Primare SPA23 User Manual

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Trigger outputs

Centre

speaker

Left surround

speaker

Right surround

speaker

Digital inputs

Right front or

surround back

speaker

Left front or

surround back

speaker

Power

On/off

IR input

HDMI

outputs

Analogue

inputs

Analogue

outputs

HDMI inputs

Digital outputs



Welcome to the Primare SPA23! Your SPA23 is an advanced surround sound
amplifier with the latest sound and video processing, making it the ultimate choice
for home theatre.

               



connecting the sPA23

This page shows how to connect your SPA23 to other equipment in your system.

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

P o W e r

Connect the power connector on the back
panel to your power outlet using the mains cable
supplied with the SPA23.

If this cable is not suitable for your power outlets
contact your supplier for an alternative cable.

WARNING: Always disconnect the

SPA23 from the mains power before



connecting or disconnecting any
cables, including the HDMI cables.

m A i n o u t P u t s

The SPA23 provides five loudspeaker outputs
for connecting directly to the loudspeakers in a
5-channel surround system. It also provides eight
analog audio outputs, for connecting to power
amplifiers and loudspeakers.

A u d i o i n P u t s

The SPA23 provides a total of eight analog
inputs and six digital inputs. Because the SPA23 is
configurable, you have total flexibility about which
input you use for each of your sources. In addition,
you can optionally use four pairs of analog inputs
for a single, multi-channel source, such as SACD.

The SPA23 is supplied with a suggested set of
sources already set up, and you may choose to
leave the inputs assigned in this way. However, if
you prefer, you can re-assign the inputs to sources
in any way you prefer.

Digital inputs

The SPA23 provides a total of six digital inputs:
three SPDIF digital inputs and three optical
TOSlink digital inputs.

Analog inputs

The SPA23 provides eight line-level stereo RCA
inputs.

V i d e o c o n n e c t i o n s

The SPA23 provides a choice of five HDMI inputs
and two HDMI outputs.

You can adjust the settings for each output for
optimum performance with the display device,
for example a TV and a projector. The on-screen
display is provided on both outputs.

Connecting to a television or monitor

Connect the appropriate output to your television
or display.

If your television includes an HDMI tuner output
you can use the SPA23 to perform switching
between the television tuner and your other
video sources such as DVD or Blu-Ray. In this
case connect the television tuner output to the
HDMI input corresponding to your TV source. If
your television does not provide a tuner output
you will need to switch the television between its
internal tuner and the external video input.

Z o n e 2

An additional audio output is provided to feed a
second zone, such as a second room system.

r e c o r d o u t P u t s

The SPA23 Multi-Channel Processor allows you
to make a recording of a digital source to the two
digital record outputs, or of an analog source to
the analog record output.

The SPA23 provides two digital record outputs,
SPDIF and optical TOSlink, and one analog RCA
record output.

i r , r s 2 3 2 , A n d
t r i g g e r s

The IR input allows you to connect an external
infra-red eye, for operation of the SPA23 if the
front panel is inaccessible.

The RS232 input allows an authorized dealer to
connect the SPA23 to a computer, for service
and future upgrades, or to controller systems. For
more information and details of control codes
contact Primare or see the Primare Audio Web
site at www.primare.net.

The Trigger outputs allow the SPA23 to control
external equipment, such as power amplifiers, or a
projector screen.

3

getting stArted

Set up your SPA23 in seven simple steps:

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

1 u n P A c k t h e s P A 2 3

Your SPA23 is supplied with the following
components:

Mains cable.

•

C24 remote control.

•

Two button cells for the remote control.

•

If any of these items are missing please contact
your supplier. We recommend you retain the
packaging in case you need to transport the unit
at a later date.

2 c o n n e c t A d i s P l A y

Connect the HDMI 1 or HDMI 2 output from
your SPA23 to your television or display HDMI
input.

For more information see
page 3.

