Cambridge Audio Azur-851C Owners Manual

CD/DAC/Pre

User’s manual

ENGLISH

azur

851C

Your music + our passion

Contents

Introduction

Introduction .................................................................................................2

Important safety instructions .....................................................................3

Limited warranty ..........................................................................................4

Front panel controls ....................................................................................6

Remote control ............................................................................................7

Apple device compatibility ..........................................................................7

Operating instructions ................................................................................8

Filters ........................................................................................................ 12

Custom installation (C.I.) use .................................................................. 14

Troubleshooting ........................................................................................ 14

Technical specications ........................................................................... 15

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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 specications 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.

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.

Thank you for purchasing the Azur 851C Upsampling Compact Disc Player / DAC / Digital Preamp. 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 851C adheres to our three core principles – stunning performance, ease of use and incredible value.

The 851C incorporates numerous advanced technologies and features. Key to its abilities is ATF2™ (Adaptive Time Filtering) our second generation up-sampling process - developed in conjunction with Anagram Technologies of Switzerland. This process intelligently interpolates all incoming audio data (such as 16-bit/44.1kHz from CD) to 24bit/384kHz through the use of a 32-bit Analog Devices Black Fin DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The ATF2 system applies polynomial

curve tting interpolation, and incorporates a time domain model that

allows data buffering and re-clocking to almost completely eradicate

digital jitter, helping to ensure the best possible sound quality. Our new

ATF2 noise shaping algorithm now also provides enhanced linearity with 24-bit sources.

Two very high quality Analog Devices AD1955 24-bit DACs (Digital to

Analog Converters) are used in dual differential mode. Each channel has its own DAC to process information and completely separate and

symmetrical analog lter circuitry is implemented. These allow both left and right channel circuitry to operate identically, ensuring the

851C delivers fantastic sound-staging and stereo imaging properties.

All ltering from DACs to output is also fully differential in nature. This fully balanced conguration largely rejects the already very low noise and distortion products present in the DACs and lters and provides

an unprecedented level of performance. Balanced (XLR) outputs are

tted as well as summed conventional unbalanced phono/RCA outputs.

Automatic DC servo circuits null all DC offsets allowing no capacitors in the signal path.

For this new model two 24-bit capable digital inputs are tted allowing

other digital sources to be brought into the 851C.

Also a 24-bit isochronous USB audio interface is provided that enables the 851C to play audio from a personal computer / laptop. This can

handle up to 24-bit/96kHz content from most Windows, Mac and Linux builds. In certain circumstances up to 24-bit/192kHz material can also be supported. See later section on Mac/PC/Linux setups and in particular our own free Windows driver.

Digital volume and output mute functions are incorporated that enable

the 851C to operate as a combined CD player, DAC and digital preamplier that can be connected directly to a separate power amplier

if desired.

In addition to these audiophile features Control Bus Input/Output, IR

Emitter Input and RS232 control are provided to make it easy to integrate this unit into Custom Installation systems if desired.

A new 8-series casework combines massive structural rigidity with careful damping and control of acoustic resonance. An Azur Navigator

remote handset is also provided, giving full control of your CD player, Azur ampliers and our iD100 digital iPod/iPad/iPhone dock in an

attractive and easy to use handset.

Your 851C can only be as good as the system it is connected to. Please

do not compromise on your amplier, speakers or cabling. Naturally we particularly recommend amplication from the Cambridge Audio Azur range, and in particular the 851A Integrated Amplier which has been designed to the same exacting standards as the 851C. Your dealer can also supply excellent quality Cambridge Audio interconnects to ensure

your system realises its full potential.

Thanks 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 851C design team

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 ampliers) 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 specied by the manufacturer.

12. Use with only the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or

table specied 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 qualied 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 (at least 10cm clearance all

round). 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.

851Cazur

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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

sufcient 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

qualied 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.

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 sufcient 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

conrm 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 modication 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 specic 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.

