AYRE K-3 User Manual

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K-3x Preamplifier

Owners Manual

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Contents

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Ayre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Phono Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Trouble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

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Ayre

Please send in your warranty

registration card so we can

stay in contact with you.

The Ayre K-3x offers a significant advance in the musical
performance of audio preamplifiers. The warmth and
immediacy of a live performance are apparent from the first
listening. The combination of superb resolution and a
natural, relaxed quality will draw you into the music, time
and time again. This level of performance has been
implemented using the highest level of workmanship and
materials. Your Ayre K-3x preamplifier will provide a
lifetime of musical enjoyment.

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Operation

The Ayre K-3x is easy to hook up and use. The following
guidelines will ensure that the installation goes smoothly.

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The Ayre K-3x comprises two components - the main
preamplifier and the external power supply. If necessary,
these two pieces can be temporarily separated by your dealer
to facilitate installation into a cabinet.

The preamplifiers power
supply emits a mild hum

field, and should be located

away from other components.

The main unit produces very little heat and can normally be
stacked with other components. However, in certain
situations, hum can be induced into the audio circuitry. In
this case, try separating the components by a few feet (one
meter or so) to isolate the interfering component.

The receiver for the optional infrared remote control is
mounted behind the left-most scallop on the preamplifiers
front panel. Although the transmitters beam will reflect off
of most wall surfaces, a direct line of sight from the
listening position will ensure the maximum range. The
beam will also travel through glass if necessary.

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When you have a choice, a
balanced connection will offer
slightly higher sound quality

than an unbalanced

connection.

If a tape deck is not installed

in your system, input 4

performs like the other

unbalanced inputs.

If the phono stage is not

installed, input 2 performs

like the other balanced input.

The Ayre K-3x offers two pairs of balanced inputs and two
pairs of unbalanced inputs. Balanced connections are made
via three-pin XLR connectors, while unbalanced
connections are made via RCA jacks. In accordance with the
IEC standard, pin 2 is the positive phase (hot) of the XLR
connectors.

The input connectors on the rear panel are labeled 1
through 4.

If you are connecting a tape deck to your system,
be sure to connect it to input 4.

This will prevent the undesired possibility of a feedback
loop when monitoring a tape recording.

If the optional phono stage is installed, it will
use input 2. Do not connect a line-level source
to this input, as it may damage the phono stage.

Please refer to the section Optimizing the Phono Stage
for more detailed information on connecting your turntable.

Input 1 on the rear panel

corresponds to the top label,

while input 4 corresponds to

the bottom label.

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The front panel switches can be labeled to reflect the
components in your individual system. The faceplate must
be removed to install custom labels for the selector
switches. Use the supplied 1/8" allen wrench to remove the
four screws visible on the faceplate. Then slide the faceplate
away from the unit, taking care not to scratch the knobs.

Remove the old label by using a small object (such as an
allen wrench) to push through the access holes on the rear of
the faceplate. The labels have a self-adhesive backing, and
new ones are simply pressed into place.

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Both pairs of outputs may be

used simultaneously.

However, please note that the

level of the unbalanced output

will be 6 dB lower than the

balanced output.

2.0 dB Steps

A y r e

1.5 dB Steps

The Ayre K-3x offers one pair of balanced outputs and one
pair of unbalanced outputs.

Please note that the unbalanced outputs invert
absolute polarity.

When using an unbalanced connection between the Ayre
K-3x and your power amplifier, it is suggested that the
speaker cables plus and minus leads be reversed at the
amplifier. This will restore absolute polarity and can
enhance the sense of realism on many recordings.

Infrared Remote

Unity Gain

Record

Input #1

Disk

Phono

Video

O f f

Tape

Listen

Control Receiver

Mute

4.0 dB Steps3.0 dB Steps

2.0 dB Steps

Input #4

Status Indicator

Red = Warm-Up

Green = Mute

Blue = Listen

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The Ayre K-3x draws very

little power and is designed to

be left on at all times.

The volume control and the

mute switch may be operated

either by the optional remote

control or the front panel

controls.

