Australian Monitor KA800 User Manual

KA800KA800

KA800

KA800KA800

&&

&

&&

KA1200KA1200

KA1200

KA1200KA1200

Operation Manual

IMPORTANT!

Please read carefully.

This operation manual contains important information
regarding safety precautions, installation, performance,
operation and maintenance of your
amplifier. You should familiarize yourself with the contents
of this manual before operating your amplifier.

Safety Precautions

and Labelling

The rear panel of the unit has a number of markings
and internationally recognized symbols related to the
hazards and precautions that should be taken when
operating MAINS connected equipment.

The presence of a LIGHTNING FLASH with an
arrowhead contained within the boundaries of an
equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user that
dangerous uninsulated voltages may exist within the
unit's enclosure. These voltages may be of a sufficient
magnitude as to constitute the risk of an electrical
shock.

This symbol is reinforced with the text:

KA-KA-

KA-Series power

KA-KA-

REFER SERVICING TO

QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

NO USER SERVICEABLE

PARTS INSIDE.

The user should not attempt to service the unit. Only
qualified and knowledgeable personnel familiar with
the internal workings of the unit should attempt any
repair, servicing or authorized modification to the
unit. The unit does not contain any parts which the
user can service or re-use in this or any other product.

!CAUTION!

RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

The presence of an EXCLAMATION MARK contained
within the boundaries of an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user that there is important
operating and maintenance literature that
accompanies the unit.

!WARNING!

DO NOT EXPOSE TO EITHER

RAIN OR MOISTURE

The unit should not be operated in a situation where
it may encounter the entry of water, rain, or any fluids.
To expose the unit to the above conditions may make
the operation of the unit hazardous and increase the
risk of electrical shock.

If you are in need of special assistance and the
information you require is outside the scope of this
manual, please contact your nearest service agent or
Australian Monitor direct:

THE TECHNICAL OFFICER

AUSTRALIAN MONITOR

C/- AUDIO TELEX COMMUNICATIONS PTY LTD

PRIVATE BAG 149,

SILVERWATER. N.S.W. 1811

AUSTRALIA.

Phone Fax
Local [phone] (02) 9748-2537
International 61-2-9647-1411 61-2-9748-2537

Email [e-mail]
Internet www.australianmonitor.com.au

Features:

- Custom designed, 2RU heavy duty alloy chassis.

- Open modular construction for ease of servicing.

- Symmetrical layout - even weight distribution.

- Well-regulating, high current power supply.

- High efficiency toroidal mains transformer.

- Binding post and Neutrik "Speakon" output

connection.

- Stereo or bridged / mono operation.

- Input signal strapping (loop through) connectors.

- 21 Position detented attenuators.

- Balanced inputs and buffered attenuators.

- 1 Watt output indication (2.828 volts).

- 1 dB below output clip indication.

- Massive heat-sink / heat-exchangers.

- Efficient front to back cooling.

- Dual, twin speed axial fans.

- Multi-role output fault indication.

- Front carry handles. Rear rack mount ears.

- Plug in signal modifiers (optional).

- Signal ground lift switch.

- High-quality, close-tolerance components

throughout.

Protection Features

- Suppression of inrush current at mains turn-on.

- Input muting at turn-on.

- Input overvoltage protection.

- Radio-frequency interference suppression.

- Short-circuit protection and indication.

- High overload mains fuse.

- Internal, independent DC supply rail fuses.

- Layout, grounding, decoupling and componentry

have been optimized to provide the user with

stability, reliability and longevity.

Contents

Page

1. Introduction 5

2. Controls, Connectors and Indicators 6

2.1 Front Panel 7

2.2 Rear Panel 9

3. Installation 11

4. Operation 13

5. Bridge Mode 15

6. Two Ohm or Not Two Ohm 16

7. Maintenance 17

8. Warranty 18

9. Specification 19

List of Illustrations

Page

Figure 1. Block Diagram 5

Figure 2. Front Panel Layout 6

Figure 3. Rear Panel Layout 8

Figure 4. Case Dimensions 10

Figure 5. "Speakon" Connector Wiring 12

Figure 6. Bridge Mode Speaker Wiring 15

1. Introduction

Introduction 5

Congratulations on choosing Australian Monitor for
your professional amplification requirements.

The design of your
embrace all the aspects of a well designed unit. The
visual design, mechanical, electrical and sonic pa­rameters, along with our dedicated manufacturing
process, have all been optimized to provide a profes­sional tool that exhibits quality, reliability and longev­ity.

KAKA

The

KA-Series amplifiers are 2 unit (3.5") tall, 19"

KAKA

wide rack mountable units.

KAKA

KA-Series Audio Power Amplifiers

KAKA

Each channel of the amplifier comprises a balanced
active input with a buffered attenuator driving a
differential class A drive stage which in turn drives a
fan-cooled, class AB, MOSFET output stage
configured as a source follower. The unit operates
from a high current-capable linear power supply.

