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dCS Vivaldi Transport
Upsampling CD / SACD Transport
User Manual
Software Release 1.2x
April 2015
© Data Conversion Systems Ltd. 2012 - 2015
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduc ed, stored in or introduced into a retrieval s ystem,
or transmitted in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise)
without the prior written permission of dCS
publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil cla ims for damages.
Information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice, and whilst it is checked for accuracy, no
liabilities can be accepted for errors.
1
dCS is Data Conversion Systems Ltd. Company registered in England No. 2072115.
1
F
Price UK £10.00
F. Any person who does any unauthorised act in relation to this
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dCS Vivaldi Transport User Manual Software Issue 1.2x
April 2015
Vivaldi Transport Manual v1_2x Page 2 English version
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dCS Vivaldi Transport User Manual Software Issue 1.2x
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Contents
0BUsing the dCS Vivaldi Transport for the first time .............................................................................. 5
7BWhat’s in the box? 5
8BPositioning the unit 5
9BCondensation 6
Safety Notice 6
Laser Radiation 6
12BWhich types of disc can be played? 7
13BWhich types of disc can NOT be played? 7
1BStep-by-Step Guide ................................................................................................................................ 8
14BPreliminaries 8
15BSTEP 1 – Connecting a Digital Output 9
46BConnecting the Dual AES interface 9
47BConnecting the AES3 or an SPDIF output 10
48BConnecting the SDIF-2 interface 10
16BSTEP 2 – Choosing a Sync Mode 11
49BUsing the DAC in Master Mode 11
Using a Master Clock 12
17BSTEP 3 – Playing a Disc 13
18BFurther suggestions 13
Front Panel ............................................................................................................................................ 14
19BRemote Control Receiver 14
20BDisplay 14
21BPower Button 15
22BMenu Button 15
Layer Button 16
24BPlay / Pause Button 16
25BRwd Button 16
26BFwd Button 16
27BStop / Eject Button 16
28BCD Tray 16
Rear Panel ............................................................................................................................................. 17
29BAES Digital Outputs 17
30BSPDIF Digital Outputs 17
31BSDIF-2 Digital Interface 17
32BWord Clock Input / Output 17
Test interface 18
Mains inlet 18
Label 18
4BThe Menu ............................................................................................................................................... 19
Using the Menu 20
INFORMATION Menu 21
Unit Status 21
Version 21
Contact 21
Update 21
TRANSPORT SETTINGS Menu 22
Layer 22
PCM Enable 22
Upsampling Mode 22
RS232 Mode 22
CONFIGURATION Menu 23
Settings Lock 23
Save Configuration 23
Restore Configuration 23
Factory Reset 23
DISPLAY SETTINGS Menu 23
Brightness 23
Display On/Off 23
39BGENERATOR Menu 24
Channel Check 24
Phase Check 24
Burn In 24
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5BSpecification ......................................................................................................................................... 25
6BMaintenance and Support .................................................................................................................... 26
Service and Maintenance 26
Replacing a Blown Mains Fuse 26
Cleaning the case 26
43BLimited Warranty 27
44BIf you need more help 28
45BSoftware History 28
Index ...................................................................................................................................................... 29
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0BUSING THE dCS VIVALDI TRANSPORT FOR THE FIRST TIME
Congratulations on purchasing your dCS Vivaldi Transport.
Before using your unit, please read this section and the Step by Step Guide. This will enable you to
set the unit up quickly and safely with your hi-fi system.
From time to time, dCS will release updated software on CD that you can install yourself using the
Update feature. Please check our web-site occasionally to see if new Vivaldi software is available, or
consult your dealer.
7BWhat’s in the box?
Check that the box contains the following items:
• dCS Vivaldi Transport
• Manual and Menu Guide
• Power cable
• AES cable
• BNC cable
• 2 spare fuses
Notify your dealer as soon as possible if anything is missing or damaged. We suggest that you retain
the original packaging for possible future use. If this is not possible, replacement packaging can be
ordered from dCS or our distributors. Details can be found on our web site at www.dcsltd.co.uk
H.
A dCS Premium remote control is supplied with the Vivaldi DAC, it is available as an optional extra.
8BPositioning the unit
For best sound quality, the units in the Vivaldi range are designed to be mounted on separate shelves
of a rack, although they may be stacked directly on top of each other if this is absolutely necessary.
Place each unit on a firm, vibration free base, allowing convenient connection to the other parts of
your system. To prevent overheating, we recommend that you leave some free space around the unit
to allow for ventilation.
The unit is supplied with 4 feet fitted. If you prefer a 3-feet layout, unscrew the two back feet, remove
the two black cores using a 2.5mm A/F Allen key, fit one of the cores in the middle position and
replace the foot. Take care not to cross-thread the foot!
With all feet screwed fully home, the unit will sit level on a flat surface. If you need to do
any levelling, you can unscrew any of the feet up to 3 complete turns, to give up to 3mm
(1/8”) of height adjustment.
