ATC CA2, SCA2, P1, P2, SIA2-150 User Manual
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User Manual: CA2 Preamplifier
SCA2 Preamplifier
P1 Power Amplifier
P2 Power Amplifier
SIA2-150 Integrated Amplifier
SPA2-150 Power Amplifier
Amplifiers
®
ACOUSTIC ENGINEERS
Safety Warnings
1. Read instructions – all the safety and operating instructions should
be read before the appliance is operated.
2. Retain these instructions – the safety and operating instructions
should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed warnings – all warnings on the appliance and in the operating
instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow instructions – all operating and other instructions should be
followed.
5. Water and moisture – the appliance should not be used near water,
for example near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in
a wet basement or near a swimming pool etc..
6. Ventilation – the appliance should be situated so that its location or
position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example,
the appliance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug or similar
surface that may block the ventilation openings. Similarly, the
appliance should not be built into an installation, such as a bookcase
or cabinet, that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation
openings.
7. Heat – the appliance should be situated away from heat sources such
as radiators, stoves or other appliances that produce heat.
8. Power sources – the appliance should be connected to a power
supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as
marked on the appliance.
9. Power cord protection – power supply cords should be routed so that
they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon
or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs,
convenience receptacles and the point where they exit the
appliance.
10. Cleaning – the appliance should be cleaned only as recommended
by the manufacturer.
11. Unattended periods – the power cord of the appliance should be
unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of
time.
12. Object and liquid entry – care should be taken so that objects and
liquids do not fall into the appliance.
13. Damage requiring service – the appliance should be serviced by
qualified service personnel when:
i. the power supply cord or the plug has been damaged
ii. objects have fallen or liquid has been spilled into the appliance
iii. the appliance has been exposed to rain or other serious liquid
exposure
iv. the appliance does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a
marked change in performance
v. the appliance has been dropped or the cabinet damaged
14. Servicing – the user should not attempt to service the appliance
beyond those measures described in the operating instructions. All
other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
15. Grounding or polarisation – precautions should be taken so that
grounding or polarisation means for the appliance are not defeated.
Electronics
Contents
Page 1 Introduction
Page 1 Generic Information
Section G1 Installation
Section G2 Mains Connection
Page 2 Section G3 Fuses
Section G4 ATC Remote Handset
Section G5 Care and Maintenance
Section G6 Warranty and Contact
Page 3 CA2 Preamplifier
Section 1.1 Description
Section 1.2 Inputs
Page 5 Section 1.3 Outputs
Section 1.4 Operation
Section 1.5 Specifications
Page 7 SCA2 Preamplifier
Section 2.1 Description
Section 2.2 Inputs
Page 9 Section 2.3 Outputs
Page 10 Section 2.4 Operation
Page 11 Section 2.5 Specifications
Page 12 P1 & P2 Power Amplifiers
Section 3.1 Description
Page 13 Section 3.2 Inputs
Section 3.3 Outputs
Section 3.4 Operation
Page 14 Section 3.5 Specification
Page 15 SIA2-150 Integrated Amplifier
Section 4.1 Description
Section 4.2 Inputs
Section 4.3 Outputs
Page 16 Section 4.4 Operation
Page 17 Section 3.5 Specification
Page 18 SPA2-150 Power Amplifier
Section 5.1 Description
Section 5.2 Inputs
Page 19 Section 5.3 Signal Cable Options
Section 5.4 Outputs
Section 5.5 Operation
Page 20 Section 5.6 Specifications
Electronics
Introduction Generic Information
Welcome. In selecting ATC you have chosen an example of the finest
audio engineering available. ATC was founded on a principle of
engineering excellence, and that principle still defines our products
today. Given the right opportunities, ATC products will deliver
exceptional audio performance, but the opportunities will only arise
from careful and thoughtful installation and use. Please read the
following manual fully. It will help you understand the product and to
realise its full potential. We are happy to answer questions and offer
advice on any issues that arise through installation or use of ATC
products. Contact details can be found at the back of this manual.
