B&K PT3 User Manual

B&K

SB!IMPLY ETTER

B&K Components, Ltd.

PT3

P/N13010 0702

Owner’s Manual

B&K Components, Ltd., 2100 Old Union Road, Buffalo New York 14227-2725

Phone [phone] or [phone], Fax [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail] Web: www.bkcomp.com

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents ....................................................................................................................................................iii

Safety Precautions .................................................................................................................................................. 1

Features.................................................................................................................................................................... 2

The Basics................................................................................................................................................................ 3

Front Panel ............................................................................................................................................................... 4

Rear Panel ................................................................................................................................................................ 5

Remote Control........................................................................................................................................................ 6

Making the Connection ........................................................................................................................................... 7

Audio Connections..................................................................................................................................................................8

Using Full Range Speakers.....................................................................................................................................................9

Using Small Speakers ...........................................................................................................................................................10

Antenna Connections ............................................................................................................................................................11

Control Output / IR Input......................................................................................................................................................11

Operation................................................................................................................................................................ 12

Power ON/OFF .....................................................................................................................................................................12

Sleep......................................................................................................................................................................................12

Adjusting Volume.................................................................................................................................................................12

Choosing a Source ................................................................................................................................................................13

Headphone Mode..................................................................................................................................................................13

Adjusting Balance.................................................................................................................................................................14

Adjusting Bass ......................................................................................................................................................................14

Adjusting Treble ...................................................................................................................................................................14

Loudness ............................................................................................................................................................................... 14

Tuner Operation ....................................................................................................................................................................15

Presets ...................................................................................................................................................................................16

Menu ....................................................................................................................................................................... 17

Headphone ON......................................................................................................................................................................18

Help.......................................................................................................................................................................................18

Product Info ..........................................................................................................................................................................18

Setup .....................................................................................................................................................................................19

Favorite Preset Setup ....................................................................................................................................... 19

Source Names Setup ........................................................................................................................................ 20

Source Levels Setup ......................................................................................................................................... 20

Preset Operation Setup..................................................................................................................................... 21

Preset Volume................................................................................................................................................... 21

Preset Naming .................................................................................................................................................. 21

Display Setup .................................................................................................................................................... 22

Memory Options................................................................................................................................................ 22

Frequently Asked Questions................................................................................................................................ 23

Advanced Setup Features .................................................................................................................................... 24

Miscellaneous Setup .............................................................................................................................................................24

Max Level .......................................................................................................................................................... 24

Product ID Code Set and Zone ID .................................................................................................................... 24

Power On Titles ....................................................................................................................................................................24

Control Out Setup .................................................................................................................................................................25

Security Options....................................................................................................................................................................25

Factory Reset ......................................................................................................................................................... 25

Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................................... 26

Preamplifier Tuner Specifications ....................................................................................................................... 27

Limited Warranty..................................................................................................................................................................28

Returning Equipment............................................................................................................................................................28

Menu System.......................................................................................................................................................... 29

Advanced Menu System ....................................................................................................................................... 30

Rear Panel Enlarged View .................................................................................................................................... 31

Notes....................................................................................................................................................................... 32

WWW.BKCOMP.COM ............................................................................................................................................ 33

iii

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

PLEASE READ BEFORE INSTALLING

WARNING: to prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture. Care should be
taken to prevent objects or liquid from entering the enclosure. Never handle the power cord with wet
hands.

• The lightning flash with arrowhead, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user of the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage
electric shock to you.

” within the product’s enclosure that may constitute a risk of

• The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user of the presence of
important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the unit.

• Caution: To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover. No user-serviceable parts inside.
Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

• Unplug the Preamplifier Tuner from the AC outlet when plugging in or unplugging cables, when left
unused for an extended period of time, when moving, or when you suspect lightning in your area.

• Prevent damage to the power cord. Do not bend, pull, place objects on, alter, etc. Replace the power cord
if it becomes damaged. Always grasp the plug on the power cord when plugging in or unplugging the
Preamplifier Tuner from the AC outlet.

• Your system may produce sound levels capable of causing permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for
extended periods of time at high volume levels.

• Make sure the Preamplifier Tuner is placed on a level surface.

• The Preamplifier Tuner is equipped with raised feet to provide ventilation, reduce acoustic feedback, and

provide protection against scratching the surface the unit is resting on. We advise against removing or
altering feet.

