Ayon Vulcan III Owner's Operating Manual

ayon

VulcanIII

PSE Triode Mono-Power Amplifier

Eintakt-Trioden Mono-Endverstärker

Owner’s Operating Manual

B E D I E N U N G S A N L E I T U N G

Ayon Audio – Hart 18 – 8101 Gratkorn – Austria – Phone: [phone]

www.ayonaudio.com

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Ayon Audio – Hart 18 – 8101 Gratkorn – Austria – Phone: [phone]

www.ayonaudio.com

English

I N T R O D U C T I ON

Thank you for your purchase of the Ayon Vulcan power amplifier.
With this amplifier, you have entered into the world of exclusive design which will give you great
satisfaction and privilege of enjoying the advanced technology of Ayon Audio products. It is designed to
serve as a high standard of truthful real musical performance. The care in engineering and
manufacturing of this product anticipates a long time of enjoyment. We also encourage you to enlist the
aid of the dealer from whom you purchased this Ayon Vulcan amplifier. Your dealer is an excellent
source of information on compatibility, installation, and troubleshooting, and should be capable of
helping ensure that your overall music system provides you with maximum performance and satisfaction.

SAFETY INFORMATION

Please read this owner’s manual to obtain the full benefit of the Vulcan amplifier in your system.
This manual provides you with necessary safety information and operation procedures for this unit.
To prevent shock or fire hazard do not open the unit or expose to rain or moisture. Refer all service to
Ayon Audio Company or an Ayon authorized service facility. There are no user serviceable parts inside
the Vulcan. Refer all internal service, updates, or modifications to qualified service personnel.

High voltage is present inside operating Vulcan.

Do not remove bottom plate or insert any objects through openings
in the case.

OPERATING VOLTAGE

The operating voltage is factory set for the destination country and is not user adjustable. Unauthorized
attempts to modify the operating voltage may damage the unit and will void the manufacturer warranty.

FUSE

The AC power line fuse is located in a snap-out receptacle on the underside of the power inlet (rear
panel). The correct value of “slow-blow” fuse is 5A (10A for 120V version). Do not replace the fuse with a
higher than indicated. Disconnect the power cord before changing fuse. A blown fuse in your unit can
be an indication of a serious problem. If a replacement fuse fails as well, no further attempts should be
undertaken. Please contact the factory for professional service.

Serial Number:

Voltage:

Distributor:

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CONTENTS

PRECAUTION, INSTALLATION & USER INFORMATION

OPEN CARTON – UNPACKING THE VULCAN

ACCESSORIES

OPERATION YOUR NEW VULCAN

1. Installation of tubes – Installation plan

2. Connecting

3. Turn ON procedure

4. Turn OFF procedure

5. Auto-Fixed-Bias system

6. Tube test program

7. Hum adjustment for power tubes

8.

Troubleshooting

BREAK-IN PERIOD

VACUUM TUBES

Tube life expectancy

Ayon tube testing process

SPECIFICATION

WHY TUBE AMPLIFIERS

SOME WORDS ABOUT AYON TUBE AMP TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR BASIS DESIGN

USING 4 OR 8 OHM IMPEDANCE TAPS & GENERAL REMARKS ABOUT CABLES/MAINS

WARRANTY AND SERVICE

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PRECAUTIONS, INSTALLATION & USER INFORMATION

1. Always be sure your hands are clean and free of any dirt or oil before carrying your Ayon Vulcan.
Carry the amplifier with both hands by gripping its side. Handle the Vulcan with respect, it is heavy.

2. Never hold the face plate against your clothing as coarse materials, stitching, belts and the rivets
from denim pants can mar the surfaces. Use a soft cloth with non-abrasive cleaning product to clean
your amplifier.

3. Gloves or a soft cloth will prevent "fingerprinting" of the tubes during their installation.
Do not touch the tubes without the use of a cotton glove or soft cloth.

4. Take care of the precision toggle switch selectors on the rear when moving or transporting the
Vulcan.

5. When the unit is on, be careful not to touch the vacuum tubes. Vacuum tubes get HOT.

6. The unit should be put on an adequate ventilated place; The Vulcan gets very warm!
Allow clearance of a couple inches in all directions so as to allow air to flow. Do not place the
amplifier directly on a carpet or any surface that will block air circulation under the amplifier.

7. Avoid placing the unit indirect sunlight or near sources of damp. Never put any objects directly on
top of the unit.

8. The power cord must be earthed . Never touch power plug with wet hands. Please pull out the
AC power cord by the plug instead of dragging it. Disconnect from power before removing bottom
plate is mandatory.

9. For best performance, place the Vulcan on a solid, horizontal and non-resonant shelf where there is
no risk of being knocked or subjected to vibration such as from loudspeakers.

10. The electronics in modern hi-fi equipment is complex and may, therefore, be adversely affected or
damaged by lightning. For protection of the audio system during electrical storms, remove the mains
plugs.

11. Insert the vacuum tubes in accordance with the designated tube numbers into their relative assigned
sockets. Important: Pay close attention to the direction of socket pins never force a vacuum tube
into place. Tube should glide right in. If the direction is wrong and you force the tube, damage to the
socket pins will occur.

12. Check your speaker connections! Do not operate amplifier without insuring that speakers are
connected to the amplifier. Never let run a tube amplifier into a short circuit, the output transformer
will soak up a lot of energy before failing, but if the short persists the output transformer could be
damaged.

13. Important: To switch on or off always use the power switch of the equipment, the power switch
(on/off) is located at the front left corner of the bottom plate.

14. Insure that the Ayon logo, located on the front panel of the Vulcan, illuminates

.

15. The Vulcan must be protected from humidity – if the unit is moved from a cold place to a warm
room, leave the unit for 3 hours or so to allow sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate.

16. The Vulcan amplifier should not be left running when not in use. If you will not be listening to the
amplifier for more than an hour, it is advised that the amplifier be turned off. Unlike solid state
amplifiers, tube amplifiers should be shut down when not being used. This will greatly prolong tube life.

