CONSUMMATE PHONO STAGE

OWNERS MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Features Unpacking Instructions Installation Operating Instructions Adjustable Gain Technical Specifications
Introduction Congratulations on your purchase of the Jeff Rowland Design Group Consummate Phono Stage. Please take a few moments to read this owners manual. (Contrary to popular belief, there is actually quite a bit of useful information in an owners manual!) The Consummate Phono Stage offers a high degree of flexibility, such that maximum performance with a wide range of phono cartridges can be obtained. The Consummate Phono Stage is the first phono preamplifier from Jeff Rowland Design Group to offer fully balanced (differential mode) operation directly from all types of moving magnet and moving coil cartridges. There are many sonic and performance advantages with differential operation, especially at the extremely low signal levels generated by phono transducers. With the Consummate Phono Stage, these delicate signals are no longer compromised by externally-produced electromagnetic fields or noisy system grounds. Fully differential operation is maintained throughout all signal
amplification stages. All RIAA equalization is also accomplished differentially. Collectively, these features result in very low noise, distortion and equalization errors. Regardless of which input (differential or single-ended) you choose, differential amplification and equalization are maintained throughout. And even if you are using the single-ended inputs, we advise that you use the differential outputs of your Phono Stage for better sonic performance.
Features Two phono input configurations: one standard, single-ended (RCA- type connector) and one fully balanced (XLR-type connector) Balanced (differential) outputs, with both RCA and XLR-type connectors provided User-adjustable, variable cartridge loading via external "calibrated indicator dial" or internal discrete resistor plug-in sockets User-adjustable output impedance Ten discrete, low impedance power supply regulators provide extremely high noise rejection and isolation Discrete, FET, high-current amplifier stages All critical circuitry is encapsulated in a thermally-conductive epoxy to ensure excellent thermal stability, mechanical integrity and to facilitate ease of service Mil-spec circuit board material, with oxygen-free copper traces and high-temperature mask provides superior electrical characteristics.
Unpacking Instructions In the shipping box you will find: DC power supply cable Two XLR-type male connectors 10-100 ohm loading resistor pack warranty card (This form must be completed and returned to JEFF ROWLAND DESIGN GROUP [or its authorized distributor if outside the U.S.A.] within 14 days
of purchase. Not only will your Phono Stage be registered, but you will, in the future, be informed of new products and services.) We strongly suggest that you save all packing materials The Consummate Phono Stage can be lifted out of its box while still wrapped in the plastic bag and foam pieces, which can then be removed.
Installation The Consummate Phono Stage is designed to be used only with the Power Supply of the Consummate Preamplifier. The Consummate Power Supply provides the correct DC voltages and voltage regulation necessary for proper operation. The use of other power supplies or sources may cause serious damage to your Phono Stage and will also void its warranty. The supplied DC power supply cable attaches to the rear of your Consummate Power Supply. Please make sure that the AC cord to the Power Supply is disconnected from the wall socket before you attach this Phono Stage DC power supply cable. Double check to make sure that the Power Supply AC switch on its back panel is in the "off" position before re-connecting the AC cord to the Power Supply. Otherwise, damage to your Phono Stage can occur. Locate the Phono Stage as close as possible to its final installation point. Allow access to the back panel for making connections. You can stack the components of the Consummate system; the suggested arrangement is to have the Consummate Power Supply on the bottom, the Preamplifier in the middle and the Phono Stage on top. You can also position the Phono Stage close to your turntable. Due to extensive local power supply regulation within the Phono Stage, as well as its high-current, impedancematched, differential mode output capability, it can be located up to 20 meters away from the Preamplifier and Power Supply with no performance degradation. If you have a situation like this and need a custom length DC power supply cable, please contact your Jeff Rowland Design Group dealer.