• Do not stack anything on top of the Preamplifier Tuner (processor, source, etc.) Leave a minimum of 2”
clearance from the top of the Preamplifier Tuner to the next shelf (or component) to insure proper
ventilation.

• The Preamplifier Tuner should be located away from other sources that may be sensitive to heat.

• Do not perform any internal modifications to the Preamplifier Tuner.

• Always connect the Preamplifier Tuner’s power cord to an unswitched AC outlet for normal operation.

• If young children are present, adult supervision should be provided until the children are capable of

following all rules for safe operation.

• Do not plug the Preamplifier Tuner’s power cord into an outlet with an unreasonable number of other
devices. Be careful if using extension cords and ensure the total power used by all devices does not
exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) of the extension cord. Excessive loads may cause the insulation
on the cord to heat and possibly melt.

• Mistaking CONTROL OUTPUT or CONTROL INPUT connectors for audio/video inputs or outputs may
damage your Preamplifier or other components.

• Damage may occur to your speakers when the power rating of the driver is exceeded while playing back
music processed by the Preamplifier. Ensure that all the drivers in your system are capable of handling
not only the average power being delivered by the power amplifiers, but also the peak power that is likely
to be generated during strong passages. If you are unsure of your speaker's power rating, contact the
speaker manufacturer or the dealer where you purchased them.

• The Preamplifier Tuner should be serviced by qualified personnel when:

A. The Preamplifier Tuner is not functioning properly.
B. The Preamplifier Tuner was exposed to rain or other type of moisture.
C. The Preamplifier Tuner was dropped, or the chassis is damaged

1

FEATURES

Your new Preamplifier Tuner is versatile audio control center. The Preamplifier Tuner is designed to sound
sensational and be attractive, easy-to-use addition to your audio system.

Remote Control - Easy control of your B&K Preamplifier Tuner.

Front Panel Operation - Nearly all functions can be controlled directly from the Preamplifier Tuner.

Control Output - One 12 VDC @ 200 mA output for controlling external systems such as a projection screen or

B&K amplifier.

Analog Inputs/Outputs - Six audio inputs and full range, high pass, low pass and mono preamplifier outputs.

Gold Plated Connectors - Better sound with minimum signal loss and degradation.

Presents - 40 present memories allow instant recall of all user settings.

Loudness - May be used to ass clarity to the audio signal for low to moderate listening levels.

Bass - May be used to adjust room equalization.

Treble - May be used to adjust room equalization.

Customized Input and Present Names - Assign names to presents, inputs, or the turn on message.

Internally Digitally Synthesized AM/FM Stereo Tuner - Stores up to 40 AM or FM presets.

IR Output - One IR output allows integrating the Preamplifier Tuner with an infrared repeater control system.

Control I/O - A single 5 pin plug-in Phoenix connector allows easy system interface to the preamplifiers 12VDC

power source, one Infrared Data/Signal, one RS232 transmitter and a 12 VDC programmable trigger.

Upgradable - Optional RS232 control will allow for enhanced system control and interface.

2

THE BASICS

The following is intended to familiarize users with common terms and applications of home audio equipment.

Amplifier - An amplifier takes the output of a preamplifier and increases its level to that necessary to drive a
speaker. Your preamplifier Tuner includes full-range, high-pass, low-pass and mono preamplifier outputs for
connecting to external amplifiers and/or powered speakers.

Preamplifier - A preamplifier typically includes the capability to select from a number of sources, adjust volume

levels and route the signal to an amplifier. Optionally the preamplifier may include the capability to process the
audio signal to adjust for room and listening taste preferences. Your Preamplifier Tuner is capable of adding or
subtracting bass and treble to correct for any needed room equalization. A loudness circuit may be used to further
shape the audio signal for increased clarity and intelligibility at low levels.

Sources - Your Preamplifier Tuner can directly provide audio from its built-in AM/FM tuner. Typically you will want

to connect a number of additional sources (CD, DVD player, etc.) to your Preamplifier Tuner. Your Preamplifier
Tuner is designed to accommodate a wide range of audio sources.

Speakers and Bass Management - An audio system typically uses 2 speakers located front left and right.

Additionally, a sub woofer may be used with good results anywhere in the room. Small speakers usually require a
crossover to remove low frequency (bass) audio and pass this on to a sub woofer. You Preamplifier Tuner
includes an electronic crossover that adds the capability to work with large speakers (full range), or small
speakers (high-pass) and a sub woofer (low-pass). Excellent results can also be achieved using large speakers
and a sub woofer.