17. It is normal for vacuum tube equipment to runs very warm if used for prolonged periods.

18. Do not use a speaker with impedance lower than 3 ohms on either of the outputs.

19. Changing the tubes: Make sure that the amplifier is switched OFF and the tubes are sufficiently
cooled down.

20. Warning: Never attempt any measurement or adjustment yourself as voltages inside the tube
amplifier can be lethal. Do not work inside a tube amplifier when you are not qualified to do so.

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OPEN CARTON - UNPACKING THE VULCAN

Inspect your amplifier for any shipping damage and call your dealer immediately if any is found.

Do not plug your amplifier into an AC outlet if you find shipping damage.

To avoid damaging the vacuum tubes please don’t turn the cardboard box upside down. Open the box
and carefully take out the vacuum tubes and then the amplifier. The amplifier is very heavy! We advise
saving all packing materials so that the unit can be easily and safely shipped if the need arises.

● red backlit ayon logo

● analog bias meter

● vacuum tube – 6SJ7

● vacuum tube – 5U4G

● vacuum tube – EL84 (6BQ5)

● vacuum tube – AA62B

● hum potentiometer for 62B – left & right

● output transformer

● power transformers – high voltage & filament/low voltage

● filtering

ACCESSORIES

Provided with the Ayon Vulcan amplifier are the following accessories: ( each monoblock )

2 x AA62B power tubes,
2 x EL84 (6BQ5) driver tubes,
2 x 6SJ7 signal tube,
1 x AC power cord,
1 x Owner’s manual for both monoblock’s

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OPERATION

1. Installing the vacuum tubes

Please remove the vacuum tubes and the Vulcan from box and place the Vulcan on a firm, level surface.
Insert the vacuum tubes in accordance with the designated tube numbers into their relative assigned
sockets.

It is very important to insert the tubes in the correct location.

Pay close attention to the direction of socket pins and their different diameter (AA62B) of pins.

The 5U4G and 6SJ7 tubes and their socket have a “nose” too. If the direction is wrong and you
force the tube, damage to the socket pins will occur. Never force a vacuum tube into place and
also avoid “left-right” tilting, pins can break easily. Tube should glide right in and have to fit tighten
(good pin contact). Ensure that all of the tubes are fully seated in their sockets.

Note: When inserting and removing tubes, handle them by their bases, not by their glass bulbs.
A slight violet glow in the tube is not cause for concern.

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VULCAN III - TUBE INSTALLATION PLAN

1. Install 5U4G tube in position V3

2. Install 6SJ7 tube in positions V4 and V5

3. Install 62B tubes in positions V1 and V2

4. Install 6BQ5-EL84 tubes in positions V6 and V7

All tubes are clearly marked (box) with their correct tube socket positions number!

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2. Connecting

To assure reliable operation always turn the Vulcan OFF while making or changing input or speaker
connections. No connections should be made while the amplifier is ON.

►

All input and output connectors are clearly marked on the rear panel

◄

R e a r p a n e l

● input ( RCA or XLR )

● speaker output terminal ( common , 4 Ohm or 8 Ohm )

● bias – setup push button for auto-fixed-bias system & tube test program (operation by pen)

● USB “type A” interface for updates/diagnostics via PC – (factory use only, no user options available)

● bias LED indicator for AA62B ( V1 & V2 )

● bias meter selector: position 2 Bias 1

● power inlet - with fuse

● ground switch

● toggle switch for RCA or BAL (Balanced) mode

● toggle switch for input sensitivity “Gain” 0dB and –6 dB

● power phase indicating lamp – 230V Schuko only

INPUT CONNECTION: Select RCA or XLR input to connect your preamp and set toggle switch

accordingly.

Remark: The amplifier has a special single-ended circuit design; therefore we recommend the use of the

asymmetric RCA connection!

Note for XLR: The XLR input is not a completely symmetric connector but only a "quasi" symmetric
connector, because the VULCAN is a single-ended amplifier; i.e. the XLR pins 1 (ground) and 3 (minus)
are connected by a small jumper-wire.
We provide this XLR connector, because some customers possess more expensive XLR cables and may
want to continue to use them; in this case you have to pay attention to the wiring of the output of the
preamplifier or to the configuration of the XLR-pins.

The configuration of the VULCAN is: pin 1: ground / pin 2: plus + / pin 3: minus –, with pins 1 and 3 short­circuited.

In case your preamplifier has an inverted XLR connector (pin 1: ground / pin 3: plus + / pin 2: minus – ) you
must open the internal jumper between pin 1 and pin 3.

Furthermore, in connection with the XLR connector a hum loop may occur (primarily in one channel only).
First, open the jumper between pin 1 and pin 3. In case the hum loop continues, perform this measure
also at the second channel. Grounding always applies to the overall installation; hence the hum is most
efficient where the biggest difference in grounding potential appears.

 In any case connect with an experienced audio dealer for these works.

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INPUT GAIN: Select via toggle switch between 0dB and -6dB. Activating the switch while the VULCAN

is running, could cause switching noise.

LOUDSPEAKER CONNECTION: There are three sets of gold speaker output terminals at the rear panel:

common, 4, 8, ohm. Connect the speaker input terminals to corresponding speaker output terminals

at the rear panel according to the impedance of the speaker with high quality audio cord.
Pay close attention to proper matching of positive and negative and left and right channels.
Note: in general, connecting the Vulcan and the speakers with the 8 Ohm terminal will result in a
slightly better sound, even if the nominal impedance of your speakers is 4 Ohms. But this effect differs
from speaker to speaker. We encourage you to check it out yourself: listen to you favourite music with
both the 4 and the 8 Ohms connection and then decide according to your personal taste.
Note: switch the preamplifier to “mute” before changing the wires.

POWER INLET: Plug the AC power cord into receptacle.

GROUND SWITCH: Make sure that Vulcan monoblock’s are grounded to your wall ground first.