These units have been specifically designed to de­liver their high power output with minimal distortion,
and provide the critical degree of control required by
your speakers, at high duty cycles for extended
periods.

Figure 1 Amplifier Block Diagram

6 Controls & Connectors

2. Controls,
Connectors
& Indicators

Figure 2 Front Panel Layout

Front Panel

Controls & Connectors 7

KAKA

The

KA Series models have identical front panel

KAKA

layouts.
Figure 1 shows the panel layout of the
functions of the controls and indicators are as follows:

KAKA

KA Series. The

KAKA

1 Attenuator

Level control for your amplifier is provided by a 21
position detented potentiometer and indicates
gain reduction in decibels from the 0 dB position
(maximum gain, no attenuation).

2 Status Indicator

This is a dual color LED which displays the status
of the output stage and displays three levels of
operation.

These levels are:
Below 1 watt (unlit)
1 watt and above (green)
1dB below actual clipping (red)

3 Fault Indicator

This amber LED will flash when a fault condition
exists.

The fault detection circuit monitors the difference
between drive and output in your amplifier.

If you have a short on the speaker output (or a
blown negative rail fuse) the LED will flash brightly
in sync with the programme. This LED will also
flash with programme peaks for gross overloads
or if the load is 2 ohms or less.

The circuit has two stages of operation:

1. It will provide indication (e.g. gross overload)
but does not affect the input signal (a faint flash).

2. It will indicate and mute the input signal (e.g
shorted output) (brightly flashing or permanently
on).

4 Power Switch

The LED will turn green once the output voltage
exceeds 2.828 volts (1 watt re 8 ohms or 2 watts
re 4 ohms). This is equivalent to:

24.5dB below rated power for a KA800 or

26.0dB below rated power for a KA1200.

The LED will change to red once the output
exceeds the -1dB point before actual clipping of
the amplifier’s output stage. The threshold of the

-1dB point is referred to the amplifier supply rails
and alters with changes in the mains supply,
changes in the load and duty cycle fluctuations.

The attack and decay time (ballistics), of the
status circuit are those of a Peak Programme
Meter (P.P.M.)

If using this indicator to line up sensitivities, apply
a steady state tone (e.g. slate on a mixing console).
The 1 watt level is the mid-point between the
indicator illuminating and extinguishing green.

NOTE: The amplifier is not damaged by running
into clipping, but speakers may be. To maximise
the life of your speakers, try to keep clipping
infrequent.

Press the switch to the right for power on ( I )and
to the left for power off ( 0 ). At start-up (turn-on)
the input to the amplifier is muted by 30dB for
approximately two seconds.

5 On/Thermal Indicator

This is a dual colored LED which will normally be
green and indicates that the amplifier is on and
receiving mains power.

In the advent of a thermal overload this LED will
turn red indicating that the internal operating
temperature of one or both amplifier channels has
exceeded a safe level of operation and the
channels will be automatically muted. The fans
will continue to run and once the effected channel/
s have had a cool-down period, they will un-mute
and return to normal operation.

NOTE: You should always ensure that the fan
grille is kept clean and free from the build up of
dust and lint. This will ensure longer operation of
your amplifier and reduce the possibility of it
prematurely going into thermal shutdown mode.

8 Controls & Connectors

Figure 3 Rear Panel Layout

Controls & Connectors 9

Rear Panel

6 Balanced Input

A female 3-pin XL type connector is provided on
each input:
Pin 1 = Signal Ground;
Pin 2 = Hot (non-inverting or in phase);
Pin 3 = Cold (inverting or reverse phase).

6a Signal Strapping

A male 3-pin XL type connector is provided and
wired in parallel with the female input XLR for
strapping / looping signal between amplifiers.

7 Signal Ground Lift Switch

When this switch is engaged it disconnects signal
ground from the input connectors on both chan­nels. It is intended to be used when “hum” is
caused by earth loops (due to different ground
potentials between source equipment and the
amplifier) or stray magnetic field pick up on the
input ground/shield wiring. (It does not interrupt
signal ground continuity on the strapping connec­tor). The amplifier should be turned off before

engaging this switch!

8 Binding Post Outputs

Touch proof binding posts (banana jacks) are
provided for speaker output termination with
banana plugs or bare wire. The red post is used as
positive and the black post is used as negative.

8a SPEAKON Output Connector

The NEUTRIK (NL4MP) 4way SPEAKON con­nector is provided as an additional speaker output.
This emerging standard of loudspeaker to amplifier
connection allows access to both channels of the
amplifier via the one connector for bi-amp appli­cations. Channel-A is considered the dominant
channel and has both channels wired to the
Speakon connector. See the installation section
of this manual for detailed information on Speakon
wiring.

