x. It changes back to the normal display 5 seconds after the last change. When adjusting the Balance setting, the display changes to either two percentages, two levels in dB or a double bar. The Balance display mode is set by the Bal item in the Menu (see page 24). The display changes back to normal 5 seconds after the last change.

(Upgraders note: Units manufactured before February 2001 were not fitted with RCA2, Wordclock Out, the 1394 interface or spare locations A & B.)
Output Level Switch The Output Level switch sets the level for all Analogue Outputs. It should be set to suit your system there are two levels: High (6V rms) and Low (2V rms). The difference between the two settings is 9.5dB. For best results, Elgar Plus Volume control should be set to no lower than -20.0 for normal listening levels with typical music. We suggest you start with the Low setting and change to the High setting if this is inadequate. Before adjusting the Output Level switch, please ensure you are not playing music at a high level the High setting is noticeably louder.

Page 38

dCS Elgar Plus User Manual dCS Ltd Balanced Analogue Outputs
If your pre or power amplifier has balanced inputs, connect Elgar Plus Balanced Analogue Outputs to them. For best results, connection of these outputs to unbalanced inputs is not recommended use the Unbalanced Analogue Outputs instead. Use good quality, screened, XLR audio cables.
Unbalanced Analogue Outputs For unbalanced equipment, use the Unbalanced Outputs with good quality, screened, RCA phono audio cables. The Unbalanced Outputs are very high quality! It is much better to use these for equipment with a single-ended input, than to use half of a balanced output. Doing so may cause ground loop hum pickup.
AES/EBU Digital Inputs The AES 1 and AES 2 inputs may be used individually for digital signals with sample rates up to 96kS/s. The data format is AES3. In Dual AES mode, both inputs must be used together. The Dual AES interface allows a 192, 176.4, 96 or 88.2 kS/s 24 bit signal to be encoded as two standard 96, 88.2, 48 or 44.1 kS/s 24 bit AES data streams respectively. Elgar Plus decodes the dual data stream and converts it to wide band analogue. See Dual AES on page 23 for more information.
Please ensure the two AES inputs are correctly connected to the source for Dual AES operation or the channels will be swapped. This usually involves connecting AES 1 (or AES A) on the source to AES 1 on Elgar Plus and AES 2 (or AES B) on the source to AES 2 on Elgar Plus. Use with 110 ohm screened, twisted pair cable designed for digital audio or RF. Do not use unscreened cables as they may pick up interference from other appliances.
SPDIF Digital Inputs The RCA1, RCA2 and BNC inputs are used individually for digital signals with sample rates up to 96kS/s. The data format is IEC60958, otherwise known as SPDIF. RCA connectors are the type commonly found on consumer equipment. Use with 75 ohm co-axial cables designed for digital audio or RF use. Some types of audio cable are not suitable and may cause crackling noises or other malfunctions.

Switches between Volume mode and Balance mode. Use the and
buttons () or the Rotary Control on the front panel to alter the settings. Balance mode times out after 5 seconds, reverting to Volume mode. Mute Button
() Press this to mute or unmute the Analogue Outputs.
Purcell Button and LED Purcell units fitted with software version 1.20 or later and all Grieg units will accept commands from the Remote Control. Press the Purcell button () and the blue LED will light up for about 5 seconds. During this time, the Standby, Function, Input selector, Filter, , and Display buttons will control the Upsampler instead of Elgar Plus. Sending a Purcell command will keep the Remote Control in Purcell mode (and the LED on) for another 5 seconds. Press the Purcell button again while the blue LED is lit to return to Elgar Plus mode (or just wait 5 seconds). If the blue LED is on, the Upsampler will respond. If it is off, Elgar Plus will respond. Phase Button
() Changes the Phase of the analogue outputs to Inverted. The Phase indicator on the Front Panel will light. Press again to return to Normal.

Filter Button

Changes the interpolation filter setting, giving a different trade-off between Nyquist image suppression and energy smear. Each sample rate has a separate Filter setting stored, so Elgar Plus must be locked to a suitable source before the Filter setting can be changed. This feature is duplicated in the Menu, see Filter on page 20.

Display button

() Each press reduces the display brightness on a scale from Bright 7 to Bright 0.
Up and Down ( / ) buttons Use these buttons () to change Volume and Balance settings or scroll along the Function Menu, see page 19.

Page 43

ELGAR PLUS TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Converter Type 5-bit, approximately 3MS/s oversampled, dCS patented Ring DAC topology.
Digital Interface Specifications AES/EBU (AES3) Type Impedance Sensitivity (unloaded) Maximum Wordlength Connectors Connections Inputs Balanced, differential ~ XLR3 female (2) Ground or shield +Signal -Signal

Mains Fuse

There is a mains fuse below the power inlet, accessible from the outside of the unit. If the fuse blows, it may be changed by the user. The current consumption of the unit is very low, so it only blows if power surges occur, or there is a fault in the unit. Usually, power surges cause no other damage, but if the fuse blows repeatedly on replacement, some other damage will have been done and the unit must be returned to dCS for repair. Fuse Type: 20 x 5mm 0.5 amp T HRC fuse
If the fuse should fail, it is essential that it be replaced with one of the same type and rating. Failure to do so could result in damage to the unit, risk of fire or electric shock and will invalidate the guarantee. x

Replacing a Blown Fuse

Referring to Figure 12, remove the power cable, use a small flat bladed screwdriver to pry up the tab on the fuse carrier (A) and pull it out. Push the blown fuse out of the clip in the carrier (B) and dispose of it. Fit a new fuse in the clip (C) and push the carrier back into the unit so that it clicks home. Spare fuses are provided with the unit.
Figure 12 Changing the Mains Fuse
Disconnect the power cable before changing the fuse.