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9BCondensation
If the Transport is cold and is moved into a warm room, condensation will form inside the unit. This
interferes with normal operation. Remove the Transport from its packaging and let it stand for 1-2
hours, to allow it to reach room temperature and the condensation to evaporate.
Safety Notice
Your dCS Vivaldi Transport contains no user serviceable parts. DO NOT attempt to open
the case as there are potentially dangerous voltages present inside. In the event of the
unit developing a fault, please contact your dealer in the first instance.
If you decide to remove safety covers for any reason, disconnect the power cable first.
To maintain protection from electric shock, the unit MUST be connected to mains earth
(ground) via the power cable. Also, unearthed systems do not give the best sonic
performance.
Protect the product from dripping or splashing liquids. Liquid-filled objects such as vases
must not be placed on the product.
This product is lead-free and complies with the RoHS directive.
Before connecting the power cable to the unit for the first time, please check that it has been set to the
correct operating voltage for your mains supply. The unit’s voltage setting is shown on the serial
number label. If this does not match your local supply voltage, DO NOT attempt to use the unit.
Contact your dealer to have the unit reset. Using the unit with the wrong mains setting for your local
supply may result in serious damage to the unit and will invalidate the warranty. Do not attempt to
reset the voltage yourself.
We do not recommend the use of mains regenerators. However, if you do wish to use a mains
regenerator with variable voltage and frequency, we recommend that you set the voltage to match
your local voltage and the frequency to either 50Hz or 60Hz ONLY.
Damage caused to your Vivaldi Transport by misuse of a mains regenerator or by a
!
malfunctioning mains regenerator is not covered by the warranty.
Disposal at end-of-life - the symbol indicates that this product should not be treated as
normal household waste. It should be recycled, so please take it to an approved
collection facility.
Laser Radiation
dCS Vivaldi Transport is a Class 1 Laser Product, it complies with U.S. FDA 21CFR
subchapter J. In normal use, there is no risk of exposure to laser radiation.
!
The case should only be opened by authorised service personnel. The case protects the
user from indirect exposure to visible and invisible laser radiation, as well as risk of
electric shock.
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12BWhich types of disc can be played?
Commercially manufactured CDs can be played if they:
• are 12cm or 8cm round discs
• are recorded with linear PCM digital audio data
• carry the Compact Disc Digital Audio logo and meet the “Red-Book” standard.
Commercially manufactured single-layer SACDs or hybrid SACD/CD discs can be
played if they:
• are 12cm or 8cm round discs
• are recorded with DSD digital audio data on the SACD layer
• carry the Super Audio CD logo and meet the “Scarlet-Book” standard.
CD-R
CD-RW
13BWhich types of disc can NOT be played?
dCS cannot accept responsibility for any difficulty encountered while attempting to play the following
types of disc:
• Scratched, damaged or dirty discs.
• Non-circular “discs”, such as square or h eart-shaped.
• Printed or labelled CD-Rs or discs contaminated with glue or other sticky substances.
!
• DVD, CD-G, CD-EXTRA, PHOTO CD, CD-ROM or DVD-ROM.
• Discs recorded with digital audio data that is not in CD-format (e.g. FLAC or WAV files).
• Copy-protected discs that do not conform to the “Red-Book” CD standard may not play correctly or
may not play at all. Such discs are not CDs – they are optical discs that have been recorded with
digital audio data. They should not carry the Compact Disc Digital Audio logo – but some do. If you
encounter any difficulty playing such discs, please contact the disc manufacturer and demand a
genuine CD in exchange.
CD-R or CD-RW discs recorded with audio data in CD format may be playable, but
this depends on the disc, the software and the burner used to record on the disc.
dCS cannot accept responsibility for any difficulty encountered while attempting to
play such discs.
Contaminated discs may get stuck to the turntable inside the unit. If this happens, a
service charge will be made for removing the disc and repairing any damage.
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1BSTEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
This section guides you through setting up the unit for basic operation.
14BPreliminaries
The Menu Guide sheet details the menu structure.
For digital interfaces, use with cables designed for digital audio:
• for AES/EBU interfaces use 110Ω screened, twisted pair cables fitted with one male XLR
connector and one female XLR connector.
• for SDIF, Word Clock or SPDIF BNC interfaces, use 75Ω coax cables fitted with BNC plugs.
SDIF-2 and Word Clock interfaces require a simple DC-coupled connection. The
!
• for SPDIF RCA interfaces, use 75Ω coax cables fitted with RCA Phono plugs.
Connect the power cable supplied to the power inlet on the Transport rear panel, plug the other end
into a convenient power outlet.
interfaces may malfunction or not work at all if capacitor coupled cables or cables with
built-in networks are used.
Please do not use an excessively heavy or inflexible power cable as this may damage
!
Set the rocker switch near the mains inlet to the I position. Press the Power button – the unit will
display Vivaldi Transport. Wait about 30 seconds while the Transport configures itself.