Rear panel connections

851Cazur

Power On/Off

Switches the 851C on and off.

Mains Voltage Selector Switch (CU version only)

Switches the 851C mains voltage between 100V and 115V.

Note: For use by Cambridge Audio service personnel only!

Power Socket

Once all other connections are made, connect the supplied power cable

to the 851C power socket and to an appropriate mains socket. The 851C is now ready for use.

RS232C Interface

The RS232C interface enables external serial control of the 851C in

custom installation applications. A command set is available on the Cambridge Audio website at www.cambridge-audio.com. The RS232 interface can also be used by Cambridge Audio service personnel for software updates.

IR (Infra Red) Emitter In

A 3.5mm mini-jack socket that enables modulated IR commands from multi-room or IR repeater systems to be received by the 851C.

Note: Commands received by the IR Emitter In socket are not looped out of the Control Bus. Refer to the ‘Custom Installation’ section for more information.

Control Bus

In – An RCA phono socket that enables un-modulated commands from

multi-rooms systems or other components to be received by the 851C.

Out – An RCA phono socket that provides control bus output commands for further downstream units.

Digital Outputs

The 851C digital outputs enable a separate DAC (digital to analogue converter) or digital recording device to be connected. Refer to the

‘Operating instructions’ section for more information.

Three concurrent digital outputs are available. Note these outputs pass

through the currently selected audio source un-processed, i.e. no volume

control or up-sampling is performed on the digital outputs.

Balanced AES/EBU – For external devices incorporating a balanced

(AES/EBU) digital input.

Note: The acronym “AES/EBU” refers to the Audio Engineering Society and the European Broadcast Union.

Coaxial – To obtain best results, use a high quality 75 ohm digital RCA

interconnect cable (not one designed for normal audio use).

Toslink Optical – Use a high quality TOSLINK bre optic interconnect cable designed specically for audio use.

USB Interface

A USB B type socket is tted to the 851C to enable the playback of audio from a personal computer running either Microsoft Windows or Apple Mac OS X operating systems. Some builds of Linux are also suitable.

Note: Always use a high quality USB connection cable certied as USB Hi-

Speed. USB cable connections longer than 3m may result in inconsistent audio performance.

4 5 6

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Ground Lift Switch

The Ground Lift Switch enables the USB interface earth to be disconnected from the 851C chassis earth. Disconnecting (lifting) the earth can be useful if electronic hum is heard through the speakers when the USB input is selected. The switch should otherwise be left in the Ground position.

10 11

- Digital Inputs 1 & 2

The 851C has three digital inputs in total. Inputs 1 and 2 feature both

S/PDIF co-axial and Toslink optical sockets.

For each input you can use whichever is most convenient, but not both

at the same time.

Coaxial – Use a high quality 75 ohm digital RCA Phono interconnect

cable (not one designed for normal audio use). This input is suitable for

16-24 bit content up to 192kHz.

Toslink Optical – Use a high quality TOSLINK bre optic interconnect cable designed specically for audio use. This input is suitable for 16-24 bit content up to 96kHz (Toslink is not recommened at 192kHz sampling

rates).

AES/EBU Digital Input

For sources with a balanced (AES/EBU) digital output. This input is

suitable for 16-24 bit content up to 192kHz.

Unbalanced Audio Output

A conventional RCA phono stereo output for connection to the line-level

inputs of an amplier. Use a high quality stereo RCA phono interconnect

cable intended for analogue audio signals.

Balanced Audio Output

The 851C features balanced outputs on two XLR sockets. Balanced outputs provide slightly better audio performance and can reject

cable-borne noise and interference when used with equipment with

balanced inputs.

Note: XLR connectors should be wired as follows:

Pin 1: Ground Pin 2: Hot (in-phase) Pin 3: Cold (phase-inverted)

Always turn the Volume to minimum, switch to another input or turn the 851C off before plugging/unplugging cables to the USB input or whilst booting up/shutting down your PC/Mac.

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