ATC was founded in London in 1974 by Australian emigre Bill Woodman, who still
heads the company today. An enthusiastic pianist and engineer he was naturally
drawn to loudspeaker design and after a period working at Goodmans, where many
of the names that went on to found British loudspeaker companies began their
careers, he struck out on his own. The premise on which ATC began is a simple one,
and one that in many respects is still true today: hi-fi loudspeakers tend to be detailed
and accurate but of limited dynamic range, while professional monitor speakers tend
to express the opposite character. ATC products were designed from the outset to
offer the best of both. It’s an easy concept to describe, but surprisingly difficult to
engineer.
The difficulty inherent in designing such loudspeakers is one of scale. Hi-fi levels of
accuracy and detail call for lightweight moving parts and delicate engineering.
Professional monitor levels of performance however demand far more robust
components engineered to survive the rigours of high level use for extended periods.
The only way to combine the two is through precision engineering of a class and
scale more often associated with aerospace or motor-sport. But the results are
worth the effort and the cost. ATC loudspeakers, with their unique in-house
designed drivers, combine the best of hi-fi and professional to devastating effect.
ATC has become synonymous with active systems. Choosing to offer active
loudspeakers (where the passive crossover network is replaced by active filters and
multiple power amplifiers) is simply a result of the uncompromising attitude to
loudspeaker design. While passive systems still have their place, and ATC engineering
skills can still bring remarkable results from them, “active” is a fundamentally better
solution to the problems posed by accurate, high level music reproduction. The ATC
instinct is always for the better solution. Not cheaper, not quicker, but better.
It was the development of active loudspeakers that first brought ATC into electronics
design and engineering. Active speakers demand multiple power amplifiers so ATC
from the mid 1980s became not just a loudspeaker manufacturing company but an
electronics manufacturer too. The further step from electronics for active speakers
to a range of stand-alone amplifier products was natural and now means that ATC
engineering is available from the recording desk or CD player output to the ears.
From modest beginnings ATC has grown to become one of the very few
manufacturers successful across both domestic and professional audio. By selecting
ATC you join a group of music lovers, professional audio engineers, studios and
musicians across the World that understand and value the engineering that goes into
an ATC product - and the sound that comes out.
The information in the following Sections
G1 to G5 is common to all ATC electronics
products. We recommend that you read
this page, and the safety warnings that
proceed it, before continuing to read the
pages dedicated to your specific ATC
products.
G1 Installation
ATC Equipment has been designed to be free
standing either within an equipment stand or
simply on a convenient item of furniture. There are
no special ventilation requirements (but please see
notes on Amplifiers below). It is recommended that
at least 100mm (4 inches) clearance be left behind
a unit for plugs and cables.
ATC Equipment has been designed to remain
powered-up in Standby mode unless it is to be
unused for a long period of time. Power dissipation
will make the unit warm to the touch in either
standby or operational mode. Temperature stability
will be reached after approximately three hours
from mains switch-on. Full Audio performance is
available immediately.
ATC Preamplifiers should be located as close to
the source components as practically possible to
minimise the cable length. The Outputs however
are capable of driving up to 50 metres of good
quality cable; therefore it is practical to locate the
Preamplifier a distance away from the monitor or
Power Amplifier (s).
ATC Power Amplifiers should ideally be located to
minimise the cable lengths from both the source
components and the Loudspeakers. Use of
loudspeaker cables in excess of 20 metres should
be avoided if possible to prevent a possible
degradation in sound quality. Care must be taken to
ensure that ventilation holes in the top and bottom
covers are not obscured. Please contact ATC if the
Amplifier is to be mounted in an enclosed area.
G2 Mains Connection
The CA2 and SCA2 Preamplifiers can be used with
mains voltages from 100V to 240V, 50/60Hz. Please
ensure that the local mains voltage matches that
uppermost on the rear panel voltage selector plate
before applying mains power to the unit. The mains
voltage selection can be adjusted by lifting the
selector plate marked with four legends (100, 120,
1
1
2
Electronics
220, 230) with a small screwdriver and re-inserting
the plate with the correct voltage uppermost.