If the unit is likely to be set in an unfamiliar state, you can run the Factory Reset routine by pressing
the buttons in this sequence: Menu, ►, ►, Menu, ◄, ◄, Menu.
Wait a few seconds while the unit resets itself.
the power inlet connector.
The cables supplied with the unit are “commercial grade”, because most owners will
have their own “audiophile grade” cables or will prefer to make their own cable choices.
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15BSTEP 1 – Connecting a Digital Output
Whether you are playing a CD or an SACD, the AES1+2 interface carries DSD data and all of the
PCM outputs carry 16/44.1 PCM data. Most owners connect the AES1+2 interface only, but some
prefer to listen to CDs in the native 16 bit 44.1kS/s format.
46BConnecting the Dual AES interface
When used with a Vivaldi DAC, AES1+2 is the main output.
• Connect the AES1 output on the Transport to the AES1 input on the Vivaldi DAC rear panel and
the AES2 output to the AES2 input, using two XLR cables. Ensure the cables are not swapped.
• Press the DAC’s Input button repeatedly until AES1+2 is displayed.
The DAC will lock to the source, displaying the Audio Sync icon and DSD.
Analogue
outputs
to Amplifier
Figure 1 – Basic setup
You can connect the Transport to the DAC’s AES3+4 input if you wish, but this input has
special features which are intended for use with the Vivaldi Upsampler.
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47BConnecting the AES3 or an SPDIF output
• Connect one of the outputs on the Transport to the matching input on the DAC using a suitable
cable.
• Press the DAC Input button repeatedly until your chosen input is displayed. This will be either
AES1, AES2, AES3, AES4, SPDIF1, SPDIF2 or SPDIF3 (BNC).
The DAC will lock to the source, displaying the Audio Sync icon and 0/44.1.
48BConnecting the SDIF-2 interface
• Connect the CH1 output on the Transport to the CH1 input on the DAC and the CH2 output to the
CH2 input, using two BNC cables. Connect the Transport’s Word Clock Out to the Word Clock
In1 connector on the DAC. Ensure the cables are not swapped.
• Press the DAC Input button repeatedly until SDIF-2 appears on the display.
The DAC will lock to the source, displaying the W1 Sync icon and 0/44.1.
Why does the DAC display 0/44.1? Is the Transport faulty?
No, the Transport is working correctly. When a CD is loaded but is not playing, a
44.1kS/s carrier signal is being transmitted but there is no data – just digital silence. The
DAC correctly reports zero active data bits until the disc starts playing, then it detects 16
active bits and updates the display. 0/44.1 may be displayed briefly between tracks also.
Proceed to Step 2.
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16BSTEP 2 – Choosing a Sync Mode
So far, the system has been set up to lock to the clock generated by the source. This is the simplest
arrangement, but it does not give the best sonic performance due to clock jitter.
49BUsing the DAC in Master Mode
If you have a Vivaldi Clock, go to the next page.
You can reduce the jitter in your system by using the Vivaldi DAC in Master mode and slaving the
Transport to it.
Analogue
outputs
to Amplifier
Figure 2 – Using the Vivaldi Transport with the DAC in Master Mode
• Use the DAC’s Input button to select the input you want to use (AES1+2 in the example).
• Connect the DAC’s Word Clock Out connector to the Transport’s Word Clock In connector.
Set the DAC’s Settings > Sync Mode menu page to Master mode.
The Transport will lock to the Word Clock and display this icon.
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Using a Master Clock
The performance can be improved further by adding a Vivaldi Master Clock to the system.
Analogue
outputs
to Amplifier
• Use the DAC’s Input button to select the input you want to use (AES1+2 in the example).
• Connect one of the Clock’s Group 1 Word Clock Outputs to the Transport’s Word Clock Input
• Use the Clock’s Freq1 button to set the Group 1 outputs to 44.1kHz.
Figure 3 – Using the Vivaldi Transport, DAC and Clock together
and the DAC’s Word Clock Input 1.
The Transport will lock to the Word Clock and display this icon.
Set the DAC’s Settings > Sync Mode menu page to Word Clock In1 and allow the
system to re-lock.
Proceed to Step 3.
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17BSTEP 3 – Playing a Disc
• Press the Stop/Eject button.
The display will show OPEN.
• Load a CD or SACD into the tray with the label upwards and either push the tray in gently or press
the Stop/Eject button again.
The display will show CLOSE, then LOADING. The disc type will be identified, either CD or the SACD
logo will appear on the display, along with the number of tracks and the total playing time. The
Transport will play the SACD layer of a hybrid disc by default, but if you wish, you can select the CD
layer instead by pressing the Layer button.
• Press the Play button. Turn up the Volume to a comfortable level.
You should have audio. For all discs, the disc type and elapsed time will be displayed.
• Press the Play/Pause button to pause playing, press again to resume playing.
• Press the Fwd or Rwd button to skip to the next track or the previous track.