Video connections

,

3 c o n n e c t t o
s P e A k e r s

The SPA23 can directly drive the five loudspeakers
in a surround system. In addition it provides line­level outputs for seven full-frequency channels and
one subwoofer.

If your surround system does not include a full set
of speakers, the SPA23 will distribute the signals
from these channels to the other channels as
appropriate in your system.

Connect the front, centre, and surround

•

loudspeaker outputs to the loudspeakers in
your system.

If your system includes both side surround and
back surround speakers:

Reassign the LEFT and RIGHT FRONT

•

channels to the additional surrounds,
and use the analogue FRONT LEFT and
RIGHT outputs to connect to an additional
A34.2 stereo power amplifier; see

SETTINGS

If your system includes a subwoofer:

Connect the SUB analog output to the audio

•

input of the subwoofer.

, page 9.

AUDIO

 c o n n e c t s o u r c e s

The SPA23 is supplied with seven standard
sources already configured; see
page 5.

Alternatively you can configure up to 15 sources
to use the particular combination of analogue,
digital, and video input you prefer; for more
information see

Input setting

Selecting a source

, page 8.

5 c o n n e c t P o W e r

Connect the SPA23 to a wall socket, using the

•

supplied mains cable.

Switch on the SPA23, using the switch next to

•

the power connector on the back panel.

Press the O button to switch on the SPA23.

•

The button indicators will light up, showing the
function of the two controls and four buttons on
the front panel.

6 c o n f i g u r e t h e
s P e A k e r s

,

Before using the SPA23 you need to configure it
to specify the combination of speakers you have in
your surround system. For more information see

SPEAKER SETTING

You then need to set up the speaker levels and
speaker distances, to ensure that the sound image
is correctly focused at the listening position. For
more information see
and

SPEAKER DIST

, page 10.

LEVEL ADJUST

, page 11.

, page 10,

7 P l A y A s o u r c e

Use the SELECTOR control on the front

•

panel or the A and V buttons on the remote
control to select the source.

Use the VOLUME control on the front panel

•

or the VOL + and VOL – buttons on the
remote control to increase or decrease the
volume.

For more information about playing sources see

Selecting a source

, page 5.



using the sPA23

This page explains how to operate your SPA23, using the functions available from
the front panel or C24 remote control.

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

f r o n t P A n e l
c o n t r o l s

Almost all the functions of the SPA23 Multi­Channel Processor can be accessed using the two
front panel controls and four push buttons, and
information about its operation is displayed on the
front panel display:

Selector

Selects an input, or operates the on-screen menus

Menu @

Selects the on-screen menus.

Select R

Selects the current menu option.

Level _

Selects which setting you change with the
VOLUME control.

Mute/Standby O

Press briefly to mute the sound.

Hold down to switch the SPA23 to standby.

Volume

Adjusts the volume.

f r o n t P A n e l d i s P l A y

The front panel display shows:

The processing mode; eg STEREO, or NO

•

LOCK if there is no signal on a digital input.

The current source; eg DVD

•

The volume; eg 41 or MUTE.

•

To blank the front panel display

Press the DIM button on the remote control.

•

The normal display will reappear while you adjust
any settings.

Press the DIM button again to restore the display.

s W i t c h i n g o n A n d
o f f

To switch on

Use the switch on the back panel.

•

During normal operation you can leave the SPA23
switched on and in standby.

To switch to standby

Hold down the O button on the front panel

•

or remote control.

To switch on from standby

Press the O button on the front panel or

•

remote control.

s e l e c t i n g A s o u r c e

The SPA23 allows you to define up to 15
sources. Each source can use one of the six
digital and eight analog inputs, and any source
can be combined with one of the HDMI inputs.
Alternatively, a multi-channel source, called
EXT 7.1, can be defined using analog inputs 5 to 8.

When the SPA23 is first supplied the seven
standard sources shown in the table below are
already set up for you.

You can simply disable any of these sources that
you do not need; see
can also change any source to use different inputs,
or configure your own sources with any name
you choose and using any particular inputs as
appropriate for the source.