The SIA2-150 and SPA2-150 Power Amplifiers can
be used with mains voltages from 100V to 240V,
50/60Hz.
The P1 Power Amplifier can be used with mains
voltages from 100V to 240V, 50/60Hz
Mains voltage is factory set and should only be
adjusted by ATC or your local dealer or distributor.
Please ensure that the local mains voltage matches
that specified on the rear panel before applying
power to the SIA2-150, SPA2-150 or P1
Amplifiers.
The mains cable has been specifically supplied to
comply with local statutory safety approvals and
alternatives should not be substituted. If you Intend
to use your unit in an alternative territory, please
contact ATC for advise.
ATC equipment MUST be earthed. Do not remove
the earth wire in the mains plug.
G3 Fuses
Mains power supply fuses are fitted within the CA2
and SCA2, but they are not intended to be user
replaceable.
The mains power supply fuse for the SIA2-150,
SPA2-150 and P1 Amplifiers is located on the rear
panel. Should the Amplifier fail to switch on when
the power switch is operated, the fuse should be
inspected. PLEASE ENSURE THAT THE UNIT IS
DISCONNECTED FROM THE MAINS SUPPLY
BEFORE INSPECTING OR REPLACING A FUSE.
Lift out the fuse holder cover using a small
screwdriver, remove the fuse and inspect it for
damage. Fuses most often fail due to a serious
electrical fault. Only replace fuses with the same
type as that suspected to be blown. All fuses are
20mm “Type T anti surge”. The fuse rating is printed
on the rear panel adjacent to the fuse. If a
replacement fuse also fails then the Amplifier
should be returned to ATC for service.
G4 ATC Remote Handsets
The SCA2 is supplied with an SCA R remote
handset. Provided that the SCA2 is connected to
the mains power and its rear panel power switch is
on, the SCA R provides for remote operation of all
the SCA2 functions. The SCA R also includes a
standard set of CD Player commands, which may be used to control any CD or
DVD/SACD Player that supports the standard RC5 control code set.
Use the handset On/Reset button to switch the SCA2 into active mode and the
Standby button to return the SCA2 to Standby mode. Monitor and Record selection
can be made by pressing the desired monitor or record button. The SCA2 front
panel source indicators will illuminate but the rotary controls will not rotate.
Volume is controlled through the handset Level + and – buttons. The SCA2 front
panel Level control will rotate in response to handset level commands. The handset
Attn button is equivalent to the front panel Gain function. The handset Mute function
operates in exactly the same way as the front panel control.
The red indicator on the handset will flash as functions are operated. Failure of this
indicator points to exhaustion of the handset battery. The battery should be replaced,
and the old battery disposed of, by your local dealer or distributor.
The CA2, SIA2-150 and P1 are supplied with the SCAR-B remote handset. This
provides for remote operation of all functions of the units, and includes a standard
set of CD Player commands that may be used to control any CD or DVD/SACD
player that supports the RC5 control set. Power is supplied by 4 X AAA batteries
(included).
ATC remote handsets may be used with the SPA2-150 to provide remote operation
of the standby function.
Reliable operation of the remote handsets require direct line of sight between the
handset and the unit front panel. Correct operation of the handset on the SCA2 is
indicated by illumination of a red indicator on the left hand side of the front panel as
handset commands are received.
G5 Care and Maintenance
ATC use high technology material finishes in all of their products. The surfaces are
durable and with a little care can be kept as good as new even under conditions of
heavy use. Normally a dry duster is all that is required to keep the finishes clean.
Heavy soiling can be cleaned using a slightly moistened cloth with a non-abrasive
household cleaner.
G6 Warranty and Contact
All ATC products are guaranteed against any defect in materials or workmanship for
a period of two years from the date of purchase. Within this period we will supply
replacement parts free of charge provided that the failure was not caused by misuse,
accident or negligence.
Purchasers who complete and return the Warranty Card will have their warranty
period extended up to a period of six years from the date of purchase. This
guarantee does not limit your statutory rights. ATC can be contacted at:
Loudspeaker Technology Ltd.