If there is a hum loop (hum audible from more than 1 meter from the loudspeakers) flip the
grounded/ungrounded switch. If the hum doesn’t disappear then use a two prong plug to “float” the
Vulcan. Due to the amplifier’ high power rating, it is important to assure the good quality power line. It is
recommended that all units (preamp, CD-Player etc.) are connected to the same phase of the power
line. Otherwise, a high level of hum can be present. Another source of hum can be equipment stacked
on top of one another. This is not a good plan from the ventilation standpoint generally and it is likely to
introduce hum, buzz or noise into the system. Certain gear radiates magnetic fields or high frequency
noise around its chassis and other gear may be prone to receiving these fields. It’s also advisable to keep
signal and power cables separate where possible. Distance helps greatly.

USB Service plug

1. Here various operational parameters, i.e. bias, negative grid bias voltage, circuit protection, delay
time for switching on and off, tube test programme, mute and logo function and so on, can be changed
with a computer.

2. The USB also serves as a diagnosis port where the service technician can check the operating modes
on the computer screen, e.g. bias value, grid voltage, state of the tubes, operating hours, on-off-cycles,
and so on; hereby he can recognise problems.

3. Furthermore, software-updates can be performed by the manufacturer or service personnel
respectively.

PHASE INDICATOR: When the power phase control indicator glows red the Phase polarity is wrong.
Reverse the AC plug! This feature was developed only for the safety plug version (EU). For non-EU­countries it can be switched off by means of an internal switch.
The phase-light can always glow in the following cases even if the phase is applied correctly:

● in an old electrical installation (old buildings) where the neutral conductor voltage mostly is higher than
0V and this is already sufficient to bring the lamp to glow.

● when an external AC generator is used with a 2 x 115 V balanced output or with a so-called external
isolation transformer or power line conditioner.

It is recommended that you do not use a power conditioner etc. as it may limit the current
available to the amplifier.

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3. Turn ON procedure

When all sources are connected properly, turn down the volume (preamp) to minimum, switch on the
power - the Ayon-logo is flashing for a while and then it glows; it will go through a gentle power-on
sequence first. Please wait for min. 60 seconds before turning the volume up. After approximately 60
seconds, the unit is operational. Now you can increase the volume. Follow this procedure each time you
turn your Vulcan on.

Some preamplifiers and sources can generate transients. Source components and power supplies
should be always switched on before the power amplifiers.

To avoid letting transients reach your loudspeakers turn your system on in the following order:

1) Turn on all sources (CD, tuner, etc.) that you will be using.

2) Turn on the preamplifier.

3) Wait until preamp has stabilized.

4) Power up Vulcan mono amplifiers.

5) Select listening source and play music.

During the start-up period the amplifier is controlled by an electronic protection circuit. E.g. in case
a tube is defective the amplifier section is switched off. (See section 6 for correction of defects)

Note: The Vulcan is using a big dual power supply with large high voltage capacitor storage, during
power ON an electrical capacitor charging noise – mild hum may be heard a bit especially when the
amp was turn off for a while, as we did not install output relays at the speaker terminals influencing the
sound quality. This is not cause for alarm, it is normal. Furthermore the tubes themselves may issue sounds
resulting from material tensions (grid – anode plate) or electro-static discharge for a short time when
switching on. This “noise” neither damages the loudspeakers nor indicates a malfunction of the amplifier
or the tubes.

Also a “thump” may be heard from the loudspeakers as power amplifiers are switched on.
This is normal, will not cause any loudspeaker damage and does not point to any fault or problem.

To switch on or off always use the power switch of the equipment; otherwise the internal
microprocessor of the Vulcan cannot recognize or compute various information of the switch

on/off process. This may result in significant malfunctions.

I

n General you should always use the power switch of your hi-fi-equipment instead of a so-called external
main-switch or the switch of a power strip or a timer etc. These devices may also have a negative effect
on the operating life of the equipment, because it is always switched “hard”.

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4. Turn OFF procedure

● Always turn down the volume to minimum first.

When powering down your system, always turn the amplifier off first. The unit can be turned off at

any time. Important: If the amplifier was turned OFF even for a short period of time, you have to
wait at least 2 minutes before turning it back ON. Do not turn it ON then OFF and then ON again in
quick succession. This precaution will minimize the stress (high voltages) on internal components.
Note: during these 2 minutes "waiting time" in addition an electronic timer prevents the untimely
power-on of the amplifier.

At switching off a short „plop/pop“ (discharge of a capacitor or click of a relay) may be heard as

we did not install output relays at the speaker terminals influencing the sound quality.
These peculiarities are perfectly normal.

Always switch amplifiers off and wait 2 minutes before connecting or disconnecting any leads.

The amplifier is equipped with a two step release delay circuit. When you power off the amp it

takes approximately 40 second time until it’s completely turned off.

Meanwhile the protection circuit is activated (disruption), a short but intense switching noise of the

relay will be heard from the speakers (the B+ relay under charge disconnects the high voltage of
the power tubes). This is no reason for concern but completely normal.

Bottom plate

Note: The power switch (on/off) is located at the front left corner of the bottom plate!
To switch on or off always use the power switch of the equipment!

Never remove the bottom plate of the Vulcan before unplugging the unit from the wall!

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5. Intelligent Auto-Fixed-Bias (AFB) circuitry

The bias setting controls the current, thereby the operating point of the tube and therefore is vital for its
lifetime and sound. With the bias the power amp can be tuned to cooler/cleaner or hotter/more impure;
in the latter case the amp has more punch and can be overdriven more easily. However, too high a bias
leads to faster wear of the tubes. For tube amplifiers an "automatic" bias control of the power tubes
would be advantageous because differences, aging, or voltage shifting could be compensated more
easily or reliably. Furthermore the customer needs not care whether setting of the bias value is correct.
Unfortunately, this desirable automatic device has serious disadvantages such as significant deterioration
of sound and power. Creating a new automatic "fixed bias" circuit controlling the operating conditions of
the power tubes reliably in the specified way WITHOUT negative influence on the sound or output power
respectively was a very serious challenge for the Ayon development team.
This intelligent Auto-Fixed-Bias system must not be mistaken for a semi-automatic or so called fully
automatic bias fixture which can never achieve a result comparable with the new Ayon Auto-Fixed-Bias
circuit. The Ayon Auto-Fixed-Bias circuitry delivers the best possible combination of sound properties,
measured power and usability because it does not operate during music listening. This system does not
result in deterioration of sound, loss of output power, or any other negative concomitants.
Additionally the Auto-Fixed-Bias system is equipped with a sophisticated electronic two-way-protection
circuit which is always active during the tube test program or the switch-on period respectively.
In case of excessive bias current or a defective tube the high voltage is switched off immediately either
by a photo coupler controlled "comparator circuit" or by an analog-digital-converter. These protection
circuits do not lie in the signal path.