Page 58

Fitting or Replacing the Batteries in the Remote Control
For safety reasons, the Remote Control is supplied with the 3 batteries packed separately. Any replacement batteries must be type AAA, MN2400 or equivalent alkaline leak-proof batteries. Opening the battery compartment and removing batteries do this: Turn the Remote Control unit over and remove the 4 screws shown in Figure 13 using the 1-point Pozidriv screwdriver supplied. Please do not use a Philips head screwdriver as this will damage the screw heads. Lift off the battery cover.
Figure 13 Removing the Remote Control battery cover do this: To remove discharged batteries, press the + end back against the spring and pull that end out of the unit. A small key or screwdriver may be used if the battery is a tight fit. Dispose of the discharged batteries safely.

Page 79

dCS Elgar Plus User Manual dCS Ltd V VCXO...46 Verdi Wordclock Missing message from DAC..69 Vol/Bal button, remote..43 Volume..24, 37, 46 Volume display...36 Volume, global..25 Volume, local..25 Volume, per input..25 Volume, set-up...38 Volume/Balance button..37
Manual for Software Issue 4.3x August 2005 Vx.xx message... 31 W warranty... 60 warranty, exclusions.. 60 weight.. 47 Word Clock... 73 Wordclock input.. 40 Wordclock output. 41, 45 Wrong CD message.. 31 Wrong Wordclock @ Verdi Clk In message from DAC... 69 Wrong! message.. 31

Page 80

dCS Purcell
Digital to Digital Converter

User Manual

Software Release 2.2x September 2004

dCS Ltd. 1999 - 2004

Price UK 17.50 / Euro 25.00
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of dCS1. Any person who does any unauthorised act in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages. Information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice, and whilst it is checked for accuracy, no liabilities can be accepted for errors.
dCS is Data Conversion Systems Ltd. Company registered in England No. 2072115.
dCS Purcell User Manual dCS Ltd
Manual for Software Issue 2.2x September 2004
Manual filename: Purcell Manual v2.2x.doc English version

Page 2

email: more@dcsltd.co.uk web-site: www.dcsltd.co.uk

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Developed from our highly successful and acclaimed dCS 972 professional DDC, the dCS Purcell is the first high precision Digital to Digital Converter (DDC) designed specifically for audiophile use. It is used to increase the sample rate and/or wordlength of the output from domestic linear PCM digital audio sources, such as CD and DVD players, up to a maximum sample rate of 192kS/s and a maximum wordlength of 24 bits. This is achieved using extremely powerful and accurate digital interpolation filters, which introduce negligible levels of distortion.
When decoded by an appropriate DAC, the upsampled signal from the Purcell shows improved dynamics, more dimensional stereo imaging in terms of both width and depth, more accurate bass, better resolution of fine detail and a more relaxed and natural presentation. In this context an "appropriate DAC", means one that can accept sample rates of up to 96kS/s and input word lengths of at least 20 bits and preferably 24 bits. The greatest improvement will be achieved when using the dCS Elgar Plus 24/192-DSD DAC. The Elgar Plus, because of its proprietary dCS Ring DAC technology, has the finest linearity of any consumer DAC currently available and is able to accept input sample rates up to 192kS/s. The most common use for the Purcell is to upsample the 16 bit 44.1kS/s digital output from a CD transport or player to either 24 bit 96kS/s, 24 bit 192kS/s or DSD. We have carried out listening tests with the dCS Elgar Plus 24/192-DSD DAC using CDs manufactured from 24/96 digital masters and have found that upsampling reveals information that is present in the master source, but which is not audible when the CD is played back normally. Upsampling cannot increase the amount of information in a signal and the exact mechanism behind the perceived sonic improvements is currently not entirely clear. We are continuing our research into this subject. Units fitted with the IEEE 1394 interface can upsample the source data to DSD format (a single bit data stream, sampled at 2.822MS/s), for conversion to extra wide-band audio by a dCS Elgar Plus or Delius DAC. Purcell uses the same digital processing engine running the same DSP code as the dCS 972 / 974 and they are sonically identical. The extensive use of programmable logic makes the Purcell extremely flexible and easy to upgrade.