Gypsy Lane, Aston Down,
Stroud, Gloucestershire. GL6 8HR UK
Telephone: 01285 760561
Fax: 01285 760683
Email: info@atc.gb.net
WWW: www.atc.gb.net
2
3
Preamplifier
1.1 Description
The CA2 preamplifier has been designed to partner ATC active, and with an
appropriate power amplifier, passive loudspeaker systems. It incorporates 4 line-level
stereo inputs, a high sensitivity phono amplifier input, and a tape monitor input on
RCA phono sockets. One stereo record output, a main stereo output and a sub
output on RCA phono sockets, together with a main stereo output on XLR sockets
and a headphone output on a ¼ ” jack socket.
The phono amplifier stage carries an array of slide switches that enable optimal
matching to phono cartridges of various output voltages and load requirements.
Selection of CA2 inputs is achieved via a five position rotary control using gold
plated relays for silent switching. Output volume adjustment is achieved through a
precision motorized potentiometer. The tape monitor function can be selected from
a front panel push button. The tape output is a duplicate of the source selected by
the input selector. Standby is also accessible from a front panel push button. Mains
power is applied from a rear panel mounted switch.
All CA2 functions are duplicated on the ATC SCAR-B remote handset.
CA2
1.2 Inputs
The CA2 accepts unbalanced RCA phono style input plugs. The signal is present on
the centre conductor of an unbalanced input and the signal return is made via the
screened outer. If there is any hum present on the output this must be traced to its
source and not suppressed by the removal of screens and earths. Removal of the
screen on an unbalanced input will result in uncontrollably loud hum. The input
sockets are illustrated in Diagram 1.
Inputs labeled CD, TUNER, AV and AUX1 are at line sensitivity and are electrically
identical. A line level signal from any source equipment may be connected to any of
these inputs.
The right-hand (viewed from the rear) pair of AUX2/PHONO input sockets function
as a high sensitivity phono input. All inputs are via RCA phono connectors.
Diagram 1 - CA2 rear panel and connection sockets
3
4
CA2
The phono amplifier can be configured to
accommodate a wide selection of phono cartridge
types by setting combinations of the board
mounted jumpers (links). Access to the phono
stage is gained by removing the cover of the
preamplifier. Diagram 2 illustrates the position of
the jumpers on the board while Table A details the
cartridge matching options available.
Pulling them gently away from the board with a
small pair of pliers and replaced in the appropriate
positions as shown in the diagram moves links.
Unused links can be “parked” on the board by
setting them at right angles on unused pins.
Jumpers J2 and J5 set the input load for each
channel of the cartridge. With the jumper in place
the load is 100 ohms. With the jumpers removed
the load is 47kilohms.
Preamplifier
Jumpers J3, J6, J1 and J4 set the gain (sensitivity) of
the phono input. J3 and J6 have two positions A and
B. In position A the gain of the phono stage is
reduced, in position B the gain is increased. J1 and
J4 can have the jumper fitted or removed. When
fitted the gain of the circuit is increased. By setting
combinations of these 4 jumpers, a range of
sensitivities can be accommodated.
or example: for a cartridge with a low sensitivity J3
and J6 would be set in position B while J1 and J4
would both have their jumper fitted. Table A
illustrates the input sensitivity and load
characteristics available. The manufacturer of the
cartridge in use will be able to recommend the
appropriate settings.
Diagram 2 - RIAA Phono Board and Jumpers
J1
J2 J3
Pos A
J4 J5 J6
Pos B
Pos A
Pos B
Table A - RIAA Jumper Settings
Jumper settings for 1 Volt Output
Sensitivity J1 and J4 J2 and J5 J3 and J6
10.0mV Removed Fitted (100Ω ) Position A
6.7mV Removed Removed (47kΩ ) Position A
5.1mV Removed Fitted (100Ω ) Position B
3.4mV Removed Removed (47kΩ ) Position B
2.2mV Fitted Fitted (100 ) Position A
1.4mV Fitted Removed (47kΩ ) Position A
1.1mV Fitted Fitted (100Ω ) Position B
0.7mV Fitted Removed (47kΩ ) Position B
4
5
Preamplifier
CA2
1.3 Outputs
The CA2 rear panel illustrated in Diagram 1 carries sockets for
main left and right output, tape left and right output, left and
right summed mono output and an output for stereo
headphones. Use of the headphone jack will mute the output
from the main stereo output and also the sub output.
