2.1 Multichannel Amplifier
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual
CAUTION:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE
COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER
SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
WARNING:
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE
BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.
ATTENTION:
POUR EVITER LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES, INRODUIRE LA
LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE
LA PRISE ET POUSSER JUSQU'AU FOND.
The lightning flash with arrowhead
symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is
intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient 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
(servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
Signature 2.1 Multichannel Amplifier
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Unpacking and Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Front and Rear Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Installation and Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Troubleshooting Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
80 Crossways Park West
Woodbury, NY 11797
www.harmankardon.com
©1997 Harman Kardon, Incorporated
Signature 2.1
On/Off
2.1
Congratulations! As the owner of a Harman Kardon
Signature Series 2.1 Power Amplifier, you have at your
command a unique product. The 2.1 has been carefully
designed to deliver the best possible sonic performance,
along with outstanding industrial design that matches
other Harman Kardon Signature Series products and
complements any interior design.
In order to fully enjoy the performance of your amplifier,
please take a few minutes to read this owner’s manual. It
contains important information that will help you to
make certain that the amplifier is properly connected to
the rest of the equipment in your system.
If you have any questions about this product or its
installation and operation, please contact your retailer or
custom installer. They are your best sources of product
information.
You may also contact Harman Kardon via the World
Wide Web at www.harmankardon.com
Description and Features
The Signature Series 2.1 is a flexible, state-of-the-art
audio power amplifier designed to deliver high performance for use in home theater or music reproduction
applications. The following are among its many features:
Introduction
■ Designed and made in the United States
■ High-current output capability
■ Ultrawide bandwidth design
■ Low negative feedback
■ Low harmonic and intermodulation distortion
■ Massive heat sinks for quiet convection cooling
■ High-current power supply
■ Remote turn-on/turn-off circuitry with select Signature
Series and Harman Kardon products or through
optional accessories
Welcome to the Harman Kardon family. We wish you
many years of listening pleasure!
1
Signature 2.1
Important Safety Information
Verify Line Voltage Before Use
Your new Signature Series 2.1 amplifier has been factoryconfigured for use with 120-volt AC line current.
Connecting the amplifier to a line voltage other than
that for which it is intended can create a safety and fire
hazard, and may damage the amplifier.
If you have any questions about the voltage requirements for your specific model, or about the line voltage
in your area, contact your selling dealer before plugging
Safety Information
the unit into a wall outlet.
Verify AC Circuit Capacity Before Use
High-power output of your amplifier may require heavy
current draw under full-load conditions. To ensure proper
performance and avoid potential safety hazards, we
recommend that it be connected to a circuit with 20-amp
capacity. Connecting multiple amplifiers to the same
circuit, or connecting the amplifier to a circuit used by
other heavy-power devices, such as high-wattage lights,
may cause circuit breakers to trip. It is always a good
idea to avoid using any audio equipment on the same
AC circuit as equipment with motors, such as air conditioners or refrigerators. This will lessen the possibility
of power variation and electrical start-up noise affecting
your sound system.
Do Not Open the Cabinet
There are no user-serviceable components inside this
product. Opening the cabinet may present a shock
hazard, and any modification to the product will void
your guarantee. If water enters the unit, or any metal
object such as a paper clip, wire or staple accidentally
falls inside the cabinet, disconnect the unit from the AC
power source immediately and consult an authorized
warranty station.
Installation Location
■ To ensure proper operation and to avoid the potential
for safety hazards, place the unit on a firm and level
surface. When placing the unit on a shelf, be certain
that the shelf and any mounting hardware can support
the amplifier’s weight.
■ Make certain that proper space is provided both above
and below the unit for ventilation. If the amplifier will
be installed in a cabinet or other enclosed area, make
certain that there is sufficient air movement within
the cabinet. Consult with your dealer or installer for
more information.
■ Do not place the unit directly on a carpeted surface.
■ Avoid installation in extremely hot or cold locations,
in an area that is exposed to direct sunlight or near
heating equipment.
Do Not Use Extension Cords
To avoid safety hazards, use only the power cord
supplied with your unit. If a replacement cord is used,
make certain that it is of a similar gauge. We do not
recommend using extension cords with this product. As
with all electrical devices, do not run power cords under
rugs or carpets or place heavy objects on power cords.
Damaged power cords should be replaced immediately
with cords meeting factory specifications.
Handle the AC Power Cord Gently
When disconnecting the power cord from an AC outlet,
always pull the plug, never pull the cord. If you do not
intend to use the amplifier for a considerable length of
time, disconnect the plug from the AC outlet.
■ Avoid moist or humid locations.
