MANLEY
LABORATORIES, INC.
OWNER'S MANUAL
75 / 150 SE / PP
807 MONOBLOCK
MANLEY LABORATORIES, INC.
13880 MAGNOLIA AVE.
CHINO, CA. 91710
TEL: (909) 627-4256
FAX: (909) 628-2482
email: emanley@netcom.com
http://www.manleylabs.com
CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
INTRODUCTION 3
READ THIS PAGE 4
MAINS CONNECTION 5
CONNECTING YOUR AMPLIFIER 6
DIAGRAM 2 TOP PANEL 7
BIAS PROCEDURES 8
SPECIFICATIONS 9
WARRANTY 10
WARRANTY REGISTRATION 11
INTRODUCTION
THANK YOU!...
for choosing the Manley 75 / 150 SE / PP 807 MONOBLOCK Amplifiers. Designed by David Manley, the 807
MONOBLOCK Amplifiers use only the best available components, with the shortest and cleanest signal path
possible. These amps have the exclusive Manley ability to switch from Single ended to Push-Pull topologies. This
amp is designed to provide our customers with a the unique combination of single ended triode topology, solid
power and remarkable specs. This includes flat frequency response, low distortion and optimum damping factor
that are uncommon for single ended designs. In Push-Pull mode there is more of everything - double the power
(150 watts), extended frequency response, and higher damping factor.
Let us start out by stating our opinions about amplifier topologies. Historically, we have been manufacturing very
highly regarded tube amplifiers since before tubes were considered the best option for hi-fi music reproduction.
We have manufactured a very wide range of amplifiers with power ranging from 18 watts to 1000 watts and with
a corresponding variety of tubes. This is not our first amp to feature 807's nor our first single ended triode amp.
We build a $15,000 25 watt single ended amp on a custom basis. In our experience, the more power an amplifier
is capable of - the better it will be at providing acceptable low frequency quality. It is not easy to produce a very
powerful amp with highs with the same quality as the lows. To do that we had to start manufacturing our own
transformers. This is the major development that allowed us to produce an amplifier that could switch from
single-ended to push-pull. We had to design and build a very unusual transformer first.
When several other manufacturers started selling single-ended amps with 5 to 9 watts of power, we understood
subjectively and objectively the good part of the story - the superb mid range - the delicate transient detail - the
inherent simplicity. The bad news was that there were almost no speakers efficient enough to be a dynamic viable
system. The worst news was that either these single-ended amps cost more than the condo and/or they had specs
that could only be a joke. As the triode fans increased, more efficient speakers became available and several
fanatics began to dismiss push-pull as a bad thing to be avoided at all costs. We objected to such blanket
generalities and stressed that the push-pull done right with truly balanced transformers, quality parts throughout
and well designed circuitry has proven to be a superb technique. We also like single ended amps, but only when it
is done right, mostly because we demand flat frequency response and low distortion out of an amplifier.
We set out to design an amplifier that would appeal to us and to you and to the critics. It would be single-ended
but with more power than most single ended amps. It would be switchable to push-pull for fans of that school and
for those who want it both ways - to compare for themselves, and to use each mode depending on the music. This
was the SE / PP 300B amplifiers. We recieved such great response to it that we followed it up with this 8 X 807
based gem that would appeal to people who need reasonable power for their speakers (average sensitivity) and
listening levels (including rock). Up to now, they have had no option of using single ended triodes without trading
in their favorite speakers. We are proud of these amplifiers and have been featuring them at hi-fi trade shows and
exhibitions.
There are other benefits to being an owner of an 807 based amplifier. A prime advantage is that these tubes are
some of the most reliable we have experienced - plus these tubes are readily available and not extremely costly.
These amplifiers have a highly polished look thanks to the gold and chrome finishes. These new metal
technologies were not available a few years ago. Built to last a lifetime. Designed to look elegant. Engineered by
David Manley who happens to love music enough to be his lifes career.
READ THIS PAGE BEFORE YOU SET UP THE AMPS, PLEASE
IMPORTANT Never operate this amp without a speaker or load connected. Never drive this amp into a short
circuit. Most solid state amps can be operated without a load or speaker and some can drive a short circuit because of
protection circuitry. These are different - Like most tube amps the output power is less affected by changing the load
impedance within the range of 4 to 16 ohms, however extremes like a short or open circuit are to be avoided. The result
could be damage to transformers, tubes. The warranty does not cover this damage if it occurs.
LOCATION & VENTILATION
IMPORTANT - PLEASE PROVIDE A SAFE LOCATION, SUCH AS A LOCKED
CABINET, IF THERE ARE CHILDREN OR PETS IN THE HOME.
At the top of the 807 tubes is a ceramic connector. This connector typically carries 630 VOLTS DC when the amplifier
is on and afterwards until the power supply discharges. With all the tubes in this is typically 30 seconds.
If you have small children or pets, you should consider placing the amplifiers out of reach to prevent damage to the
amplifier or damage to your small children or pets.While these end caps provide sufficient insulation while attached to
the tube - there is a shock hazard if they are removed and children can remove them. Manley Labs can supply an optional
"Cover" for these amps if needed.
Besides the high voltage, there is another hazard - HEAT. A child, spouse or pet could get a mild burn by touching a hot
tube. Tubes produce heat but not as much as a light bulb. Most people do not put exposed light bulbs on the floor but
many audiophiles do put tube amplifiers on the floor. Beware that it may be possible to step on an amplifier in the dark
or trip on a cable and fall on one. Shades of "Help! I've fallen and can't get up!". The other thing to be aware of is poor
ventilation if the amp is on a carpet. There is ventilation holes in the bottom of the chassis that are essential for the long
and healthy life of the amp. Ventilation is also important if they are put in a cabinet with a door. Allow a minimum of 2
inches of clearance on the top and sides of the amplifiers, such that a constant flow of air can flow. Do not place
amplifiers directly on high pile carpet or any other surface that will block the ventilation vents underneath the
amplifiers.
Isolation from vibration is worth considering because this will help to reduce tube microphonic noise and very likely
allow the maximum sonic potential that these amps are capable of. Lastly, be aware that some equipment can radiate a
strong electromagnetic field. Hum and noise problems are often cured by avoiding stacking electroic gear on top of each
other. Distance helps greatly.
GENERAL NOTES
WATER & MOISTURE
As with any electrical equipment, these amplifiers should not be used near water or moisture. If liquid enters the
amplifier, it must be immediately returned to your dealer for servicing.
SERVICING
The user should not attempt to service the amplifier beyond that described in the owner's manual. Refer all servicing
other than biasing and tube replacement to Manley Laboratories
SPECIAL NOTES
Before turning the amps on - Connect your preamp to the amp inputs. Tubes may become loose during transit.
Straighten and press down each tube before plugging the amplifier into the mains socket. Once connections are secure
turn the preamp on, wait a minute, turn the power amps on last. Always turn the amplifiers off first, then other gear. This
prevents damage to equipment - particularily speakers. Furthermore, do not touch the tubes after the amplifier has been
switched on, as the tubes become very hot during operation and should only be handled after the power has been turned
off and the tubes have cooled.
WARNING!
TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN THE CABINET.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONEL.