He continued to compose, albeit at a slower pace. In 1873 he wrote his Requiem Mass, which was dedicated to the memory of the poet Alessandro Manzoni, though its origins go back to a work he first composed as a homage to Rossini. The most notable operas of his latter years are: Aida written in 1871, Otello - written in 1887 and Falstaff - written in 1893. The last two were based on plays by Shakespeare and are widely regarded as masterpieces. His last major work, the Four Sacred Pieces (Ave Maria, Stabat Mater, Te Deum and Laudi alla Vergine), was written in 1898, a year after the death of his second wife Giuseppina. Giuseppe Verdi died on January 27 1901. In accordance with his wishes, he was given a simple funeral, without singing or music. The following month, he was entombed in a state ceremony with his second wife, at the rest home for musicians that he had helped to set up many years before, to care for singers and instrumentalists who had fallen on hard times in their old age. The procession was accompanied by members of Verdis family, members of the Italian Royal family, members of Parliament, foreign diplomats and leading composers including Puccini, Mascagni and Leoncavello. Arturo Toscanini lead tens of thousands of mourners with the choruses of La Scala, in the singing of Va, pensiero from Nabucco. Recommended recordings x Requiem Philadelphia Orchestra conducted by Eugene Ormandy. Sony SACD SS00707 Rigoletto English National Opera CHAN 3030 Otello English National Opera conducted by Mark Elder CHAN 3068(2) Otello Chicago Symphony Orchestra conducted by Sir George Solti London 422 670-2 Il Trovatore Berliner Philharmoniker conducted by Herbert von Karajan EMI CMS7 69311/2 La Traviata e Coro del Maggio Musicale, Florence conducted by Zubin Meta Philips 438 238-2 Macbeth Choir and Orchestra of the German Opera Berlin conducted by Giuseppe Sinopoli Philips 412 133-2 Four Sacred Pieces and Requiem Monteverdi Choir and Orchestre Revolutionnaire et Romantique conducted by John Eliot Gardener Philips 442 142-2

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CONTENTS

Product Overview....3

Recommended recordings x
Giuseppe Verdi (1813 1901)...4 Contents....6

About this Manual

What does the coloured text mean? About Sample Rates x

Step-by-Step Guide....10

Preliminaries Step 1 Connecting the System
Connecting the 1394 Interface Connecting the DAC Outputs Connecting a PCM Output x x x

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Troubleshooting....50
Troubleshooting Guide 50 The unit fails to power up 50 The DAC/DDC suddenly mutes, Verdi Encore repeats its power-up sequence50 The DAC/DDC fails to lock to Verdi Encore or displays No Input 50 The DAC/DDC locks but no signal is received 50 A disc is trapped in the unit 50 The Remote Control fails to control the unit 51 The Display turns on briefly when a control is operated, then turns off 51 CD-R does not play correctly 51 Troubleshooting the IEEE 1394 Interface 52 Upsampler or Transport displays Inactive 52 The Unit keeps displaying No Comms 52 The Unit keeps displaying Search. 52 The DAC displays Verdi Word Clock Missing 52 The DAC displays Missing Word Clock between Clk Out & Verdi Clk In 52 The DAC displays Please check source slaved to DAC Word Clock Out 52 The DAC displays Wrong Word Clock @ Verdi Clk In 53 The DAC remains muted 53 The DAC takes a long time to unmute 53
If You Need More Help...54
Other Information Software History Definitions and Abbreviations Key to Cable Identification List of Tables List of Figures Keywords and Phrases 57
Indexes and Software Version Numbers...55

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If you have not used a Verdi Encore before, please read the section Using your dCS Verdi Encore for the first time on page 38. This manual has been arranged with the most commonly used sections placed first: table of contents (page 6) step-by-step (page 10) and applications guides (page 14) detailed software and hardware information (page 16) technical information (page 28) information for first time users (page 38) options, maintenance and troubleshooting (page 40) index section (page 55)
What does the coloured text mean? If you are reading a colour print or a soft copy of this manual, you will notice that some types of text are in colour: Brown text in bold is a reference to another section or page. Sometimes, if you are reading a soft copy of the manual, page numbers are hyperlinks click on them and you will go there. Blue text is used for controls and connectors, described in the hardware section. White text in bold on black is used for alternative control functions, such as menu operation. Pink text is a menu page or setting. Green text in bold shows what appears on the display. Purple text in bold is used for indicators. Important information is presented like this - ignoring this may cause you to damage the unit, or invalidate the warranty. The manual is designed to be helpful. If there are points you feel we could cover better, or that we have missed out - please tell us. About Sample Rates x

All references to sample rates in this manual use the unit kS/s (kilo Samples per second) rather than the technically incorrect kHz.

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STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
This section guides you through setting up the unit for basic operation. You may find this useful if you have not used the Verdi Encore for a while.

Preliminaries

The Control Summary sheet details the menu structure and outlines the use of the front panel controls. For more information, see the Menu section on page 16. For digital interfaces, use with cables designed for digital audio: do this: for AES/EBU interfaces use 110 screened, twisted pair cables fitted with one male XLR connector and one female XLR connector. for SDIF, Wordclock or SPDIF BNC interfaces, use 75 coax cables fitted with BNC plugs. for SPDIF RCA interfaces, use 75 coax cables fitted with RCA Phono plugs. for TOSLINK optical interfaces, use Toslink fibre-optic cables. for IEEE 1394 interfaces, use the IEEE 1394 cable provided with the unit.
Connect the power cable supplied to the Power inlet on the Verdi Encore rear panel, plug the other end into a convenient power outlet. Set the power switch beside the power inlet to the on position (I). Please do not use an excessively thick power cable as this may damage the power inlet connector. Such damage is not covered by the warranty. Press the Power button and wait about 5 seconds while Verdi Encore configures itself. The display will show in sequence: Encore, Welcome, Reading and No Disc.

do this:

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Step 1 Connecting the System
There are only two connections needed between the Verdi Encore and the DAC. The Verdi Encore is compatible with the dCS Elgar Plus DAC or the dCS Delius DAC equipped with the 1394 option.
dCS Verdi Encore SACD Transport
CAUTION: VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION. WHEN OPEN, DO NOT STARE INTO BEAM.

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT

DIGITAL INPUTS

DIGITAL OUTPUTS TOSLINK

IN - WORDCLOCK - OUT

POWER LINK

44.1kHz Wordclock

dCS Elgar Plus DAC

CH1 CH2 SUC B POWER

OUTPUT LEVEL HIGH

TOSLINK

DSD / SDIF

REC OUT
Balanced - or - Unbalanced Outputs Outputs To Power Amplifier or Preamplifier
Figure 1 Connecting Verdi Encore to Elgar Plus Connecting the 1394 Interface x
While playing an SACD, Hybid disc or CD, DSD data is available from either of the 1394 connectors. This can be decoded by a 1394equipped dCS Elgar Plus or Delius DAC. do this: do this: do this: Set the DAC to 1394 mode first. Connect ONE of the 1394 connectors on Verdi Encores rear panel to the DAC using the IEEE 1394 cable supplied. Also connect Verdi Encores Word Clock Out to Word Clock In on the DAC. Do not connect both of Verdi Encores 1394 connectors to the DAC.