Operating Instructions Single-Ended Input Connections: The Consummate Phono Stage can be operated in a conventional, single- ended input mode. Located on the rear panel are 3 input jacks per channel in the Phono Input group. Note also that a small toggle switch marked Input Select is located between the RCA and XLR input jacks. For single- ended operation, simply plug your turntable interconnects into the Normal RCA jacks and set the Input Select switches to Normal. If your turntable is equipped with a separate ground wire, connect it under the Ground thumbscrew. Balanced Input Connections: The Consummate Phono Stage can also be operated in a balanced (differential mode) input configuration. Two different input connector options are provided: XLR inputs in which each channel connector carries the normal and inverting (positive and negative) input signals; or separate RCA connectors by which the normal and inverting signals are carried (via the center pin of each connector). In either case, a signal common (ground) is not used (pin 1 in each XLR connector or the shell of each RCA connector). When using either XLR or RCA balanced inputs, set the Input Select switches to Balanced.
NOTE: For balanced operation, it is necessary that the tonearm/turntable wiring maintain total electrical isolation between right and left channel coils of the phono cartridge, as well as the tonearm/turntable ground returns. Most configurations are wired as such, but some systems join the right and left channel commons together to make a "three wire" system (right hot, left hot, common ground). Other systems combine the tonearm or turntable ground return with one channel of the signal ground. This system can be identified by the lack of a separate system ground wire(s) separate from the signal interconnects. Although the Consummate will operate with these systems, balanced operation and its benefits cannot be achieved, since balanced operation should not have a common ground to which the signal is referenced. Any magnetic cartridge is inherently a balanced device and electrically acts as an isolated coil, much like a transformer winding. Being an independent, two terminal device, a differential signal is present and, as such, can be amplified differentially. By eliminating a ground reference, a reduction of ground-induced hum, noise and distortion can be achieved. Turntable/Preamp Interconnections: For balanced input operation, the only electrical requirement for the turntable/preamp interconnection is a single "twisted pair" length of small gauge wires. (NOTE: At the time of this writing, balanced phono interconnects are not commercially available. The