Zone - A zone is usually a room with speakers installed in it. Using Code Sets, your Preamplifier Tuner may be

configured for use in systems of up to 16 zones.

3

&

Components,

KB

Ltd.

PT 3 series II

FRONT PANEL

TUNER PREAMP

PT 3 PREAMP

SLEEPHEADPHONE PRESET ENTER SAVE TUNE - TUNE + SOURCE LOUDNESS

LEVEL

POWER
ON/OFF

1 2 3 54

1. Headphone Jack - Stereo headphones having a standard ¼ inch binaural plug can be connected to the

headphone output. The Preamplifier Tuner must be on and in HEADPHONE Mode for proper headphone
operation.

2. Front panel buttons

SLEEP

PRESET

ENTER

Puts the Preamplifier Tuner in and out of standby mode.

Steps through audio presets for instant recall of setups.
Pressing ENTER recalls the preset.

Confirm selection
Pressing PRESET and ENTER simultaneously will enter the MENU state.

SAVE

DOWN UP

Save a preset.
Press ENTER to accept.

Allows tuning - (down), or tuning + (up) of the AM / FM tuner.
While in MENU steps through menus, sources, or characters.

SOURCE

LOUDNESS

LEVEL

Steps through the audio sources.

Engages an audio intelligibility circuit for low level listening.

Selects VOLUME, BALANCE, BASS, or TREBLE level to be adjusted via
the rotational encoder.

3. Display - The Preamplifier Tuner display is a 16 character alphanumeric fluorescent display. Displays current
status of the Preamplifier Tuner and any changes being performed.

4. Volume control - For controlling system volume. Turning the rotational encoder control clockwise increases
the volume level, counterclockwise decreases the volume level. The volume knob is also used to change other
Tuner and preamplifier settings. See OPERATION and MENU SYSTEM sections in this manual.

5. Main power switch - Removes all power to the Preamplifier Tuner. Normal operation of the Preamplifier Tuner
requires the power switch to remain on. Use the Sleep button for daily on and off of the Preamplifier Tuner. It
places the unit in standby mode that allows turning back on with the remote control. Turn the Preamplifier Tuner
off with the main power switch when not using it for an extended period of time.

4

REAR PANEL

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

COMPLIES WITH THE LIMITS
FOR A CLASS B COMPUTING

DEVICE PURSUANT TO

SUBPART J OF PART 15

B&K Components, Ltd.

2100 Old Union Rd.
Buffalo, NY 14227
www.bkcomp.com

SERIAL NUMBER

AC IN

www.bkcomp.com

ACCESSORY CONNECTION

RS-232

+

12VDC
50mA

6-12VDC

38kHz

CONTROL

OUT

Audio/Video Systems made in the U.S.A.

PREAMP OUTPUTS

MONO

L+R

SUBIR INPUT

HIGH

PASS

FULL

RANGE

TAPE

SOURCE INPUTS

DVDCDINPUTOUTPUT

V1

V2TV

FM antenna

TUNER

AM antenn a

21 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

The Preamplifier Tuner’s back panel is organized into groups of inputs and outputs as shown below. See back of
this manual for an enlarged view.

1. Serial number - B&K Components, Ltd. serial number of your unit.

2. AC input receptacle - For attaching the supplied AC power cord to the Preamplifier Tuner.

3. RS232 input - Optional RS232 software is available to allow for enhanced system control and interface.

4. Control out - Output that allows you to remotely control external devices. (See “Making The Connection“).

5. IR in - Accepts input from external IR receptors. Connect an IR repeater (“home run”) to IR IN for controlling

the Preamplifier Tuner. This method of control is useful when the front IR receptor is blocked (for example, by a
cabinet door) or to control the Preamplifier Tuner from another room. This input is typically used in place of an
emitter attached to the front panel.

6. MONO L+R and SUB PREAMP outputs - Variable level outputs for driving external power amplifiers or
powered speakers. Mono is the summation of the L+R full range audio signals that is then processed by a low­pass filter to reduce audio above 80 Hz to source the SUB output.