■ Do not obstruct the ventilation slots on the top of the
unit or place objects directly over them. Remember,
power amplifiers generate heat, and the heat sink fins
and ventilation slots that form part of the cabinet are
specially designed to remove this heat. Placing other
electronic equipment near these heat-dissipation
systems may possibly affect the long-term reliability
of both your amplifier and the objects placed above it.
2
Signature 2.1
Cleaning
When the unit gets dirty, wipe it with a clean, soft and
dry cloth. If necessary, first wipe the surface with a soft
cloth slightly dampened with mild soapy water, followed
by a fresh cloth with clean water. Wipe immediately
with a dry cloth. Never use benzene, thinner, alcohol or
any other volatile cleaning agent. Do not use abrasive
cleaners, as they may damage the finish of metal parts.
Avoid spraying insecticide near the unit.
Moving the Unit
Before moving the unit, be certain to disconnect any
interconnection cords with other components, and make
certain that you disconnect the unit from the AC outlet.
Unpacking and Installation
The carton and shipping materials used in protecting
your new amplifier were specially designed to cushion it
from the shocks and vibration of shipping. We suggest
that you save the carton and packing materials for use in
shipping if you move or if the unit ever needs repair.
To minimize the size of the carton in storage, you may
wish to flatten it. Carefully remove any staples used to
close carton seams; carefully slit the tape on the bottom
and collapse the carton. Other cardboard inserts may be
stored in the same manner. Packing materials that cannot
be collapsed should be saved along with the carton in a
plastic bag.
When positioning the amplifier in its final location, make
certain that it has adequate ventilation on all sides, as
well as on the top and bottom. Do not place CDs, record
jackets, owner’s manuals or other paper on top of, or
beneath the unit, or in between multiple amplifiers in a
stack. This will block the air flow, causing degraded performance and a possible fire hazard. If the unit is to be
enclosed in a cabinet or rack, make certain that there is
adequate air circulation, with means provided for hot air
to exit and for cool air to be brought in.
Typographic Conventions
In order to help you use this manual with the front panel
controls and rear panel connections, certain conventions
have been used.
EXAMPLE – (bold type) indicates a specific front
panel control or rear panel connection
1
– (number in a square) indicates a specific front
panel control
¡
– (number in a circle) indicates a rear panel
connection
Unpacking and Installation
3
CHANNEL FIVE (FRONT LEFT)
4 Ω MIN.
SPEAKER
IN
5
AC INPUT
POWER AMP
TRIGGER IN
CHANNEL FOUR (SURROUND LEFT)
4 Ω MIN.
SPEAKER
IN
AC 12OV/60Hz 950W
CHANNEL THREE (FRONT CENTER)
4 Ω MIN.
SPEAKER
IN
34
CHANNEL TWO (SURROUND RIGHT)
4 Ω MIN.
SPEAKER
IN
2
CHANNEL ONE (FRONT RIGHT)
SPEAKER
IN
1
4 Ω MIN.
£¢™¡
On/Off
1
2 3
Front Panel Controls
1
Power Switch: Press this switch to turn the 2.1 on
Front and Rear Panels
for manual operation, or to place it in the Standby mode
for automatic/remote turn-on when the 2.1 is connected
to a device with a compatible trigger circuit.
2
Power On Indicator: When the word
illuminated in blue, the 2.1 is in a normal operating
condition.
IGNATURE is
S
Signature 2.1
3
with the status of the 2.1. It is red when the unit is off
and in manual operation, amber in the standby mode,
and flashing green during warm-up. If the indicator
flashes and alternates between red and amber, the 2.1
is in the protect mode, indicating a problem in the unit
or connections to the speakers.
LED Indicator: The color of this indicator varies
Rear Panel Connections
¡
Speaker Outputs: Connections from these terminals
should be made to the appropriate speakers in your
system.
™
Audio Inputs: Connect the outputs of the
Signature 2.0, or other surround processor, preamplifier
or decoder to these jacks.
£
AC Power Cord: Connect this plug to a wall-
mounted AC outlet. Due to the current draw of the
Signature 2.1, it is NOT recommended that the accessory
outlets on the back of the audio/video components be
used to power this product.
¢
Power Amp Trigger In: Connect this jack to the
matching trigger output on a Signature 2.0 or other
compatible device to have the 2.1 automatically turn on
when the device is activated. See page 5 for additional
details.
4
Signature 2.1
Note: When making any connections between source
components, processors or preamplifiers and the 2.1, or
when making any connections to speakers, be certain
that both the input device and the 2.1 are turned off. To
ensure that there will be no unwanted signal transients
that can damage equipment or speakers, it is always best
to unplug all equipment from AC power outlets before
making any connections. Modern electronic products
often have a “standby” mode that may be activated even
though the product may appear to be turned off.