information given here can be used for the custom assembly of phono interconnects by a professional technician, or to order these interconnects through a cable company.) The simplest form would be an extension of the existing tonearm wires. For each channel, we recommend that these wires be 28 AWG or smaller diameter; use either solid core high purity copper, stranded or solid core pure silver, twisted together tightly and evenly. An electromagnetic shield surrounding the twisted pair is not required, due to the high common-mode rejection ratio of the phono stage. However, one or two layers of heat shrink tubing can add mechanical durability and rigidity. We have included a set of XLR male plugs for the assembly of the turntable/preamp interconnects. Two standard turntable/tonearm interconnect interfaces exist on most high quality phono playback systems. One is a standard 5 pin DIN plug/RCA interconnect in which the DIN plug inserts into the base of the tonearm. In the other system type, the small-diameter tonearm wires are terminated into a "junction box," usually integrating a pair of RCA jacks. This latter system offers the user a choice of RCA to RCA interconnects to be used. If the DIN plug system is used, then we recommend that the appropriate DIN connector be obtained. The twisted pair combination (described above) should be soldered on to the appropriate DIN plug pins; the other end of the twisted pair should be soldered on to pins 2 and 3 of the XLR male plugs.
If the RCA connector (junction box) system is used, then one end of the twisted pair combination would be soldered to the RCA male plugs; the other end would be soldered on to pins 2 and 3 of the XLR male plugs. In either case, the proper wiring convention and electrical continuity would be as follows: Cartridge/Tonearm Wire Color: Consummate Phono Stage Input Connector: Balanced XLR RCA (pin 1 not used) shells (grounds) not used R channel-pin 3 R channel-pin 2 L channel-pin 3 L channel-- in 2 Normal Invert Normal Invert
Red--(R+)--RCA tip Green-(R-)-- RCA shell White--(L+) -- RCA tip Blue-- L- --RCA shell
There are usually one or more ground wires for either the tonearm and/or the turntable assembly. Some tonearms with the DIN plug configuration use one of the five pins for this function. In all cases, all ground returns should be isolated from any signal paths and should run on separate wires directly to the Ground thumbscrew on the Phono Stage rear panel.
Phono Cartridge Loading: Phono cartridge loading can be accomplished externally via calibrated loading dials, labeled Variable Loading Adjust (Ohms), if the Load Select switch is set to Variable. The 3 digit value shown in the window of each dial indicates the loading value in ohms. This value is accurate 5% over a range of 80 ohms to 1000 ohms. By using the loading dials during record play, you can quickly find the optimum loading value empirically. Once this value is found, or if you know your cartridge needs to be loaded at a value other than one in the given range, a fixed resistor should be installed internally. To install loading resistors, you will need to remove the 7 top cover retaining screws and take off the lid of the Phono Stage. The two (one per channel)14 pin dual in-line sockets, located near the back panel, can then be accessed. Resistors with leads cut approximately 6mm (0.25 inches) from the resistor bodies, and bent at right angles to the bodies, can be inserted into any of the seven socket pins. The value of the installed resistor will then load the cartridge if the Load Select switch is set in the Fixed position. We recommend only high-quality, 1%, metal film, 100 PPM or less temperature coefficient, non-magnetic leaded resistors for loading resistors. Jeff Rowland Design Group has provided a selection of resistors with values of 10 to 100 ohms. If 47 k ohm loading is needed, then no resistor should be installed and the Load Select switch should be set in the Fixed position. Each of the options just described provide proper loading for both normal (single-ended) and balanced (differential) input configurations. Line Output Connections: Both XLR male Balanced output connectors and RCA Inverting and Normal connectors are provided on the Consummate Phono Stage, permitting the use of a wide variety of interconnect schemes. Both phases of output signals, normal and inverting, are are always present on all output connectors, regardless of what configuration you utilize. We recommend that the Balanced connections be utilized not just from your Phono Stage to your Preamplifier, but throughout your audio system. If you desire to run the output of your Phono Stage to a line preamplifier/control center other than your Consummate Preamplifier, you will need to check and see if it has fully balanced inputs. If in the likelihood that it does not, you will need to use the Normal RCA outputs. (NOTE: Some audio companies use different standards for XLR pin connections. All Jeff Rowland Design Group equipment adheres to the pin 3-hot standard. Other companies products may have pin 2 as hot. Pin 1 is always ground/common in all XLR connectors. If you use a mix of Jeff Rowland Design Group products and others, and there is a difference in the pin standards, then a phase reversal needs to take place in your system in order to maintain correct absolute phase. All of our preamplifiers perform absolute

phase reversal via a front panel function switch.) Output Impedance Selection: You can choose between two different values of output impedance on your Consummate Phono Stage: 150 ohms and 300 ohms. The output impedance can be adjusted via two sets of D.I.P. switches, located inside of the Phono Stage near the output connectors. The standard setting from the factory is 300 ohms, which corresponds to switches 1 and 3 in the "ON" position (switches 2 and 4 "OFF") on both sets of D.I.P. switches. If the output impedance of the Phono Stage is set for 300 ohms and the input impedance of your Consummate (or other line) preamplifier is also set for 300 ohms, then the interface between the two components will be optimized or "impedance matched." This condition will yield the most accurate performance by reducing degradations caused by interconnect cables, regardless of their length. The advantages of impedance matching occur in both balanced and single-ended applications, although the balanced configuration will yield the greatest sonic and performance benefits. If the input of the line preamplifier is other than 300 ohms or is not known, then the 150 ohm output impedance should be selected. The D.I.P. switch settings would be 2 and 4 in the "ON" position and 1 and 3 "OFF."
Adjustable Gain The overall gain structure of your Consummate Phono Stage can be adjusted to one of two different values, either 47.5 dB or 62.5 dB. It can thus be used with a wide variety of moving magnet and both high and low- output moving coil cartridges. The Phono Stage comes set from the factory in the high gain (62.5 dB setting) for use with most low-output moving coil cartridges. The gain switches are located on the underside of the plug-in modules and should only be adjusted by your Jeff Rowland Design Group dealer. Incorrect installation of these modules will result in damage to the preamplifier circuitry which cannot be covered under warranty.

