Musical Fidelity M8xi operation manual

2020

.06.17 iss 2 M8xi Dimension updated

Instructions for use

Thank you for purchasing the Musical Fidelity M8xi dual mono integrated amplifie r.
This amplifier is designed with high quality reproduction of single ended and balanced source s in mind.
Two sets of balanced (XLR) inputs take care of balanced audio for the best in signal to noise, transient

reproduction and dynamic range from balanced sour ces.
Units with single-ended (RCA) inputs and outputs are catered for with 4 selectable RCA inputs, and two sets of

outputs, one fixed for headphone amplifier, recording etc, the other is the main controlled output which can be
used for bi-amping or stereo input subwoofers.

The M8xi has been designed to mix-and-match input/output signal types and works as a single ended to
balanced (or vice versa) converting preamplifier. It is also designed to allow use of both balanced and single
ended inputs or 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 volume control is a dual laser-trimmed stepped attenuator giving 0.5dB steps of perfect matching, allowing
precise stereo imaging and ultra-low noise and distortion even at the lowest levels.

Balanced preamp outputs are now also available, allowing connection of balanced input power amplifiers to
realise a balanced cable system from source to speakers.

The M8xi 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 m usical 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

General advice

Disposal information

Installation

Facilities and connections

Remote control handset

Operation

Mains plug (UK

–

Modification warning

–

Installation precautions & user informatio

–

EU disposal information 5

–

Introduction, cleaning, installation, power connections,

–

onnection

c

Illustrations, main unit front & rear panel

–

Operation and

–

Starting

–
–

Volume
– Mute
– CD

TUNER

–
– AUX1
– AUX2/HT

only)

n 4

audio

s

s 7

illustration 8

3

6

9

Problems?

Specifications

Manual history

–

XLR BALANCED 1 &

– COAX 1 & 2
– OPTICAL 1 &
– USB

– Basic fault finding 11

2

2

10

12

13

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
Blue
Bro

and yellow

................................................ Neutral

wn

..................................................

.............................Earth

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 symb

The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or

•
coloured re

The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N

•
colo

ured blac

•

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

d.

k.

.

ol:

or

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 M8xi Integrated Amplifier is designed and built to provide trouble-free performance, but as with all
electronic devices it is necessary to observe a few precautions:

This unit features a BRIDGED speaker output and should NOT be grounded on either speaker out

•
terminal
active “sub”, electrostatic, or other non-standard speaker types or configurations (that could be potentially
grounded) with the M8xi. Take special care when bi-amping that the speaker high and low freque
element
manufacturer, if there is any

Heed all warnings shown on the back of the product.

•

as both terminals are effectively “hot”, i.e. carrying high current signals. Please check if using an

s within speaker are completely isolated before switching on power. Consult speaker manual or

doubt.

put

ncy

y

•

Only connect the M8xi to a mains outlet having the same voltage as marked at the back of the

•

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

placed on them.

items

• Do not use near water, or place water-filled containers on the M8xi, 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 M8xi is
dangerous and may cause electric shock or fire hazar

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

replace yourself. Refer all service work to an authorised Musical Fidelity

can

: Unauthorised opening of the equipment will invalidate any warranty

* Note

•

Dust regularly with a soft cloth or soft brush but be careful when using cleaning or polishing agents ­may

harm the surface finish. Before cleaning the unit, switch off power at the mains switch and remove the

mains plug from the wall

electronics in modern hi-fi equipment is complex and may, therefore, be adversely affected or damaged by

The
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 M8xi please quote the serial number located on
the rear panel of the unit.

socket.

d.

claim.

unit.

by

you

agent.

they

Issue 2

Page 4 of 13