9 Mains Connection

Your amplifier is fitted with an internationally
recognised IEC mains inlet connector.
Please ensure that the connecting mains lead for
use with this connector is of an approved type and
is of sufficient current carrying ability.

KA800KA800

Your

KA800 and

KA800KA800

lead rating of 10 amps when operated from a 220

KA1200KA1200

KA1200 require a minimum mains

KA1200KA1200

to 240 volt mains supply.

NOTE: Your unit must always be earthed!

10 Mains Fuse

A 20mm x 5mm fuse drawer is provided within the
housing of the IEC mains connector. When you
recieve your amplifier it will have a working fuse
and a spare fuse inside the fuse drawer. The
drawer can only be opened once the mains lead
is removed from the connector. The fuse is
provided to protect both the mains and your
amplifier as well as reducing the degree of damage
if an internal fault exists.
When replacing the fuse, replace with an anti­surge (slow blow) type of the current rating
indicated on the back panel above the fuse holder.
Warranty does not cover a blown fuse or any
resulting damage due to an incorrect fuse rating
or type.

KA800KA800

The

KA800 requires a 8 Amp Anti-Surge fuse.

KA800KA800

KA1200KA1200

The

KA1200 requires a 10 Amp Anti-Surge fuse.

KA1200KA1200

11 Bridge Switch

Pushing this switch in engages the BRIDGED/
MONO mode of operation. In this mode your
amplifier will only accept signal applied to channel
A’s input XLRs and the level of both channels will
be controlled by channel A’s attenuator. The
output from channel B will automatically be of the
opposite polarity (reversed phase) and speaker
termination should be sourced from the red
binding-post outputs.

D.C. Rail Fuses (Internally fitted)

Removing the bottom lid will show PCB mounted
fuse holders holding the rail fuse for each supply
to each channel. These 3AG “fast blow” type
fuses are in series with the positive and negative
supply rails for each channel of your amplifier’s
output stage. These fuses provide overall protec­tion of the output stage and can also be used to
isolate individual channels in case a fault condi­tion exists.
If you need to replace the rail fuses they must be
replaced with the same type and current rating:

KA800KA800

KA800 = 8 Amp.

KA800KA800
KA1200KA1200

KA1200 = 10 Amp.

KA1200KA1200

NOTE: Replacement of the fuses should only be
carried out by a competent and experienced
person.

10 Installation

Figure 4 Dimensions

Installation 11

3. Installation

Power Requirements

Model:

Mains Voltage Fuse Rating
240, 220-230 8 Amps

Power consumption at idle = 120 Watts.
Power consumption at rated power = 1450 Watts.

Model:

Mains Voltage Fuse Rating
240, 220-230 10 Amps

Power consumption at idle = 160 Watts.
Power consumption at rated power = 2200 Watts.

Ensure that your mains voltage is the same as the
rear panel mains voltage marker (+/- 10%).

KA800KA800

KA800

KA800KA800

KA1200KA1200

KA1200

KA1200KA1200

heat to build up within the unit and possibly force the
unit into its thermal shutdown mode.

If the units are to be operated in an environment
where the airflow is restricted such as sealed racks or
even when running 2 ohm loads, the cooling should
be supplemented by extra cooling fans to evacuate
the heated air and aid the flow of cool air through the
unit.

Input Wiring

IMPORTANT
Do not directly connect pin 1 on the amplifier’s input
or strapping XLR, to the amplifier’s chassis, speaker
ground or power ground!

NOTE
Input signal ground is not to be used as a safety
ground (earth).

The input to your amplifier is a balanced 3-pin system
and requires all three pins to be connected. Only high
quality twin-core shielded cable should be used.

Mounting

Your amplifier is designed for standard 19" rack
mounting and occupies 2 EIA rack units (3.5"). The
mounting centers are:

Vertical: 3.0" (76.2mm)

Horizontal: 18.2" (461.2mm) to 18.7" (473.8mm).

The slots in the mounting flange will accept bolt
diameters up to 1/4" (6.35mm).

We recommend that you provide additional support
for the amplifier, especially if road use is planned, as
the weight can bend some racks otherwise. This
support can be provided by secure shelving, support
rails or a rear rack mounting strip to match up with the
rear rack mount ears provided on your
amplifier.

KAKA

KA Series

KAKA

Cooling

Each channel of your
by an axial fan which draws cool air from the front of
the unit and expels the heated air from the rear of the
unit. These units offer two speed fans which run at
half speed, switching to full speed when the internal
heatsink temperature exceeds 600 C (1280 F).

An unrestricted airflow into and out from the unit must
be provided. Any restriction of the air flow will cause

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

KA800/KA1200 amplifier is cooled

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

When wiring for a balanced source the connector
going to the input of your amplifier should be wired as
follows:

Pin 2 = HOT (In Phase - non inverting).
Pin 3 = COLD (Reverse Phase - inverting).
Pin 1 = GROUND / SHIELD.