Technical Specifications

CONSUMMATE PHONO STAGE Gain IHF Input Sensitivity For 500 MV Output Main Outputs (Per Channel) Input Impedance Selectable 47.5 or 62.5 dB 0.5 MV (high gain setting) 1 Inverting, 1 Non-inverting, 1 XLR balanced Adjustable: 80 to 1000 ohms via calibrated dials; 0-47 k ohms via user-installed fixed resistors 20 Hz to 50 kHz, 0.10 dB 5.0 Hz to 220 kHz, -3 dB

RIAA Accuracy Frequency Response IHF Signal to Noise (S/N) Ratio, 80 dB (high gain setting) A Wtd., Ref. 500 MV THD Distortion, Ref. 2.5 V RMS <0.02% Max Output Level 10 V RMS Unbalanced 150 or 300 ohms Output Impedance Selectable Balanced 300 or 600 ohms Dimensions (LxWxH) 13.75 x 15 x 2.65 /35 x 38 x 6.7 inches/centimeters Weight 10 lbs., 4.5 kg

CONSUMMATE PREAMPLIFIER OWNER'S MANUAL Version II
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Initial Inspection Features Installation Impedance Adjustments Preamplifier Internal View Impedance Adjustment Diagram Overall Gain Adjustments Gain Adjustment Diagram Control Instructions Remote Operation Technical Specifications

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of what is unquestionably one of the finest analog preamplifiers available today. With its combination of features such as full-function remote control, fully balanced operation and state-of-the-art circuitry, your Consummate Preamplifier will give you many years of trouble free, top-quality performance and enjoyment.
Please take a few moments to read this owner's manual. The Consummate offers a large number of interconnect and user-operational possibilities. A thorough understanding of these features will allow you to gain the maximum performance for which this preamplifier was designed. The Consummate Preamplifier and the Consummate Preamplifier power supply each has its own serial number. The preamplifier's serial number begins with the letter P, and the power supply's serial number begins with the letter S. These numbers are located on the left side of each back panel. All correspondence with your dealer or Jeff Rowland Design Group concerning this preamplifier should include the complete serial numbers. For any additional information or assistance, contact your dealer or the Jeff Rowland Design Group factory.
Initial Inspection Inspect the shipping container for damage. If the shipping container or packing material is damaged, it should be kept until the contents of the container have been checked for completeness and the preamplifier has been inspected both mechanically and electrically. This preamplifier was fully tested and carefully inspected before shipment. It should be free of any exterior defects and in perfect operational order upon receipt. If there is any damage or defect or if the preamplifier does not operate correctly, notify your dealer immediately. If the shipping container is damaged or the packing material shows signs of stress, notify the shipper and Jeff Rowland Design Group. Keep the shipping material for the shipper's inspection. In the shipping box you will find: AC power cord replacement fuses infrared remote control transmitter infrared remote control receiver and interconnect cable warranty card
(This form must be completed and returned to JEFF ROWLAND DESIGN GROUP [or its authorized distributor if outside the U.S.A.] within 14 days of purchase. Not only will your preamplifier be registered, but you will, in the future, be notified of possible design updates, improvements and new products.) We strongly suggest that you save all packing materials
Features Six line inputs, three of which are balanced (both RCA and XLR connectors are provided) Balanced outputs, in both RCA and XLR connector configurations Differential Mode(tm) technology maintained throughout all circuitry, from input to output Separate regulated power supply with dual toroidal transformers Microprocessor-controlled volume and switching A digitally-controlled resistor matrix volume control provides 200 precise individual steps User-stored level settings for all six inputs allow immediate recall of a "normal" level for each source Dual-rate attenuator adjustment controls provide efficient volume control adjustments Fluorescent front panel display indicates operational status of the preamplifier under all ambient lighting conditions User controlled display shut-off infrared remote control of all preamplifier operational functions Separate remote receiver permits remote operation of preamplifier from a distant location Image shift control (instead of channel balance trim) maintains overall volume level while shifting stereo image left or right Mono and left or right channel cut functions Main outputs are muted temporarily during initial A/C power up, power drop or power interruption All signal amplification utilizes high-current, Class A solid state technology All inputs and outputs are direct-coupled, thus eliminating the effects of capacitors in the signal path. Independent power supply regulators are located at each stage of each amplifier channel Mil-spec circuit board material, with oxygen-free copper traces and high- temperature mask, provides superior electrical characteristics and long term protection against adverse climatic conditions All signal switching is accomplished with hermetically sealed, gold-clad silver contact signal relays All critical circuitry is encapsulated in a thermally-conductive epoxy to ensure excellent