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HENRY PURCELL (1659-1695)
The dCS Purcell is named after the 17th century English composer, organist, bass and countertenor, Henry Purcell. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers of the baroque period and some even regard him as the most gifted English musician and composer of all time. During his short 35 years, he composed in every musical genre of the period. Born in London, he was a child prodigy and began writing music at the age of eight. He started his career as a boy chorister at the Chapel Royal. In 1673 he became an unpaid apprentice to John Hingeston, Keeper of the Royal Instrument where he acquired considerable experience in tuning the organ at Westminster Abbey. He was able to provide himself with an income during his apprenticeship by copying books of organ parts. In 1677, Purcell was appointed composer-in-ordinary for Charles II's string ensemble and then two years later, took over from his mentor John Blow as principal organist for Westminster Abbey. This post entitled him to a salary and also provided a house. At the age of 21 he wrote his first Welcome Song for Charles II, and also his first music for the theatre. Purcell was exceptionally skilled in the way that he set a libretto to music, particularly in fitting phrases of varying and uneven length. A good example is Dido's final lament, When I am Laid in Earth. Also about this time he began to produce a wide range of music for the church. It is no understatement to say that for sheer beauty and intensity of emotion, his sacred music has few peers. In 1682 he succeeded Edward Lowe as organist of the Chapel Royal, a position which also entailed him being a singer in the choir. The following year he wrote one of his best known sacred pieces, an Ode for St. Cecelia's Day. After the death of John Hingeston in 1688, Purcell was appointed organ maker and Keeper of the Royal Instruments. His greatest achievement was the opera Dido and Aeneus, which was written in 1689 for performance "by Young Gentlewomen" at Josia Priest's boardingschool at Chelsea in London. It is the earliest English opera still to be regularly performed. His later works for the theatre, Dioclesian, King Arthur, The Fairy Queen, The Indian Queen and The Tempest, whilst containing excellent music, sadly do not lend themselves to performance apart from the plays for which they were written. Not much is known about his final years although he undoubtedly remained active as a composer. The last Royal occasion he provided music for was Queen Mary's funeral in 1694. He died the following year and was buried in Westminster Abbey. Although Purcell's genius spanned every musical genre of the period, he is best remembered for his Opera Dido and Aeneus and his choral music, particularly his Te Deum, Jubilate and Sound the Trumpet, all of which are still regularly performed.

do this:

Press the Function button once, then press the Input button so the display shows Factory. Press the Select button and wait while the unit reboots. The PWR, 24bit, NS and one of the input indicators will be lit.

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Step 1 Selecting a Digital Input
do this: Switch on the source equipment. If appropriate, load a disk / tape and set the machine in PLAY mode to ensure it is generating a digital audio data stream.
Connecting to a Single AES or SPDIF source Most source equipment (such as CD transports, DVD players) is fitted with a single wire digital output, usually on an RCA phono connector. do this: do this: Connect your source equipment to the matching input on the Purcell rear panel using a suitable cable. Press the Input button repeatedly until your chosen input is displayed on the input indicator, to the right of the display. This will be either AES, RCA, TOS or BNC. The unit will lock to the source, displaying in sequence Locking, d xxx (the sample rate) then the default display (probably 44.144.1, depending on the Disp menu setting and the source format).
do this: Choose one of the following sections: Sample Rate Conversion x do this: To change the Output Sample Rate, press the Output button repeatedly to cycle through the available conversions. Choose a sample rate to match your DAC (usually the highest sample rate your DAC will handle). do this: DSD is available on units fitted with the optional IEEE 1394 interface. NonClone must be set. DSD data will be available from the 1394 outputs. Do not use the other outputs. Bit-for Bit Operation x If you need bit-for-bit operation (for example to pass through HDCD data do this: unchanged), you must first use the Output button to set the Output Sample Rate to be the same as the Input sample Rate (for example 44.144.1). do this: Press the Function button once to open the menu, then press the Output button repeatedly until the display shows NonClone or Cloning. If necessary, use the Select button to set this to Cloning. Setting the Output mode x do this: This setting determines whether conversions to 88.2 or 96kS/s are output as Single AES or Dual AES. Open the Menu and press the Output button repeatedly until Out Mode is displayed. Select the mode you want: Single The Output Sample Rate must not be higher than 96kS/s. Single Single. wire data will be available on all of the AES 1, AES 2, RCA and BNC outputs. Dual AES The Output Sample Rate must be 88.2, 96, 176.4 or 192kS/s. AES. Dual AES data will be available on the AES 1 / AES 2 output pair. Do not use the other outputs.

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Choose one of the following three sections: Connecting a Single AES or SPDIF Output do this: do this: If the Output Sample Rate is 88.2 or 96kS/s, check that your DAC is capable of double speed operation. If you have set Out Mode to Single, connect the required single wire output on the Purcell rear panel to the matching inputs on the DAC using suitable cables. Signals are available from any of the AES 1, AES 2, RCA or BNC outputs simultaneously.

DIGITAL OUT

WORD CLK IN
Hand Crafted by The Red Hot CD Player Co.

16 bits 44.1kS/s

DIGITAL INPUTS

dCS Purcell Upsampler

WORDCLOCK

ST A B AES1

DIGITAL OUTPUTS

AES2 RCA

OPTION

TOSLINK

24 bits 96kS/s

24/96 DAC

ANALOGUE OUTPUTS

L R L AES1

ST BNC REC SUC

IN - WORDCLOCK - OUT

Balanced - or -Unbalanced Outputs Outputs To Power Amplifier or Preamplifier
Figure 1 Upsampling to 24/96 single wire

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Connecting the Dual AES Outputs x do this: Check that your DAC is capable of Dual AES operation. do this: If you have set Out Mode to Dual AES, connect the AES 1 output on the Purcell rear panel to the AES 1 (or AES A) input on the DAC and the AES 2 output to the AES 2 (or AES B) input, using two XLR cables. Ensure the cables are not swapped.

24 bits 192kS/s

dCS Delius DAC

DIGITAL OUT POWER

SUC REC
Figure 2 Upsampling to 24/192 Dual AES

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Connecting the 1394 Interface
Units fitted with an IEEE 1394 interface can output DSD data, which can be decoded by a 1394equipped dCS Elgar plus or Delius DAC. do this: do this: do this: do this: Check that your DAC is capable of DSD operation over an IEEE 1394 link. Set the DAC to 1394 mode first. If you have set the output to DSD, connect ONE of the 1394 connectors on the Purcell rear panel to the DAC using the IEEE 1394 cable supplied. Also connect Purcells Wordclock OUT to Wordclock In on the DAC. Use the DACs Input button to select the 1394 input. The 1394 interfaces will sync up, this may take 30 seconds. During this period, Purcell may display Active and Inactive messages, finally setting down to 44.1DSD or similar. The DAC may display Wait., followed by other messages before finally settling down to Purcell.

