Cambridge audio AZUR 851A User Manual
Integrated Amplier
User’s manual
2
ENGLISH
azur
851A
Your music + our passion
Contents
Introduction
Introduction .................................................................................................2
Important safety instructions .....................................................................3
Limited warranty ..........................................................................................4
Rear panel connections ..............................................................................5
Front panel controls ....................................................................................6
Remote control ............................................................................................7
Connections .................................................................................................8
Operating instructions ................................................................................9
Amplier setup ......................................................................................... 10
CAP5 - Fiveway protection system ........................................................... 12
Custom installation (C.I.) use .................................................................. 13
Technical specications ........................................................................... 13
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................ 13
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This guide is designed to make installing and using this
product as easy as possible. Information in this document has
been carefully checked for accuracy at the time of printing;
however, Cambridge Audio’s policy is one of continuous
improvement, therefore design and specications are
subject to change without prior notice.
This document contains proprietary information protected
by copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this manual
may be reproduced by any mechanical, electronic or other
means, in any form, without prior written permission of the
manufacturer. All trademarks and registered trademarks are
the property of their respective owners.
© Copyright Cambridge Audio Ltd 2012.
Cambridge Audio and the Cambridge Audio logo are
trademarks of Cambridge Audio.
Other brands mentioned are trademarks of their respective
owners and are used for reference purposes only.
Cambridge Audio’s policy of continuous improvement means
design and specication may change without notice.
Thank you for purchasing the Azur 851A Class XD Integrated Amplier.
The 8 series range is fundamental to our commitment to the continual
development of the Azur range. We hope that you will appreciate
the results and enjoy many years of listening pleasure from it. Like
all Cambridge Audio products, the 851A adheres to our three core
principles – stunning performance, ease of use and incredible value.
The 851A features our unique proprietary amplier topology; Class XD™,
designed to eliminate crossover distortion at low signal levels.
By actively displacing the crossover point this technology creates a region
of pure Class-A operation where the crossover zone would otherwise
be before moving into an enhanced form of Class B at higher levels. It
should not be confused with Class AB, which gives a small area of Class
A, but at the cost of higher distortion as soon as the signal level moves
outside the AB area. Class XD circuitry not only removes crossover
distortion from the zero-crossing point but also reduces distortion in the
other parts of the amplier’s output range.
This 851A features our latest development of Class XD with many tweaks
and enhancements from our on-going research resulting in our best
sounding implementation to date.
A white paper on this patent pending technology is available on our
website: www.cambridge-audio.com
Please note that because of the Class XD technology the 851A runs
slightly warmer than a conventional Class B/AB amplier and the
ventilation slots on the top of the unit must not be obstructed.
A new balanced volume topology has been implemented for this model,
controllable in 1 dB steps over most of the range, giving very ne control,
an accurate logarithmic law and superbly accurate channel balance.
Input switching is by high quality gold contact relays.
The 851A features separate transformer secondaries for left and right
channels, twin rectiers and separate PSU’s for dual mono operation of
the left and right power ampliers. A separate transformer supplies the
preamp making the 851A effectively a Pre and Power amp combination
in one box.
Balanced as well as unbalanced inputs are featured for Sources 1 and 2
giving optimal performance with equipment such as the matching 851C
Upsampling CD player which features balanced outputs.
The casework combines massive structural rigidity with careful damping
and control of acoustic resonance. An Azur Navigator remote control is
also provided, giving full remote control of your amplier in an attractive
and easy to use handset.
Control Bus Input/Output, IR Emitter Input and RS232 control are
featured making it easy to integrate the 851A into a Custom Installation
system if desired.
Your amplier can only be as good as the system it is connected to.
Please do not compromise on your source equipment, speakers or
cabling.
Naturally we particularly recommend models from the Cambridge Audio
Azur range. These have been designed to the same exacting standards
as this amplier. Your dealer can also supply excellent quality Cambridge
Audio interconnects to ensure your system realises its full potential.
Thank you for taking the time to read this manual; we do recommend you
keep it for future reference.
Matthew Bramble,
Cambridge Audio Technical Director
and the 8-Series design team
2
Important safety instructions
For your own safety please read the following important safety
instructions carefully before attempting to connect this unit to the mains
power supply. They will also enable you to get the best performance from
and prolong the life of the unit:
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus (including other ampliers) that produce
heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type
plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other.