thermal stability, mechanical integrity and ease of service Ability to drive any length of interconnect cable into a balanced 600 ohm load Adjustable input and output impedance minimizes source, load and cable interactions in any application

Installation

Place the preamplifier as close as possible to its final installation point. If possible, allow easy access to the back panel for making signal and power connections. The preamplifier may be placed above, beside or below its companion power supply with no interference from stray electromagnetic fields. The Consummate power supply has two completely separate yet identical internal power supplies. The output of each respective power supply is designated as Power Supply A or Power Supply B, and is available via two output connectors per power supply. The Consummate Preamplifier can be connected via the D/C power cable to any one of these four outputs. Longer custom-made D/C power cables can be ordered from the factory for special applications. If an additional unit such as the Consummate Phono Stage is used, then the other power supply can be utilized. For example, the Consummate Preamplifier can be powered from Power Supply A and the Consummate Phono Stage can be powered from Power Supply B. This permits totally independent and isolated operation of each unit with respect to the power supplies. Please make sure that the preamplifier D/C power cable is connected to the power supply before attaching the A/C line cord. Otherwise, the preamplifier may be damaged. The power supply is equipped with a power switch, located and identified on the rear panel. The power switch should be turned on initially after plugging in the A/C power cord. After turning on your preamplifier, there will be a two second delay and then the words "THE CONSUMMATE" will be displayed. This will remain for approximately ten seconds while the amplifier circuitry is stabilizing. The display will then switch to its normal status-indicator format. Your preamplifier is now fully stable and will accept commands. The rear panel power switch should be left on at all times, thereby maintaining stable operating parameters and improving performance, reliability and longevity. Power consumption in stand-by mode is less than 30 watts, providing low-cost operation. Your Consummate is equipped with an infrared remote control receiver box which can be attached to the back of the preamplifier via the provided 3 meter interconnect if remote operation is desired. The remote control receiver box may be placed anywhere within line of sight of the hand held remote transmitter. A longer remote receiver cable may be ordered on a custom basis from the factory for special applications. It is recommended that inputs 4, 5 and 6 be used for single ended or unbalanced inputs exclusively. If inputs 1, 2 and 3 are used for single ended or unbalanced operation, then XLR shorting plugs should be used in the respective balanced input connectors for optimal sonic performance. The XLR shorting plugs should electrically short circuit pin 1 and pin 2. This grounds the unused inverting input when used in a single ended configuration. Balanced Main output signals are always produced by the preamplifier circuitry and are available regardless of the input source signal configuration chosen (balanced or single ended).

Balanced Record Out signals (at the Record Out connector) are only available when balanced input signals are provided. A single ended input signal will only yield a single-ended Record Out signal. The Consummate Preamplifier can be adjusted to facilitate different input and output impedances and gain structures. These adjustments are located internally and require the removal of the top cover. They can be performed easily, provided the instructions located in this manual under the heading "Impedance Matching" and/or "Adjustable Gain" are followed precisely. If you are in any doubt as to the proper adjustments to be made, contact your dealer or the factory for assistance.

Impedance Adjustments

The Consummate Preamplifier permits you to optimize both the input and output impedance of all inputs and outputs. This will optimize interconnect performance by minimizing source and load interactions. The internal input impedance adjustment will set the input impedance for all inputs. Some sources cannot be loaded at the lowest input impedance option available on the preamplifier (300 ohm unbalanced/600 ohm balanced). In these cases, the next higher input impedance options should be selected (10K or 100K unbalanced/20K or 200K balanced). The Consummate Preamplifier is shipped from the factory at a 10k ohms unbalanced/20k ohms balanced input impedance and a 300 ohm unbalanced/600 ohm balanced output impedance. If you are unsure as to what input and output impedance settings to use, simply leave the switches in the positions set at the factory. If you desire to adjust the above mentioned impedances, the preamplifier's top cover must be removed. With a number 2 Phillip's screwdriver, remove the three flat head screws closest to the top on each side of the preamplifier. Also, remove the one screw located in the center back top of the top cover. The top cover can now be lifted directly up from the preamplifier. While facing the front of the preamplifier, locate two light blue switch housings near the upper left hand corner of the circuit board. These are the Input Impedance switches. Directly to the right, you will see a pair of the same type of switches. Please refer to the diagram on page 8. These are the Output Impedance switches. Gently slide each white switch to the desired location as outlined on page 9. The Consonance Preamplifier is equipped with two output impedance options. The 300 ohm unbalanced/600 ohm balanced output impedance should be selected when Jeff Rowland Design Group power amplifiers are used. It is recommended that these power amplifiers also be set for the low input impedance option (300 ohm unbalanced/600 ohm balanced) when used with this preamplifier. This configuration will create an ideal situation in terms of interconnect interface between the preamplifier and power amplifier. Power amplifiers from other manufacturers that have a similar input impedance configuration will also benefit from this impedance matching condition. The 150 ohm unbalanced/300 ohm balanced output impedance option can be selected when power amplifiers with higher input impedances (greater than 300 ohm unbalanced/600 ohm balanced) are used. This option is recommended for interconnection conditions other than those discussed in the paragraph above. All impedance switches may be adjusted during listening if desired.

Preamplifier Internal View
Impedance Adjustment Diagram

Overall Gain Adjustments

The overall gain structure of your Consummate Preamplifier can be configured to one of four different values: 6 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB or 20 dB. The Consummate can thus be used with a wide variety of analog and digital sources since many digital sources such as compact disc players and digital to analog converters have high output voltages relative to tuners, tape decks, etc. This feature also allows you to tailor the gain structure for use with power amplifiers of nonstandard gain parameters and/or loudspeakers with various efficiencies. The gain switches are located on the underside of the plug-in modules located within the preamplifier. The top cover should be removed according to the instructions outlined in the "Impedance Matching" section of this manual. Once the top cover is removed, the modules can be lifted directly upward from their sockets. Underneath each module is a switch similar to the switches used to set input and output impedance. Adjust these switches according to the module diagram shown on page 11. After the gain switches have been set to the desired positions, reinstall the modules, paying careful attention to the exact alignment of the pins and sockets. If you are in doubt as to the correct procedure outlined above, then contact your dealer or the factory for assistance. Incorrect installation of these modules may result in damage to the preamplifier circuitry which cannot be covered under warranty. The electrical and sonic performance of the preamplifier will not be compromised by any gain structure chosen, although the higher gain structures are preferred as they allow the input circuits to operate at lower levels.