• Hold down the Fwd or Rwd button to jog through the track - the speed will increase the longer you
hold the button down. Most owners will use the remote control for this.
• Press the Stop/Eject button to stop the disc. Press it again to open the tray.
The Remote Control gives access to other features, such as track number selection, display time
selection, repeat track or disc and programming a track sequence.
To program the track sequence 6 - 8, stop the disc and press the remote Program button – the
Transport will display PGM Mode then 0PGM0. As an example, press 6 or 06 – the display will
change to 6PGM1. Press 8 or 08 – the display will change to 8PGM2. The remote Clear button
cancels the last track entry. Start the disc to play the track sequence. To cancel Program Mode, press
the remote Program button or open the CD tray.
The next step is crucial – sit back and enjoy the music.
When you have finished listening, you can either keep the system warm by setting it to Sleep mode
(press the Power button briefly) or switch off (hold down the Power button until SWITCHING OFF is
displayed, then release).
18BFurther suggestions
• If you wish, you can set the AES1+2 output to generate DXD data (24/352.8) when playing a CD
instead of DSD, by changing the Settings > Upsampling Mode menu page (see page X22X).
• If you are using the AES1+2 output only, try setting the PCM Enable menu page to Off (see page
X22X).
• If you are using a Vivaldi Master Clock, try turning the Dither feature on. Try changing the Clock
frequency to 88.2kHz or 176.4kHz. Please refer to the Vivaldi Master Clock manual for more
information.
• If you have a Vivaldi Upsampler, try driving it with CD data from one of the Transport’s PCM
outputs and setting the Upsampler’s Output to DSD or 352.8 (DXD). Please refer to the Vivaldi
Upsampler manual for more information.
• If you have a complete 4-box Vivaldi system, please see the Upsampler or DAC manuals for set-up
information.
• If you turn on the EasyPlay feature in the Vivaldi DAC, loading a disc will automatically change the
DAC’s input to match the disc type. For example, loading an SACD can select the native DSD feed
from the Transport, while loading a CD can select the data from a Vivaldi Upsampler.
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FRONT PANEL
Figure 4 – Front panel
19BRemote Control Receiver
Aim the remote control handset towards the receiver (A) for best sensitivity.
20BDisplay
In normal use, the display (B) is split into 4 areas:
1 -------------------2------------------------- 3
-------------4------------
Area 1: The symbol indicates the mechanism status:
Stop
Play
Fast Forward x2
Fast Forward x4
Eject
Pause
Fast Reverse x2
Fast Reverse x4
Fast Forward x8
Fast Reverse x8
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Area 2: When in play or pause modes, the current track number & track/disc time (hours, minutes,
seconds) is shown.
When stopped, the number of tracks & total disc time is shown.
PGM is displayed here when a track sequence is programmed and the disc is stopped. For example,
8PGM3 indicates that a sequence of 3 tracks has been programmed and the last one is trac k 8.
Area 3: The icon defines the time that is displayed, set by the remote Display button:
Track time elapsed
Track time remaining
Disc time elapsed
Disc time remaining
Area 4: The status icons are displayed here:
SACD loaded
CD loaded
Locked to Word Clock input
Wrong clock detected
Repeat the current track
Settings are locked
Repeat the whole disc
Details of the menu displays are shown in the Menu section on page
To avoid unnecessary display wear, we recommend switching off or setting the unit to
Sleep mode at the end of the listening session.
X19X.
21BPower Button
To switch on, ensure the rear panel switch is set to I and press the Power button (C) on the front
panel once. Note that the unit cannot be turned on from the remote control.
To set the unit to sleep mode, press the Power button once. The main display will turn off, the LED
over the button will illuminate and the mechanism will stop, but the unit will remain close to running
temperature. If the tray is open, it will close automatically. Press again to return to normal operation.
To switch off, hold down the Power button for about 5 seconds until SWITCHING OFF appears on the
display, then release it. If the tray is open, it will close automatically.
When the menu is open, press the Power button to close the menu.
22BMenu Button
Press the Menu button (D) to open the menu, select menu pages and change settings. See the Menu
section on page X19X for information on using the menu features.
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Layer Button
After loading a hybrid CD/SACD disc, press the Layer button (E) if you want to select the CD layer.
The Transport will read the CD layer of the disc and then stop. The Layer button has no effect when a
single layer disc is loaded, or if a hybrid disc is playing.
24BPlay / Pause Button
After a disc has been read, press the Play / Pause button (F) to start playing. Press again to pause
and again to resume playing.
25BRwd Button
When a disc is playing, press the Rwd (rewind) button (G) briefly to select the previous track or press
and hold to jog back through the disc. The rewind speed increases to x2, x4 and x8 as you hold the
button down. Release the button to return to play mode.
When the menu is open, the Rwd button changes to the ◄ button, used to page backwards through
the menu.
26BFwd Button
When a disc is playing, press the Fwd (forward) button (H) briefly to select the next track or press and
hold to jog forward through the disc. The fast forward speed increases to x2, x4 and x8 as you hold
the button down. Release the button to return to play mode.