Displays dCS email address

Figure 3 Menu flow chart

Using the Menu
The 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 Menu is controlled by three buttons: the Menu button opens the menu and doubles as the Select button. the Step button pages forward through the Menu the Step button. the Step button pages backward through the Menu the Step Back button.
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 two types of page in the Menu - Parameter Pages and Information Pages. Parameter pages allow the user to check and also change the current settings of the operating parameters, for example Brightness: 10. When a parameter page is displayed, press the Select button change the page setting. Information pages display information about the unit, for example Software Issue: 1.00. 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 Exit 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.

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Menu Sequence
Use the flow chart (Figure 3) or the Control Summary sheet to guide you through the Menu more quickly. The following explanation deals with the Menu pages in the sequence they 3 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 Menu operations in one go before finally closing the Menu. Brightness - Display Brightness This adjusts the brightness of the main display, with settings between 15 (brightest) and 0 (off, unless something is touched). do this: do this: Open the Menu and step through until the display shows Brightness: x, where x is a number between 15 and 0. Press the Select button repeatedly and the display cycles through Brightness 0, Brightness 1,., Brightness 14, Brightness 15 and back to Brightness 0. After time-out, a setting of Brightness 0 blanks the display unless the unit is not locked. Operating any control or locking to a source while in this mode turns the display back on momentarily. Layer (CD, SACD) Hybrid discs have two layers, an SACD layer and a CD layer. If you are playing a hybrid disc, this menu setting allows you to choose which layer is played. Please note the mechanism takes many seconds to reconfigure to a different layer. The default setting for a hybrid disc is the SACD layer.

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Play / Pause Button x do this: With a disc loaded, press this button to start it playing. Press it to pause and press again to resume playing. Stop / Eject Button x do this: With a disc playing, press this button to stop playing. Press again to open or close the CD tray and change the disc. Status Indicator x
This consists of 6 indicators: PWR is lit when power is connected and the unit is turned on or is in standby mode. STBY is lit when the unit has been placed in Standby mode. SACD is lit when the unit detects that a SACD is loaded, or that a hybrid disc is loaded and the unit is set to SACD mode. CD is lit when the unit detects that an ordinary CD is loaded, or that a hybrid disc is loaded and the unit is set to CD mode. HYBD is lit when the unit detects that a hybrid SACD / CD is loaded. (Not active on current release of software.) UPS is lit when a CD layer is being upsampled to DSD.
Digital Input Indicator The digital inputs are not active in this release. They will be activated by a future software update. Remote Control Sensor x
Point the end of the Remote Control unit towards the sensor for best control range. Main Display x The main display tells you what Encore is doing. After pressing Eject, the display will show Opening, then Open. While the tray is closing the display will show Closing. While the table of contents of a disc is being read, the display will show Reading. While playing a disc, pressing the Display button on the Remote Control displays the number of the track being played for approximately 5 seconds and then reverts back to elapsed time of the current track. When accessing the Menu (see page 16), menu options are displayed here. Mode Indicator x
The upper block of 6 indicators shows which play mode has been selected. These later by a future software update. When a 44.1kHz Word Clock is connected to Word Clock In, Verdi Encore automatically slaves to it. The WCLK indicator flashes while the unit is locking then remains on while locked. It will ignore Word Clocks at frequencies other than 44.1kHz.

If the Copy Prohibit flag in the source data on the disc is set, you will not be able to record the data from the SPDIF outputs.
SPDIF Optical Output The optical output carries optically transmitted digital signals, sampled at 44.1kS/s. The data format is IEC60958, otherwise known as SPDIF. Data from SACDs is also available, down-sampled to 16 bit / 44.1kS/s. Use the Toslink output with Toslink fibre optic cables designed for digital audio use. Pull off the plastic cover before use. SDIF Interface This consists of two data outputs, CH1 & CH2 and the Word Clock Out, all on BNC sockets. The interface carries digital signals, sampled at 44.1kS/s. The data format is SDIF-2. Data from SACDs is also available, down-sampled to 16 bit / 44.1kS/s. Connect up the three BNC sockets with 75 co-axial cables designed for digital audio or RF use. A.C. coupled cables are not suitable.
Please ensure the 3 cables are correctly connected to the DAC (or other destination equipment), otherwise the interface may malfunction or the channels may be swapped. When playing a disc, Word Clock Out carries a 44.1kHz Word Clock.
Word Clock Digital Input Word Clock In accepts a 44.1kHz Word Clock. It allows Verdi Encore and the rest of your system to be synchronised to a master clock. This arrangement helps reduce jitter, which can degrade the audio output. When a 44.1kHz Word Clock is connected, Verdi Encore will automatically slave to it. The WClk indicator will flash while locking and stay on while Verdi Encore is locked. There is no data on the Word Clock interface. Use with 75 ohm co-axial cables designed for digital audio or RF use. A.C. coupled cables are not suitable. 1394 Interface All units feature an IEEE 1394 multi-channel interface, available on two 6-way 1394 connectors. You can connect up to eight 1394 sources to the bus, but avoid loops.

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In this release, the unit generates DSD data at 2.822MS/s from either 1394 connector. For correct operation, the DAC must be locked to the 44.1kHz signal on Verdi Encores Word Clock Out connector (or the system must be locked to a master clock running at 44.1kHz). We recommend using the 1.8 metre long, 6-way IEEE 1394 cable assembly and the BNC cable assembly provided. The 1394 indicator lights when the interface is active. See IEEE 1394 Overview on page 32 for more information.
Do not connect both 1394 outputs to the same DAC or other destination equipment - the interface system will be stuck in an endless loop and will not work.
Power Link These can be linked to similar connectors on other dCS units using a link cable. All units linked in this way may be turned on or off or set to standby by pressing a single Power button or sending one Remote Control command. Link cables are available from dCS. SUC The Software Upgrade Connector is intended to be used by dCS service agents to load new software into Verdi Encore.
Do not connect any other equipment to the SUC connector as this may damage both Verdi Encore and the equipment so connected. Do not operate Verdi Encore with a PC connected. Failure to observe this warning will void the units warranty, and may cause unpleasant effects in your system.