Input Source Audio Video 2CH mode Description

1 Blu-ray HDMI 1 HDMI 1 Stereo Blu-Ray disc player

2 DVB HDMI 2 HDMI 2 Stereo Digital satellite receiver

3 Games HDMI 3 HDMI 3 Stereo Game console

4 Server HDMI 4 HDMI 4 Stereo Streaming ser ver

5 DVB-T HDMI 5 HDMI 5 Stereo Digital television receiver

6 CD Analog 1 None Bypass CD player

7 SACD Ext 7.1 None Stereo SACD player

Input setting

, page 8. You

To select a source

Turn the SELECTOR control on the front

•

panel until the name of the source is shown
on the front panel display.

Alternatively, press the A or V buttons on the

•

remote control to step between sources.

c h A n g i n g t h e V o l u m e

The SPA23 allows you to vary the volume from 0
(silence) to 99 (maximum volume).

To change the volume

Rotate the VOLUME control on the front

•

panel, or press the VOL + or VOL – buttons
on the remote control.

The current volume setting is shown on the front
panel display.

5

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

t o m u t e t h e s o u n d

Press the O button on the front panel or the

•

MUTE button on the remote control.

To restore the sound to its original volume

Press the O or MUTE button again.

•

The sound is also restored to its original volume if
you increase the volume.

c h A n g i n g t h e
l e V e l s

You can independently change the balance, center
level, surround level, surround back level, and
subwoofer level to alter the balance of sound in
your surround system.

Changing the balance alters the level of both
the left and right main loudspeakers to shift
the position of the stereo image, keeping the
overall level of the sound the same. The other
adjustments change the level of the corresponding
speaker(s) without affecting the remaining
speakers in the surround system.

To change a level

Press the _ button on the front panel, or

•

the BAL/ST button on the remote control,
until the display shows the level you want to
change.

The first step allows you to change the balance of
the main speakers:

0.0dB L=R 0.0dB

Subsequent steps allow you to change the levels
of the surround speakers:

CENTER 0.0dB
SUBWOOFER 0.0dB
SURROUND 0.0dB
SURR BACK 0.0dB

Use the VOLUME control on the front

•

panel, or the A and V buttons on the remote
control, to adjust the value.

Each setting can be changed from -10.0dB to
+10.0dB.

After a short delay the display will revert to the
normal display.

c h A n g i n g t h e
l i P s y n c

You can change the AV Delay (lipsync) from the
front panel to compensate for processing delay in
some video displays. Choose the setting that gives
correct lipsync.

To change the lipsync

Press the _ button on the front panel, or

•

the ST/BAL button on the remote control,
until the display shows the current AV Delay:

AV DELAY 0ms

Use the VOLUME control on the front

•

panel, or the A and V buttons on the remote
control, to adjust the value.

The AV Delay can be changed from 0ms to
140ms. After a shor t delay the display will revert
to the normal display.

c h o o s i n g t h e
s u r r o u n d m o d e

The surround mode determines how the sound
is divided between the loudspeakers in your
surround system. Each source is associated with
a default surround mode, which will be used
when you select that source, but you can choose
a different surround mode for the source if you
prefer.

For example, the standard surround mode for
the DVB source is PLIIX Movie, since most TV
broadcasts are Pro Logic encoded, but if you

are watching a music concert you may prefer to
choose the Stereo or Bypass surround modes, as
these give a more natural sound when listening
to music.

To change the surround mode

Press the AUDIO button on the remote

•

control to display the current surround mode.

Press again to step between the available

•

surround modes.

The options available depend on the source you
are listening to.

Lossless sources

Blu-ray players provide three lossless audio
formats: Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio,
and Linear Pulse-Code Modulation (LPCM). These
formats will all convey eight discrete channels (7.1)
of lossless audio that exactly duplicate the original
studio masters:

Format Variants

Dolby Dolby Prologic IIx

Dolby Digital EX, Plus, TrueHD

DTS DTS-ES, DTS-NEO:6, DTS 96/24,

DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD
High Resolution Audio

PCM 2ch-PCM, Multi-PCM, LPCM

Multi-channel sources

For Dolby Digital or DTS sources only the
following option is available:

Option Description

AUTO Automatically detects an

incoming digital signal and
locks onto it.