When wiring from an unbalanced source you must
ensure that pin 3 is connected to pin 1 (input ground),
either by linking the pins in the input connector or by
the source equipment's output wiring.

When wiring for an unbalanced source:

Pin 2 = Hot (in phase with the amplifier’s output),
Pin 3 = Ground/Shield (joins to pin 1).
Pin 1 = Ground/Shield

NOTE:

In-line XLR connectors often have a termination lug
that connects directly to the chassis of the connector.
Do not link this lug to pin 1 at the amplifier’s input as
it will defeat the amplifier’s input grounding scheme.
This lug is often referred to as a "drain” and is used
to provide a termination to the chassis for shielding
purposes when a floating signal ground is required
between the source and destination, or when
disconnecting the signal ground is required to reduce
earth loop noise, or noise induced into signal grounds
from stray magnetic fields.

12 Installation

Output Wiring

When wiring to your speakers always use the largest
gauge wire your connector will accept. The longer the
speaker lead the greater the losses will be, resulting
in reduced power and less damping at the load. We
recommend using a heavy duty two core flex (four
core flex if bi-amping) 10 to 12 gauge (2mm2 to

2.5mm2 or 50/0.25 or equivalent) as a minimum.

Binding Post Outputs

When terminating to the 4 mm binding post (banana
jack) output connectors, banana plugs or bare wires
can be used. The red terminal is positive and the
black terminal is negative (ground).

If running in BRIDGE mode, only the red binding
posts are used. Channel A provides the positive
output to the load and channel B provides the negative
output to the load.

SPEAKON Outputs

When using the NEUTRIK SPEAKON (NL4MP) con­nector for speaker output, use only the mating
NEUTRIK NL4FC in-line connector. This connector
is designed so that both channels can be fed from a
single connector.

Two SPEAKON connectors are provided on the
amplifier.

The "Channel A" SPEAKON actually carries both
channel A & channel B outputs (see Figure 5: Speakon
Connector Wiring Diagrams).

The "Channel B" SPEAKON carries the Channel B
output only.

This arrangement allows you the option of connect­ing to the outputs separately or together. Connecting
through a single connector has the advantage of
minimising connections, preserving phasing and
simplified channel allocation, which is particularly
important when bi-amping or in bridge mode.

IMPORTANT
Do not overload your amplifier by connecting the
channel B output twice!

Channel A is used as the “dominant” channel and
when sourcing a dual output from Channel A the

following standard should be used:

Channel A = Left or Low Frequencies.

Channel B = Right or High Frequencies.

When in bridge mode:

Pin 1+ = Bridge Output Positive
Pin 2+ = Bridge Output Negative.

SINGLE CONNECTION BRIDGED CONNECTION

Figure 5. "Speakon" Connector Wiring Diagram

BI-AMP CONNECTIONDUAL CONNECTION

Operation 13

4. Operation

IMPORTANT
All signal source equipment should be adequately
earthed. This not only ensures your safety but
everybody else's as well. Faults can and do occur in
mains connected equipment where the chassis can
become “live” if it is not properly earthed. In these
instances the fault in a “floating” (ungrounded) piece
of equipment will look for the shortest path to ground
which could possibly be your amplifier's input. If the
fault current is large enough it will destroy the input
to your amplifier and look for the next available path,
which may be you!

Before making any connections to your

KA1200KA1200

KA1200 amplifier observe the following:

KA1200KA1200

Ensure the mains voltage supply matches the

1.
label on the rear panel of your amplifier (+/- 10%).
Ensure that the power switch is OFF (to the left -

2.

0)
Ensure that all system grounds (earth) are

3.
connected from a common point. Avoid powering
equipment within a system from multiple power
sources that may be separated by large distances.

4.

Check the continuity of all interconnecting leads
to your amplifier, ensure that there are no open or
short circuited conductors.
Ensure that the power handling of your load

5.
(speakers) can adequately cope with the power
output of the amplifier.

Before operating your
that:

- The attenuators are at the “OFF” position (fully
anticlockwise).

- The GROUND LIFT Switch is not engaged (should
be in the “out” position).

- The BRIDGE Switch is not engaged if you are not
running the amp in bridged mode.

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

KA800/KA1200 amplifier, ensure

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

Powering Up

REMEMBER
The amplifier should be the last piece of equipment
that you turn on and the first piece of equipment that
you turn off.

KA800/KA800/

KA800/

KA800/KA800/

accept signal. The Inrush Current Supression (ICS)
circuit is in operation for the first 0.5 seconds. This
limits the mains current to prevent "nuisance-tripping"
of circuit breakers.

During this period the THERMAL/ON LED will flash
red whilst the mains voltage gradually charges up the
power supply. You will then hear a relay “click”,
indicating mains is now directly applied to the amplifier
and the THERMAL/ON LED will be green.