A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.
The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the
provided plug does not t into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly
at plugs, convenience receptacles and the point where they exit from
the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specied by the manufacturer.
12. Use with only the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specied by the manufacturer, or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/ apparatus combination to avoid injury
from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for
long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing is
required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such
as the power-supply cord or plug having been damaged, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus
has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or
has been dropped.
WARNING
– To reduce the risk of re or electric shock, do not expose this unit to
rain or moisture.
– Batteries (battery pack or batteries installed) shall not be exposed to
excessive heat such as sunshine, re or the like.
The unit is of Class 1 construction and must be connected to a mains
socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
The unit must be installed in a manner that makes disconnection of
the mains plug from the mains socket outlet (or appliance connector
from the rear of the unit) possible. Where the mains plug is used as the
disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
Only use the mains cord supplied with this unit.
Please ensure there is ample ventilation. We recommend that you do
not place the unit in an enclosed space; if you wish to place the unit on
a shelf, use the top shelf to allow maximum ventilation. Do not put any
objects on top of this unit. Do not situate it on a rug or other soft surface
and do not obstruct any air inlets or outlet grilles. Do not cover the
ventilation grilles with items such as newspapers, tablecloths, curtains,
etc.
This unit must not be used near water or exposed to dripping or splashing
water or other liquids. No objects lled with liquid, such as vases, shall
be placed on the unit.
851Aazur
ENGLISH
The lightning ash with the arrowhead symbol within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of un-insulated
‘dangerous voltage’ within the product’s enclosure that may be of
sufcient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert
the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance
instructions in the service literature relevant to this appliance.
WEEE symbol
The crossed-out wheeled bin is the European Union symbol
for indicating separate collection for electrical and electronic
equipment. This product contains electrical and electronic
equipment which should be reused, recycled or recovered
and should not be disposed of with unsorted regular waste.
Please return the unit or contact the authorised dealer from whom you
purchased this product for more information.
CE mark
This product complies with European Low Voltage (2006/95/
EC), Electromagnetic Compatibility (2004/108/EC) and
Environmentally-friendly design of Energy-related Products (2009/125/
EC) Directives when used and installed according to this instruction
manual. For continued compliance only Cambridge Audio accessories
should be used with this product and servicing must be referred to
qualied service personnel.
C-Tick mark
This product meets the Australian Communications
Authority’s Radio communications and EMC requirements.
Gost-R Mark
This product meets Russian electronic safety approvals.
FCC regulations
NOTE: THE MANUFACTURER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY RADIO
OR TV INTERFERENCE CAUSED BY UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATIONS
TO THIS EQUIPMENT. SUCH MODIFICATIONS COULD VOID THE USER
AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THE EQUIPMENT.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
- Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
3
Limited warranty
Ventilation
IMPORTANT – The unit will become hot when in use. Do not stack
multiple units on top of each other. Do not place in an enclosed area
such as a bookcase or in a cabinet without sufcient ventilation.
Ensure that small objects do not fall through any ventilation grille. If this
happens, switch off immediately, disconnect from the mains supply and
contact your dealer for advice.
Positioning
Choose the installation location carefully. Avoid placing it in direct
sunlight or close to a source of heat. No naked ame sources, such
as lighted candles, should be placed on the unit. Also avoid locations
subject to vibration and excessive dust, cold or moisture. The unit can
be used in a moderate climate.
This unit must be installed on a sturdy, level surface. Do not place in a
sealed area such as a bookcase or in a cabinet. Do not place the unit on
an unstable surface or shelf. The unit may fall, causing serious injury to
a child or adult as well as serious damage to the product. Do not place
other equipment on top of the unit.
Due to stray magnetic elds, turntables or CRT TVs should not be located
nearby due to possible interference.
Electronic audio components have a running in period of around a week
(if used several hours per day). This will allow the new components to
settle down and the sonic properties will improve over this time.
Power sources
The unit should be operated only from the type of power source indicated
on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power-supply to
your home, consult your product dealer or local power company.
This unit can be left in Standby mode when not in use and will draw
<0.5W in this state. To turn the unit off, switch off at the rear panel. If
you do not intend to use this unit for a long period of time, unplug it from
the mains socket.