DIGITAL OUT WORD CLK IN

44.1kHz Wordclock

dCS Elgar Plus DAC

ST CH1 CH2 SUC B POWER

OUTPUT LEVEL HIGH

DSD / SDIF

REC OUT

Balanced - or - Unbalanced Outputs Outputs To Power Amplifier or Preamplifier
Figure 3 Upsampling to DSD using an IEEE 1394 interface
Do not connect both of Purcells 1394 connectors to the DAC this prevents the IEEE 1394 interfaces synchronising.

24 bits 22 bits 20 bits 18 bits

Off 1st 3rd 9th Auto

Sets the default display

In Word

Displays the number of active bits in the input (needs music) ?? Bits
Allows bit-for-bit operation if Fs In = Fs Out (e.g. for HDCD) NonClone Cloning

Out Mode

Selects the format of the data outputs

WClock

Slaves to Wordclock In if it is present

Dither

Sets the Dither type
Disp:In Disp:Out Disp:I+O

Single Dual AES

WClk:Off WClk:In
Off Top hat Triangle N.Tri

Bright x

Sets the display brightness

De-Emph

Processes the Emphasis flags in the incoming data

TimeOut

Sets the Function Menu time-out delay

Ch.Check

Outputs tone on L channel only then R channel only

Ph.Check

Outputs noise on both channels then inverts R

Burn In

Outputs modulated pink noise to burnin your system CAUTION! LOUD!

Bright 7. Bright 0

Strip PassThru Handle

Normal Long

Factory
Restores standard factory settings

CDUpdate

Starts software update from a dCS CD

Contact

Displays dCS email address

Serial

Displays the unit full serial number
Displays the software version number
Runs a display test routine

PUR-?-?-?-?-?

2.2x Db 2.06

Closes the Function Menu

= feature is not available in DSD mode

Figure 7 Menu flow chart

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Using the Function Menu

The Function Menu gives the user access to a wide range of additional features. It also allows new features and performance enhancements to be added at a later date by software upgrades. Opening the Menu The Function Menu is controlled by three buttons: the Function button opens the menu and doubles as the Select button. the Step button pages forward through the Menu referred to in the text as the Step button. the Step button pages backward through the Menu referred to in the text as the Step Back button.
If you have a dCS Remote Control, you can use this to access the menu: the Function button opens the Menu and doubles as the Select button. the button pages forward through the Menu - the Step button. the button pages backward through the Menu - the Step Back button. to control an Upsampler instead of a DAC, first press the Purcell button to turn the blue LED on.

When you first open the Function Menu, the display will show Menu. Successive presses of the Step button page through the Menu. You cannot go directly to any particular page, but must enter at the top of the Menu and then page through until you reach the page you want. Types of Menu Page There are three types of page in the Menu - Parameter Pages, Information Pages and Test Pages. Parameter pages allow the user to check and also change the current settings of the operating parameters, for example Filter. When a parameter page is displayed, the first press of the Select button shows the current setting. Subsequent presses of the Select button change the page setting. Information pages display information about the unit, for example Software Issue. When an information page is displayed, pressing the Select button displays the information held on that page. Test pages allow the user to initiate a number of useful routines, for example Channel Check. When a Test page is displayed, pressing the Select button starts the test routine. Closing the Menu There are two ways to close the menu and return to normal operation. The easiest way is to wait 5 seconds for the unit to time-out and revert to the standard display. Alternatively, use the Step button to page forward until the display shows End and then press the Select button once. If the unit times out before the operation in hand has been completed, simply reenter the menu, page forward (or backward) and continue where you left off. If you find the 5 second time-out difficult to use, you can extend it to 30 seconds by changing the TimeOut setting to Long.

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Menu Sequence
Use the flow chart (page 20) or the Control Summary sheet to guide you through the Menu more quickly. The following explanation deals with the Function Menu pages in the sequence 3 they occur in the Menu. The use of each page is shown on an individual basis, with the last operation being closing the Menu. After you have become more familiar with the Menu, you will find it more convenient to perform all the Function Menu operations in one go before finally closing the Menu. Filter - Interpolation Filter Setting The Filter page is only available when Purcell is set to one of the following conversions: 44.196, 4844.1, 9644.1 or 9648kS/s. When other conversions are set, this page will not appear in the Menu. do this: Assume for the purpose of this illustration that the Filter is currently set to Filter 1. Open the Function Menu and step through until the display shows Filter 1. Press the Select button slowly several times. The display will in turn show: Filter 2, Filter 3, and finally Filter 1 again. There is a slight delay whilst the unit changes filter, during which it will not respond to further button presses. Selecting the most appropriate filter is simply a matter of flipping through the options as you play a CD and choosing the one that you think sounds best. Try listening for changes in imaging, ambience and low level information, bass definition and vocal clarity. do this: Select the filter you prefer then wait for the Function Menu to time-out and the display to revert to its normal mode.