When the menu is open, the Fwd button changes to the ► button, used to page forwards through the
menu.
27BStop / Eject Button
Press the Stop / Eject button (I) to stop playing a disc. Press again to open the CD tray. Press again
to close the CD tray.
28BCD Tray
When loading a CD or SACD into the CD tray (J), ensure the disc is central with the la be l up wa r ds and
is seated correctly. The tray will close automatically if it is left open for more than a few minutes.
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REAR PANEL
K L M N --O--
S
T
P Q
Figure 5 – Rear panel
29BAES Digital Outputs
The AES1 and AES2 outputs (K) form a Dual AES pair. They output encrypted DSD data when an
SACD is playing. When playing a CD, the outputs can be set to output either encrypted DSD or DXD
(24 bits at 352.8kS/s), depending on the setting of the Settings > Upsample Mode menu page.
AES1+2 is the main output.
The AES1+2 interface is intended to work with the Vivaldi DAC, Scarlatti DAC v1.30 or
!
Paganini DAC v1.30 – it is unlikely to be compatible with other manufacturer’s products.
R
AES3 (L) outputs 16/44.1 AES/EBU format data, whether a CD or SACD is playing.
30BSPDIF Digital Outputs
The unit features two co-ax SPDIF outputs, labelled SPDIF1 (M – RCA connector) and SPDIF2 (N –
BNC connector). Both output 16/44.1 format data, whether a CD or SACD is playing.
31BSDIF-2 Digital Interface
The SDIF-2 interface outputs 16/44.1 format data, whether a CD or SACD is playing. The interface
consists of two data inputs labelled CH1 and CH2 (O – on 2x BNC connectors), supported by the
Word Clock Output (Q).
32BWord Clock Input / Output
The Word Clock In connector (P) will accept standard word clock at 44.1 or 88.2 or 176.4kHz from a
master clock or a DAC in master mode.
Once the unit has locked to the clock, this icon appears on the display.
The Word Clock Out connector (Q) carries a 44.1 kHz word clock.
Word clock is used for synchronisation only, it does not carry digital data.
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Test interface
This RS232 interface (R) has two modes, set by the Settings > RS232 menu page.
• Binary mode is used to remotely control the unit during automated production testing at dCS.
• Text mode is for use with a household automation system. If you would like to use this mode,
please download the list of remote control commands from www.dcsltd.co.uk
H.
The interface is designed to be used with a “straight through” cable, wired pin 1 to pin 1, etc.
The pin connections are:
• Pin 2 – dCS unit transmit
• Pin 3 – dCS unit receive
• Pin 5 – ground
• Shell – cable screen & drain wire
We recommend using infra-red remote control instead.
Mains inlet
Power is connected via a standard IEC320 connector (S), protected by a fuse and isolated by a 2-pole
power switch.
Label
The label (T) states the unit’s serial number and the nominal voltage to which the unit is set. It is
important to quote the serial number if you need assistance.
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4BTHE MENU
MENU
Infor matio n
Settings
Config
Unit Statu s
►
Displays the
unit status.
►
Selects the
format for
playing hybrid
(CD/SACD).
►
Layer
discs
Lock
Version
►
Displays the
software
issues & serial
number.
PCM
►
Enable
Turns the PCM
outputs on/off.
Save
►
Contact
►
Displays dCS
contact details.
Upsample
►
Selects DSD
or DXD
upsampling on
AES1+2 for
CD data.
Restore
►
Mode
Upd ate
►
Loads new
software from
a dCS CD.
►
Select RS232
Text Mode or
Binary Mode.
Factory
►
RS232
Mode
Reset
Display
Settings
Signal
Generator
Locks some
Brightness
►
brightness.
Channel
►
Outputs tone
on L channel
only then R
channel only.
important
settings.
Sets the
display
Check
Saves the
current config
to memory.
Display
►
On/Off
Turns the mai n
display on/ off.
Phase
►
Check
Noise on both
channels then
inverts R.
Loads the
previously
saved config
from memory.
Burn In
►
Outputs
modulated pink
noise to burn-
in your
system.
Restores
standard
factory
settings.
Figure 6 – The menu sequence
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Using the Menu
The menu gives the user access to a range of additional features. It also allows new features and
performance enhancements to be added later by software updates.
The menu is controlled by four buttons.
• Press the Menu button to open the menu or select a setting.
• Press the ► button to page forward through the menu.
• Press the ◄ button pages backward through the menu.
• Press the Power button to close the menu or just wait 10 seconds.
Use the Menu Guide sheet to help you find the right menu page.
Each unit in the range has either four or five top-level menu pages:
The INFORMATION menu gives unit set-up details, software issues, serial number and
contact details.
Each model has a different SETTINGS menu, which allows you to set some features that
are not directly accessible from the front panel.
The CONFIGURATION menu allows you to lock important settings, save a standard
setup and reset the unit.
