V70SE
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations and thank you for choosing OCTAVE!
V 70 SE
You are now the owner of one of the world's most innovative and reliable amplifiers. Look
after it, and it will provide you many years of listening pleasure.
You often hear people claim that tube amplifier design has not progressed for years. The
operating principles of tubes have indeed been documented extensively and are well
known to amplifier designers. Of course, the same can be said for transistor amplifiers.
However, advances in both technologies are still possible thanks to the development of
innovative and improved components, our greater appreciation of the fundamental
principles and, of course, deeper and more advanced insights into the interaction of
amplifier and loudspeaker. With tube amplifiers in particular, a general reluctance to
depart from the classic circuit designs has not done the technology any favors. Although
today's loudspeakers and source equipment provide better performance than ever before,
they also present greater demands on amplifiers. Modern sound reproduction equipment
delivers a level of performance at a price that simply would not have been possible 20 or
even 10 years ago.
These advances have been achieved through the application of the latest technological
developments as they become available and affordable. OCTAVE has specialized in tube
amplification for the past 25 years, during which time we have developed a number of
innovative technologies that have earned us a reputation as one of the leaders in the
field.
Here's wishing you many happy hours of musical pleasure!
Andreas Hofmann
3
CONTENTS
Page
Introduction ................................................................................................. 3
1. Description of the V 70 SE ........................................................................... 7
2. Safety instructions ....................................................................................... 8
2.1 Before you begin .......................................................................................... 8
2.2 Placement .................................................................................................... 9
2.3 Warranty ....................................................................................................... 9
3. Getting started .............................................................................................. 10
3.1 Unpacking, package contents ...................................................................... 10
3.2 Removing the grille ...................................................................................... 10
3.3 Installing the power tubes ............................................................................ 11
3.4 Switching on for the first time: the soft-start feature .................................... 11
3.5 Checking the tubes (BIAS) ........................................................................... 12
3.6 Connecting other components ..................................................................... 12
3.7 Connection options: overview ...................................................................... 13
4. Front panel controls ..................................................................................... 14
5. Rear panel connections ............................................................................... 16
6. Advanced functions and connection options ................................................ 18
6.1 Protection ..................................................................................................... 18
6.2 Soft-Start ...................................................................................................... 18
6.3 Ecomode ...................................................................................................... 19
6.4 Front Channel ............................................................................................. 20
6.5 Pre-Out regulated ........................................................................................ 20
6.5.1. Using with an active subwoofer ................................................................... 20
6.5.2. Using in bi-amped systems .......................................................................... 20
7. Tubes ........................................................................................................... 21
7.1 Removing the grille (see 3.2) ....................................................................... 21
7.2 Tube layout .................................................................................................. 21
7.3 BIAS measurement facility ........................................................................... 22
7.4 Replacing the tubes ..................................................................................... 24
7.5 Running in the tubes .................................................................................... 24
7.6 Tube service life ........................................................................................... 24
8. The programmable remote control ............................................................... 25
9. Optional Phono - MC/MM ............................................................................. 25
10. Using Black Box or Super Black Box ........................................................... 26
10.1 The Black Box option ................................................................................... 26
10.2 The Super Black Box option ........................................................................ 27
11. Troubleshooting ........................................................................................... 28
11.1 Faults caused by external issues ................................................................. 28
11.2 Faults caused by tubes ................................................................................ 30
12. Specifications and dimensions ..................................................................... 32
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ............................................................. 35
5
1. DESCRIPTION OF THE V 70 SE
The new Octave V 70 SE integrated amplifier is a push-pull pentode design delivering 2 x 70 W
RMS output power (into 4 ohm loads). As with all Octave models, all research and development
(R&D) and production has been conducted exclusively in-house, and the amplifier is
comprehensively safeguarded against user error and parts wear – including catastrophic power
tube failure.
The V 70 SE improves upon the V 70 predecessor, with upgrades made in the amplification stages
as well as the power supply. Ultra-low leakage Tantalum electrolytic caps are now used instead of
Aluminium electrolytic caps in the driver circuit. The heater voltage of the driver tubes has been
precisely stabilized to reduce hum and noise that would otherwise be caused by the heater system.
The heater and the supply voltage are both controlled via the power management circuit. The
stabilization of the heater and power supply voltages ensures the stable, drift free operation in the
mains range of +/- 15%. Every output tube in the V 70 SE is protected against over-current and
other tube problems caused by aging.
BIAS Measurement
The V 70 SE is fixed BIAS, and utilizes external precision BIAS trim pots and LED confirmation
which allows the user to readily monitor the output tubes and simply correct their BIAS individually
at the front panel of the unit without the need of a micrometer let alone any special knowledge or
tools – just the supplied 3 mm flat-head screwdriver.