While the ICS circuit operates there is also a 30dB
mute on the signal input. After two seconds this mute
will release, allowing any applied signal to pass
unattenuated.

When switching the amplifier off, wait a couple of
seconds before switching the unit on again. This
allows the ICS circuit to reset.

Level Matching

The normal operating position for the attenuator is
the "0 dB" position (fully clockwise, no attenuation).
In this position the amplifier operates at full gain.
Turning the attenuator back (anticlockwise) reduces
the input sensitivity by the amount marked on the
attenuator scale (dial).

NOTE:
If full power output is required you should operate
your amplifier with the front panel attenuator above
the -15dB position, otherwise clipping of the input
circuitry and its resultant distortion will occur before
full output power is achieved.

Sensitivity

Your amplifier is a linear device operating with a fixed
input to output voltage gain (less attenuation). The
maximum output voltage swing is determined by the
applied mains voltage, load, load type and the duty
cycle of the applied signal.

The voltage gain factor of your amplifier is:

37 (31.5 dB) for a KA800
45 (33.0 dB) for a KA1200

The input sensitivity for your
when the attenuator is at the “0” dB attenuation
position (fully clockwise) is nominally:

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

KA800/KA1200 amplifier

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

We recommend turning the attenuators on your
amplifier down when turning the unit on.
When you power up your
goes through an establishment period before it will

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

KA800/KA1200, your amplifier

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

+4.0dB (1.23 volts in) for rated power into a 8 ohm
load.
+3.0dB (1.10 volts in) for rated power into a 4 ohm
load.

14 Operation

Each channel of your
nominal balanced input impedance of 30kOhms
(@1kHz) and should not present a difficult load for
any signal source.

Your signal source (i.e. the equipment feeding the
amplifier) should have an output impedance of
600 Ohms or lower to avoid unwanted high frequency
loss in the cabling.

Input overload occurs at +20.5dBu (8.25 volts).
See the specification section for more detailed infor­mation.

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

KA800/KA1200 amplifier has a

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

Hum Problems

Most equipment is designed for minimum hum when
used under ideal conditions. When connected to
other equipment, and to safety earth in an electrically
noisy environment however, problems will often occur.

The three "E"s of hum and hum related noise which
can plague your audio system are:

a) Electrostatic radiation,
b) Electromagnetic radiation, and
c) Earth loops

difference between the amp earth and source equip­ment earth appears to the amplifier's input as a signal
and is amplified as hum.

There are three things you can do to avoid earth loop
problems:

Ensure your mains power for the audio system is

1.
“quiet” i.e. without equipment on it such as air­conditioning, refrigeration or lighting which may
generate noise in the earth circuit.

2.

Ensure all equipment within the system shares a
common ground/ safety earth point. This will
reduce the possibility of circulating earth currents
as the equipment will be referenced to the same
ground potential.

Ensure that balanced signal leads going to the

3.
amplifier are connected to earth at one end only.

Signal Ground-Lift Switch

When proper system hook-up has been carried out,
you may still have some hum or hum related noise.
This may be due to any of the previously mentioned
gremlins.

Electrostatic radiation capacitively couples to sys­tem elements causing an interference voltage that
mainly affects higher impedance paths, such as
amplifier inputs. The source is generally a nearby
high voltage such as a mains lead or a speaker lead.
The problem can usually be reduced by moving the
offending lead away, or by providing additional
electrostatic shielding (i.e. an earthed conductor
which forms a barrier to the field).

Electromagnetic radiation induces interference cur­rents into system elements that mainly effect lower
impedance paths. Radio transmitters or stray mag­netic fields from mains transformers are often the
cause of this problem. It is generally more difficult to
eliminate this kind of interference, but again, moving
the source away or providing a magnetic shield (i.e.
a steel shield) should help.

Earth loops can arise from the interfacing of the
various pieces of equipment and their connections to
safety earth.

This is by far the most common cause of hum, and it
occurs when source equipment and the amplifier are
plugged into different points along the safety earth
where the safety earth wiring has a current flowing in
it. The current flowing through the wire produces a
voltage drop due to the wire’s resistance. This voltage

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

Your

KA800/KA1200 amplifier has a “Signal Ground Lift”

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

switch which disconnects the input ground wiring
from the amplifier. A substantial drop in hum and or
hum related noise can result from judicious use of
this switch.

NOTE
If the input ground lift switch is used you must ensure
adequate shielding of the input wiring. If the signal
source equipment does not provide adequate
shielding (i.e. a definitive connection to ground) you
must disconnect the shield from the input connector's
ground pin (Pin-1) and re-connect it to the "drain"
contact on the input connector. This will ensure the
shield on your input wiring actually goes to the
amplifier chassis and subsequently to earth.

DO NOT CONNECT PIN-1 DIRECTLY TO THE

DRAIN CONNECTION.