● An added benefit to this approach is that, should a tube fail prematurely, the single tube can be
replaced without having to purchase a matched set.

Mute LED remark: when the auto-fixed-bias adjustment or the tube test program is active the amplifier
always switches into the MUTE mode; this is indicated by the MUTE LED in combination with the blinking
ayon-logo.

Note: the auto-fixed-bias-system can also be activated manually when the amp is on by pressing the
bias-setup-button. Exception: during the 10 minutes after switching on the amp the system is deactivated
for safety reasons (the AA62B tubes first must have reached their operating temperature); i.e. in this
period you cannot perform a manual activation of the bias-setup. This function is mainly for servicing only
and is not really required for the user! The resulting actions are the same as in automatic mode, in
principle.

Bias meter: The successful operation of the auto-fixed-bias circuit can
be also indicated by an analog bias meter located at the top plate.
Every power tube can be checked by this bias meter too; the tubes are
selected by means of the bias selector switch at the rear panel. Switch
the bias selector to the desired tube V1 or V2. When the bias meter
doesn’t show the correct value (120-140mV), the particular output tube
is maybe defective. Press the “bias-setup” button to see if the bias
meter show the correct value again, if not, please changes the tube.
(The auto bias system is not able anymore to adjust the bias correctly
because of insufficient cathode emission). In this case this tube should
be replaced with a known good one and the bias meter should show
the correct bias value again. Note: Turn on Bias meter with NO music
signal going to the amplifier.

Bias meter

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5.1 Automatic determination of the bias reference value (optimal tube operating temperature)

When the amplifier is in operation for more than 45 min (optimal tube operating temperature) an
additional bias reference control is performed after switch-off (the LEDs on the back are flashing in order
from V1 to V2 during the shut-down process). The measured bias-values are stored and used as a
reference value when the amplifier is switched on the next time in order to always provide the best
possible working point of the tube (wear out and ageing are taken into account).

● In case the amplifier is switched off after less than 45 min of operation the bias value is not measured;
the value stored last is used when the amplifier is switched on the next time.

1. Failure report and bias LED failure indication – bias value too high:

In case that during this process the reference control detects that a tube can no longer attain its optimal
values or that its functioning at 100% can no longer be assured (bias current too high value), B+ (high
voltage) is switched off, the Ayon logo flashes, and the respective tube is indicated by its corresponding
LED (V1, V2) on the backside of the amp glowing red. Note: The amp cannot be switched of manually
with the power switch.

What to do:

1. Set the power switch to OFF-position.

2. Pull off the power cable.

3. Assure yourself that the tubes are sufficiently cooled down (ca. 10 minutes).

4. Replace the tube concerned. Important: even though the AA62B tube is designed to be inserted

into the socket in only one orientation (with normal force applied), it’s possible to insert the AA62B
the wrong way (with significant force applied). This will cause damage to the tube and/or the
amplifier; always keep in mind that the two thick tube pins go into the large socket holes!

5. Connect the power cable again.

6. Switch on the amp; the tube test program is activated automatically. (See also section 6 for

correction of defects)

7. After the successful tube test the system automatically switches to operation, the Ayon-logo glows
permanently and the amp is ready for music reproduction.

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6. Activation of the tube test program after a potential tube change

The manual activation of the tube test program with the "bias-setup" button becomes necessary after
changing the AA62B tubes. The circuit is activated when operating the "bias setup" button while the
Ayon logo blinks; this is necessary for the immediate detection of a possibly defective tube (electric short
circuit or too high current consumption of the new tube). This way you have maximum security from a
short circuit in the tube combined with maximum safety for the amplifier.

1. Switch on the amplifier (power ON), the Ayon-logo blinks.

2. Now press the „bias-setup“ button and keep it for approx. 3 sec (the switching relay creates an

audible "click") while the Ayon-logo keeps blinking.

The system heats up the tubes for approx. 3 minutes (the Ayon-logo keeps blinking and the amp is
muted). After heating-up the automatic bias adjustment starts autonomously and the system
checks every tube several times. When all tubes are okay the system automatically switches to
operational mode, the Ayon-logo glows permanently and the amp is ready for music
reproduction.

Note: this procedure takes about 10 minutes and the amp is muted for this period.

While the tube test program is active, the amplifier cannot be switched off. Do not interrupt the
power supply.

Tube test not successful in manual nor automatic activation

In case a tube is defective the high voltage of the tube (B+) is switched off immediately.
The Ayon-logo blinks, and the tube concerned is indicated by the related red glowing LED (V1, V2) on
the rear side of the amp. Note: The amp cannot be switched of manually with the power switch.

What to do:

1. Set the power switch to OFF-position.

2. Pull off the power cable.

3. Assure yourself that the tubes are sufficiently cooled down (ca. 10 minutes).

4. Replace the tube concerned.

5. Connect the power cable again.

6. Switch on the amp; the tube test program is activated automatically.

7. After the successful tube test the system automatically switches to operation, the Ayon-logo glows

permanently and the amp is ready for music reproduction.

Defective tube cannot be identified despite the tube test mode:

In case a tube is heavily damaged the system has to switch off again immediately and there is no time to
indicate it with the right LED in the tube test mode. Therefore you have to identify this tube yourself by
changing tube by tube until you have found the defective one.

● Please contact your dealer when you do not feel comfortable to execute this procedure yourself.

Note: after every preceding protective switch-off the tube test program is automatically activated at the

next switch-on until the tube test is successful and the amp switches to operational mode.

Should the protection circuit continue to activate even after removing the cause, please contact
your dealer.