The DISPLAY SETTINGS menu is used to adjust the display.
The SIGNAL GENERATOR menu (featured on the Transport, Upsampler and DAC only)
contains test and set-up routines.
Use the ► button to move the blue highlight to the menu you want, then press the Menu button to
select it. The next menu level down is displayed. Use the ► button to move the highlight to the menu
page you want, then press the Menu button to display the information or change the setting.
Select the return icon to go back to the previous menu level.
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INFORMATION Menu
Unit Status
The Unit Status page displays:
• The long version of the serial number, including the hardware configuration code.
Version
• Internal temperature ....°C
• The clock frequency detected on the Word Clock Input ……Hz
Use the ◄ ► buttons to scroll up or down the list. This page does not time out, press the
Menu button to exit.
If your system is not behaving as you expect, the Unit Status page can help you find setup or connection errors.
The Version page displays the software versions loaded in the unit. Please have this
information ready if you contact your dealer for any reason:
• Control Board: 1.xx (this is the main software version)
• Front panel: 1.xx
Contact
Update
!
This page does not time out, press the Menu button to exit.
The Contact page displays the dCS web-site URL and support email address. This page
does not time out, press the Menu button to exit.
If you have any difficulty, please contact your dealer for help first.
The Update feature allows you to load new software into your Transport. Please follow
the instructions supplied with the update disc carefully.
If you accidentally start an Update, do not worry. The unit will automatically detect it is
not receiving updated software and will abort the process. The software will not have
been changed.
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TRANSPORT SETTINGS Menu
Layer
When a hybrid disc is loaded but is not playing, the Layer page allows you to select
either the SACD layer…
…or CD layer. While changing layers and re-reading the disc, Changing Layer - Please
Wait is displayed.
PCM Enable
This page turns the 16/44.1 PCM outputs (AES3, SPDIF1, SPDIF2 & SDIF) on…
Upsampling Mode
…and off. This gives a quieter electrical environment when you are using the AES1+2
interface only.
Remember to turn the PCM outputs on again if you want to use them!
While playing a CD, this page sets the format of the AES1+2 Dual AES interface to
either encrypted DSD (1 bit at 2.822MS/s)…
…or DXD (24 bits at 352.8kS/s).
RS232 Mode
There is no need for an “Upsampling Off” setting.
If you want to listen to the 16/44.1 data unprocessed, connect one of the PCM format
outputs (AES3, SPDIF1, etc.) directly to the DAC and select that input.
Sets the RS232 interface to either Text mode for use with 3
rd
-party control systems or…
…dCS production Binary mode, which is intended for factory use only.
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CONFIGURATION Menu
Settings Lock
When set to Locked, this icon is displayed and the following settings cannot be changed:
• PCM Enable
• Upsample Mode
• Save Configuration is disabled
• Restore Configuration is disabled
• Factory Reset is disabled
Set to Unlocked if you need to change these settings.
Save Configuration
Once the unit is set up the way you want it, select Save to store the settings in memory.
If you deliberately change the setup later and want to keep it, select Save again to store
the changes.
Restore Configuration
If the unit settings are accidentally changed, select Restore to reload the settings you
saved earlier.
Factory Reset
Resets the unit to standard settings. These are:
• PCM Enable to On
• Upsample Mode to DSD.
• Brightness to maximum.
• Display to On.
• RS232 Mode to Binary.
DISPLAY SETTINGS Menu
Brightness
Set the display Brightness to a comfortable level using the ◄ or ► buttons. Press the
Menu button to exit.
Display On/Off
This page is usually set to On.
When set to Off and the menu closes, the display will turn off after a few seconds. The
display will turn on briefly when a control setting is changed. The display will stay on if
Vivaldi Transport Manual v1_2x Page 23 English version
the CD tray is open or the menu is open.
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39BGENERATOR Menu
Channel Check
A routine to test the system for swapped channels. A tone is output on the left channel
only while the display shows Left, then the right channel only while the display shows
Right. If these are the wrong way around, the left and right channels are swapped
Phase Check
somewhere in your system.
A routine to test the system for phase reversals. Noise is output in phase on both
channels while the display shows In Phase. Press the Menu button, the noise on the
right channel is inverted while the display shows Out of Phase. The first burst should
produce a central image, the second burst should not. If these are the wrong way
around, one channel in your system is phase inverted. Press the ◄ or ► button to stop
the test and return to the menu.
Burn In
A procedure to condition your system. The unit displays Burn In Caution! Loud, then
outputs modulated pink noise that ramps up and down slowly in level. Press the Menu or
◄ or ► buttons to stop the procedure.
Please ensure that the volume level is reasonable, as careless use of the Burn In feature
!
can damage your amplifiers and loudspeakers. dCS will not be liable for such damage.
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5BSPECIFICATION
Mechanism type
Digital outputs
TEAC Esoteric VRDS NEO
Dual AES interface on 2x 3-pin male XLR connectors (AES1+2).
®
VMK3 dual laser CD/SACD mechanism.