Power Control Connections
The Signature Series 2.1 amplifier features a built-in
remote turn-on system that will automatically turn on
the amplifier when another device in the system is
switched on. To activate this system, this amplifier must
be used in conjunction with a Signature Series 2.0, other
compatible Harman Kardon products or other approved
devices.
Note: Before making any connections to remote trigger
outlets, it is critical that both the 2.1 and the triggering
device be turned off. For additional safety, it is best that
these connections be made while both products are
unplugged from AC power sources.
Remote Turn-On with the Signature Series 2.0
and Compatible Harman Kardon Products
Connect one end of the accessory cable supplied with
the 2.0 to the Power Amp Trigger In jack ¢on the rear
of the 2.1. Connect the other end to the jack on the 2.0
that carries the same identification.
Remote Turn-On Using an External AC-to-DC
Converter
If the 2.1 is not used with a compatible Harman Kardon
product, it is still possible to activate the unit for
automatic turn-on.
To control the amplifier in this manner you will need
a small UL/CSA approved class 2 AC-to-DC power
converter capable of delivering a 6- to 12-volt DC signal.
The DC voltage should terminate in a standard 3.5 mm
mono miniplug, with the tip of the plug “positive” (+).
This type of converter may be obtained as a “Power
Adapter” from many electronics retailers. Consult your
dealer for further information.
5
Plug the AC adapter into a switched outlet that will be
activated when you wish to have the amplifier turn on.
This may be the switched outlet at the rear of an AV
receiver or other audio equipment, an AC outlet that is
part of a current sensing control unit activated by a preamp or surround processor or a switched AC wall outlet.
Connect the 3.5 mm miniplug from the power converter to
the Power Amp Trigger In jack¢on the rear of the 2.1.
Audio System Connections
As a general rule, avoid running any input signal or
speaker wire connections next to or parallel with AC
power cords. This may cause undesired hum or other
interference that will greatly degrade signal performance.
When making connections with RCA-type plugs on
interconnect cables, make certain to gently but firmly
insert the plugs into the jacks on the rear of the 2.1.
Loose connections can cause intermittent sound and may
damage your speakers.
Connect the outputs of the 2.0 or your surround processor to the Audio Inputs™of the 2.1. To simplify
installation, it is best to follow the markings on the rear
panel by connecting the Front Right output of the 2.0 to
the Front Right input on the 2.1, following the same
pattern for each channel.
Important Note: The 2.1 is not designed for use in
Bridged configuration. Do not connect the same input or
speaker to more than one channel.
To ensure that the high-quality signals produced by the
2.1 are carried to your speakers without loss of clarity or
resolution, we recommend that you use high-quality
speaker cable. Many brands of cable are available, and
the choice of cable may be influenced by the distance
between your speakers and the amplifier, the type of
speakers you use, personal preferences and other factors.
Your dealer or installer is a valuable resource to consult in
selecting a proper cable for connections between your
amplifier and speakers.
Regardless of the brand or type of cable selected, we
recommend that you use a cable constructed of high
strand count copper with a gauge of 14 or smaller. When
specifying cable, remember that the smaller the number,
the thicker the cable.
Installation and Connections
Signature 2.1
Cable with a gauge of 16 may be used for short runs of
less than ten feet. We do not recommend the use of
cables with an AWG equivalent of 18 or higher due to
the power loss and degradation in performance that will
occur.
Cables run inside walls should have the appropriate
markings to indicate listing with UL (“CL-2/CL-3”), CSA
(“FT-4”) or appropriate safety agency standards that may
be required in your area. Questions about running cables
inside walls should be referred to your installer or a
licensed electrical contractor who is familiar with the
NEC and/or the applicable building or electrical codes in
your area.
Installation and Connections
Connections to Speakers
The final step of the installation process is to connect the
amplifier to your speakers using high-quality cable. A
pair of binding posts is provided for each channel output.
These posts will accept bare wire or banana-type plugs.
Note that one conductor of the speaker cable will have
no markings or an indication of “-” for negative polarity,
and the other will have a red line, brand-name markings,
a colored thread or some other positive-polarity
indication.
The wire with the positive indication should be connected to the red terminals on both the 2.1 and your
speakers. The negative wire should be connected to the
black terminal on the 2.1 and the speakers.
If bare wire is used for connections, strip approximately
3
⁄4˝(20 mm) of insulation from the end of each wire and
carefully twist the strands of each conductor together. Be
careful not to cut the individual strands or twist them
off; for optimal performance, all strands must be used.