Black Box Option
The V 70 SE is fitted with a connector for the optional Octave “Black Box” capacitance modules –
available in normal and “Super” versions. The use of the Black Box or Super Black Box significantly
increases power supply capacitance to stabilize current delivery and reduce impedance interaction
of the load, thus improving dynamic range, separation, depth, soundstage size and articulation.
This enables optimizing the V 70 SE in respect to the speaker, which is a tremendous benefit if the
speaker is difficult to drive.
Input Section
The input section of the V 70 SE features five line level single ended Inputs with an optional
internal Phono board, one balanced Input and two single ended Outputs. One is a standard record
output; the other Pre-Out is a regulated preamplifier output. This output is buffered with an
integrated circuit to reduce the negative influence of any connected unit (typically an active
subwoofer).
The Input labeled “Front Channel“ is coupled with a relay that bypasses the volume regulator. The
V 70 SE functions as a stereo amplifier the when the “Front Channel” Input position is selected.
Power Management and Ecomode
The V 70 SE input and output tube heaters as well as its high-voltage rails are logic-controlled to
ensure that the conduction of the output tubes as well as the input stage voltages are constantly
monitored and controlled by the Power Management System, which serves to protect the vital
internal parts (tubes, rectifier, electrolytic caps, switches, etc.) against excessive turn-on current.
This increases the lifetime of not only the tubes, but all power related components as each derives
benefit through this system.
The Ecomode serves to reduce heat and unnecessary power consumption when the unit is
switched on but not in use. After 9 minutes without receiving signal, the V 70 SE Ecomode is
activated, turning down the power. In this “sleep” mode, the V 70 SE draws only 20 W Idle current.
Therefore, the unit produces no heat while it remains switched on. When a music signal is once
again detected by the V 70 SE, the Ecomode circuit will power the unit back on, with a short warmup/start-up delay (approximately 35 seconds) before the unit will operate.
The Ecomode also serves to increase the lifetime of the tubes, while providing an added benefit of
increased safety allowing the V 70 SE owner a level of security against any problems when
leaving the unit switched on.
7
2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2.1. Before you begin
Before using the V 70 SE for the first time, remove the grille and install the power tubes! (See
Section 3.2 "Removing the grille"). Replace the grille before switching the V 70 SE on.
Operating the amplifier without its protective grille is dangerous and not recommended.
In case of emergency: unplug the unit from the wall outlet
Never use an amplifier that is damaged or faulty. Make sure that no one can use it until it has been
repaired by a qualified service technician. Ensure that there is easy access to the IEC socket and
power cord.
Do not open the case
There are dangerously high voltages and hot tubes inside this equipment. To avoid a burn or the
risk of electric shock, never allow anyone except qualified personnel to open the case.
Servicing and maintenance
For reasons of safety, please ensure that any servicing, repairs or other modifications to OCTAVE
equipment are carried out only by a qualified technician. Always get an engineer to replace blown
fuses with ones of the same type and rating. If your amplifier requires servicing, please ship or take
your equipment directly to OCTAVE or to one of our authorized service centers.
Modifications to OCTAVE equipment
Use "audio grade" fuses and other power cables at your own risk. The use of such devices will void
the warranty. This also applies to the use contact fluids on the tube sockets.
Explanation of the warning symbols:
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of un-insulated, 'dangerous
voltages' within the product's enclosure that may be sufficient to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the
user to important operating and maintenance instructions
Before connecting up
Make sure that the voltage of your amplifier matches your electricity supply voltage.
Grounding
This amplifier is a protection class I device (with an earth conductor). To avoid the risk of electric
shock in the event of a fault, the unit must be grounded. To do this, use the power cable supplied
with the amplifier.
8
2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2.2. Placement
1. Location
OCTAVE equipment is designed strictly for use in a dry domestic environment. Do not use it in the
open air or in damp environments!
Never place plants or liquid-filled containers on your OCTAVE equipment. Take care to avoid
dropping objects or spilling liquids into the case. Should this happen, remove the mains plug
immediately and have your amplifier checked by a qualified service technician.
Condensation may form if the amplifier is taken from a cold environment into a warm one. If you do
this, wait until the amplifier has reached room temperature and is dry before switching it on.
Avoid installing the unit close to sources of heat such as radiators or anywhere that may be in
direct sunlight.
Do not operate the unit near flammable materials, gases or vapors. Avoid areas where there may
be heavy accumulations of dust or where the unit may be subject to mechanical vibration.
Place your OCTAVE amplifier on a stable, level surface.
2. Grille
Never operate the amplifier without the protective grille in place.