The SPA23 automatically detects a Dolby Digital
or DTS input and displays Dolby Digital on the
front panel display.

If the Dolby Digital input only contains two
channels, or it is a PCM signal, the default surround
mode specified in the INPUT SETTINGS menu
is also displayed. For more information see

setting

, page 8.

Input

Two-channel sources

If you are listening to a conventional two-channel
analog or digital source, such as a CD, the
following options are available:

Option Description

BYPASS
(analog sources
only)

STEREO Conventional stereo, using

PLIIX Dolby’s updated Pro Logic

PLIIX CINEMA A variant of PLIIX optimised

PLIIX MUSIC A variant of PLIIX optimised

PARTY The same signal to the front

DTS NEO:6
CINEMA

DTS NEO:6
MUSIC

The inputs are fed directly to
the output, with no decoding
for the most faithful possible
reproduction of stereo or
multi-channel sources.

just the main left and right
loudspeakers.

decoder provides 7.1 channel
surround sound from any two
channel source, with stereo
surround back channels and
full frequency range.

for movie soundtracks.

for music sources.

left and right, surround left
and right, and surround back
left and right loudspeakers, if
connected and enabled.

Provides up to 6.1 channel
surround sound from
conventional stereo sources..

A version of DTS Neo:6 ideal
for stereo music sources.

6

Switch on/off

Move right on settings menu

Select next input, increase level,
or move up on settings menu

Select previous input, reduce level,
or move down on settings menu

Change the balance or levels

Blank or restore the front-panel display

Press briefly to

mute the sound

Edit item on settings menu

Move left on settings menu

Select SPA23/SP33 mode

Decrease the volume

Increase the volume

Display the settings menus

Display or change the surround mode

Select an input
Press +10 first to select an input > 9

Control the CD player

using the remote control

+

CR2025

LITHIUM BATTERY

3V

+

CR2025

LITHIUM BATTERY

3V

This page explains how to use the C24 remote control to
operate the SPA23, and how to fit the batteries into the remote
control.

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

f i t t i n g t h e b A t t e r i e s

Before using the remote control you need to insert
the two button cells supplied with the C24.

Open the cover on the back of the remote

•

control by pressing the tab gently:

Insert the two batteries, positive side uppermost:

•

Replace the cover and push until it clips into place.

•

Note: Replace only with 3V button cells

type CR2025 or equivalent.



When disposing of old batteries please be considerate
to the environment.

7

configuring the settings

This page explains how to use the SPA23 menus to configure the operation of your
SPA23.

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

u s i n g t h e m e n u s

The SETUP MENU gives access to a series of
menus which allow you to customize different
aspects of the operation of the SPA23.

To display the SETUP MENU

Press @ on the front panel or SETUP on the

•

remote control.

To display a menu

Use the SELECTOR control on the front

•

panel or the A or V buttons on the remote
control to highlight the menu on the SETUP
MENU that you want to display.

Press R on the front panel, or SELECT or

•

> on the remote control, to select it.

To change a setting

Use the SELECTOR on the front panel or

•

the A or V buttons on the remote control to
highlight the setting you want to change.

Press R on the front panel, or SELECT or

•

> on the remote control, to display a list of
the alternative values for the setting.

Use the SELECTOR control on the front

•

panel the A or V buttons on the remote
control to step between the alternative values.

Press R on the front panel, or SELECT on

•

the remote control, to select the highlighted
setting.

Alternatively, press @ on the front panel, or
RETURN or < on the remote control, to return
to the menu without changing the setting.

To edit an input alias

Press SELECT to edit the name of the

•

source.

Use < or > to select a character.

•

Use A or V to edit it.

