Musical Fidelity M8SPRE Instruction Manual

Instructions for use

Thank you for purchasing the Musical Fidelity M8s 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 M8s 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 M8s 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)	3
	–	Modification warning
General advice	–	Installation precautions & user information	4
Disposal information	–	EU disposal information	5
Installation	–	Introduction, cleaning, installation, power connections, audio	6
		connections
Facilities and connections	–	Illustrations, main unit front & rear panels	7
Remote control handset	–	Operation and illustration	8
Operation	–	Starting,	9
	–	Volume
	–	Mute
	–	PHONO
	–	CD
	–	TUNER
	–	AUX1
	–	AUX2/HT
	–	TAPE	10
	–	TAPE MONITOR
	–	BALANCED 1/HT
	–	BALANCED 2
Problems?	–	Basic fault finding	11
Specifications			12
Manual history			13

Issue 1										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 1										Page 3 of 13

GENERAL ADVICE

Installation precautions & user information

This new M8s 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 M8s 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 M8s 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 M8s 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 M8s Preamplifier please quote the serial number located on the rear panel of the unit.

Issue 1										Page 4 of 13