In the current implementation, Purcell can upsample standard digital formats (such as CD at 44.1kS/s 16 bits) to DSD at 2.822MS/s and output a stereo pair of DSD data onto its 1394 interface. Verdi can read DSD data from an SACD and output a stereo pair of DSD data onto its 1394 interface. The data is encrypted to conform to the conditions of the DSD licensing arrangements. Either Elgar Plus or Delius will accept DSD data from the 1394 interface and convert it to high quality analogue. The hardware interface is very flexible and software configurable. We will add other features and data formats at a later date, adopting industry standard formats as they stabilise.
Synchronising IEEE 1394 interfaces The IEEE 1394 system is great for carrying large amounts or digital audio data but is inherently very jittery. To ensure low-jitter conversion to analogue, each unit linked by the 1394 system must be synchronised to the others by another connection. A DAC in slave mode should be synced to Verdi by connecting Verdis WClk Out to the DACs WClk In. A DAC in master mode should sync Verdi by connecting the DACs WClk Out to Verdis WClk In. An Upsampler should be slaved to Verdi, usually by the selected PCM input (AES or RCA).
Automatic Input Selection From October 2002 onwards, the software on the following products has been enhanced to automatically select the interface carrying data from Verdi: dCS Elgar Plus DAC, standard fit with software version 4.20 or later. dCS Delius DAC, optional fit with software version 2.20 or later. dCS Verdi SACD/CD Transport, standard fit with software version 1.20 or later. dCS Verdi La Scala Upsampling SACD/CD Transport, standard fit, with the Easy Play menu set to Verdi.
The system relies on a 1394 link between Verdi and the DAC. The DAC will automatically change inputs whenever Verdi changes layer or starts playing.

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If the Verdi starts playing an SACD, the DAC selects that 1394 channel. If the Verdi starts playing a CD and: there is a second source on the 1394 bus (such as a Purcell), the DAC will select the other source. there are more than two other sources on the 1394 bus (such as a Purcell or another Verdi), the DAC will select one of the other sources. You may have to manually select the source you want. Verdi is the only source on the 1394 bus, the DAC will scan the PCM inputs and select the first active one it finds. The priority order is: AES1 (and Dual AES) first, AES2, RCA1, RCA2, TOS, ST, BNC. If the active input is not derived from Verdi, you may have to manually select the source you want. If none of the PCM inputs are active, the DAC will remain selected to the original 1394 channel.
This arrangement works best with only two inputs connected to the DAC Verdis 1394 feed for SACDs and either a PCM feed from Verdi or an upsampled feed from Verdi. The DAC can be in master or slave mode we recommend master mode. If you are using a Purcell in Dual AES mode (rather than DSD mode), you should set the DACs Dual AES menu page to either Lock or Auto. The DAC has enough information about the system set-up to report connection and setting errors. These are: Verdi Word Clock Missing Please Check Source Slaved to Delius / Elgar Plus Word Clock Out Missing Word Clock between ClkOut and Verdi Clk In Wrong Fs @ Verdi Clk In

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 6, 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 6 Changing the Mains Fuse
Disconnect the power cable before changing the fuse.

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Removing the Transit Screws
The transit screws clamp the mechanism to reduce the risk of shipping damage. They must be removed before the unit is used. do this: Lift the unit out of the packaging and place it on a table top. Remove the rubber mat from the top of the unit. Identify the four transit screws from the drawing below.
Figure 7 View of the top of the unit showing the transit screws do this: Using the 3mm hex key, unscrew the transit screws and put them in a safe place. If you intend to transport the unit outside the room, replace the transit screws they need to be secure BUT NOT OVER-TIGHT.
Fitting the Top Glass Plate
do this: do this: do this: do this: do this: Lay the black rubber mat flat in the top of the unit so that the 4 screw holes are visible through the holes in the mat. Remove the glass plate from its plastic bag. Find the dCS logo on the top face of the glass. Fit the glass with the logo in the front left corner of the unit as shown in Figure 8. Carefully locate the right hand edge of the glass in the well in the top of the unit (step 1 in Figure 8). Lower the glass down on the left hand side until it can be safely dropped into place (step 2 in Figure 8). Centralise the glass plate.

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dCS logo

TEXT DISC ART TRK

HYBD SACD CD
dCS Verdi Super Audio CD Transport
Figure 8 Locating the Top Glass Plate
Fit a black top-hat washer onto each screw, fit the 4 screws through the holes in the glass (step 3 in Figure 9).
Figure 9 Securing the Top Glass Plate do this: Locate the top-hat washers into the holes and at first tighten up the screws FINGER TIGHT ONLY. Use the 4mm hex key provided to tighten up the screws at most ONE QUARTER OF A TURN ONLY. DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN THE SCREWS this can compress the rubber mat and spoil its sound dampening performance.

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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 2 screws shown in Figure 10 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 10 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.
Fitting new batteries and closing the case do this: To fit a new battery, press the - end (the flat end) against one of the spring contacts in the battery holder then press the battery into its slot. Battery polarity is indicated on the battery holder and on the diagram below. Always fit a complete set of 3 new batteries.
Figure 11 Changing the Remote Control unit batteries
Please ensure the batteries are fitted the right way around failure to do so may damage the Remote Control and invalidate the warranty. Damage caused by leaking batteries is not covered by the warranty. To re-assemble the case, fit the battery cover, ensuring the side with the recessed holes is outward. Replace the 2 screws, taking care not to overtighten them. The Remote Control is ready for use.

AAA 1.5V AAA 1.5V

AAA 1.5V

Page 45

dCS Limited Warranty
What This Warranty Covers Provided the sale of this dCS product is registered with dCS within 30 days of the original purchase, this warranty covers parts and labour to correct any defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 1 year from the date of purchase. A copy of the original bill of sale may be required to verify the date of purchase.
Registration is generally completed on your behalf by the authorised dCS reseller However it is your responsibility to ensure that the product is registered. If you do not receive a warranty certificate in the mail from dCS within 30 days of your purchase, contact dCS. Registration also ensures you will receive information on important hardware and software upgrades as they become available. For products not registered with dCS, the 1 year warranty period commences on the date the product was originally shipped from the dCS factory. If you sell this product within the warranty period, the balance of the warranty will remain in effect for subsequent owners.

What This Warranty Does Not Cover This warranty does not cover products with missing or altered serial number, products originally purchased from other than an authorised dCS reseller, or problems that result from: External causes such as accident, abuse, misuse, or problems with electrical power. Unauthorised modifications. Use not in accordance with the operating conditions and instructions stated in the user manual. Service or repair by anyone other than an authorised dCS Distributor. Product operation on voltage outside a range of the voltage specified on the back panel, plus or minus 10%, or without a proper ground connection. Transport in inadequate packing. Problems caused by using accessories, parts, or components not supplied by dCS. Master Clock accuracy is not guaranteed 12 months after shipping from dCS.
This warranty does not cover carriage costs. How To Obtain Service Should you encounter a problem, please check the Troubleshooting section on page 50. You may be able to resolve the situation yourself (for example, by changing a menu setting). If this does not resolve the problem, contact your authorised dCS reseller for advice, quoting the model, the full serial number, the software version and giving a detailed description of the fault. If you are unable to contact the reseller, you may contact dCS directly at: dCS Ltd, Mull House, Great Chesterford Court Great Chesterford, Saffron Walden, CB10 1PF UK Phone: +44 (0)email: support@dcsltd.co.uk Fax: +44 (0)1799 531681