Connections to the main output may be from RCA phono
plugs or XLR plugs. Connections to the XLR output sockets
follow the convention of pin 1 to ground, pin 2 to signal “hot”
and pin 3 to signal return (signal ground). When connecting to
equipment with XLR (balanced) inputs, the connectors should
be wired pin for pin (i.e. 1 to 1, 2 to 2, and 3 to 3). Diagram 3
illustrates the XLR output pin arrangement. Diagram 4
illustrates the cable arrangement for connection to balanced
inputs.
Cables up to 50 metres in length may be connected to the main
stereo or sub outputs.
Pin 1, ground
3 Pin Male XLR
Connector
2
3
1
To Preamp Output
1.4 Operation
Once connected to mains power and powered up from the
rear panel mains switch, the front panel Standby button (or remote handset Standby
button) will switch the CA2 between standby and active mode. In Standby mode the
Standby Indicator glows RED. Operating the Standby function from either the front
panel or the remote handset will switch the CA2 into active mode. The RED
indicator will extinguish and be replaced by the Input select indicator showing the
current selection in GREEN. Operating the Standby function again will return the
CA2 to Standby mode.
Diagram 3 - output socket pins
Pin 3, Signal (return)
Diagram 4 - balanced cable
Two Core Screened Cable
3 Pin Female XLR
Connector
Hot
Return
Screen
To Power Amp or
Monitor Input
Pin 2, Signal (hot)
2
3
1
Inputs are selected by rotating the input select control in either direction. The
control has continuous movement. When it is moved to the last input, further
rotation will select the first input.
A separate tape loop is included with a Monitor option selected by a single push
button on the front panel. The tape output will have the same signal as selected by
the rotary input select control. Operation of the Standby or tape monitor controls
will not affect this output providing mains power is maintained.
Diagram 6 - CA2 front panel and controls
5
6
CA2
Preamplifier
Output level is controlled by the rotary Volume
control on the front of the unit, the position of
which is indicated by a black pointer. Rotating the
control clockwise will increase the output level. It
is good practice to lower the volume setting before
switching on the preamplifier or any associated
equipment, or while changing the input selection.
Unity gain though the CA2 from any of the line
level inputs is indicated by the ‘0dB’ print on the
front panel, beside the volume control. This is the
volume position the preamp should be set to for
‘Home Cinema Bypass’ so the CA2 has no
influence on signal level when used within a cinema
surround system.
Due to the nature of the electronics in ATC
amplifiers it is quite normal for a sound to be heard
from the speaker when the power is applied or
disconnected. The noise heard will not damage the
speaker and is quite normal. Although ATC uses the
highest-grade components, a different noise may be
heard from each speaker due to slight tolerance
variations in the amplifier components.
1.5 Specifications
Maximum Output Level 7.5V RMS into 600 Ohms
Line Input Sensitivity (for 1V Output): 150mV
R.I.A.A. Input sensitivity: See Table A
R.I.A.A. Input Impedance: See Table A
R.I.A.A. Accuracy (20Hz – 20kHz): ±0.5dB
Input Impedance:
Output Impedance: 10 Ohms
Frequency Response (-3dB): DC – >500kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.0005% (-106dB) 1V into 600 Ohms
Crosstalk (10Hz – 20kHz) >90dB
S+N/N Ratio: >95dB (Wide band)
>104dB (DIN)
>108dB (IEC "A")
Power Requirements 100, 115, 230V, 50/60Hz
Power Consumption 35VA Maximum
Dimensions (including terminals) H90 x W445 x D330mm
H3.54 x W17.5 x D13.0 inches
Weight 7kg (15.4lb) Net
8kg (17.6lb) Packed
E. & O.E. The policy of Loudspeaker Technolog y Ltd. is that of continuous design and development. We reser ve the right to change
specifications without prior notice.
5k Ohms
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