You will defeat the amplifiers internal grounding
scheme and possibily cause instability to the amplifier.

Always ensure that your amplifier is off and the
attenuators are down when you engage this switch.
This switch should only be used when the amplifier is
operated from a balanced signal source.
NOTE: Be wary of quasi-balanced outputs, these
are often no more than floating unbalanced outputs.

Bridge Mode 15

5. Bridge Mode

The term BRIDGE is used when two independent
amplifier channels are used to drive the same load.
The load is in series (a bridge) between the two
amplifier channels.

Channel A is used as the "dominant" channel and its
output is in phase with the input signal, and channel
B has its phase reversed so it is exactly 1800 out of
phase with the input signal.

As two amplifiers with a phase difference of 1800 are
now driving the load you will now have double the
voltage into the load. This means you will now have
four times the power into that load. The output can
now be considered as an active balanced output.

A common use of an amplifier in BRIDGE mode is for
driving 70 volt & 100 volt distribution lines. In BRIDGE
mode, The
line impedances over 8 ohms whilst the
produce over 84 volts with line impedances over 8
ohms.

Equally the units can be used in bridge mode to
provide the correct voltage/power requirements for
an applicable load.

As shown in Figure 6, there are three steps in setting

KA1200KA1200

KA1200 can produce over 100 volts with

KA1200KA1200

KA800KA800

KA800 can

KA800KA800

up your
mode.
Whilst the amplifier is off,

1. Connect the signal source to the Channel-A female

2. Engage the “push to bridge” switch.

3. Connect your load between the red binding post

You can also source the output from the Channel-A
SPEAKON output connector where Channel-A will
be on the pin marked 1+ and Channel-B will be on the
pin marked 2+.

NOTE: You should check after market manufactured
Speakon interconnecting speaker leads before
connecting them to your amplifier. Some leads are
manufactured for specific purposes, or specific use,
and may have pins shorted inside the connector. Any
speakon lead with shorted pins will obviously short
the output of your amplifier (either to ground, or
output to output - be careful).

KA800/KA1200 KA800/KA1200

KA800/KA1200 amplifier for running it in BRIDGE

KA800/KA1200 KA800/KA1200

input XLR. The Channel-A attenuator becomes
the level control for both channels.

output terminals, where the positive side of the
load is connected to the channel A output (marked
BRIDGE+) and the negative side of the load goes
to the channel B output (marked BRIDGE-). There
are no further connections required.

Figure 6 Bridge Mode Speaker Connection

16 Two Ohm or Not Two Ohm

6. Two Ohm or
Not Two Ohm

NOTE:
Ensure adequate ventilation and monitor the FAULT
indicators to guard against thermal shutdown when
driving two ohm loads.

A Preamble.

The load that a loudspeaker presents to an amplifier
is very complex and at different frequencies can be
inductive, capacitive, resistive, or a combination of
these (reactive). With the complex interaction of
these attributes, which alter from loudspeaker to
loudspeaker, a definitive load for an amplifier does
not really exist.

Loudspeakers operating within an enclosure are
specified with a nominal impedance. This nominal
impedance is only a rough guide to the load it
presents to an amplifier.

As an example, a loudspeaker with a nominal imped­ance of say 8 ohms, may have an impedance of over
50 ohms at resonance (bass frequencies), drop to
less than 6 ohms after the resonance peak (through
its mid band area) and then increase to over 16 ohms
for higher frequencies.
A 4 ohm load makes an amplifier work "harder" than
an 8 ohm load at the same voltage, as double the
current is required.
Though various loudspeakers may be marked with
the same nominal impedance, some loads are more
difficult than others.
Bass frequencies usually exhibit higher impedances
and require higher voltages to achieve the desired
result. They also reflect higher energy back to the
amplifier simply due to the amount of cone excursion
involved at lower frequencies.
The Mid frequency band usually offers the lowest
impedances and the highest duty cycles requiring
both high voltage and high current.
The High frequency region usually offers a moderate
impedance and usually does not need much voltage
but the instantaneous current demand can be much
greater than you think.
As well as this burden on the amplifier, the transient
waveforms found in actual use can demand a lot
more current than the "steady-state" sinewaves used
in most amplifier bench tests.

The power output of your

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

KA800/KA1200 quoted on the

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

specification sheet is derived from a voltage excursion
into a resistive load for a sine wave at a given
frequency. Though this method is in line with the
various standards that exist, it only gives an indication
to the maximum voltage swing (before clipping) for a
given load. This method of rating power does not give
an indication of the current (Ampere) capability of the
amplifier, nor does it show the amplifier’s ability to
sustain high energy waveforms.

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

Your

KA800/KA1200 amplifier is designed to be able to

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

deliver more than twice the current than that shown
on the specification sheet to cope with difficult loads
and/or high energy waveforms.