The Ayre K-3x features a sophisticated power monitoring
system. When first plugged in to an AC power source, the
front panel indicator light will glow red for approximately
90 seconds. During this time, the outputs are muted and
the mute switch is inoperable.

After the circuitry has stabilized, the indicator light will
change to green, indicating that the unit is ready for play,
though the unit remains muted. When the listener toggles
the mute control, the unit is operational and the indicator
light glows blue.

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There are four controls on the Ayre K-3x preamplifer - the
volume control, the input selector (Listen), the tape
record selector (Record), and the mute switch. These
controls provide the ideal combination of flexibility and
ease of use.

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Unlike other products that use conventional volume
controls (potentiometers), the Ayre K-3x uses a mil-spec,
precision stepped attenuator with solid-silver contacts to
provide the ultimate in sound quality. This volume control
features 31 distinct positions, offering precise and
repeatable settings.

The remote control transmitter furnished with the K-3x has
four buttons. The three buttons on the right side of the unit
control the volume and muting functions. The fourth
button on the left side will control the V-1x power
amplifier, should you have one in your system.

It is normal to listen with the

volume knob advanced farther

than you may be used to with

other equipment.

The volume control offers 1.5 dB steps over most of its
range, allowing you to exactly select the desired listening
level. To maximize its capabilities, it has been designed so
that the volume knob will be between 1 oclock and 3
oclock for a loud playback level in most systems.

When a surround-sound processor is used, it is sometimes
useful to know the unity-gain volume setting. Since the
gain of the Ayre K-3x line-stage is 16 dB when driving a
power amplifier with balanced inputs, unity gain occurs
when the volume control is eight steps below the maximum
setting (see illustration).

Since the tape record selector

(Record) is controlled

separately from the main

input selector (Listen), it is

possible to listen to one source

while recording from another.

When using the Ayre K-3x

with an unbalanced power

amplifier, note that the

unity-gain volume setting

will now occur when the

volume control is five steps

below the maximum setting.

The tape record selector (Record) controls which source
component is connected to the tape output jacks. It is
recommended that the tape record selector be switched to
the Off position except when making a recording. This
will isolate the tape decks circuitry from the preamplifier,
providing the highest level of sound quality when listening.

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Unbalanced power amplifiers with single-ended inputs only
utilize one-half of the Ayre K-3xs balanced output signal.
The result is a 6 dB gain reduction, requiring that the
volume control be further advanced for an equivalent
listening level. However, certain systems may have
insufficient gain to produce a satisfying listening level, even
with the volume control turned fully up.

If required, the gain of the line stage can be increased 6 dB
to compensate for this loss. Please contact your authorized
Ayre dealer or the factory for information on this procedure.
(It is not recommended to increase the gain of the Ayre
K-3x when using a balanced amplifier, as the level of the
lowest volume setting may be too loud.)

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Please note that the optional

phono stage utilizes

additional circuitry and will

require its own break-in

period, achieved by playing

records.

A break-in period is required to achieve the maximum sonic
potential of the Ayre K-3x due to the manufacturing
processes used in the capacitors, circuit board material, and
wires. This normally requires between 100 and 500 hours
of playing time.

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Phono Stage

The optional phono stage in the Ayre K-3x offers the
ultimate in flexibility and performance for all types of
phono cartridges.

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Do not connect a line-level source to the phono
input as damage to the phono stage may result.

The balanced phono
configuration yields

maximum sonic performance

with minimum hum or

interference.

As the phono cartridge is an inherently balanced device, the
Ayre K-3x phono stage is also balanced, using XLR jacks at
the input. Since most tone arms and/or turntables are not
equipped with XLR connectors, there are two choices for
making the proper connection:

1) Use an RCA-to-XLR adapter. This often may be the
easiest solution to implement, but introduces an extra set of
contacts into the signal path. In addition, this converts the
balanced source into an unbalanced input and causes a
slight loss of sound quality.

2) Use dedicated cables with XLR connectors at the
preamplifier end and the appropriate connector (RCA or
DIN, depending on the particular installation) at the
turntable end. This is the preferred solution and offers the
highest level of sound quality.

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Ayre manufactures both adapters and dedicated cables.
These high-performance custom designs are available from
your authorized Ayre dealer. In addition, termination
instructions are available if you wish to reterminate your
current cables. Please contact the factory for further details,
or refer to our web site at

www.ayre.com

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The gain is factory-set to 50

dB, which is well suited to

most modern phono cartridges.

It is recommended that the

loading not be changed from

50 kΩ when using a

moving-magnet cartridge.

The gain of the phono stage is adjustable in 10 dB steps
from 40 dB to 60 dB, accommodating virtually any
cartridge made. Recommended gain settings are as follows:

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Less than 1.0 mV . . . . . 60 dB . . . . . . 20Ω

1.0 mV to 3.0 mV . . . . 50 dB . . . . . . 150Ω

Greater than 3.0 mV . . . 40 dB . . . . . . 500Ω

These are guidelines only. Variations from these settings are
perfectly acceptable.

The default cartridge load is 50 kΩ, which is suitable for
almost all cartridges. However, many moving-coil
cartridges yield better performance if they are loaded with a
lower impedance.

Usually, a lower load impedance results in a more focused
soundstage, with greater image solidity and less apparent
distortion. A higher load impedance will give a more open
sound, with greater air and life. The final value must be
chosen by ear to give the best sound in your particular
system.

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The phono gain and loading can be adjusted by your
authorized Ayre dealer. However, for those owners that
prefer to perform this task themselves, the following tools
are required:

5/64" allen wrench (supplied)
Small screwdriver - 0.080" to 0.100" (2.0 to 2.5 mm)
Tweezers, or small needle-nose pliers

Changing the phono gain and loading resistors
is comparable in complexity to installing a
phono cartridge. Do not perform this task
yourself unless you are completely comfortable
with it.

Page 11

Disconnect the preamplifiers power supply
from the AC power before working on the unit.

To adjust the gain or loading of the phono stage, use the
supplied 5/64" allen wrench to remove the six screws that
secure the top cover. The phono board is horizontally
mounted and located toward the right side of the chassis.

The phono board has two small brown terminal strips per
channel used to connect small metal-film resistors. The
terminal strips towards the front of the preamplifier is used
to adjust the gain of the phono stage, while the terminal
strip towards the rear of the unit accepts the loading
resistor. The resistor leads are clamped by the two screws in
the terminal strip, forming a gas-tight connection for
optimum sound quality.

To remove the installed resistors, use a small flat-bladed
screwdriver to loosen the two screws in the terminal strip
until the screw heads are flush with the top surface of the
terminal strip. Gently remove the resistor with a pair of
tweezers or small needle-nose pliers.

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To install the new resistors, use the tweezers or small
needle-nose pliers to insert the two leads into the holes on
the side of the terminal strip. Orientation is not important
 the resistor can be installed either way. Use the
flat-bladed screwdriver to gently snug the two screws down.
Do not overtighten them.

Do not operate the preamplifier without the
gain-adjusting resistors installed.

Replace the top cover, reinstalling the six screws with the
5/64" allen wrench.

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Specifications

Gain - Line

Gain - Phono

Input Impedance - Line

Input Impedance - Phono

Output Impedance

Power Consumption

Dimensions

16 dB to balanced outputs, 10 dB to unbalanced outputs.
Other values available upon request.

Adjustable  40 dB, 50 dB (factory setting), 60 dB

10 kΩ (each phase)

Adjustable  50 kΩ (factory setting)
100 Ω, 250 Ω, 500 Ω, 1000 Ω loading resistors supplied.

Other values available upon request.

300 Ω (each phase)

30 watts

18" W x 11" D x 3-3/4" H
(46cm x 28cm x 9.5cm)  Main Unit

10" W x 8" D x 3" H
(25cm x 20cm x 7.6cm)  Power Supply

Weight

25 pounds (11.5 kg)  Complete Unit

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Trouble

Should the Ayre K-3x preamplifier ever fail to operate
properly, please check the following:

Symptom: Remote control not

working.

Symptom: No sound, and the

status indicator is glowing

red.

Symptom: Status indicator

lamp not lit.

Check the batteries located in the remote control.

If the AC line voltage drops below 80% of normal
(brown-out), the outputs will mute and the indicator light
will glow red. After the line voltage returns to normal, the
initial power-up cycle will begin again.

Should the AC line lose power, the preamplifiers outputs
are immediately muted. This avoids any loudspeaker
damage due to thumps or pops.

1) Be sure that the power supply unit is connected to a
working AC outlet.

2) Check the AC line fuse.

To check the fuse, locate the rectangular fuse holder
mounted on the rear panel of the power supply. Press
downwards on the top edge, then pull outward. There are
two fuses mounted in the fuse holder. The inner one is the
operating fuse, and the outer one is a spare.

Page 14

The condition of the fuse can be determined by a visual
inspection, although an ohm-meter provides a more reliable
method. If in doubt, substitute the spare for the operating
fuse. If the spare fuse also blows, do not attempt further
repairs.

Always use the correct fuse!

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100 V . . . . . . . . . . . 1 A

120 V . . . . . . . . . . . 1 A

230 V . . . . . . . . . 500 mA

There are no user-serviceable parts in the Ayre K-3x. If the
preamplifier still does not operate, bring the unit to your
dealer for assistance.

Do not remove the power supply cover.
Hazardous voltages may exist inside the unit.

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Warranty

Please take the time to fill out

and return the enclosed

warranty registration card.

Your Ayre K-3x preamplifier is warranted against defects in
workmanship and materials for a period of five years from
the date of purchase. This warranty is transferable to
subsequent purchasers within the original five-year period.
All warranty claims must be made through an authorized
Ayre dealer or distributor. A complete statement of
warranty is given below.

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1. Ayre Acoustics, Inc. (Ayre) warrants the materials and
workmanship of this product for a period of five years from
date of first purchase. If any defects are found in the
materials or workmanship of this Ayre product within the
warranty period, the unit will be repaired or replaced by
Ayre or its authorized agent.

2. Purchaser must return the product, packed in the
original shipping carton, freight prepaid to:

Page 16

Ayre Acoustics, Inc.
2300-B Central Avenue
Boulder, Colorado 80301

3. Ayre reserves the right to inspect any product that is the
subject of any warranty claim prior to repairing or replacing
it. Final determination of warranty coverage lies solely with
Ayre. Out-of-warranty claims will be billed for labor,
materials, return freight, and insurance as required. Any
product for which a warranty claim is accepted will be
returned to the purchaser and the cost of shipping and
insurance will be factory prepaid within the boundaries of
the USA. Units to be shipped outside of the USA will be
shipped freight collect only. This warranty gives specific
legal rights. The purchaser also has implied warranty
rights, and may also have other rights which vary from state
to state.

4. Ayre strives to manufacture the finest possible
equipment, and therefore reserves the right to make
improvements on its products, without necessarily
assuming an obligation to retrofit such changes upon its
previously manufactured models.

5. The above warranty is the sole warranty given by Ayre,
and is in lieu of all other warranties. All implied warranties,
including warranties of merchantability or fitness for any
particular purpose shall be strictly limited in duration to
five years from the date of original purchase, and upon
expiration of the warranty period (five years), Ayre shall
have no further obligation of any kind, whether express or
implied. Further, Ayre shall in no event be obligated for
any incidental or consequential damages as a result of any
defect or any warranty claim, whether express or implied.
Some states do not allow exclusion or limitations of
incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how
long implied warranties last, so the above limitation and
exclusions may not apply to you.

Page 17

6. Ayre does not authorize any third party, including any
dealer or sales representative to assume any liability of Ayre
or make any warranty for Ayre. The unit must not have
been altered or improperly serviced. The serial number on
the unit must not have been altered or removed.

7. Warranty registration cards must be completed and
mailed to Ayre within 30 days of purchase. Ayre may, at its
option, require from the purchaser valid proof of purchase
(dated copy or photocopy of dealers original invoice).

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Notes

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Revision 1.2

Ayre Acoustics, Incorporated

2300-B Central Avenue

Boulder, Colorado 80301

303 442.7300

www.ayre.com