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Updating your Verdi Encore
dCS products make extensive use of software configurable chips FPGAs and DSPs. This gives us the ability to update our products to add extra features, update digital interface standards or make performance improvements by loading new software. Occasionally, a hardware update may be necessary also to increase the capacity of the electronics, add extra connectors or extra front panel controls. Software Updates x
Please note that not all software updates make an earth-shattering change. You should have a clear idea of what you expect to gain before updating to the latest issue. If the software loaded in your unit is (for example) version 3.45: A change to version 3.46 indicates a minor update for internal dCS use to make testing easier, or more thorough, or to cater for some minor hardware change. Do not update your unit. A change to version 3.50 is a more serious update, offering extra functionality. If you want to use the extra features, update your unit. The manual will be updated for this (check the web-site). A change to version 4.00 is a major update. It will require updated hardware and the manual will be updated

If you have older hardware, some of the features added by new software may not be available due to (for example) a missing connector. For recent hardware, this is mentioned in the Upgraders notes in this manual. If you need the missing feature, contact your dealer or dCS to arrange a hardware update. If the software currently loaded includes a CD Update page, you can update the software yourself. Contact dCS for a CD and follow the instructions in the CD Update section on page 18, or the instructions supplied with the CD. The update program will check your hardware configuration and install the latest software compatible with it. If you do not have the CD Update feature loaded or have difficulty with it, a dCS distributor can download files from a PC into any unit fitted with a SUC connector. Contact your dealer for details. For older units without a SUC connector, your distributor can install new firmware in your unit. Firmware updates are low-cost from dCS. Contact your dealer for details. x

Hardware Updates

You may wish to have your hardware updated from time to time to take advantage of new features in the latest software. dCS offer this service - we will retest, reset any adjustable items to current shipping standards, and install any modifications or updates that have occurred since your unit was first shipped. The price will depend on the hardware changes necessary please contact your dealer or dCS for details and pricing. In order to ensure speedy turn around, please contact us prior to returning the unit to get a Service Return number.

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Safety and Electrical Safety
There are no user serviceable parts inside Verdi Encore and so there is no need to remove the covers. If for some reason you do:
Disconnect the power cable before removing any covers or changing the fuse. There are no substances hazardous to health inside Verdi Encore.

Cleaning the Case

Do not apply any of the following cleaning products to the case as they will damage or alter the finish: do this: do this: Corrosive or abrasive agents Spirit or alcohol based cleaners Wax polish
To remove dust, wipe with a moist, soft cloth. To remove deposits from the case, first disconnect the power cable then spray very lightly with a proprietary glass cleaner containing ammonia and wipe off gently with a soft cloth, taking care to avoid scratches. Do not spray the cleaner onto the connectors or the rear panel.

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TROUBLESHOOTING

Troubleshooting Guide
If you experience difficulties when using your Verdi Encore, the following suggestions may help resolve the problem. The unit fails to power up Ensure there is power available on the mains cable. Connect the power cable, ensure it is pushed all the way in and press the Power button. If there is a Power switch on the back panel, ensure this is set to the On (I) position. Check the rated supply voltage shown on the rear of the unit matches the local supply voltage. Check that the fuse has not blown - if so, correct any obvious cause then replace the fuse as described on page 42. The DAC/DDC suddenly mutes, Verdi Encore repeats its power-up sequence This may be caused by short drop-outs or brown-outs on the AC supply. When the disturbance has passed, normal operation should be restored. Check for loose mains wiring. The DAC/DDC fails to lock to Verdi Encore or displays No Input Ensure the correct DAC/DDC input is selected. Check that the digital audio cable is of the correct type, correctly connected and not damaged. Damaged cables are a VERY common cause of malfunctions! Check that Verdi Encore is switched on. If you are using a Master Clock, check it is set to 44.1kHz and try disconnecting the Word Clock cable. If the DAC/DDC locks, check the Word Clock connections. When using the 1394 interface, you must also connect a 44.1kHz Word Clock feed to the DAC (or from the DAC if the DAC is in Master mode). If using the SDIF-2 interface, ensure all 3 cables are connected correctly. If using a BNC SPDIF interface, ensure it is connected to the BNC output, not the SDIF interface. The DAC/DDC locks but no signal is received Verdi only: When playing an ordinary CD or the CD layer of a hybrid disc, Verdi generates digital silence from the 1394 interface and signal on all other interfaces. A disc is trapped in the unit If the unit has problems reading the disc and the tray does not open after 2 minutes, power down the unit (completely off, not just standby), hold down the Stop / Eject button then switch on. If the front panel is frozen, pull out the power cord for 10 seconds, hold down the Stop / Eject button, then replace the cable. When the unit has booted up, the tray should open and you can release the button. In normal use, wait for the transport to finish displaying Reading before trying to eject the disc.

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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 45. If the Remote Control has not been used for a long time or has gradually lost range, the batteries should be replaced - see page 45. 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 45. 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. The Display turns on briefly when a control is operated, then turns off This happens when the display brightness is set to Brightness: 0. Open the Menu and change Brightness to a different setting. CD-R does not play correctly Verdi Encore is CD-R compatible but some brands of disks are more reliable than others due to differences in design. dCS recommend Traxdata TXS1680 disks we have used these without difficulty for some years. The CD-R must be formatted as a music CD, rather than a data CD. You can burn and update an incomplete music CD on a CD Re-Writer, but the disk must be finalised before it can be played on an audio CD transport. Finalising creates a Table Of Contents (TOC) at the start of the disk. If the TOC is missing, the transport will keep trying to find it for about 2 minutes, displaying Reading. During this time, you will not be able to stop or eject the disk. Wait until the unit displays TOC Error, then open the tray and remove the disk.

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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 (if there is one) 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. Check that all the units in your system are loaded with the same 1394 code issue. If not, contact dCS for an update CD. 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. Check that all the units in your system are loaded with the same 1394 code issue. If not, contact dCS for an update CD. The DAC displays Verdi Word Clock 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 Word Clock or SDIF. The DAC displays Missing Word Clock 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 Word Clock or SDIF. The DAC displays Please check source slaved to DAC Word Clock 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 Word Clock or SDIF.