This extra current reserve is the result of over engi­neering and is the headroom the amplifier utilizes to
control the loudspeaker and deal with the “reactive
energy” from the loudspeaker load that has to be
dissipated within the amplifier.

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

Your

KA800/KA1200 amplifier is able to drive 2 ohm

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

loads or operate in BRIDGE mode into 4 ohms. The
operator must be aware that when driving 2 ohm
loads or bridged 4 ohm loads that the currents
running in the output stage are very large and will
cause greater heat build up within the amplifier than
higher impedance loads.

The Front Panel FAULT Indicators can be used to
provide an indication of the "difficulty" of the load and
will give the operator an indication of the heat build
up in the output stage.

If the fault indicators flash with the "clip" LED or do
not illuminate until well into clipping then the load can
be considered as normal or easy.

If the fault indicator starts to flash before the "clip"
LED then the load should be considered complex
and/or difficult.

For the more complex and/or difficult loads, the
illumination of the "fault" LED on programme peaks
should be interpreted as the output level limit.
Driving the output continuously past this point could
result in muting of the output stage, fuse's blowing or
premature thermal shutdown.

The fault detection circuit is also thermally compen­sated, and fault indication will occur earlier when the
unit is hot. If the "fault" LED continually lights earlier
than normal, then the unit is heating up. If the signal
level is not reduced to compensate for the heating of
the unit then thermal shutdown may occur.

Maintenance 17

7. Maintenance

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

Your

KA800/KA1200 amplifier will need minimal main-

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

tenance. No internal adjustments need to be made to
the unit to maintain optimum performance.

To provide years of unhindered operation we suggest
a maintenance inspection be carried out on a regular
basis, say every 12 months or so.

Fans

Due to the openness of the air path through your

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

KA800/KA1200 amplifier, very little dust should settle

KA800/KA1200KA800/KA1200

within the amplifier. The unit has been designed so
that any dust and/or foreign particles that do settle
within the amplifier will not unduly hinder the cooling
of the unit.

The mesh grille in front of the fans will act to limit the
amount of dust and lint entering the unit. You will find
in time that there will be a build up of dust and lint on
the grille which may start to hinder the airflow through
the unit. You should periodically remove the dust and
keep the grille clean. Removal of dust from the rear
grille will also aid cooling.

Over time, dust may build up on the leading edge of
the fan blades and reduce their cooling efficiency.
The time taken for this to happen will depend on the
environment and the amount of use.

hold the fan rotor still and wipe the dust off the blades.
Many users stall the fan and use compressed air to
blow the dust off the fan blades. It is important to note
that the fan blades must be held still whilst blowing air
over the blades otherwise you may burn out the
bearings in the fan.

Fuses

Along with rear panel mains fuse, there is four (4) rail
fuses provided internally in the unit. These rail fuses
are in series with the positive and negative output
supply to each amplifier channel and provide overall
protection for the output stage. If the amplifier is
subjected to heavy use such as short circuits, 2 ohm
or bridged 4 ohm loads, these fuses will eventually
fatigue and may require replacing to ensure they do
not fail at an inconvenient time.

NOTE
Make sure the unit is off and is unplugged from the
mains. Give the main filter capacitors time to
discharge before removing lids and inspecting the
fuses.

You should replace the fuse if the element is sagging
or discoloured. Only ever replace with the same
type fuse and current rating.

When checking for a failed fuse, do not rely on visual
inspection alone. You should use an ohmmeter to
check continuity.

The fan blades are accessible once the lids are
removed and can be easily cleaned. You need only

Only competent or qualified persons should attempt
any service or maintenance of your amplifier.

18 Warranty

8. Warranty

Australian Monitor warrants the original purchaser of
each KA-Series amplifier (purchased at an author­ised Australian Monitor dealer) that it will be free from
defects in materials and workmanship for a period of
two (2) years from the original date of purchase.

Australian Monitor will, at its option, repair or replace
any unit or component covered by this warranty
which becomes defective or malfunctions under
normal use and service during the period of this
warranty, at no charge for parts or labour to the
original owner.

This warranty does not cover blown fuses, faulty
fuse contacts, thermal problems due to
obstructed airflow, or defects or malfunctions
resulting from accidents, misuse, abuse, opera­tion with the incorrect AC mains voltage,
connection to faulty equipment, modification or
alteration without prior factory approval or service
by unauthorised personnel.

of this manual. Australian Monitor reserves the right
to refuse warranty service where the owner fails to
take reasonable care in use and maintenance of the
amplifier.

To validate this warranty, the original purchaser must
complete and mail the warranty registration card
directly to Australian Monitor within fourteen (14)
days of purchase.

To obtain warranty service, the equipment should be
shipped to an authorised Australian Monitor dealer or
direct to Australian Monitor. Freight to Australian
Monitor is at the owner's expense.