Overloading
Do not overload wall outlets or extension cords as this can result in a risk
of re or electric shock. Overloaded AC outlets, extension cords, frayed
power cords, damaged or cracked wire insulation and broken plugs are
dangerous. They may result in a shock or re hazard.
Be sure to insert each power cord securely. To prevent hum and noise,
do not bundle the interconnect leads with the power cord or speaker
leads.
Cleaning
To clean the unit, wipe its case with a dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use any
cleaning uids containing alcohol, ammonia or abrasives. Do not spray
an aerosol at or near the unit.
Battery disposal
Batteries may contain substances harmful to the environment. Please
dispose of any discharged batteries with due consideration and in
accordance with local environmental/electronic recycling guidelines.
Loudspeakers
Before making any connections to loudspeakers, make sure all power is
turned off and only use suitable interconnects.
Servicing
These units are not user serviceable. Never attempt to repair,
disassemble or reconstruct the unit if there seems to be a problem.
A serious electric shock could result if this precautionary measure is
ignored. In the event of a problem or failure, please contact your dealer.
Cambridge Audio warrants this product to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship (subject to the terms set forth below).
Cambridge Audio will repair or replace (at Cambridge Audio’s option) this
product or any defective parts in this product. Warranty periods may vary
from country to country. If in doubt consult your dealer and ensure that
you retain proof of purchase.
To obtain warranty service, please contact the Cambridge Audio
authorised dealer from which you purchased this product. If your dealer
is not equipped to perform the repair of your Cambridge Audio product,
it can be returned by your dealer to Cambridge Audio or an authorised
Cambridge Audio service agent. You will need to ship this product in
either its original packaging or packaging affording an equal degree of
protection.
Proof of purchase in the form of a bill of sale or receipted invoice, which
is evidence that this product is within the warranty period, must be
presented to obtain warranty service.
This Warranty is invalid if (a) the factory-applied serial number has
been altered or removed from this product or (b) this product was not
purchased from a Cambridge Audio authorised dealer. You may call
Cambridge Audio or your local country Cambridge Audio distributor to
conrm that you have an unaltered serial number and/or you made a
purchase from a Cambridge Audio authorised dealer.
This Warranty does not cover cosmetic damage or damage due to
acts of God, accident, misuse, abuse, negligence, commercial use, or
modication of, or to any part of, the product. This Warranty does not
cover damage due to improper operation, maintenance or installation, or
attempted repair by anyone other than Cambridge Audio or a Cambridge
Audio dealer, or authorised service agent which is authorised to do
Cambridge Audio warranty work. Any unauthorised repairs will void this
Warranty. This Warranty does not cover products sold AS IS or WITH ALL
FAULTS.
REPAIRS OR REPLACEMENTS AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY
ARE THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE CONSUMER. CAMBRIDGE AUDIO
SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY IN
THIS PRODUCT. EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY LAW, THIS
WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS AND
IMPLIED WARRANTIES WHATSOEVER INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PRACTICAL
PURPOSE.
Some countries and US states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages or implied warranties so the above
exclusions may not apply to you. This Warranty gives you specic legal
rights, and you may have other statutory rights, which vary from state to
state or country to country.
For any service, in or out of warranty, please contact your dealer.
Plug Fitting Instructions (UK only)
The cord supplied with this appliance is factory-tted with a UK mains
plug tted with a 5-amp fuse inside. If it is necessary to change
the fuse, it is important that a 5-amp fuse is used. If the plug needs
to be changed because it is not suitable for your socket, or becomes
damaged, it should be cut off and an appropriate plug tted following
the wiring instructions below. The plug must then be disposed of safely,
as insertion into a mains socket is likely to cause an electrical hazard.
Should it be necessary to t a 3-pin BS mains plug to the power cord, the
wires should be tted as shown in this diagram. The colours of the wires
in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured
markings identifying the terminals in your plug. Connect them as follows:
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be
connected to the terminal which is marked
with the letter ‘N’ or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must
be connected to the terminal which is
marked with the letter ‘L’ or coloured RED.
The wire which is coloured GREEN/
YELLOW must be connected to the
terminal which is marked with the letter ‘E’
or coloured GREEN.