While an SACD is playing, the interface outputs encrypted DSD data.
While a CD is playing, the Settings > Upsample Mode menu page sets the
interface to output either encrypted DSD data (1 bit at 2.822MS/s) or DXD
data (24 bits at 352.8kS/s).
AES/EBU on 3-pin male XLR connector (AES3). Outputs 16/44.1 data,
whether a CD or SACD is playing.
Clocking
Size and weight
Power requirements
2x SPDIF on 1x RCA Phono and 1x BNC connectors. Each outputs 16/44.1
data, whether a CD or SACD is playing.
1x SDIF-2 interface on 2x BNC connectors, outputs 16/44.1 data, whether a
CD or SACD is playing.
Word Clock Output on 1x BNC connector. With the transport in Master
mode, a TTL-compatible 44.1kHz word clock derived from the internal crystal
oscillator is available on this output. The calibration accuracy when shipped is
+/-10ppm, not temperature compensated. Calibration usually remains stable
for several years.
Word Clock Input on 1x BNC connector, accepts standard word clock at
44.1, 88.2 or 176.4kHz. Sensitive to TTL levels. Lock range is +/-300ppm.
444mm (17.5”) long x 435mm (17.2”) deep x 196mm (7.8”) high. Allow extra
depth for cable connectors. Allow space for air flow around the unit.
23.2kg (51.1lbs).
Internally set to either 100, 115/120, 220 or 230/240V AC, 49 – 62Hz.
Power consumption: 28W typical, 40W maximum.
Consumes less than 0.5W when powered down from the front panel.
These specifications are subject to change without notice.
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6BMAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT
Service and Maintenance
dCS audio products are designed not to need regular maintenance, and contain no user serviceable
parts apart from the mains fuse. If your unit is damaged in any way, please contact your dealer.
Replacing a Blown Mains Fuse
There is a mains fuse below the power inlet, accessible from the outside of the unit. If the fuse blows,
it may be changed by the user. The current consumption of the unit is very low, so it only blows if
power surges occur, or there is a fault in the unit. Usually power surges cause no other damage, but if
the fuse blows repeatedly on replacement, some other damage will have been done - contact your
dealer to arrange repair.
Fuse type: 20 x 5mm T 1A L fuse
If the fuse should fail, it is essential that it is replaced with one of the same type and
!
rating. Failure to do so could result in damage to the unit, risk of fire or electric shock and
will invalidate the warranty. Fuse failure is rare!
Referring to the diagram below, remove the power cable, use your fingernails to catch the two tabs of
the fuse holder (A), push them together to release the clips and pull the fuse holder out. Pull out the
blown fuse from the lower position (B) and discard it. Either move the Spare Fuse (C) to the lower
position or fit one of the fuses from the manual pack. Orient the fuse holder as shown (D) and push
the holder back into the power inlet so that it clicks home.
C
A B D
Cleaning the case
The front and back panels of your dCS equipment are machined from very high grade aluminium.
Great care has been taken to create the finish of the aluminium throughout the engineering process
from the raw solid material to the finished piece.
To remove loose dust or finger marks from the case, we recommend that you use a clean, dry, lintfree cloth.
To restore the finish, we recommend applying small quantities of a lanolin based cleaner, using a
clean, dry, lint-free cloth and then wiping off. Do not allow lanolin to collect around the buttons.
Small amounts of glass cleaner containing ammonia may be used to clean other surfaces, but avoid
spraying onto the connector contacts.
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43BLimited Warranty
General
dCS warrants this product against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 3 years from
the date the unit was originally shipped from dCS. If the product is purchased and registered with dCS
within 6 months of the date the unit was originally shipped from dCS, we will start the warranty on the
purchase date. For units registered later than 6 months from the ship date, we will start the warranty
from the ship date unless the registration is supported by the original sales invoice. During the
warranty period, dCS will repair or, at our absolute discretion, replace a faulty product. Warranty
repairs must only be carried out by dCS or our authorised service agents. Please contact your dealer if
your unit requires service.
To register this product, either register online at www.dcsltd.co.uk
H or complete the Product
Registration form within 30 days of the sale and return it to dCS. On receipt of the registration, dCS
will add your contact details to our customer database. dCS will use this information for warranty
purposes only, we will not contact you directly for reasons relating to sales and marketing.
This warranty applies to the original owner, it is not transferable.
Warranty Exclusions
The Warranty does not cover wear and tear.
The Warranty on this product will be void if:
• the product is misused in any way.
• any unauthorised modifications or repairs are carried out.
• the product is not used in accordance with the Operating Conditions stated in this manual.
• the product is serviced or repaired other than by dCS or our authorised service agents.
• the product is operated without a mains earth (or ground) connection.
• the unit is returned inadequately packed.
dCS reserve the right to apply a service charge if a product returned for warranty repair is found to be
operating correctly, or if a product is returned without a returns number being issued.
This warranty covers parts and labour only, it does not cover shipping charges or tax/duty.