Units with a defaced serial number will not be accepted
for warranty service. Any evidence of alteration,
erasure or forgery of the purchase receipt will also
void this warranty.

Australian Monitor accepts no liability for any
consequential damages, whether direct or
indirect, arising from the use or misuse of its
products.

It is the owner's responsibility to ensure that normal
maintenance inspections are carried out at regular
intervals as recommended in the maintenance section

KAKA

KA-SERIES 2 YEAR WARRANTY REGISTRATION

KAKA

IMPORTANT

Please complete this card and return it immediately after unpacking the product.

This card is to be sent DIRECTLY to Australian Monitor.

NOTE! Warranty is effective ONLY upon receipt of this card.

COMPANY

NAME MODEL

ADDRESS SERIAL N

Australian Monitor reserves the right to alter its
designs and specifications at any time without notice
or obligation to previous purchasers.

o

DATE PURCHASED

CITY DEALER

STATE CODE COUNTRY

Ensure that you fill out and send your warranty registration card.

Use this copy to record a duplicate of the details.

Specification 19

Model:

E.I.A. 1 kHz, <0.1 % THD+N. 8ohm 4ohm
Single channel driven. 440W 680W
Both channels driven. 400W 600W

Pulsed @ 1 kHz, at onset of clipping,
10% duty cycle, re 4 ohms.
Single channel driven. 800W
Both channels driven. 750W

Bridge mode

16 ohm load 800W
8 ohm load 1200W

KA1200KA1200

KA1200 Output Power

KA1200KA1200

Output Impedance @ 1 kHz <0.025 ohms

Damping Factor @ 1 kHz re 8 ohms >320:1

Output Rise Time <2.8µS

(80%, leading edge of 20kHz square wave)

Slew Rate 60V per µS

(leading edge, 20kHz square wave @ clipping)

Model:

E.I.A. 1 kHz, <0.1 % THD+N. 8ohm 4ohm
Single channel driven. 285W 460W
Both channels driven. 255W 400W

Pulsed @ 1 kHz, at onset of clipping,
10% duty cycle, re 4 ohms.
Single channel driven. 550W
Both channels driven. 500W

Bridge mode

16 ohm load 510W
8 ohm load 800W

KA800KA800

KA800 Output Power

KA800KA800

Output Impedance @ 1 kHz <0.030 ohms

Damping Factor @ 1 kHz re 8 ohms >260:1

Output Rise Time <2.8 µS

(80%, leading edge of 20kHz square wave)

Slew Rate 50V per µS

(leading edge, 20kHz square wave @ clipping)

Weight Net 37.5 lb (17kg), Shipping 43lb (19.5kg)

Weight Net 33 lb (15kg), Shipping 38.5 lb (17.5kg)

Common Specifications

Distortion

THD+N (@ 1 kHz) <0.01%
IMD SMPTE (60 Hz & 7 kHz 4:1) <0.05%
IMD DIM 30 (3.15kHz square & 15 kHz) <0.02%

Frequency Response

20 Hz - 20 kHz < ± 0.15 dB

-3dB points <10 Hz - 90 kHz

Input Impedance

Line to Line (Balanced) 30k ohms

Input Sensitivity (nominally)

For rated power re 8 ohm 1.26 Vrms (+4 dBu)
For rated power re 4 ohm 1.10 Vrms (+3 dBu)

Input source = 600 ohm, Balanced and ground referenced (CMRR test had floating ground & 50 ohm

source). Mains regulated to 240 volts / 50hz. All measurements taken at binding post output terminals.

(0.5 dB below clipping re 4 ohms)

Input CMRR

@ 1 kHz (re 8 ohm rating) >80 dB

Signal / Noise ratio

"A" weighted (re 8 ohm rating) >100 dB

Crosstalk

@ 1 kHz (re 8 ohm rating) >90 dB

Dimensions H x W x D

excluding handles 3.5 x 19 x 14.8 (inch)

including handles 3.5 x 19 x 17.7 (inch)

(19 inch EIA rack mounting, 2 units high)

Test conditions

Standard production units measured. No compensation applied.

88 x 482 x 375 (mm)

88 x 482 x 450 (mm)

www.australianmonitor.com.au

Distributed by:

Audio Telex Communications Pty Ltd

ACN 001345482

www.audiotelex.com.au

International Enquiries

Ph: 612 9647 1411, Fax: [phone], E-mail: [e-mail]

Sydney

Ph: [phone], Fax: [phone], E-mail: [e-mail]

Melbourne

Ph: [phone], Fax: [phone], E-mail: [e-mail]

Brisbane

Ph: [phone], Fax: [phone], E-mail: [e-mail]

Adelaide

Ph: [phone], Fax: [phone], E-mail: [e-mail]

Perth

Ph: [phone], Fax: [phone], E-mail: [e-mail]

Auckland

Ph: [phone], Fax: [phone], E-mail: [e-mail]

2000