Next, loosen the knobs of the speaker output terminals
far enough so that the cap moves back on its threads past
the holes at the rear of the terminal. Making certain that
you observe polarity by connecting the negative (-) wire
to the black terminal and the positive (+) wire to the red
terminal, pass the exposed wire through the hole until
the wire is visible from the bottom end. Holding the wire
in place, twist the cap back so that the connection is
secured. Do not overtighten or use tools, as this may
damage the plastic terminal cap or break the delicate
wire strands and decrease system performance.
Important Note: When making speaker wire connections, be certain that none of the strands from one lead
touch any other lead. This will cause a short circuit and
may damage your amplifier or speakers. Damage from
short circuits caused in this manner is not covered by the
product warranty.
Connections may also be made using spade lugs or standard 4 mm OD banana plugs. Before using a banana-type
jack, make certain that the plastic screw caps on the 2.1
are firmly tightened by turning them clockwise until they
are snug against the chassis. This will ensure that the
maximum surface area of the plug is in contact with the
jack. Once the wire has been attached to the banana
plug following the plug manufacturer’s instructions,
simply insert the banana plug into the hole provided on
the rear of the colored screw caps on the terminal posts.
Be certain to observe proper polarity.
Finally, run the cables to the speaker locations. It is highly
recommended that the length of cable connecting any
pair of speakers be identical. For example, make certain
that the cable length connecting left and right front or left
and right rear (surround) speakers is identical, even
though one speaker may be physically closer to the
amplifier than the other. Do not coil any excess cable, as
this may become an inductor that creates frequency
response variations in your system.
Connect the wires to the speakers, again being certain
to observe proper polarity. Remember to connect the
negative or black wire to the matching terminal on the
speaker. Similarly, the positive or red wire should be
connected to the like terminal on the speaker.
Note: While most speaker manufacturers adhere to an
industry standard of using black terminals for negative
and red ones for positive, some manufacturers may not
adhere to this configuration. To ensure properly phased
connections and optimal performance, consult the identification plate on your speaker terminals, or the speaker’s
manual to verify polarity. If you do not know the polarity
of your speaker, ask your dealer or installer for advice
before proceeding, or consult the speaker’s manufacturer.
6
Signature 2.1
The Signature 2.1 may be operated in either a manual or
automatic mode. If the unit is being used in standalone
operation you should follow the instructions below for
Manual Operation. When the 2.1 is connected to another
Signature Series product or to another compatible device,
follow the instructions for Automatic Operation.
Operation of the Signature Series 2.1 is simple. There are
no controls to adjust once the installation is complete.
Manual Operation
For conventional, standalone operation, first make all
connections to speakers and input sources as outlined on
the previous pages. Make certain that the front panel
Power Switch1is in the fully extended “off” position
and then connect the AC Power Cord£to a wallmounted AC outlet with sufficient current capacity. Note
that the LED Indicator3will glow red.
Turn the unit on, press the front panel Power Switch
until it is flush with the front panel. Once the switch is
turned on, the 2.1 will go into a brief warm-up mode, as
indicated by the LED Indicator3flashing green. This
is normal, and it protects your speakers from damage as
the amplifier stabilizes.
When the 2.1 is fully ready for operation the LED
Indicator will go out and the Power On Indicator
will glow blue behind the word
point you will begin to hear audio from the speakers
connected to the 2.1.
You are now ready to enjoy the finest sonic performance
available. No further adjustments are needed, as all
volume controls and/or level adjustments are made at
your preamp controller or surround processor.
To turn the 2.1 off, press the Power Switch1until it
protrudes from the front panel. The unit is in the “off”
position when the LED Indicator returns to a red color.
IGNATURE. At this
S
1
2
Automatic Operation
Before proceeding, make certain that the connection
between the 2.1 and 2.0 processor/tuner or other trigger
source has been properly made as outlined previously. At
this point the triggering unit should be turned off.
With the Power Switch1in the fully extended “off”
position, plug the AC Power Cord£into a wallmounted AC outlet with sufficient current capacity. The
LED Indicator3will light up in a red color.
Press the Power Switch1so that it is in the “on”
position and flush with the front panel. At this point the
LED Indicator3will turn amber, indicating that the
2.1 is in a Standby mode and ready to turn on when it
receives a signal from the Signature 2.0 or other device.
To activate the 2.1, turn on the Signature 2.0 or the other
device that is connected to the Power Amp Trigger In¢.