Our dealers or distributors are NOT authorised to extend the terms of this warranty, dCS cannot accept
responsibility for any attempt to do so.
Products re-sold by dCS on a “used” basis may be subject to reduced warranty terms.
Obtaining Service
Should you encounter a problem, contact your authorised dCS dealer for advice, quoting the model,
the full serial number, software version number, and giving a detailed description of the fault. Your
dealer will advise you fully on actions that need to be taken. When returning a unit, the original
packaging should be used to avoid transit damage. Replacement packaging sets may be purchased
from dCS.
During the Warranty period, there will normally be no charge for parts or labour.
Operating Conditions
• The supply voltage must remain within +/-10% of the A.C. voltage specified on the back panel.
• The supply frequency must be in the range 49Hz to 62Hz.
• Ambient temperature range: 0°C (32°F) to 40°C (104°F), non-condensing.
• Do not install the unit near heat sources such as radiators, air ducts, power amplifiers or direct
strong sunlight.
• If in doubt, the easy test is – the unit is happy to work anywhere a human is.
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44BIf you need more help
In the first instance, you should contact your dealer. If they cannot resolve the issue, contact your
national distributor.
Manufactured by:
Data Conversion Systems Ltd.
Unit 1, Buckingway Business Park,
Anderson Road,
Swavesey,
Cambridgeshire. CB24 4AE
UK
Hwww.dcsltd.co.uk
This user manual may be downloaded free of charge from our web-site.
A bound copy of this manual may be ordered from dCS.
45BSoftware History
dCS products make extensive use of software configurable chips – FPGAs and DSPs. This gives us
the ability to update our products to add extra features, update digital interface standards or make
performance improvements by loading new software. Occasionally, a hardware upgrade may be
necessary also to increase the “capacity” of the electronics, add extra connectors or extra front panel
controls.
Please note that not all software updates produce an audible improvement. We recommend that you
keep your software up to date. Check the dCS web-site occasionally for news of the latest software
updates.
Update discs are available from our distributors. Before requesting an update disc,
please open the Info > Version menu page and check the Control Board version to verify
that an update is actually needed.
This manual is for Vivaldi Transport software version 1.2x.
Issue 1.00 The first issue.
Issue 1.01 Reliability improvement.
Configuration menu added, with Settings Lock, Save & Restore Configuration.
Add support for the DAC’s EasyPlay feature.
Issue 1.10
RS232 commands added for Play and Pause.
Corrects the operation of the PCM Enable feature.
Various minor bugs fixed.
Issue 1.20 Adds extra RS232 Text mode commands.
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INDEX
0
0/44.1 display .................. 10
A
acceptable disc types ........ 7
AES3 output .............. 10, 17
B
basic operation ................ 13
burn in .............................. 24
C
cables ................................ 8
CD tray ............................. 16
channel check .................. 24
cleaning ........................... 26
condensation ..................... 6
configuration
restore .......................... 23
save .............................. 23
configuration menu .......... 23
contact ............................. 21
D
DAC master mode ........... 11
display .............................. 14
brightness .................... 23
off ................................. 23
display menu ................... 23
Dual AES output .......... 9, 17
E
easyplay........................... 13
F
fast forward button ........... 16
feet ..................................... 5
front panel ........................ 14
fuse, replacing ................. 26
G
generator menu ............... 24
I
information menu ............. 21
L
layer ................................. 22
layer button ...................... 16
lock .................................. 23
M
menu ................................ 19
close ............................. 15
configuration ................ 23
display .......................... 23
generator ...................... 24
information ................... 21
PCM enable ................. 13
settings ......................... 22
upsampling mode ........ 13
using ............................ 20
menu back button ............ 16
menu button ..................... 15
menu forward button ....... 16
O
operating conditions ........ 27
output
AES3 ...................... 10, 17
connecting ...................... 9
Dual AES ................. 9, 17
SDIF-2 .................... 10, 17
SPDIF .................... 10, 17
word clock .................... 17
P
PCM enable ..................... 22
phase check .................... 24
play/pause button ............ 16
playing a disc ................... 13
positioning ......................... 5
power button .................... 15
power off .......................... 15
power up ............................ 8
R
rear panel ........................ 17
remote control ................. 14
reset ................................. 23
restore configuration ........ 23
rewind button ................... 16
RS232........................ 18, 22
S
safety ................................. 6
save configuration ........... 23
SDIF-2 output ............ 10, 17
serial number ............. 18, 21
service ............................. 26
settings menu .................. 22
setup guide ........................ 8
sleep ................................ 15
software ..................... 21, 28
SPDIF output ............. 10, 17
specification ..................... 25
status ............................... 21
stop/eject button .............. 16
sync mode ....................... 11
sync to Master Clock ....... 12
U
update........................ 21, 28
upsampling mode ............ 22
V
version ............................. 21
voltage ............................. 18
W
wake ................................ 15
warranty ........................... 27
word clock input ............... 17
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