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6.1. Activation of the auto-fixed-bias system in case of wrongly placed power tubes (socket)

In case that you did put the original AA62B tubes in a socket different from the marking on the package
(V1, V2) or you do not remember where which tube was to be put, it is mandatory that you manually
activate the auto-fixed-bias system, after turn on, wait 2 minutes and then press the bias set up button.
This is necessary to find out the new bias reference voltage to enable the “auto fixed bias system” to tune
the tube to its best operating parameters. (The “auto fixed bias system” can again control the tube in its
optimum bias-window and get the maximum out of it).

7. Hum adjustment for power tubes

First, listen to the speaker connected to the power amplifier for excessive hum; correct it if the hum level is
too high following the procedure below. You always may have to re-adjust the hum when exchanging
power tubes, or when your power tubes appear to be humming.

A D J U S T M E N T P R O C E D U R E

■ Switch on (volume to zero position), and wait for normal operation.

■ There is a heater-balance hum potentiometer for each output tube to adjust the outputs for
minimal hum as the tubes age. Rotate the screwdriver slowly to listen the changes on the hum level.
Try to rotate the pot screw in both directions and listen the effect of the change. Adjust the setting of
the hum to its minimum level. The amount of adjustment required should be small.

8. Troubleshooting – in general

If you experience any problem with this unit, please take the time to look through this chart and see if you
can solve the problem yourself before you call your dealer.

No power: Check the connection to the AC power supply. Check and make sure the AC source is not a
switched outlet and that, if it is, the switch is turned on. Insert the power cord into the AC inlet of this unit.
There is no sound: Press the power switch to turn on the unit, your external pre-amplifier (if any), and disc
player etc. Make sure a signal is output from a pre-amplifier or a CD-player etc. Check if the pre-amplifier,
speakers and source components are secure connected. Select input setting of the pre-amplifier etc.
correctly. Adjust the pre-amplifier volume. The protection circuit is maybe in operation (cut off) when
there is no Bias readable. Turn off the unit and solve the cause of problem.

Power tube will not bias: If the meter provides a reading but the tube will not bias correctly, the tube is

probably bad.

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BREAK-IN PERIOD

Your new Ayon Audio electronics Vulcan tube amplifier has an initial break–in period.
The unit will not perform to its full sonic potential when first installed in your system. This is partially due to a
residual polarization of the dielectric materials used in the PCB, like resistors, capacitors, chokes,
transformers and internal wiring. As music is played through the unit, the electrical signal will gradually
anneal these materials. Only after the break-in period will the full performance of your Ayon Audio
Vulcan is fully realized. The break-in process will occur naturally as music is played through the system.

The recommended break-in procedure is as follows:

° Initial warm-up: five to eight hours of quiet music.

° Extended break- in: 30 to 50 hours of mid volume level and dynamic source material.

Do not use any CD Break-in Disc or Break-in device. Use natural music only. We have found that
certain "break in" CD’s can actually have a detrimental effect on the performance of the system.

Note: For best results, do not burn–in your Vulcan continuously for more than 6 - 8 hours. Give the unit a
break before you turn it on again. Burn-in the Vulcan without any stress and be sure to use the system,
“normally”. During the break-in period, the sonic properties of your unit may undergo several gradual
shifts as the various components break–in at different rates. It is therefore suggested that the fine tuning
of the system be delayed until after the break–in period is completed. However, during the final phases
of the break–in period, the sonic image will open up, the sound stage will bloom to perfection, the bass
control and impact will increase and the overall sound will have a more involving sound stage
presentation.

VACUUM TUBES

It is a fact that each brand of tube sounds different in a particular high resolution circuit. This is because
no two manufacturers make a tube type in quite the same way, and the central tendencies of the
performance parameters will differ slightly with each maker. To emphasize the point, examine the plate
structure of any two signal tubes of the same type from different manufacturers. You will probably find
that they may not even the same shape and size.
Ayon Audio strongly discourages changing tubes (tube rolling) for the purpose of “improving sonic
performance”. Tubes of the same part number from different manufacturer’s and lots generally vary
considerably in many operating parameters. The Vulcan has been sonically and precisely optimized for
the tubes installed at the factory in Austria, by Ayon Audio. All tubes are highly selected and matched
tubes by our experts at Ayon Audio. The original signal tubes will provide for many years of excellent
audio performance.

Tube Life Expectancy

Average power tube life will depend on several parameters: product type, how the product is installed,
loudspeaker efficiency, room size and acoustic damping, listening habits or average sound pressure
levels, A.C. line stability and purity, and other circumstances.
When tubes are new they are at slightly greater risk of going bad during their break in period. This is
called infant mortality. After the break in time period the tubes will stabilize and last for the several
thousand hours of operation unless traumatized by being jarred or dropped.

→ The vacuum power tubes are high quality AA62B tubes rated for approximately 5000 hours of use.

→ The vacuum signal tubes are high quality 6QB5 & 6SJ7 tubes rated for approximately 5000 hours of
use. For maximum audio quality however we recommend replacing the tubes after 4000hrs of operation.

As with all tubes, their quality degrades with age. This is due to cathode emission, a natural process found
in all tubes. Note: Some tubes of the same brand and type glow at different brightness levels, some
variation in brightness is normal – having to do with the amount and positioning of the internal silvering on
the glass. You need not be concerned if one tube glows brighter than another

.

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Ayon Audio – Hart 18 – 8101 Gratkorn – Austria – Phone: [phone]

www.ayonaudio.com

AYON TUBE TESTING PROCESS

Every power and signal tube is visually examined and tested by our own special custom made tube
testing machine with burn in feature and add on the industry's most advanced computerized electron
tube testing system – Amplitrex AT1000 tube tester, for all 5 specs: Plate current, trans-conductance,
heater-to-cathode leakage, internal gas and microphonics. Actually tube manufacturer only tests mostly
one spec – the plate current in their factory QC process; we test all 5. For tubes with multiple sections
such as “dual triode” types, we test all sections of the tube and match the sections as close as possible.

SPECIFICATION

Amplifier Ayon Vulcan III

Class of Operation PSE Triode, Class A
Tube Complement 2x AA62B, 2x EL84, 2x 6SJ7,1x 5U4G
Load Impedance 4 & 8 Ohms
Negative Feedback 0dB
Bandwidth 8Hz-60kHz
Output Power 55W
Input Impedance 100 KΩ
Input sensitivity for full power 500mV
Hum 0,003 V
Frequency Response 10 Hz - 45 kHz/ 0 dB
Distortion at 1W < 0,3%
Inputs RCA & XLR
Power consumption 230W
Dimensions (WxDxH) cm 36x60x25 cm
Shipping dimensions (WxDxH) cm 78x53x44cm
Weight per unit 46kg
Shipping weight per unit 56kg

Ayon reserves the right to make improvements which may result in specification or feature changes without notice.

CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITYCE DCE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

We declare under our sole responsibility that this product is in conformity with the following standards or standardized
documents: BS EN 60065 in accordance with the regulations 73/23/EEC, 89/336/EEC (from 1 January 1997) CE 94E

LA

DISPOSAL

The crossed out wheeled bin label that appears on the back panel of the product indicates that the product must not
be disposed of as normal household waste. To prevent possible harm to the environment please separate the product
from other waste to ensure that it can be recycled in an environmentally safe manner. Please contact local
government office or retailer for available collection facilities.

ayon

®

is a registered trademark

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Ayon Audio – Hart 18 – 8101 Gratkorn – Austria – Phone: [phone]

www.ayonaudio.com

WHY TUBE AMPLIFIERS

After decades of solid state amplifier innovations, tube amplifiers have staged a powerful comeback in
the last ten years, due to their sonic merits. Tubes are the heart and soul of tone!

Simpler, purer circuits

At Ayon Audio, we feel that tubes are the sonically superior technology for audio, as their generally
simpler circuits and smaller number of components provide for a purer signal path and consequently
more truthful signal handling. This is because fewer components provide for fewer elements in a circuit to
degrade the signal, distort and muddle the sound. Simple circuits also provide for inherently higher
reliability, since there are fewer parts which can fail. Tubes are also more tolerant of circuit drifts and
deviations in component specifications, and thus can be used in simpler, purer circuits.

More benign overload and distortion behaviour

A lot of music features great dynamic signal swings, and it has been well established that in tube
amplifiers the onset of clip/overload as maximum power is reached is gradual and rising distortion is of
predominately low even-order harmonic nature. In comprehensive listening tests, even high levels of
even-order harmonic distortion has been found to be significantly less offensive to the ear than even
small levels of the harsh, odd order harmonic distortion produced by solid-state circuits when their reach
their power limit and enter clipping. In transistor amplifiers, the distortion rise very quickly as the maximum
power level is reached, showing almost square wave characteristics, and a high DC component, - which
can destroy easily loudspeaker drivers if not stopped to do so.

Vacuum tubes and “Tone”

The difference in the distortion characteristics between the two technologies can be well illustrated by
looking at their effects in guitar amplifier design. Tube guitar amplifier manufacturers have traditionally
designed their circuits to drive the output stages into overload distortion, using the resultant distortion to
achieve their trademark “tone”. In a tube amplifier, this tone contributes to the amplifier's sound, but in a
solid-state amplifier this distortion is audibly intolerable and easily destroys the speakers.
When transistors overload (in a discrete circuit or in an OP amp), the dominant distortion product is the
third harmonic. The third harmonic "produces a sound many musicians refer to as blanketed”. Instead of
making the tone fuller, a strong third actually makes the tone thin and hard. On the other hand, with
tubes (particularly triodes) the dominant distortion product is the second harmonic: “Musically the
second is an octave above the fundamental and is almost inaudible, yet it adds body to the sound,
making it fuller”. Tubes sound better because their distortion products are more musical. Tubes provide a
more appropriate load to transducers. Those are the fundamental reasons why tubes simply sound better.

Vacuum tubes are the more linear and require less feedback

Tubes are voltage amplifiers as opposed to transistors which are current amplification devices. As a
consequence, tubes are a more linear amplification technology, requiring less overall negative
feedback to make the circuit linear. Negative feedback re-injects a sample of the amplifier’s output
signal back into the input, 180 degrees out of phase, in an attempt to reduce amplifier non-linearity and
distortion. In practice, negative feedback tends to slow the amplifier down and sucks the emotion and
life out of the music. High feedback designs usually sound sterile, boring and lifeless, while low or zero
feedback designs provide for a more immediate and natural sound. Depending on technology and type
of the used output device, transistor amplifiers generally require the use of over 40dB of local loop or
global negative feedback.

Superior dynamic capabilities

The higher working voltages present in tube amplifiers generally allow for wider voltage swings and better
signal headroom before entering into overload territory. Higher working voltages yield higher audible
energy storage* with lower value capacitors. 500 volts working voltage in a tube amplifier approximate
about 80 volts in a transistor circuit. This is most likely why many listeners feel that tubes sound more
powerful.

*Audible energy storage is voltage squared divided by 2 multiplied by capacitance. = (V² / 2)* C.

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Ayon Audio – Hart 18 – 8101 Gratkorn – Austria – Phone: [phone]

www.ayonaudio.com

SOME WORDS ABOUT AYON TUBE AMP TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR BASIS

DESIGN

V a c u u m T u b e s

The choice of signal and power tubes have a significant influence on the sound and hence on the
inspiration and joy of listening. This is not only the decision between good and bad tubes but finally the
interaction of the different types of tubes and their combination that are used in the various Ayon
amplifiers. Today only few manufacturers still produce tubes for pure audio amplification; one of them is
Ayon Audio with its outstanding single-ended triode power tubes (AA32B-S, AA52B-S and AA62B) based
on the WE 300B.

Power & Signal tubes and their characteristics used in Ayon amplifiers:

AYON AA32B-S, AA52B-S & AA62B: It took us years of research to develop a new groundbreaking
generation of super triode power tubes. We design and produce our line of Ayon Audio triode vacuum
tubes completely by ourselves in the Czech Republic. That means we are fully independent and
extremely flexible. The circuits of our single-ended amplifiers have been specifically designed to take
advantage of the groundbreaking sonic properties of the new generation of Ayon "super triodes". All
Ayon vacuum tubes possess a vacuum of 10-9 torr, a maximum grid current of 2.2 micro ampere and
absolutely constant emission.

