Musical Fidelity M8 PRE User Manual

Instructions for use

Thank you for purchasing the Musical Fidelity M8 Preamplifier fully balanced dual mono pre-amplifier.

This preamplifier is designed with high quality control and especially balanced sources in mind.

Two balanced (XLR) inputs take care of balanced audio for the best in signal to noise, transient reproduction
and dynamic range from balanced sources. Inside, the balanced signal path is fully maintained, from input to
output, with a specially developed dual mono fully balanced preamplifier circuit.

The balanced volume control is a quad laser-trimmed attenuator giving 0.5dB steps of perfect matching,
allowing precise stereo imaging and ultra-low noise and distortion. The outputs are also balanced allowing
connection of balanced input power amplifiers to realise a completely balanced system from source to
speakers.

Units with single – ended (RCA) inputs and outputs are catered for with 6 selectable RCA inputs, and two sets
of outputs, one fixed for recording, etc, the other is the main controlled output.

The M8 Preamplifier has been designed to mix-and-match input/output signal types and use the unit as a single
ended to balanced (or vice versa) converting preamplifier. It is also designed to allow use of both balanced and
single ended outputs, simultaneously, if required.

All conversions are carried out automatically within the unit, all that needs to be done is choose and connect
the correct input and output leads.

The M8 Preamplifier is designed to be partnered with present and future M8 or M6 series products or
alternatively, may be used with any other high quality hi-fi components. This combination yields one of the best
high-fidelity systems available at any price.

Used properly and carefully, it should give many years of outstanding musical reproduction.

Dust regularly with a soft duster or soft brush, but be careful when using cleaning or polishing agents - they may
harm the surface finish.

If there are any questions about the audio system, please consult the dealer who is there to help and advise.

CONTENTS

Section Page

Safety Information – Mains plug (UK only)

– Modification warning

General advice – Installation precautions & user information 4

Disposal information – EU disposal information 5

Installation

Facilities and connections – Illustrations, main unit front & rear panels 7

Remote control handset – Operation and illustration 8

Operation – Starting,

– Introduction, cleaning, installation, power connections, audio

connections

– Volume

– Mute

– PHONO

– CD

– TUNER

– AUX1

3

6

9

– AUX2/HT

– TAPE

– TAPE MONITOR

– BALANCED 1/HT

– BALANCED 2

Problems? – Basic fault finding 11

Specifications 12

Manual history 13

10

Issue 2 Page 2 of 13

SAFETY INFORMATION

IMPORTANT! (U.K. only)

This unit is supplied in the U.K. with mains lead fitted with a moulded 13 amp plug. If, for any reason, it is
necessary to remove the plug, please remove the fuse holder and dispose of the plug safely, out of reach of
children.

It must not be plugged into a mains outlet.

The wires in the mains lead supplied with this appliance are coloured in accordance with the following code:

Green and yellow ............................. Earth

Blue ................................................ Neutral

Brown ................................................. Live

WARNING – This appliance MUST be earthed

As the colours of the wires of the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings
identifying the terminals in the plug, proceed as follows:

• The wire which is coloured green-and-yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked
with the letter E or coloured green or green-and-yellow, or by the earth symbol:

• 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 blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or
coloured black.

• If connecting to a BS1363 plug, a 13 amp fuse must be used.

WARNING:

ANY MODIFICATIONS TO THIS PRODUCT NOT EXPRESSLY

APPROVED BY MUSICAL FIDELITY WHO IS THE PARTY RESPONSIBLE

FOR STANDARDS COMPLIANCE COULD VOID THE USER'S

AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT.

Issue 2 Page 3 of 13

GENERAL ADVICE

Installation precautions & user information

This new M8 Preamplifier is designed and built to provide trouble-free performance, but as with all electronic
devices it is necessary to observe a few precautions:

• Heed all warnings shown on the back of the product.

• Only connect the M8 Preamplifier to a mains outlet having the same voltage as marked at the back of the
unit.

• Always ensure that when disconnecting and reconnecting your audio equipment the mains supply is
switched off.

• Position the mains lead and signal interconnects where they are not likely to be walked on or trapped by
items placed on them.

• Do not use near water, or place water-filled containers on the M8 Preamplifier, for example, a flower vase or
potted plants. If water does spill inside, immediately pull out the mains plug from the wall socket and

inform your dealer, who should then check the unit before further use. Entry of liquid into the M8
Preamplifier is dangerous, and may cause electric shock or fire hazard.

• Do not place the unit near direct heat sources such as radiators, direct sunlight or other equipment.

• Do not remove any covers or try to gain access to the inside. There are no internal adjustments or fuses you
can replace yourself. Refer all service work to an authorised Musical Fidelity agent.

* Note: Unauthorised opening of the equipment will invalidate any warranty claim.

• Dust regularly with a soft cloth or soft brush but be careful when using cleaning or polishing agents - they
may harm the surface finish.

The electronics in modern hi-fi equipment is complex and may, therefore, be adversely affected or damaged by
lightning. For protection of the audio system during electrical storms, remove the mains plugs.

If after-sales service is required, to help the dealer identify the M8 Preamplifier please quote the serial number
located on the rear panel of the unit.

Issue 2 Page 4 of 13