7. HIGH PASS outputs - Variable level outputs for driving external power amplifiers or powered speakers.
These outputs have been processed through a high pass filter to reduce audio below 80 Hz. Use these outputs
for small speakers or in a sub woofer / satellite system. Note: these outputs are identical to the full range outputs
with the addition of a 80 Hz 12 dB / Octave high-pass filter.

8. FULL RANGE PREAMP outputs - Variable level output to your external amplifiers.

9. TAPE inputs and outputs - Fixed level output for use with an audio recorder and a return for a tape monitor.

10. Line inputs - connections from your audio sources.

Red RCA jacks - right analog audio
White RCA jacks - left analog audio

11. Antenna inputs - Connections for the AM and FM antennas.

5

REMOTE CONTROL

Your Preamplifier Tuner includes an IR remote control.

TVDVD SAT V2

MUTE

POWEROFF

VOL

V1

CD

BAL L BAL R

AM

FM

1

4

2 3

5 6

ON

TAPE

SEL

PRE

TUNER

TUNE

BAND

ST/M

7

+10

A

LOUDNESS SAVE

BASS TREBLE

B&K REMOTE CONTROLLER

8

0

9

E

6

MENU

MODE

MAKING THE CONNECTION

It’s tempting to just plug in your new Preamplifier Tuner and have great sound pour out. Before you do that, take a
few minutes to plan out how you want the Preamplifier Tuner to fit into your audio system. Ask yourself the
following questions:

 What source components do I want to connect to my Preamplifier Tuner? (CD, DVD, etc.)

 What equipment will be receiving the audio? (Amplifier, Powered Speakers, etc.)

The answers to your questions determine how many cables you need to connect to the back of the Preamplifier
Tuner. Good preplanning equals great sound. Keep these recommendations in mind:

 List all components in your system and indicate which jacks of the Preamplifier Tuner each component will be

connected to. Your Preamplifier Tuner has six sets of inputs. It is convenient to connect a DVD player to the
input labeled DVD or a VCR to the input labeled V1 or TAPE, etc. However, your equipment may differ from
the labeling on the back of your Preamplifier Tuner. In most cases you can connect any type of source to any
input (see FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS). For example, if you have a satellite receiver you can
connect it to V2. You can also reprogram the source name that will appear on your Preamplifier Tuner’s front
panel. (See SETUP - SOURCE NAMES)

 Also note the length of the cable for each component’s connection and describe how it should be routed or

draw your routing scheme below your list. You may want to label each cable with a name or number at both
ends. Use high quality connections to maintain high quality audio.

 Think about the type and length of cable you need and obstacles in the cable’s path (doorways, furniture,

walkways, etc.). To decide which ones are right for you talk to your dealer about the various cable products
that are available.

 For safety, keep all cables out of high traffic areas (hallways or doorways) and away from equipment that

radiates power, including amplifiers, power cords, heaters, etc.

 If you might expand your audio system later, keep these ideas in mind as you plan current cable runs.

 To provide the best tuner reception, make sure the antenna is at least several feet away from the Preamplifier

Tuner and any other equipment that may produce high frequency interference such as Personal computers,
CD players, halogen lamps, etc.

Take a look at the back panel of the Preamplifier Tuner. You will notice that the RCA-type audio input and output
connectors are identified by colors, red for right channel and white for the left channel audio.

7

AUDIO CONNECTIONS

Connecting your analog sources to your Preamplifier Tuner

Audio source - connecting a CD player to the Preamplifier Tuner’s analog inputs. Use the same instructions for

connecting to other audio sources such as a DVD, television, satellite receiver, cable box, etc. Attach one end of
the audio interconnect cable to the left audio output on the CD player, then attach the other end to the left (white)
CD audio input on the Preamplifier Tuner. Repeat for the right (red) audio connection.

LINE INPUTS

CD

Right audio input from
CD output

Left audio input from
CD output

TAPE or audio recorder - connect a cassette deck or other recorder to TAPE.
Attach one end of the audio interconnect cable to the left audio output on the TAPE recorder, then attach the
other end to the left (white) TAPE audio input on the Preamplifier Tuner. Repeat for the right (red) audio
connection.

TAPE

OUTPUT INPUT

Left audio output
to TAPE input

Right audio output
to TAPE input

Attach one end of the audio interconnect cable to the left audio input on the TAPE recorder, then attach the other

end to the left (white) TAPE audio output on the Preamplifier Tuner. Repeat for the right (red) audio connection.

Left audio input
from TAPE output

Right audio input
from TAPE output

8