Gain Adjustment Diagram

Control Instructions The Consummate Preamplifier utilizes a microprocessor to control all functions including volume level. All control commands can be initiated with both the front panel push button switches and the remote control keypad. The front panel push button switches utilize 18 push buttons to implement 21 commands. Certain selected functions are initiated by pressing two push buttons simultaneously. The hand-held remote transmitter implements these same selected functions, in addition to all other functions, with single keypad buttons. A fluorescent front panel display indicates the status of each function. Each available function is discussed in detail in this section. Command Types Toggle Commands Toggle functions have two states, active and inactive. Pressing the same push button or push button sequence will cause the state of the selected function to alternate. Toggle commands will have "(TOGGLE)" after the command heading. Continuous Commands These commands may be entered in one of two ways. The specified function may require a single push button press which causes a single step response. Or the same button may be held down (1) to allow the function to continue stepping until the button is released or (2) until the function's full range is reached. Continuous commands will have "(CONTINUOUS)" after the command heading. Single Commands Single commands have an effect only the first time they are entered (unless other commands have been entered since that time). Single commands will have "(SINGLE)" after the command heading. Functions INPUT/RECORD (TOGGLE) Pressing this push button will display a "<" or ">" symbol on the left end of the display. This symbol pointing to the left will indicate which input is routed to the preamplifier Main Outputs for listening. This symbol pointing to the right will indicate which input is routed to the preamplifier Record Outputs for recording. Note: If your system utilizes a signal processor or tape recorder, you should use input 6 on the rear panel as the processor or tape input (return). Selecting input 6 when the INPUT/RECORD button is in record will display a "0" in the front panel display. This prevents the possibility of causing a feedback situation when a signal processor or tape deck is connected. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6 (SINGLE) Pressing any of the numerical push buttons will route the selected input (indicated on the front panel display) to either the Main Outputs or Record Outputs depending upon the last command of the INPUT/RECORD button. Any input can be used simultaneously as an input and record source. STORE (SINGLE) Pressing this push button stores the existing volume level of the selected input within the internal preamplifier memory. Up to six independent levels, one for each input, may be stored. When activated, the word "Store" is shown on the display for two (2) seconds. Pressing this button also overrides any previously stored level for the selected input. RECALL (TOGGLE)

Pressing this push button will recall the stored volume level (referenced above) in each selected input. This function will indicate an "R" on the front panel display when activated. If this function is not activated, then the volume will be controlled by the VOLUME buttons. MUTE (TOGGLE) Pressing this push button removes the signal from the Main Outputs. The last selected volume levels displayed on the front panel will be bracketed by "< >". Note: When the volume levels of both channels are displayed as "00" the preamplifier Main Outputs are also muted. BALANCE (CONTINUOUS) Pressing the second or fourth push button in the right group of push buttons initiates a channel balance or stereo "image shift" function. Pressing the second push button will shift the stereo image to the left while pressing the fourth push button will shift the stereo image to the right. Continuous pressure on either button will gradually shift the stereo image until a maximum differential of 40 steps (approximately 8dB) has been achieved. Note that as the level of one channel is increased by one volume increment, the level of the other channel will also be decreased by the same amount, thereby maintaining the overall stereo volume level. Either right or left channels can be muted independent of one another by simultaneously pressing the second and third buttons or the third and fourth buttons respectively. When a particular channel is cut or muted, the respective volume level indicated on the front panel display will be replaced by "--". Repeating the same sequence will restore the channel to its original level. MONO (TOGGLE) Pressing this push button electrically sums the selected stereo input signal into a mono signal available at both Left and Right Main Outputs. This function is active when the character "M" is indicated on the front panel display. PHASE (TOGGLE) Pressing the PHASE push button reverses the absolute phase of the preamplifier Main Outputs relative to the preamplifier Line Inputs. VOLUME (CONTINUOUS) Pressing the seventh or ninth push button in the right group of push buttons initiates an incremental volume change of both right and left channels simultaneously. A total of 200 discrete volume levels are available. Pressing the seventh button will increment the volume level down in single steps while pressing the ninth button will increment the volume level up in single steps. Pressing both seventh and eighth buttons simultaneously will decrease the volume level 10 steps at a time. Similarly, pressing both the eighth and ninth buttons simultaneously will increase the volume level 10 steps at a time. Each increment of volume will be indicated by a specific number on the front panel display. Each increment corresponds to approximately 0.25 to 0.35 dB of volume change above an indicated value of 25. Below the indicated level of 25, the increment amount gradually increases to a maximum of 6dB. The total range of the volume control is 60dB. The sonic performance or channel tracking accuracy is not affected by any volume level selected from 1 to 200. DISPLAY OFF (TOGGLE) Simultaneously pressing the first and third push buttons in the right group of push buttons will shut off the front panel display with the exception of four small lighted dots which will appear in the center. Repeating the same sequence will restore the preamplifier operational status on the front panel display. Pressing any other push button when the display is shut off will temporarily restore