AYON KT88sx: The Ayon KT88sx “Black Treasure” tube's construction features gold grid wires and an
internally coated black glass bottle. This coating is known as Polymer Carbon Compound glass coating
and is for its ability to reduce stray electron emission that otherwise is reflected off the glass.
This greatly improves the ability of electron emission and electron current stability.
The Ayon KT88sx tubes with Ayon Logo are refined and specified for our Ayon amplifiers (perfectly
matched with an extremely narrow specification window, superior emission and also re-adapted for the
electrical parameters of our amps).

6BQ5/EL84 the power pack of the signal tubes and the ideal driver for difficult power tubes. This tube

provides a very neutral and harmonic sound at medium and high frequencies without a predominant
bass, with excellent dynamics. This tube was developed only for audio applications.

6189/12AU7 it excels in an extremely balanced and natural reproduction of all frequencies and provides

an incredible bass and brilliance at the top-end combined with a very lively sound image.

6H30 holographic three-dimensional structure of sound with comfortable full warmth and fine

unobtrusive treble. Very musical large soundstage and finest resolution in mid-range and top end. Linear
coherent sound with powerful reproduction of voices.

12AX7 stands for maximum transparency and bass definition. Powerful dense sound with good gain, firm

and clear basses, flossy and detailed treble.

6SL7 with a fine and detailed treble and a complex mid-range. Very enjoyable lively sound image with

very good spatiality and clear voices.

C3m the clear and harmonic top end allows great clean tone and at the same time it offers a mind

blowing powerful mid and bottom end and with a very linear and focused sound. Very consistent in
detail and separation, with clean heights and exceptional balance throughout. Very dynamic tone with
wide frequency range opens up tone with great details tight deep bottom. Very pleasing tonal
characteristic giving life to music with nice details and great dynamics.

5U4G classical rectifier tube, makes the sound a bit smoother compared to the use of a solid state

rectifier.

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Ayon Audio – Hart 18 – 8101 Gratkorn – Austria – Phone: [phone]

www.ayonaudio.com

O u t p u t T r a n s f o r m e r

The biggest challenge with designing a big output transformer is that it needs to be as big as possible to
be able to handle the bass current, but it gets harder and harder to keep the speed in the top end as
the size of the transformer increases. If the coupling is not watched carefully, the capacitance and
leakage inductance will roll off the high frequencies. Technically, the design highlights of the new super –
wide bandwidth output transformer are a substantial increase in the number of interleaved sections,
dramatically improving the coupling between the primary and secondary windings (and even the
individual wires) and increasing the efficiency (by lowering the insertion loss) of the transformer. The
multiple sections and better winding to winding coupling of the output transformer gives the amplifier the
capability to pass full power right out to the frequency extremes, which is the major reason for the wider
frequency response and improved resolution, particularly in the top end. The super-wide bandwidth
output transformer’s major strength is that it can deliver the current in the bass, while at the same time
maintaining the speed in the high frequencies, dramatically improving the square wave response of the
amplifier. The effect is a much more natural and relaxed sound with much better clarity, resolution and
fluidity.

S i g n a l P a t h

We believe that the simplest circuits work best together with the shortest signal path. That is why our SE­Triode amplifiers to date have used single-ended pure class A circuitry. The shorter the signal path is, the
less possibility of sonic degradation from various sources, including the wire itself. Even on the circuit
boards, the copper traces are kept to a very minimum length. The completely redesigned circuit board
provides a more straightforward and direct approach to the signal paths.

P o w e r S u p p l y

Single ended amps are more susceptible to power supply aberrations than push-pull amplifiers. The
power supplies have been further refined with new components and enhanced AC line noise filtration.
Separate power transformers, chokes and filters provide total isolation between the input and output
stage which makes this a pure power source and it is a critical attribute for a single-ended amplifier. We
also use electrolytic capacitors with much larger storage capacity to make up for the loss in filtering
when using resistors in lieu of inductors.

D u a l G r o u n d i n g S y s t e m

The modification of the grounding topology leads to increased rejection of noise from the power supply
and other areas. The dual grounding topology used in all of our amplifiers is quite unique to the whole hi­end tube amplification industry. Such extensive topology provides for quieter backdrop for which the
music can unfold in its entirety. It further establishes the quick and controlled bass response and the full
bodied expression of the high frequency. The ground leg of the signal has not been neglected and given
meticulous attention in its implementation. The importance of proper grounding cannot be over
emphasized.

C o m p o n e n t s

The type of parts what we are using must have a synergistic relationship to the circuit they are placed in.
It is this relationship of which type of part to use where, that ranks our products apart from the mass.

H i g h G r a d e S p e a k e r B i n d i n g P o s t

The new Ayon gold plated solid body speaker binding post provide performance levels that are truly in
the very High End. The solid body construction ensures that there is no gap or breach in the flow of
electrons. The special gold plating provides for superior contact and resistance to oxidation. These
speaker binding posts are chosen primarily for their sonic performance, edging out even more expensive
counterparts.

M e c h a n i c a l C o n s t r u c t i o n

The high grade aluminum chassis impart a richer, more lustrous tonality with a cleaner background and
less hash and grain. All brushed anodized anti-vibration-resonance and non-magnetic chassis’s are fully
hand assembled to insure the highest level of craftsmanship.

21

Ayon Audio – Hart 18 – 8101 Gratkorn – Austria – Phone: [phone]

www.ayonaudio.com

USING 4 OR 8 OHM IMPEDANCE TAPS

Our amplifier has multiple impedance taps: try the 4 ohm taps and 8 ohm taps to see which sound better.
They will sound different. It does not matter whether your speaker is specified with 4 or 8 ohms
impedance; the impedance curve is never flat over the whole frequency range but normally varies
between 3 and 10 ohms, with the exception of short-time peaks. Even a classical 4 ohm speaker may
sound significantly better when connected with the 8 ohm tap “against” the technical specification of
the speaker – and vice versa. There is no danger of damaging your amplifier or the speakers by using
either set of taps.