If a standard 13-amp (BS 1363) plug is used, a 5-amp fuse must be
tted or, if any other type of plug is used, a 5-amp fuse must be tted,
either in the plug or adaptor, or on the distribution board.
4
Rear panel connections
851Aazur
1
2
4
3
1
Power On/Off
Switches the unit on and off.
2
Mains Voltage Selector Switch (CU version only)
Switches the 851A mains voltage between 100V and 115V.
Note: Intended for use by a professional installer or Cambridge Audio
retailer only.
3
AC power socket
Once you have completed all connections to the amplier, plug the AC
power cable into an appropriate mains socket then switch on. Your
amplier is now ready for use.
4
Loudspeaker terminals
Two sets of loudspeaker terminals are available, A (main loudspeaker
terminals) and B (secondary loudspeaker terminals). Both sets of
speakers can be turned on and off independently. Connect the wires
from your left channel loudspeaker to the Left + & - terminals, and the
wires from the right channel loudspeaker to the Right + & - terminals. In
each case, the red terminal is the positive output and the black terminal
is the negative output.
Care should be taken to ensure no stray strands of wire short the
speaker outputs together. Please ensure that the loudspeaker terminals
have been tightened completely to provide a good electrical connection.
It is possible for the sound quality to be affected if the screw terminals
are loose.
Note: When using two pairs of speakers, use speakers with a minimum
nominal impedance of 16 ohms.
5
IR (Infrared) Emitter In
Allows modulated IR commands from multi-room systems to be
received by the amplier. Commands received here are not looped out
of the Control Bus. Refer to the ‘Custom installation’ section for more
information.
6
RS232C
The RS232C port allows external serial control of the 851A for custom
install use. A full command set is available on the Cambridge Audio
website at www.cambridge-audio.com. This port can also be used by
Cambridge Audio service personnel for software updates.
7
Control Bus
In - Allows un-modulated commands from multi-rooms systems or other
components to be received by the unit.
Out - Loop out for control bus commands to another unit. Also allows the
851A to control some Cambridge Audio units.
6
5
8
Preamp Out
Connect these sockets to the inputs on an external power amplier(s) or
active subwoofers etc.
9
Rec In
Connect to a tape deck or to the analogue output sockets on a MiniDisc,
portable digital music player or CD recorder using an interconnect cable
from the recorder’s Line Out sockets to the amplier’s Rec In sockets.
The Rec input circuit of the 851A is a “monitor” type, different from the
other 7 inputs. For the 7 normal inputs, the source selected for listening
will be sent out of the Rec Out for recording. The source currently being
listened to and (optionally) recorded is then shown on the front panel
display.
However, when Rec In is selected a solid circle will appear beside REC
IN indicating that the Rec input is now being listened to with a different
source being sent out of the Rec Out for recording. The recording source
is also shown by a solid circle by the selected input and can be changed
by pressing the other source buttons.
To switch Rec input off, simply press the ‘Rec In’ select button again,
toggling this function off.
This feature is most useful when using 3-head analogue cassette decks
which allow the signal being recorded to be played back live off tape
(via a 3rd head) whilst it is simultaneously recorded. It is then possible
by toggling the Rec input on and off to compare directly in real time
the original and recorded signal so that adjustments to the recording
parameters of the tape machine can be made (consult the manual of
your 3-head analogue cassette deck for full details).
8 117 9
10
Rec Out
For connection to the line level inputs of Tape Recorders or other
analogue recording apparatus.
10
Source 1 & 2 Audio inputs
These inputs feature either unbalanced (phono/RCA) or balanced (XLR)
connections. The balanced connection is the higher quality option and can
reject noise and interference in the cable when used with other equipment
that supports this function. An XLR connector is wired Pin 1 - Ground;
Pin 2 - Hot (inphase); Pin 3 - Cold (phase-inverted).
Note: Repeatedly pressing the Source 1 or Source 2 buttons on the front
of the unit will toggle these inputs between ‘Balanced’ and ‘Unbalanced’
source inputs.
11
Sources 3-7
These inputs are suitable for any ‘line level’ source equipment such as
CD players, DAB or FM/AM tuners etc.
Note: These inputs are for analogue audio signals only. They should not
be connected to the digital output of a CD player or any other digital
device.
ENGLISH
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