Transmit Activating the 1394 Outputs At present, the IEEE 1394 interface supports up to eight active DSD sources at any time. If more are connected to the bus, no more than eight may be active. This situation will improve as industry standards stabilise. The Transmit page allows Purcell to be left in DSD/SACD output mode but with the 1394 interface inactive. With most set-ups, you will not have to worry about this setting. do this: do this: do this: do this: Set up the unit in DSD/SACD mode, with the 1394 interface connected to at least one other unit. Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Transmit. Press the Select button to flip between Active and Inactive. When you have the option you want, wait for the Menu to time-out and the display to revert to its normal mode.
A minor software update may change the order of the menu items or add an option. If this happens, the Control Summary sheet may be updated before the manual.

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1394 ID 1394 Source Identification This page sets a number between 1 and 8 to identify each Purcell you have connected to the 1394 system. do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows 1394ID:x, where x is a number between 0 and 8. Press the Select button repeatedly, allowing the unit to settle for a few seconds each time. The display cycles through 1394ID:0, 1394ID:1,., 1394ID:7, 1394ID:8, and back to 1394ID:0. If you set 1394ID:2 for example, when the DAC is selected to this Purcell, it will display Purcell 2. You can set any other Purcells connected to the 1394 system to a different number. If you set 1394ID:0, the DAC displays Purcell, without a number. Out Word Output Wordlength The Output Wordlength should be set to match the maximum wordlength that the DAC you are using can accept. If you are not sure what this is, please consult the manufacturer or your dealer. For the dCS Elgar Plus or Delius, this is 24 bits. Purcell will work best with DACs that can accept 24 bits. Note that for 176.4 or 192kS/s output sample rates, this setting cannot be changed 24 bits output wordlength is selected automatically. do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Out Word. Press the Select button once. Assuming for this example that the current Out Word setting is 24 bits, the display will change to Out :24. do this: do this: Press the Select button slowly five times and the display will show in turn: Out :22, Out :20, Out :18, Out :16 and finally Out :24. Choose the setting that matches your DAC. The unit stores two wordlength settings: - the last one used when upsampling and the last one used when downsampling. These settings are automatically applied when you change between upsampling and downsampling to help avoid mistakes.

If Out Word is set to less than 24 bits, the 24bit indicator in the status indicator block will turn off. This warns that you need to set Purcell to apply some Noise Shaping and / or Dither to smooth out the response. Use Table 1 below to determine the appropriate Noise Shaping and Dither settings for the Output Wordlength that you have selected. Out Word 24 bits 22 bits 20 bits 18 bits 16 bits N.Shape Auto 1 or or 3

rd th st st rd rd th

Dither & / / & & Off Triangle Triangle N.Tri N.Tri

3 or 9 9

Table 1 Recommended Output Wordlength, Noise Shaping and Dither Settings For more information, please see Wordlength Reduction on page 52.

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N.Shape Noise Shaping The unit can be used to noise shape signals where the wordlength is being truncated (set to less than 24 bits). do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows N.Shape. Press the Select button once. Assuming for this example that Noise Shaping is currently switched off, the display will change to Off. do this: do this: Press the Select button slowly five times. The display will show in turn: 1st, 3rd, 9th, Auto and finally Off. Choose the setting you want and wait for the Menu to time-out. The NS indicator in the status indicator block lights when Noise Shaping is set to 1st, 3rd or 9th. It also lights when Noise Shaping is set to Auto with Out Word set to less than 24 bits. In Auto mode, Noise Shaping is applied as follows: Out Word bits bits bits 16 bits N.Shape Off 1st 3rd 9th
Table 2 Auto Noise Shaping settings It is generally best to leave Noise Shaping set to Auto as this will always give a sensible setting. Otherwise, consult Table 1 for the appropriate setting. For more information about Noise Shaping, please see Wordlength Reduction on page 52. Note that for 176.4 or 192kS/s output sample rates, the Out Word setting cannot be changed from 24 bits, so Noise Shaping is disabled. Dither The unit can add Dither to the signal if necessary and has several dither options. We recommend you only add Dither if it is really necessary it inevitably degrades the noise performance of the system. do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Dither. Assuming for this example that Dither is currently switched off, the display will change to Off. do this: Press the Select button slowly four times. The display will show in turn the dither types available: Top Hat, Triangle, N.Tri (Noise Shaped Triangle) and finally Off. do this: If the DAC you are using will accept 24 bit input data, set Dither to Off. Otherwise, consult Table 1 for the appropriate setting. Choose the setting you want and wait for the Menu to time-out. For more information about Dither, please see Wordlength Reduction on page 52. Note that for 176.4 or 192kS/s output sample rates, this setting cannot be changed - Off is selected automatically.

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dCS Purcell User Manual dCS Ltd WClk - Wordclock
This setting allows Purcell to be synchronised to a Wordclock connected to the Wordclock In socket while taking data from the selected digital input. This helps reduce jitter. The Wordclock may be generated either by a master clock or by the source equipment.
do this: do this: do this: do this:
The source equipment MUST also be synchronised to the Wordclock. Select the input you want to synchronise to the Wordclock using the Input button. Open the Menu and step through until the display shows WClk:Off or WClk: In. Press the Select button to switch between these two options. When you have the option you want, wait for the Menu to time-out and the display to revert to its normal mode. Set to WClk:Off, Purcell ignores clock signals on the Wordclock In socket. Set to WClk: In, Purcell remains locked to the selected input. If a Wordclock is connected to the Wordclock In socket, Purcell automatically slaves to it. If the Wordclock is not at a standard frequency, is out of capture range or is a superclock, the unit will display Locking, Fs=??? for 1 minute, then Revert to Slave for 10 seconds and reset itself to WClk:Off. This menu must be set separately for each selected input, allowing you to synchronise some of your source equipment (for example a CD player running at 44.1kS/s connected to the RCA input) to a 44.1kS/s master clock, while synchronising equipment running at other sample rates (for example a DVD player running at 48kS/s connected to the BNC input) to the data stream instead.
Out Mode - Output Mode This menu page allows the AES output data to be formatted in one of two ways: Single Use this mode if your DAC will not accept Dual AES or DSD. In Single wire mode, PCM data is available from all of the AES 1, AES 2, RCA and BNC outputs at sample rates up to 96kS/s. Use this mode if your DAC will accept Dual AES. This setting disappears if the output sample rate is less than 88.2kS/s or set to DSD. If the output sample rate is 88.2 or 96kS/s, setting Dual AES mode formats the data as two 44.1 or 48kS/s data streams on the AES 1 and AES 2 outputs. Dual AES mode is automatically selected if the output sample rate is 176.4 or 192kS/s. The DUAL indicator in the Input Indicator block lights when Dual AES is selected. Do not use the RCA, BNC or 1394 outputs in this mode.

Dual AES

Setting the Output Mode x do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Out Mode. Press the Select button. Assuming for the purpose of this illustration the do this: Output Mode is set to Single and the input sample rate is 96kS/s, the display will change to Single. do this: Press the Select button slowly twice. The display will cycle through Dual AES and Single. Page 25
Set the required mode. Wait for the Menu to time-out and the display to revert to its normal mode. When the Output Mode is set to Dual AES, the data output from the RCA, BNC and 1394 digital outputs is not valid and should not be used.
Cloning Bit-for-Bit Mode When in Cloning Mode, Purcell passes through the input data bit-for-bit with no changes. This allows HDCD coded data to pass through unchanged and be decoded by your DAC. Dither, Noise Shaping and Wordlength truncation are disabled when Cloning. Cloning mode is only possible if the input and output sample rates are the same, as any digital processing changes the data. Cloning is disabled and the Cloning page disappears from the Menu if either sample rate is changed so they no longer match. If the sample rates are changed so that they match again, the Cloning page reappears, set as before. do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows NonClone or Cloning. Press the Select button to switch between these two options. When you have the option you want, wait for the Menu to time-out and the display to revert to its normal mode.
In Word Displaying the Input Wordlength This feature allows the user to confirm the number of active bits in the input signal. For this function to operate, the unit must be locked to a digital source that is carrying PCM audio data (i.e. music or speech), otherwise 0 bits is displayed. do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows In Word. Press the Select button once. Assuming for the purpose of this illustration that Purcell is locked to a source with 16 active bits in the input signal, the display will change to 16 bits. Wait for the Menu to time-out.
Disp - Default Display This feature allows you to choose what Purcell displays when music is playing. do this: Open the Function Menu and step through until you come to the Disp page. Press the Select button repeatedly and the display will cycle through the following : Disp:In Disp:Out Disp:I+O The display reverts to input sample rate after time-out (e.g. 44.1kS/s). The display reverts to output sample rate after time-out (e.g. 192kS/s). The display reverts to both input and output sample rates after time-out. The input sample rate is shown on the left of the display and the output sample rate is shown on the right of the display (e.g. 441192). Decimal figures are displayed in a smaller font size.

RCA ST

B AES1
Warning: Shock Hazard - Do not open. No user serviceable parts inside. Designed to comply with BS415, EN60065, IEC65. dCS PURCELL Upsampler Designed and Manufactured in England by dCS Ltd Caution: To avoid risk of fire replace only with same fuse type and rating 2AT. Caution: This equipment MUST be earthed.

Serial No.

Power Supply 50/60Hz, 30W
Figure 9 dCS Purcell Rear Panel Key to Rear Panel I J&K L M N O P Q&R S&T U V W X AES/EBU digital input on XLR female connector SPDIF digital inputs on RCA & BNC connectors Spare location SPDIF optical input on Toslink connector Spare locations for future enhancements Wordclock digital Input Wordclock digital Output AES/EBU digital outputs AES 1 & AES 2 on XLR male connectors SPDIF digital outputs on RCA & BNC connectors Optional IEEE 1394 interface on two 6-way connectors Software Upgrade Connector, 9-way D type IEC Power inlet Mains fuse holder
(Upgraders note: Units manufactured before February 2001 did not feature a Toslink input, Wordclock In/Out, provision for a 1394 interface or the spare locations. The ST input option is no longer available.)
AES/EBU Digital Input The AES input is used for digital signals with sample rates up to 96kS/s. The data format is AES3. Use with 110 ohm screened, twisted pair cable designed for digital audio or RF. Do not use unscreened cables as they may pick up interference from other appliances.
SPDIF Digital Inputs The RCA and BNC inputs are used individually for digital signals with sample rates up to 96kS/s. The data format is IEC60958, otherwise known as SPDIF. RCA connectors are the type commonly found consumer equipment. Use with 75 ohm co-axial cables designed for digital audio or RF use. Some types of audio cable are not suitable and may cause crackling noises or other malfunctions.