the display information, including the four small lighted dots, for five seconds. After five seconds, the display will return to the off condition. Remote Operation The Consummate Preamplifier can be operated from a remote location by connecting the remote receiver box to the back panel of the preamplifier via the supplied three meter remote cable. The remote cable can be plugged into either of the two outputs on the back of the remote receiver box. The spare output connector on the back of this box can be used to connect another cable to a different remote box in a separate remote location. You can "daisy-chain" any number of remote receivers at several locations. The front panel of the remote receiver box should be in "line-ofsight" of the hand-held remote transmitter signals. A small red lamp located behind the front panel will light during the presence of the infrared signal. Occasionally, certain ambient lighting conditions or signals from other hand held remotes will also light this lamp. Since the Consummate Preamplifier is only sensitive to the infrared code of the hand held transmitter, occasional lighting of this lamp under such circumstances will not normally interfere with the operation of the Consummate. If the infrared transmission of other hand held remotes does interfere with the operation of the Consummate, two other data rates of infrared transmission can be selected inside the preamplifier and hand-held remote transmitter. Please refer to the drawing on page 8 for location and position of the switch necessary to select a different data rate. The switch positions on the back side of the hand-held remote transmitter must match the switch positions inside the preamplifier. The hand-held remote transmitter has been designed for a higher infrared output than average transmitters. Under some conditions, direct "aiming" of the transmitter may not be necessary since the reflected infrared energy off of the boundaries of a room may be sufficient for proper remote operation. The remote transmitter can be turned off or disabled by moving both datarate switches down on the rear of the transmitter. Normal use of the transmitter should offer around two years of service on the factory-supplied batteries. If the batteries need to be replaced, remove the back panel of the transmitter by taking out the two lower screws on each side of the transmitter case. The transmitter uses four AAA alkaline dry cell batteries. Please pay careful attention to the proper polarity of these batteries during installation. All control commands can be initiated with a single keypad press on the hand-held transmitter for all 21 available functions. Each command identified on the hand-held remote is similar to the commands outlined in the Control Instructions section of this manual with the exception of the following: Balance commands are one button commands identified by the "L" and "R" on the transmitter. Pressing the "L" push button will shift the stereo image to the left while pressing the "R" push button will shift the stereo image to the right. Pressing either the "L Cut" or "R Cut" push buttons will mute either the left or right channel respectively. Volume Pressing the "Vol Down" or the "Vol Up" push buttons changes right and left channels either down or up respectively. Pressing the "Vol Dwn Fast" or the "Vol Up Fast" push buttons will change the volume level down or up by 10 steps at a time.

Display Pressing the "Display" button will shut off the front panel display with the exception of four small lighted dots which will appear in the center. Pressing the push button again will restore the preamplifier operational status on the front panel display. I, II, III These push buttons will have no effect upon the operational status of the preamplifier. These push buttons can be programmed for additional functions at a future date.

Technical specifications

Consummate Preamplifier
Overall Gain IHF Input Sensitivity For 500 mV Output Main Outputs (per channel) Input Impedance Selectable: Frequency Response: IHF Signal to Noise (S/N) Ratio, A Wtd., Ref. 500 MV THD Distortion, Ref. 2.5 V RMS Max Output Level Output Impedance Selectable: Dimensions (including power supply) Weight (including power supply) Selectable 6 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB or 20 dB Selectable 250mV, 125mV, 63mV or 50mV 1 RCA Inverting, 1 RCA Non-inverting, 1 XLR balanced Unbalanced Balanced 0.05 Hz to 200 kHz, -3 dB 88 dB <0.012% 8VRMS Unbalanced Balanced 150 ohms or 300 ohms 300 ohms or 600 ohms 300, 10 k or 100 k ohms 600, 20 k or 200 k ohms
15.0 in. W x 13.75 in. D x 5.50 in H (38cm W x35cm D x6.7cm H) 28 lbs., 12.8 kg