3. Ventilation
Make sure that your amplifier has an adequate flow of air around it. If you intend to install your
equipment into a cupboard or on a wall shelf unit, ensure that there is at least a ten centimeter (4
inch) gap between the ventilation slots and the walls all around the amplifier. The rear panel of
cupboards should have ventilation holes to prevent heat build up. Do not rest the equipment on a
soft surface such as carpet or foam sheeting.
2.3. Warranty
OCTAVE can only guarantee the safety, reliability and performance of this unit if modifications and
repairs are carried out by specialized personnel and when the amplifier is operated in accordance
with the instructions contained in this manual.
9
insid
3. GETTING STARTED
3.1. Unpack and check the contents of the box.
outer
carton
carton
e
owner's manual and
warranty card
power cord
and tools
remote
control
tube
compartment
Package contents standard
- V 70 SE serial equipped with 6550 C power tubes
- 5 power tubes packed separately
- Power cord
- Remote control with owner's manual
- 2 screwdrivers: 1 x 2 mm flat-bladed screwdriver for adjusting the BIAS
1 x 2,5 mm Allen key for removing the cover
- Owner's manual with warranty card
3.2. Removing the grille
1) For your own safety, make sure that the amplifier is not connected to power outlet.
2) Completely remove the 4 hexagonal screws using the Allan key supplied. There are 2 screws
on each side.
3) Carefully pull the grille upward to remove.
10
3. GETTING STARTED
3.3. Installing the power tubes
The power tubes are in a separate box in the tube compartment
Insert the power tubes into their sockets as shown on the tube layout. Ensure that you correctly
locate the anti-rotation lug on each of the tubes.
Anti-rotation recess
on the tube socket
3.4. Switching on for the first time – the Soft-Start feature
The V 70 SE is equipped with a multi-stage Soft-Start-Turn-On protection circuit which extends
component as well as tube life considerably by protecting against stress caused by typical high
inrush currents during switch on.
1) Check that the Ecomode switch on the rear panel is in the "Eco off" position
2) Connect the V 70 SE to the mains. (On new units, this switch is set to "off" at the factory).
Ecomode
Eco
EcoonAmp
off
off
3) Switch on the V 70 SE using the amplifier’s mains power on/off switch.
Some LEDs will illuminate, depending on the position of the input rotary switch.
In any case the Power LED (indicates that the unit is switched on) and the Soft-Start LED will
be lit. The Soft-Start LED will extinguish a minute later once the unit has booted up. The
V70SE is now ready for work.
11
s
3. GETTING STARTED
3.5. Checking the power tubes – setting the BIAS
4) Turn the mode selector knob clockwise to position 6 = BIAS. The input LEDs will extinguish.
Pos 1
CD1
Tuner
Pos 2
Aux 1
Pos 3
Aux 2
Pos 4
CD 2
Pos 5
Pos 6
BIAS
Front CH.
Pos 7
Mains power
witch
5) Five LEDs will now illuminate: The power LED and the 4 BIAS LEDs in the centre of the display,
one for each power tube. If the amplifier is still cold, the LEDs will initially illuminate "yellow".
Please wait five to ten minutes:
Please don't turn the BIAS regulators until the Soft-Start-LED is extinguished.
(Because the tubes are still cold you would adjust the wrong BIAS)
After an additional 5 to 10 minutes, the BIAS control LEDs will change from yellow to green.
This indicates the correct bias and the unit is ready. If you notice any irregularity in the display
please refer to chapter 7.3.
3.6. Connecting other components to the V 70 SE
1) Be sure to switch off the V 70 SE again!
2) Connect the other components in your system to the appropriate sockets on the rear of the V
70 SE. (See chapter 5 "Rear panel connections". See also chapter 3.7. "Connection options:
overview")
3) Check that the switch positions on the front and rear of the amplifier are in their recommended
settings.
4) Switch on the V 70 SE using the on/off switch and wait until the Soft-Start LED extinguishes.
Now you can play music.
12
S
p
3. GETTING STARTED
3.7. Connection options: overview
CD player with
balanced output
Additional line level
analogue component,
e.g. video
Turntable
peakers
right
left
Black Box
+ +
Ecomode
Phono
Eco
EcoonAmp
off
off
Aux 2
Tuner
CD 1
Aux 1
Tape Rec
GND
Right Speaker
L
R
LRCD 2Pre OutFront Ch.
Left Speaker
++
Achtung!
Black Box nur bei
ausgeschaltetem
Gerät anschließen
bzw. abtrennen!
Caution!
Disconnect the
amp from mains
before connecting
the Black Box!
Black Box Connector
Integrated amplifier V 70 SE
Serial No.:
Made in Germany
230 V AC / 450 W
to wall socket
Active subwoofer
Multichannel source such as DVD
T apedeck, A-D- Converter , PC
Additional line level
analogue component,
e.g. video
Tuner
CD player with
unbalanced out
ut
13
Loading...