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dCS Purcell User Manual dCS Ltd SPDIF Optical Input
The optical input is used for optically transmitted digital signals with sample rates up to 48kS/s. In practice, the interfaces are tested up to 96kS/s but dCS cannot guarantee this with non-dCS source equipment. The data format is IEC60958, otherwise known as SPDIF. If fitted, use the Toslink input with Toslink fibre optic cables designed for digital audio use. If fitted, use the ST input with ST style fibre optic cables. Pull off the plastic cover before use.

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Erratic operation when locked to 96 or 88.2kS/s on Toslink or ST inputs The Toslink and ST receiver devices are industry standard types which are not guaranteed to operate correctly at 96 or 88.2kS/s. Connect to a different input instead. The DAC locks but noise is received If the source is a CD or DVD player, check that the disc is a CD or DVD and NOT a CD-ROM or other type of data disc. Switch off the DAC, wait 30 seconds then switch it on again. Check for faulty cables. The DAC fails to lock to Purcell's output at 88.2 or 96kS/s Check that the DAC is capable of locking to these sample rates and that it is appropriately set up. Consult the manufacturer or your dealer if necessary. Check that the appropriate inputs have been selected on the DAC. Check whether the DAC uses a single wire or two wire (Dual AES) interface at these sample rates and then set Purcell's Output Mode accordingly. If a two wire interface is used, check that both the AES 1 and AES 2 digital outputs have been connected to the DAC. Check that the digital cable (or cables) has been fully plugged in at both ends. Try a different cable if possible. Try setting Purcell to an output sample rate of 44.1kS/s and see if the DAC locks to single wire data. Now try using successively higher output sample rates until you get to 96kS/s. Try 88.2 and 96kS/s with the Output Mode set to both Single and Dual AES. If the DAC locks to 44.1 and 48kS/s, but not to 88.2 or 96kS/s, it may not be capable of working at these higher rates. The Remote Control fails to control the unit The Remote Control is normally shipped with the batteries packed separately for safety reasons. If you are using the Remote Control for the first time, you must fit the batteries first - see page 67. If the Remote Control has not been used for a long time or has gradually lost range, the batteries should be replaced - see page 67. If you have just replaced the batteries but the unit still does not work, check that the batteries are fitted the right way around - see page 67. If two or more batteries were fitted the wrong way around, the Remote Control may be permanently damaged. If this occurs, contact your dealer for advice. For correct operation, there must be a clear line of sight between the infrared transmitter at the end of the Remote Control and the remote control sensor in the main unit, located on the left hand side of the display. If the line of sight is blocked (for example by a coffee table) the Remote Control may operate erratically or not at all. While the unit is displaying Locking or changing sample rates, the system timing is fluctuating and this may temporarily disrupt the operation of the Remote Control. Once the unit locks and returns to the default display, normal operation will be resumed. The Remote Control will operate Purcell only while the blue LED on the handset is lit. See page 41.

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Output audio quality is poor Check that Output Wordlength is set correctly for the destination device. Outputting a longer wordlength than the destination device can accept will produce a grainy sound that is particularly unpleasant at low signal levels. If Out Word is not set to 24 bits, use Noise Shaping (try setting it to Auto) and/or Dither. This can be caused by a very jittery source. The DAC connected to the AES or SPDIF outputs reports an error Check that the DAC can receive the sample rate that Purcell is outputting, in the appropriate (1 wire, 2 wire) format. When playing a DVD, a short burst of noise is heard and the sample rates change We have found that some DVDs have been compiled with tracks recorded at different sample rates (e.g. 96kS/s & 48kS/s). There is no warning of this sudden change in sample rate (this could be done by using the Non-Audio flag or by changing the sample rate code in the data stream), so the DAC tries to decode corrupted data momentarily before registering loss of sync, muting and re-locking. The root cause of the problem is a lack of a formal interface standard covering sample rates above 48kS/s. When a new standard is agreed, Purcells software can be updated to comply with it. This is unlikely to improve the situation with existing disks. Meanwhile, we suggest you reduce the volume at the end of the track where a change occurs and increase it when Purcell and the DAC display a new sample rate. The DAC fails to lock to Purcell's output at 176.4 or 192kS/s Check that the destination device is able to work at these rates and that is appropriately set up. Check with the manufacturer or dealer if necessary. Check that the appropriate inputs have been selected on the destination device. Check that both of Purcell's AES 1 and AES 2 digital outputs have been connected to the DAC. Check that the digital cables have been fully plugged in at both ends. Try another pair of cables if possible. The DAC output is monophonic If Purcell is set to Dual AES Output Mode, check that the DAC is set to receive Dual AES. Check that both AES 1 and AES 2 cables are connected and not faulty. If Purcell is set to Dual AES Output Mode, do not use the RCA or BNC outputs. Dual AES Output Mode is automatically selected when you set the output sample rate to either 176.4 or 192kS/s. The source disk / tape may actually be monophonic. The stereo image is poor or out of position If you are using Dual AES Output Mode check that the AES 1 and AES 2 cables are not swapped over. If your DAC is locked to either 88.2 or 96kS/s in Dual AES mode, check that the Purcell output sample rate is not set to either 44.1 or 48kS/s. If this is the case, set the Output sample rate to 88.2 or 96kS/s as appropriate and the Output Mode to Dual AES.

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Channel Check, Phase Check and Burn-In do not work Check that the unit is locked to a digital signal. These features are not available in DSD mode. Cannot Set Wordlength, Dither or Noise Shaping Check that the unit is not set to 176.4 kS/s or 192 kS/s output sample rates. For these rates, Output Wordlength, Dither and Noise Shaping cannot be set the unit is automatically set to 24 bits, no Dither or Noise Shaping. These features are not available in DSD mode. Menu Timeout does not work Someone has turned the menu timeout off, using remote software running on a PC. Open the Menu and run the Factory routine to reset everything to ex-factory settings. The Display turns on briefly when a control is operated, then turns off This happens when the Display Brightness is set to Bright 0. Access the Menu and change Display Brightness to a different setting.