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Fast Forward button..22 fast reverse..27 Fast Reverse button..22 first-time use..38 fitting the glass plate..43 front panel..20 full scale..55 fuse, mains..42 fuse, replacing..42 fuse, spare...38 G Giuseppe Verdi, biography..4 glass plate, fitting..43 grounding..38 guide to basic setup..10 H hardware updates..47 I IEEE 1394 interface..24, 32 Inactive message..52 indicator, 1394...22, 25 indicator, A-B..21 indicator, CD..21 indicator, CONT..21 indicator, PROG..21 indicator, PWR..21 indicator, RAND..21 indicator, REPT..21 indicator, RPT1...21 indicator, SACD..21 indicator, status..21 indicator, WCLK..21, 24 input selection, automatic..32 input, AES..23 input, RCA...23 input, Wordclock..24 Issue menu..17 issue, software..17 J jitter...24 jitter, low frequency..29 L learning remotes..34 lock-in time..29 locking problems..50 M main display..17, 21 maintenance..42 master clock..24 master clock, locking problems.50 master mode, DAC, using..14 Menu..16 Menu button..16, 22
Menu button, remote.. 27 menu scrolling, remote.. 27 Menu Select button.. 16 Menu Step Back button.. 16, 22 Menu Step button. 16, 22 menu time out.. 16 menu, CD Update... 18 Menu, closing.. 16 Menu, opening... 16 Menu, using.. 16 message, Active.. 52 message, Inactive... 52 message, Missing Wordclock between Clk Out ... 52 message, No Comms.. 52 message, Please check source slaved to DAC Wordclock Out.. 52 message, Search.. 52 message, TOC Error.. 51 message, Verdi Wordclock Missing. 52 message, Wrong Wordclock @ Verdi Clk In 53 Missing Wordclock between Clk Out message from DAC.. 52 mode, standby... 20 music by Verdi.. 5 Mute button, remote.. 27 N Next Track button.. 22 Next Track button, remote.. 27 No Comms message. 52 no output.. 50 O opening the Menu... 16 operating conditions.. 30 optical output.. 24 option, mains supply voltage.. 40 options... 40 options, changing.. 40 output, AES... 23 output, BNC.. 24 output, optical.. 24 output, RCA.. 24 output, SDIF-2.. 24 output, Toslink optical.. 24 output, Wordclock... 24 outputs, connecting to.. 11 outputs, SPDIF... 24 P packaging.. 42 packaging, replacement.. 38 phase locked loop... 29 Play / Pause button.. 21 Play/Pause button, remote.. 27 playing a disc.. 12 Please check source slaved to DAC Wordclock Out message from DAC.. 52

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positioning the unit...39 Power button..20 power inlet...25 Power Link connector.25 power off...20 power on...20 power requirements..29 power switch..25 power up failure..50 PowerDn message..20 powering up...10 Previous Track button.22 Previous Track button, remote..27 problems playing a CD-R..51 PROG indicator..21 PROG mode..13 programming a track sequence.13 pull-in range...29 PWR indicator..21 R RAND indicator...21 RC5 codes...34 RCA input..23 RCA output..24 rear panel..23 recommended recordings by Verdi..5 remote control.26, 45, 51 remote control codes..34 remote control sensor..21, 51 remote control, batteries..51 remote control, replacing batteries.45 removing the transit screws..43 REPT indicator...21 rotary control..22 RPT1 indicator..21 S SACD...3 SACD indicator...21 SACD/CD button, remote..26 safety...38 safety, electrical..48 sample clock..29 sample rate.9, 24, 29, 55 sample rate, output..23 SDIF-2...55 SDIF-2 cables, do not swap.24 SDIF-2 output..24 SDIF-2 output, connecting..12 SDIF-2, cannot lock to..50 Search message..52 Select button..16, 22 Serial menu..18 serial number, full..18 serial number, short..25 service...42, 46 setting, supply voltage..39 size...30

do this: do this:

Upsampling the CD Data to DSD, DAC in Master mode
You can use a dCS Purcell (equipped with an optional 1394 interface) to upsample the CD data to DSD while the DAC is in Master mode.
Figure 4 Upsampling the CD data to DSD, DAC in Master mode do this: Connect up as shown in Figure 4. Note that the Wordclock connections are different to those in Figure 3.The first time you use this arrangement, open the Purcell and Elgar Plus menus and run the Factory and Rst Sync routines. Purcell setup for software version 2.2x or later: You can connect any of Verdis AES or SPDIF digital outputs to matching inputs on Purcell - use Purcells Input button to select it. Use the Output button to set the output mode to DSD. Elgar Plus setup for software version 4.2x or later: Use the Input button to select the 1394 input. Open the menu again, choose a different Filter if you wish, then set the MS page to MS: Mastr. When the system has re-locked, use the Volume control to set a comfortable listening level. Elgar Plus will automatically select either the SACD channel (Verdi) or the CD channel (Purcell). Page 18

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THE SOFTWARE THE MENU
Press "Step >" to move along the Menu, press "< Step" to move back. Press "Select" to set a menu option or change options.

First page of the Menu

SACD/CD
Selects format for playing hybrid discs

Transmit

Turns off 1394 data feed (DSD mode only)

1394 ID

Sets the 1394 source identifying number

Bright x

Sets the display brightness

Timeout

Sets the Function Menu time-out delay

SACD CD

Active Inactive

Bright 7. Bright 0

Normal Long
Displays the internal temperature
Displays the software version number
Runs a display test routine

Burn In

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

Ph.Check

Outputs noise on both channels then inverts R

Ch.Check

Outputs tone on L channel only then R channel only

do this: do this: do this: do this: do this:
After about 15 minutes, the update is complete and the unit will reboot itself. do this: do this: If the CD is still playing, you can stop it now. If the unit being updated has a 1394 interface, wait until the unit has settled (about 30 seconds), switch it off for 10 seconds, then on again. If the unit detects no change in the 1394 interface code, it will boot up as usual and be ready for use. If the 1394 interface code has been updated, the unit will load the new code into the flash memory on the 1394 interface board this takes about 10 minutes. While this is taking place, the unit will display a progress bar. Next the unit will display in sequence: Done 5, Done 4, , Done 1 then reboot itself again.

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The unit is ready for use.
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.
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 through until the display shows Factory. Press the Select button and leave the menu to time out. After re-booting, the unit will return to normal operation set up as follows: Transmit to Active Brightness to Bright 4 1394ID to 0 Timeout to Normal FavLayer to SACD SessTime to 0

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Page 29
THE HARDWARE CONTROLS AND CONNECTORS

Front Panel

Update

TEXT DISC ART TRK

CONT PROG

RPT RPT1 A-B 1394

HYBD SACD CD
dCS Verdi Super Audio CD Transport

Please ensure the 3 cables are correctly connected to the DAC (or other destination equipment), otherwise the interface may malfunction or the channels may be swapped. When playing a disc, Wordclock Out carries a 44.1kHz Wordclock.
Wordclock Digital Input Wordclock In accepts a 44.1kHz Wordclock. It allows Verdi and the rest of your system to be synchronised to a master clock. This arrangement helps reduce jitter, which can degrade the audio output. When a 44.1kHz Wordclock is connected, Verdi will automatically slave to it. The WClk indicator will flash while locking and stay on while Verdi is locked. There is no data on the wordclock interface. Use with 75 ohm co-axial cables designed for digital audio or RF use. A.C. coupled cables are not suitable. 1394 Interface All units feature an IEEE 1394 multi-channel interface, available on two 6-way 1394 connectors. If there are more than eight 1394 sources in the chain, Verdi can be made inactive using the Transmit menu item, see page 22. In this release, the unit generates DSD data at 2.822MS/s from either 1394 connector. For correct operation, the DAC must be locked to the 44.1kHz signal on Verdis Wordclock Out connector (or the system must be locked to a master clock running at 44.1kHz). We recommend using the 1.8 metre long, 6-way IEEE 1394 cable assembly and the BNC cable assembly provided. The 1394 indicator lights when the interface is active. See IEEE 1394 Overview on page 44 for more information.
Do not connect both 1394 outputs to the same DAC or other destination equipment - the interface system will be stuck in an endless loop and will not work.
Power Link This can be linked to similar connectors on other dCS units using a link cable. All units linked in this way may be turned on or off or set to standby by pressing a single Power button or sending one Remote Control command. Link cables are available from dCS.

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dCS Verdi User Manual dCS Ltd SUC
The Software Upgrade Connector is intended to be used by dCS service agents to load new software into Verdi.
Do not connect any other equipment to the SUC connector as this may damage both Verdi and the equipment so connected. Do not operate Verdi with a PC connected. Failure to observe this warning will void the units warranty, and may cause unpleasant effects in your system.
Power switch The Power switch completely isolates the unit from the power supply. In normal use, set it to the On position (I). Set it to Off (0) during electrical storms, or while you are away for a long period. IEC Power Inlet Use with a 3 - pin IEC type power cable.
Mains Fuse Replace only with a 20 x 5mm 500mA T HRC fuse. Please see page 54 for replacement details.

Additional Information The rear panel displays the following information about the unit: The manufacturers name and address. Supply voltage setting, frequency range and rated power. Model: dCS Verdi The short form of the unit serial number.
We will need the serial number (preferably the full serial number from the menu) to give you support over the phone, or to ship you software updates.

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Remote Control
The Remote Control unit supplied with dCS Verdi and La Scala also allows control of some features on dCS Elgar Plus or Delius DACs and the Purcell Upsampler. These buttons are identified by blue text or symbols on the Remote Control unit.

Standby

Keypad

Program

Play Mode

Repeat

Filter

Vol/Bal

Display
Figure 8 Transport Remote Control Blue LED () The blue LED flashes briefly when the remote control sends a DAC or DDC command.

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dCS Verdi User Manual dCS Ltd Standby button
() Pressing the Standby button normally sets Verdi to standby mode. Press again to restore normal operation. If you press the Standby button while the white LED () is lit, all dCS units in range of the remote control will be toggled in or out of standby mode. SACD/CD button () While playing a hybrid disc, press this button to select either the SACD layer or the standard CD layer. The layer selected will be displayed on the Status indicator. If the disc is not a hybrid disc, this button has no effect. Transport controls () The Play/Pause, Stop/Eject, Previous Track and Next Track buttons control the transport in the same way as the buttons on the front panel. While the white LED () is lit, the Previous Track and Next Track buttons skip to the previous or next track index, if the disc being played has indexing. Program and Clear buttons () These two buttons are used to set up or change a sequence of tracks. do this: Press the Program button to enter PROG mode, then enter the first track number on the 0-9 buttons (e.g. 05) while the white LED () is lit. Repeat this to program more tracks, up to a maximum of 31. To delete the last track in the sequence, press the Clear button. For more details, see Track Selection on page 14. Mode control buttons do this: () Press the Play Mode button repeatedly to cycle through the 3 modes: Continue plays the whole disc in a continuous sequence then stops. The CONT indicator is lit. Program plays the programmed sequence of tracks then stops. The PROG indicator is lit. Shuffle plays all the tracks on the disc in a random sequence then stops. The RAND indicator is lit. Press the Repeat button repeatedly to cycle through the 3 modes: Rept All - repeats the whole disc, depending on the Play Mode. In Continuous mode, the whole disc is repeated from start to finish. In Program mode, the programmed sequence is repeated. In Shuffle mode, the whole disc is replayed in a different random sequence. Rept Trk repeats the current track, even if it is already playing. Rept Off returns to normal playing mode. To select part of a track to repeat, play the track through until you reach the start point. Press the A-B button, the display will show (for example) AB 0:20 with the B flashing. When you reach the end point (for example, 10 seconds later), press the A-B button again. The B will stop flashing, the unit will skip back to the start point then continuously repeat the section up to stop point. You can select new start and stop points by pressing the A-B button at the new start point and again at the new stop point.

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dCS Verdi User Manual dCS Ltd Input and Filter buttons
() This group of buttons change the selected Input and Filter settings for dCS DDCs (buttons 4 and 5) or dCS DACs (buttons 7 & 8), if either of these are used in your system. They do not affect Verdi. Press the button repeatedly to cycle through the options. buttons () The ten numbered buttons form the numeric keypad, used to enter track numbers while the white LED is lit. Most of these buttons have other functions. To set the Remote Control in keypad mode, either: press the Keypad button, press the 0 button or hold down one of the 1-9 buttons until the white LED lights.
The white LED goes out after 5 seconds, returning the Remote Control to normal operation. Pressing a number button while the white LED is lit keeps the white LED on for another 5 seconds. White LED () The white LED lights to indicate that the numeric keypad and some alternative functions are active. Keypad button () The Keypad button toggles the Remote Control in and out of keypad mode. Up/Down buttons Vol/Bal button () Use the Up/Down buttons to alter the Volume setting of a dCS DAC. () Pressing the Vol/Bal button puts a dCS DAC in Balance mode use the Up/Down buttons to adjust the Balance. Balance mode times out after 5 seconds if no adjustment is made. These buttons do not affect Verdi. Mute button () Press the Mute button to mute or un-mute a dCS DAC. This button does not affect Verdi. Display button () Press the Display button to cycle through the display options: disc title (discs with disc text only), artists name (discs with disc text only), track number and elapsed time.
The display mode indicators show what is being displayed.

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Page 39
VERDI TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Mechanism Dual laser, 2 channel, SACD/CD compatible Vibration absorbing elastomer suspension Drawer type loader Digital Interface Specifications IEEE 1394 Type Data format Connectors I/O 200Mbit dCS Encrypted DSD 6-way x 2
Table 1 IEEE 1394 Interface Electrical Characteristics
AES/EBU (AES3) Type Impedance Level (unloaded) Connector Connections

Pin 1 Pin 2 Pin 3

Output Balanced, differential XLR3 male Ground or shield +Signal -Signal

V pk-pk

Table 2 AES/EBU Interface Electrical Characteristics
SPDIF (electrical) Type Impedance Level (unloaded) Connector
Output Single ended, ground referred 75 1.0 RCA Phono or BNC

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Page 43
GENERAL TECHNICAL INFORMATION

IEEE 1394 Overview

The IEEE 1394 interface is a high speed multi-channel system. It has the capacity to carry over 50 channels of DSD (Direct Stream Digital) or over 30 channels of 24 bit / 192kS/s audio data through a single cable. From October 2001 onwards, a pair of 6-way electrical IEEE 1394 interfaces running at 200Mbit/s are available on the following dCS products: dCS Elgar Plus DAC, standard fit with software version 4.10 or later. dCS Delius DAC, optional fit with software version 2.10 or later. dCS Purcell Upsampler, optional fit with software version 2.11 or later. dCS Verdi SACD/CD Transport, standard fit. dCS Verdi La Scala Upsampling SACD/CD Transport, standard fit.
In the current implementation, Purcell can upsample standard digital formats (such as CD at 44.1kS/s 16 bits) to DSD at 2.822MS/s and output a stereo pair of DSD data onto its 1394 interface. Verdi can read DSD data from an SACD and output a stereo pair of DSD data onto its 1394 interface. The data is encrypted to conform to the conditions of the DSD licensing arrangements. Either Elgar Plus or Delius will accept DSD data from the 1394 interface and convert it to high quality analogue. The hardware interface is very flexible and software configurable. We will add other features and data formats at a later date, adopting industry standard formats as they stabilise.
Synchronising IEEE 1394 interfaces The IEEE 1394 system is great for carrying large amounts or digital audio data but is inherently very jittery. To ensure low-jitter conversion to analogue, each unit linked by the 1394 system must be synchronised to the others by another connection. A DAC in slave mode should be synced to Verdi by connecting Verdis WClk Out to the DACs WClk In. A DAC in master mode should sync Verdi by connecting the DACs WClk Out to Verdis WClk In. An Upsampler should be slaved to Verdi, usually by the selected PCM input (AES or RCA).
Automatic Input Selection From October 2002 onwards, the software on the following products has been enhanced to automatically select the interface carrying data from Verdi: dCS Elgar Plus DAC, standard fit with software version 4.20 or later. dCS Delius DAC, optional fit with software version 2.20 or later. dCS Verdi SACD/CD Transport, standard fit with software version 1.20 or later. dCS Verdi La Scala Upsampling SACD/CD Transport, standard fit, with the Easy Play menu set to Verdi.
The system relies on a 1394 link between Verdi and the DAC. The DAC will automatically change inputs whenever Verdi changes layer or starts playing.

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If the Verdi starts playing an SACD, the DAC selects that 1394 channel. If the Verdi starts playing a CD and: there is a second source on the 1394 bus (such as a Purcell), the DAC will select the other source. there are more than two other sources on the 1394 bus (such as a Purcell or another Verdi), the DAC will select one of the other sources. You may have to manually select the source you want. Verdi is the only source on the 1394 bus, the DAC will scan the PCM inputs and select the first active one it finds. The priority order is: AES1 (and Dual AES) first, AES2, RCA1, RCA2, TOS, ST, BNC. If the active input is not derived from Verdi, you may have to manually select the source you want. If none of the PCM inputs are active, the DAC will remain selected to the original 1394 channel.

The Power Off code was 63 decimal in Verdi v1.20 1.25. Some Pronto units were found to send code 20-63 for no apparent reason, so we changed the code to 55 decimal.

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Page 49
USING YOUR dCS VERDI FOR THE FIRST TIME
Thank you for purchasing this dCS Verdi. Before attempting to use your Verdi, please read at least the rest of this section and the Step-by-Step Guide on page 10. This will enable you to set the unit up quickly with your hi-fi system.

Whats in the Box?

The box should contain the following: dCS Verdi User Manual Control Summary Power Cable Spare Fuses (2) Remote Control unit Remote Control guide 3 x AAA batteries 1 pt Pozidriv screwdriver (for fitting the Remote Control unit batteries) IEEE 1394 cable assembly BNC cable 2.5mm hex key (for removing the transit screws) Top glass plate 4 x bolts and plastic washers (for fitting the top glass plate) 4mm hex key (for fitting the top glass plate) To reduce the risk of transit damage, the mechanism is clamped with 4 transit screws before shipping. These MUST be removed before use. See page 55 or the Read This Before Using Your dCS Verdi! sheet for details. Also, the top glass plate should be fitted before use. (Your dealer may have done this for you.) For safety reasons, the Remote Control is shipped with the batteries packed separately. For fitting details, see page 57. Check the contents of the inner carton very carefully against the list above. Notify your dealer as soon as possible if anything is missing or damaged. dCS suggest that all of the original packaging is retained for use when transporting any units. Replacement packaging can be ordered from dCS or our distributors.

Safety Notice

Verdi contains no user serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open the case as there are potentially dangerous voltages present inside. In the event of the unit developing a fault, please consult your dealer.
This equipment MUST be connected to a safety earth (or ground) via the power cable.

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Mains Voltage Setting
Before connecting the power cable to your Verdi for the first time, please check that it has been set to the correct operating voltage for your local mains supply. 50Hz or 60Hz operation is not important the unit can use either. The unit's present voltage setting is shown on the label beneath the mains inlet on the rear panel. If this does not match your local supply voltage, DO NOT attempt to use the unit. Contact your dealer to arrange to have the unit reset. Using the Verdi with the wrong mains setting for your local supply may result in serious damage to the unit and will invalidate the warranty. DO NOT attempt to reset the unit yourself.
Please use a sensible power cable, such as the one supplied with the unit. Some audiophile power cables presently available are excessively heavy, their weight can damage the power inlet connector. Such damage is not covered by the warranty.

Positioning the Unit

Place Verdi on a firm, vibration free base so as to allow convenient connection to the other parts of your other system. We suggest that you avoid siting Verdi either directly above or below preamplifiers or tuners, if either of these will be used in your system at the same time as Verdi.

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OPTIONS
The following options may be fitted to new units or retrofitted at a later date. Option code V5 V4 V3 V2 V1 Option Mains voltage set to 230/240V Mains voltage set to 215/220V Mains voltage set to 200V Mains voltage set to 115/120V Mains voltage set to 100V Table 8 Options available

Mains Supply Voltage

Any unit may be set for operation from 230/240V, 215/220V, 200V, 115/120V or 100V A.C. Units are shipped set for the mains supply voltage according to the destination. The voltage setting can be updated later by your dealer, if necessary. Specify the new country of use or the new voltage setting.
Having Your Options Changed
dCS support modifications, updates and option changes to supplied units. Major changes are normally carried out at dCS, as we have extensive test facilities and can verify the changes. Please contact your dealer for details.
Please do not attempt the changes yourself. The units performance or reliability may be impaired and the warranty will be invalidated.

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Page 53

MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT

Service & Maintenance
dCS audio products are designed not to need regular maintenance, and contain no user serviceable parts apart from the mains fuse. Obtaining Service If you experience problems with your Verdi, you should check the Troubleshooting section on page 60. You may be able to resolve the situation yourself (for example, by changing a menu setting). If this does not resolve the problem, contact your authorised dCS dealer for advice, quoting the model, the full serial number (see Serial on page 25), the software version number (see Issue on page 25) and giving a detailed description of the fault. If further action is necessary, your dealer will advise you fully.

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

Figure 12 Securing the Top Glass Plate do this: Locate the top-hat washers into the holes and at first tighten up the screws FINGER TIGHT ONLY. Use the 4mm hex key provided to tighten up the screws at most ONE QUARTER OF A TURN ONLY. DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN THE SCREWS this can compress the rubber mat and spoil its sound dampening performance.

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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 2 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.
Fitting new batteries and closing the case do this: To fit a new battery, press the - end (the flat end) against one of the spring contacts in the battery holder then press the battery into its slot. Battery polarity is indicated on the battery holder and on the diagram below. Always fit a complete set of 3 new batteries.
Figure 14 Changing the Remote Control unit batteries
Please ensure the batteries are fitted the right way around failure to do so may damage the Remote Control and invalidate the warranty. Damage caused by leaking batteries is not covered by the warranty. To re-assemble the case, fit the battery cover, ensuring the side with the recessed holes is outward. Replace the 2 screws, taking care not to overtighten them. The Remote Control is ready for use.

AAA 1.5V AAA 1.5V

AAA 1.5V

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Updating your Verdi
dCS products make extensive use of software configurable chips FPGAs and DSPs. This gives us the ability to update our products to add extra features, update digital interface standards or make performance improvements by loading new software. Occasionally, a hardware update may be necessary also to increase the capacity of the electronics, add extra connectors or extra front panel controls. Software Updates x
Please note that not all software updates make an earth-shattering change. You should have a clear idea of what you expect to gain before updating to the latest issue. If the software loaded in your unit is (for example) version 3.45: A change to version 3.46 indicates a minor update for internal dCS use to make testing easier, or more thorough, or to cater for some minor hardware change. Do not update your unit. A change to version 3.50 is a more serious update, offering extra functionality. If you want to use the extra features, update your unit. The manual will be updated for this (check the web-site). A change to version 4.00 is a major update. It will require updated hardware and the manual will be updated

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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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The DAC remains muted If the DAC is displaying the Volume setting, change the Disp menu page setting to Disp:Fs and check for error messages. If all else is in order, switch off the Transport, the Upsampler and the DAC then switch them on again. If this situation keeps recurring, please consult your dealer. The DAC takes a long time to unmute The 1394 interface can take around 30 seconds to settle and unmute. Try setting the DAC to 1394 mode before setting the Upsampler to DSD mode. If your system is in standby mode or switched off, try turning the DAC on before the Upsampler or Transport.
If this information does not resolve the problem, please contact your dealer for advice.

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IF YOU NEED MORE HELP
In the first instance, you should contact your dealer. If they cannot resolve the issue, contact dCS. Our office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday, UK time (GMT in Winter or GMT + 1hr in Summer). Contact us by phone or fax on: Inside the UK Outside the UK ++531 681

Telephone Fax

Table 9 dCS Contact Information You can write to us at: dCS Ltd Mull House Great Chesterford Court Great Chesterford Saffron Walden CB10 1PF UK
Our email address: Our web-site is:

more@dcsltd.co.uk

www.dcsltd.co.uk
The web-site is regularly updated. You will find full details of all dCS products here, plus the latest dCS news.

Other Information

dCS produce technical notes from time to time, on issues related to ADCs, DACs and DDCs. If you are interested in these, please check our web-site.

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INDEXES AND SOFTWARE VERSION NUMBERS

Software History

This manual is for Verdi software version 1.2x. Version 1.2x differs from 1.1x versions as follows: Verdi sends status messages over the 1394 interface to a Delius (v2.2x) or Elgar Plus (v4.2x) to automatically switch between SACD and CD modes. This also allows the DAC to report any cabling faults. While playing an SACD, the data is also converted to 24 bit 44.1kS/s PCM which appears on all the PCM outputs. 1394 ID menu added to identify multiple 1394 sources. FavLayer and SessTimer menus added to improve playing of hybrid discs. 1394 operation generally improved, system messages changed. Version 1.1x differs from 1.0x versions in having an SACD/CD menu page and closing the CD tray before entering standby mode or powering down.
Definitions and Abbreviations
ADC AES3 Analogue to Digital Converter, sometimes referred to as an A/D Converter. A standard professional stereo digital audio format consisting of one serial PCM data line. It uses a balanced cable to extend transmission distance and includes a comprehensive messaging system. Digital to Analogue Converter, sometimes referred to as a D/A Converter. A relative signal level or ratio in decibels. The context may indicate the reference level. Level in decibels, referred to a full scale sine wave in a sampled system. So, 0dB0 is full scale. A signal level relative to 0.775V rms, making no allowance for external loading. Digital to Digital Converter, sometimes referred to as a D/D Converter. Direct Stream Digital - a single bit digital audio format, sampled at 2.822MS/s. Sample rate in kilo-samples per second. This replaces kHz, which is technically incorrect when referring to sample rates. Sony Digital InterFace a stereo digital audio format consisting of 2 serial PCM or DSD data lines. Usually used with a Word Clock. Sony / Philips Digital InterFace a stereo digital audio format for consumer equipment, consisting of one serial PCM data line. Similar to AES3, but unbalanced and with different messaging. A synchronisation signal consisting of a squarewave, the frequency of which is the sample rate. Usually transmitted through co-axial cable and BNC connectors.

cables.. 10, 33, 34, 61 cannot lock to 1394.. 61 cannot lock to BNC.. 61 cannot lock to SDIF-2.. 61 cannot record from SPDIF output.. 33 Caution message.. 25 CD data, upsampling.. 17, 18 CD indicator.. 31 CD tray... 32 CD Update is interrupted.. 28 CD Update menu.. 26 CD, upsampling... 3 CD-R not finalised... 62 CD-R problems.. 62 Ch.Check menu.. 23 changing options.. 52 channel check fails.. 61 channel check routine.. 23 cleaning the case.. 59 Clear button, remote.. 37 clock accuracy... 41 clock cleaning.. 41 clocking.. 41 closing the Menu.. 21 connecting the outputs.. 11 connector, Power Link.. 34 CONT indicator.. 32 contact information.. 25, 65 Contact menu.. 25 contents of box... 50 crystal oscillator.. 41 D DAC... 66 DAC mutes.. 61 DAC remains muted, 1394 input. 64 DAC takes time to unmute, 1394 input. 64 dB... 66 dBu... 66 DDC.. 66 definitions.. 66 digital interface specifications.. 40 DISC indicator.. 31 display blanking.. 23 display brightness... 23 Display button, remote.. 38 Display Mode indicator.. 31 display test routine.. 25 display, main.. 31 do not swap SDIF-2 cables.. 34 down-sampling.. 33, 34 DSD.. 34, 41, 44, 66 DSD output, connecting.. 11 DSP-Err1 message.. 60 DSPs Not Loaded message.. 60

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dCS Verdi User Manual dCS Ltd E earthing...50 extended warranty certificate..50 F factory default settings..28 Factory menu..28 Fast Forward button..32 Fast Reverse button..32 fault indication..60 FavLayer menu...26 FavLayer setting, overriding.26 favourite layer on hybrid disc..26 Filter buttons, remote..38 first-time use..50 fitting the glass plate..55 Found Track message..27 FPGAs Not Loaded message.60 front panel..30 full scale..66 fuse, mains..54 fuse, replacing..54 fuse, spare...50 G Giuseppe Verdi, biography..4 glass plate, fitting..55 grounding..50 guide to basic setup..10 H hardware updates..58 HYBD indicator...31 hybrid disc, favourite layer..26 hybrid disc, select layer..22 I IEEE 1394 interface..34, 44 Inactive message..63 indicator, 1394...32, 34 indicator, A-B..32 indicator, ART..31 indicator, CD..31 indicator, CONT..32 indicator, DISC..31 indicator, Display Mode..31 indicator, HYBD..31 indicator, PROG..32 indicator, PWR..31 indicator, RAND..32 indicator, REPT..32 indicator, RPT1...32 indicator, SACD..31 indicator, status..31 indicator, TEXT...31 indicator, TRK..31 indicator, WCLK..32, 34 Input buttons, remote..38