Once the trigger signal is received the 2.1 will go
into a brief warm-up mode, as indicated by the LED
Indicator3flashing green. This is normal, and it protects
your speakers from damage as the amplifier stabilizes.
When the 2.1 is fully ready for operation the LED
Indicator will go out and the Power On Indicator
will glow blue behind the word
point you will begin to hear audio from the speakers
connected to the 2.1.
Once your system is turned on, you are ready to enjoy
the finest sonic performance available. There are no
controls to adjust. All volume and level adjustments are
made by your preamp, controller or surround processor.
At the conclusion of your listening session, there is no
need to manually turn off the 2.1. When the 2.0 or other
triggering device is turned off, the 2.1 will return to the
Standby mode and the LED Indicator3will turn amber.
Note: Always turn on the source components and
processor in your system first, and turn on your amplifier
last. This avoids the possibility of any turn-on pops or
transients from other equipment being amplified and
sent to your speakers, where they may cause damage.
Always start with a low volume level on your controller
or preamp to avoid damage to your speakers.
Important Note: If you will not be using your audio
system for an extended period of time, such as during
a vacation, it is always a good idea to turn the unit off
using the power switch. This will prevent the automatic
turn-on circuits from accidentally turning the system on
during your absence.
IGNATURE. At this
S
2
Operation
7
Signature 2.1
If your installation has followed the procedures in this
manual, you should enjoy many years of trouble-free
operation and high-quality listening enjoyment. The
2.1 does not contain any user-serviceable parts. If you
suspect a problem that may require service assistance,
contact your dealer, installer or an authorized Harman
Kardon service depot.
You may also contact Harman Kardon via the World
Wide Web at www.harmankardon.com
It is important that any repairs be carried out only by
an authorized Harman Kardon service agent to ensure
proper service and preserve the protection of your
Limited Warranty. It is a good idea to keep your sales
slip or receipt in a safe place (along with this manual) so
Service Information / Troubleshooting
that it will be available to verify the purchase date for
warranty claims.
Troubleshooting Chart
Input/Output Protection
Under some conditions, such as a shorted speaker wire,
DC voltage on an input connection or thermal overload,
the amplifier will place itself in a “protect” mode to
prevent damage to the amplifier. When this happens, the
LED Power Indicator will flash and alternate between red
and amber.
When this occurs, IMMEDIATELY turn off the unit using
the power switch and correct the problem. Then turn the
unit back on. If the unit continues to go into a protect
mode, contact your dealer or installer for assistance.
The items listed below are a brief guide to minor problems that may arise with audio equipment such as the 2.1. Before
taking a unit in for service, you should check to see if any of these hints solve the problem. If these solutions do not rectify
the problem or if the problem recurs, contact your dealer or an authorized Harman Kardon service depot for assistance.
PROBLEM
Amplifier will not turn on.
Amplifier turns on, but no audio from
one or more channels.
DIAGNOSIS
• Power Switch turned off.
(No Power Light LED)
• Remote trigger cable not
properly connected.
• Inputs not connected to
proper jack.
• Speakers not connected
properly.
• Improper settings or output
levels from processor or
controller.
TROUBLESHOOTING HINTS
• Turn on Power Switch.
• Verify connection of trigger cable
at both ends.
• Check input connections.
• Check speaker connections.
• Check the settings on your preamp,
processor or controller.
Audio plays, then cuts off.
• Amplifier shorted (LED
flashes amber and red).
8
• Check speaker connections for
short circuit.
Signature 2.1 Multichannel Amplifier Specifications
Power Output:
High-Current Capability:
Frequency Response:
Power Bandwidth:
THD/IMD:
Crosstalk
Negative Feedback:
Input Impedance:
5 x 100 watts @ 8 ohms
20Hz – 20kHz, <0.03% THD, All Channels Driven
5 x 150 watts @ 4 ohms
20Hz – 20kHz, <0.03% THD, All Channels Driven
± 100 Amps
<1Hz – 170kHz ± 3dB
<1Hz – >100kHz
<0.03% at rated output
< –87dBr between any two channels at
maximum output
<25dB
33K ohms
Technical Specifications
Input Sensitivity:
Remote Trigger Voltage:
Remote Trigger Impedance:
Dimensions (H x W x D):
Weight:
Power Requirements:
1 volt for rated output
6 – 12 volts DC (tip of plug must be “positive” (+))
20K ohms
171⁄4 x 71⁄2 x 151⁄4 inches
438 x 191 x 387 mm
47 lbs/21 kg
120VAC, 50Hz / 60Hz
950 watts, maximum
All features and specifications are subject to change without notice.
9
Printed in the United States Part #1111-HKSIG21
HA160-0003-A
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