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Troubleshooting the IEEE 1394 Interface
This section covers difficulties that may be encountered using a dCS Verdi SACD Transport (v1.20 or later), a dCS Verdi La Scala Upsampling SACD Transport or a dCS Purcell Upsampler to drive a dCS Elgar Plus DAC (v4.20 or later) or Delius DAC (v2.20 or later) with DSD data over an IEEE 1394 interface. Upsampler or Transport displays Inactive This can happen momentarily during locking. If it does not change to Active, open the Transport or Upsamplers menu and ensure the Transmit page is set to Active. The Unit keeps displaying No Comms This will appear briefly while the 1394 system is checking for connections. If the No Comms message does not clear, ensure that all units in the 1394 chain are switched on and securely connected by 1394 cables. The Unit keeps displaying Search. This will appear briefly after the 1394 system has established communications. If the Search message does not clear, ensure that you have not connected both 1394 connectors from one unit to both 1394 connectors on another unit or set up a loop. This prevents the 1394 bus settling. Check that the 1394 cables are correctly fitted. The DAC displays Verdi Wordclock Missing With the DAC in slave mode, check there is an undamaged BNC cable connecting Verdis WClk Out to the DACs WClk In. Ensure the cable is D.C. coupled. A.C. coupled cables are not suitable for use with Wordclock or SDIF. The DAC displays Missing Wordclock between Clk Out & Verdi Clk In With the DAC in master mode, check there is an undamaged BNC cable connecting the DACs WClk Out to Verdis WClk In. Ensure the cable is D.C. coupled. A.C. coupled cables are not suitable for use with Wordclock or SDIF. The DAC displays Please check source slaved to DAC Wordclock Out With the DAC in master mode, check there is an undamaged BNC cable connecting the DACs WClk Out to the sources WClk In. Ensure the cable is D.C. coupled. A.C. coupled cables are not suitable for use with Wordclock or SDIF. The DAC displays Wrong Wordclock @ Verdi Clk In Verdi / La Scala has detected a clock frequency other than 44.1kHz on its WClk In connector. Ensure the clock source is set to 44.1kHz. With the DAC in master mode, check there is an undamaged BNC cable connecting Verdi / La Scalas WClk Out to the DACs WClk In. Ensure the cable is D.C. coupled. A.C. coupled cables are not suitable for use with Wordclock or SDIF.

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master clock, using..25 master mode DAC, using.16, 17 Menu Select button..21 Menu Step Back button..21, 35 Menu Step button.21, 35 menu time out..21, 27 menu times out too soon.27 menu, 1394 ID..78 message...51 message, Active..75 message, emphasis..27 message, handling..51 message, Inactive..75 message, Missing Wordclock between Clk Out...75 message, No Comms.75 message, Please check source slaved to DAC Wordclock Out..75 message, Search..75 message, Verdi Wordclock Missing.75 message, Wrong Wordclock @ Verdi Clk In.75 Missing Wordclock between Clk Out message from DAC.75 mode, output..25, 38 mode, standby..34 mono output...73 music by Purcell...5 N N.Shape menu..24 No Comms message..75 No Input message...35 no signal...71 No Track message..32 noise..49, 50, 52 noise floor, lower..53 noise on outputs..72 noise performance...24 noise shaping. 24, 35, 49, 52, 53, 55, 73 noise shaping, recommended settings..23 noise, quantisation...52 Non Seq message...32 non-audio..51 non-audio flag..51 normal display..26 NS indicator...35 O opening the Function Menu..21 operating conditions..48 optical input..38 option, IEEE 1394 interface..64 option, remote control.64 options...64 options, changing..64 Out Mode menu..25 Out Word menu..23 Output button..35 output mode..25, 38
output mode, setting.. 11 output wordlength... 23 output, AES 1.. 38 output, AES 2.. 38 output, RCA.. 38 output, wordclock.. 38 outputs, connecting to.. 12 P packaging.. 66 packaging, replacement.. 62 performance, noise.. 24 Ph.Check menu.. 28 phase check fails.. 74 phase check routine.. 28 phase locked loop... 47 Please check source slaved to DAC Wordclock Out message from DAC.. 75 Please Start CD message.. 32 positioning the unit.. 63 Power button.. 34 power inlet... 39 power interruption... 70 Power Link connector.. 39 power off.. 34 power on.. 34 power requirements.. 48 power switch.. 39 power up failure.. 71 PowerDn message.. 34, 70 powering up.. 10 programmable logic.. 3 pull-in range.. 47 Purcell button, remote.. 41 Purcell LED, remote.. 41 Purcell, music by.. 5 PWR indicator.. 35 R RC5 codes.. 58 RCA input.. 37 RCA output... 38 rear panel.. 37 remote control.. 41, 67, 72, 78 remote control codes. 58 remote control option. 64 remote control sensor.. 35, 72 remote control, batteries. 72 remote control, replacing batteries.. 67 remote control, using. 41 resetting to factory state.. 33 Revert to Slave message.. 25 Ring DAC... 3 roll-off.. 45 S safety... 62 safety, electrical.. 69 sample clock.. 47