GENERAL REMARKS ABOUT CABLES & MAINS CIRCUITS

There is no one best cable to use with our equipment, and there is also no way for us to accurately
predict what cables will make your equipment sound best.
Research has demonstrated that the cables must be considered an integral part of the music system.
Each brand and model and category of cable has its own sonic characteristics and contributes to the
overall presentation of the music as much as any active component. Our amplifiers/preamplifiers/CD­Players/speakers can easily pass the amount of information required to hear these differences between
cables. The best cables for your system are your personal taste, the characteristics of your listening room,
and the associated equipment. The only person familiar enough with your taste and room characteristics
to assist you in selecting cables is someone from your local dealer who has visited your room and sat
through listening sessions with you. No one else can adequately evaluate two of the three factors (taste
and room). If you wait to select the cables until the other components in the system are set, you can fine­tune the system with your cable choice. As you evaluate different cables in your system please
remember that the dielectric in most quality cables takes several hours to fully form. These cables may
not reach their full potential or exhibit their true sonic characteristics until they have been in the system for
a week or more. It is important to keep the speaker cables as short as possible. In repeated trials, short
runs of inexpensive to moderately priced cable consistently outperformed long runs of the same cable as
well as much more expensive cables. If you must place your speakers at a long distance from your
electronics, you should consider positioning the amplifier between the speakers and using long
interconnect cables with short speaker cables. With comparable lengths and quality long interconnect
cables seem to influence the sound of a system less than long speaker cables. An additional advantage
is that a given length of interconnect cable will usually cost less than the same length of speaker cable,
for bi-wiring in particular An amplifier placed between the speakers can easily be concealed by a plant
or placed into a decorative piece of furniture.

Interconnect Cables
Interconnect plugs and sockets should be kept clean and free from corrosion. The easiest way to clean
them is to switch off the equipment, pull the plugs out of their sockets, and push them back in again.
Contact cleaners and “enhancers” should not be used as the film they deposit may degrade the sound.

Mains Circuits

A hi-fi system usually shares a mains circuit with other household equipment some of which can cause
distortion of the mains waveform. This distortion can in turn lead to mechanical hum from mains
transformers. The Ayon transformers are large in size, making them relatively sensitive to such distortion,
and it may be necessary to take account of transformer hum when siting your equipment. Transformer
hum is not transmitted through the speakers and has no effect on the performance of the system;
however, a separate mains circuit may reduce it. Such a circuit (ideally with a 30 to 50 Amp rating) will
also generally improve system performance. Advice on the installation of a separate mains circuit should
be sought from a qualified electrician.

22

Ayon Audio – Hart 18 – 8101 Gratkorn – Austria – Phone: [phone]

www.ayonaudio.com

WARRANTY AND SERVICE

LIMITED WARRANTY

Ayon Audio electronic components are warranted by the manufacturer to be free of defects in materials production
for a period starting 2 years (except for wear parts like all types of signal*, rectifier* and power tubes*; AA52B or
AA62B power tubes***, CD-mechanism**, laser pick up** and CD-acrylic-lid**), from the date of dispatch (factory).
Under this warranty defects are repaired free of charge. The purchaser is responsible for transportation from their
location to the original sales agent, national distributor, or international distributor, whoever is closest. This warranty
applies to the original purchaser only and it is non-transferable to subsequent purchasers within the original 2 year
period. Request for repair under this warranty must be accompanied by an unaltered copy of the original purchase
receipt. (3 month*), (6month**) & (1 year***).

IN THE EVENT OF A PROBLEM

In case of defects, pleases contact at first your dealer. He will ensure continuous operation at the highest level of

performance. The defective parts must then be returned to the factory for inspection to determine the status of the
warranty claim. This on-site replacement of the parts eliminates the time and expense of shipping the entire unit to
the factory for repair. Except as specified below, this warranty covers all defects in material and workmanship in this

product. Any implied warranties, including warranties of merchantabilities and fitness for a particular purpose, or
damages based upon inconvenience, loss of use of the product, or commercial loss, or any other damages are not
covered by this warranty.
If at the sole discretion of Ayon Audio it is necessary to ship the product to the manufacturer, please make sure that:

• The product is carefully packed and shipped in its original shipping box.

• The product is shipped free of charge to us, e.g. you must pay all shipping charges (ex. freight, insurance etc.).

CONDITIONS

This warranty is subject to the following conditions and limitations. The warranty is void and inapplicable if the
product has been used or handled other than in accordance with the instructions in the owner’s manual, abused or
misused, electric shorts from lightings or overloaded wall power outlet, the serial identification plate and serial
number has been removed from the unit, damaged by accident or neglect or in being transported or the defect is
due to the product being repaired or tampered with by anyone other than Ayon Audio, or an authorized party.

Further, the following are not covered by this warranty:

• Regular inspections, tuning, repairs or replacement of parts which are attributable to normal wear and tear.

• Damage occurring during shipment of the product. All transport claims must be presented to the carrier.

• Damages or scratches on the surface of the product (ex. metal and chrome parts, color coating etc.).
These claims must be presented immediately after the date of original purchase with your dealer.

• Damage resulting from incorrect placement, faulty connections, improper operation. Damage resulting from
failure to follow instructions supplied with the product.

• Damage resulting from accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, electrical surges, lightning or other acts of God.

• Damage resulting from repair or attempted repair by anyone other than Ayon Audio or an authorized Ayon dealer.

• Consequential, secondary or subsequent damages to other third party appliances.

• The device was sold by an unauthorized dealer or sales organization.

• The device is operated without ground connection (unearthed).

• The device is sent back inappropriately packaged.

Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.

Ayon reserves the right to modify the design of any product without obligation to purchasers of previously
manufactured products and to change the price or specifications of any product without notice or obligation to any
person.

OWNERS MANUAL

All rights ® reserved. Reproduction of this manual in any manner without written approval by Ayon is strictly
prohibited. Additional copies may be requested from Ayon.
Information in this manual is subject to change without notice; Ayon is not liable for any mistakes.
This manual has been established to help you. When you think that we could improve something or that we forgot
something please let us knows: [e-mail]

Release: 1st Issue Date: 05th June 2013

ayon

®

is a registered trademark