•

Finally press R on the front panel or

•

SELECT on the remote control to finish.

To exit from the current menu

Press @ on the front panel or RETURN on

•

the remote control.

Exiting from the SETUP MENU returns to
normal operation of the SPA23.

i n P u t s e t t i n g

The INPUT SETTING menu allows you to
configure any of the 15 inputs.

Use the INPUT option to select the input

•

you want to edit.

The menu then shows the current settings for that
input and allows you to edit them.

Option Description

STATUS ENABLED or DISABLED to

specify whether the source can be
selected from the front panel or
remote control.

ALIAS See

AUDIO The audio input used for the

TRIGGER 1-3 Can be set to ON or OFF, to

VIDEO The video input used for the

HDMI VIDEO
OUT

HDMI AUDIOSet to TV to pass the HDMI

VOLUME
OFFSET

To edit an input alias

page.

source: NONE, ANALOG 1 to

8, EXT 7.1, DIGITAL 1 to 6, or
HDMI 1 to 5.

set the corresponding trigger, or

--- to take the value from the
CONTROL menu.; see

settings

, page 11.

source: NONE or HDMI 1 to 5.

The video output used for the
source: OUT 1 or OUT 2.

audio to the TV, or SPA23 to get
the SPA23 to process the audio.

Press < or > to vary the
sensitivity of the source between

-12.0dB to +12.0dB in 0.5dB steps.

on this

Trigger



s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

Option Description

AV DELAY Can be adjusted between 0ms

and 140ms to compensate for
processing delay in some displays.

AUTO
LIPSYNC

2CH MODE The default surround mode for

Allows you to turn off the default
audio delay on the HDMI inputs,
which is added to compensate for
the video processing time. This is
useful in dual-HDMI configurations.

two-channel sources: BYPASS,

STEREO, PLIIX MOVIE, PLIIX
MUSIC, NEO6 CINEMA,
NEO6 MUSIC, or PARTY.

V i d e o A d J u s t

The VIDEO ADJUST menu allows you to
specify advanced video input settings:

Use the INPUT option to select the input

•

you want to edit.

The menu then shows the current settings for that
input and allows you to edit them.

Option Description

ALIAS See

ASPECT RATIO Set to 16:9 or 4:3 to specify

DEINTERLACING Specifies how a 480i, 576i, or

PrEP Select AUTO to select

To edit an input alias

the previous page.

the display aspect ratio.

1080i source is deinterlaced.

FILM is for 24p film,
VIDEO is for 50Hz or

60Hz video, and AUTO
selects the correct option
based on the input signal..

Progressive ReProcessing to
clean up poor source video
processing, or DISABLE to
disable it.

on

Option Description

1:1 FRAME RATE Set to ON to set the output

frame rate to the input
frame rate, which may cause
stuttering, or OFF for a
fixed output frame rate.

UNDERSCAN Set to 0 to 20 to shrink

the picture to adjust for an
overscanned source..

BRIGHTNESS,
CONTRAST,
COLOR
SATURATION,
HUE (TINT)

DETAIL/EDGE
ENHANCEMENT,

MOSQUITO NR Set to DISABLE, ON-

Set to 100 to -100, default

0. Allow you to adjust the
color characteristics of the
image.

Set to 100 to -100, default

0. Allow you to accurately
adjust the sharpness of the
picture..

LOW, or ON-HIGH to
reduce the compression
artifacts in digitally
compressed signals, like cable,
satellite and internet-based
video.

A u d i o s e t t i n g s

The AUDIO SETTINGS menu allows you to
specify options affecting all audio outputs:

Option Description

INT AMP The normal setting is FRONT.

Can be set to BACK to change
the front power amplifier to
operate with the Surround Back
channels, if you prefer to use a
separate power amplifier with
the front channels.

LATE NIGHT Set to ON to apply dynamic

range compression to the audio,
to reduce loud transients for late
night listening.

DOUBLE BASS Set to ON to copy the bass

from speakers specified as
LARGE and send this to the
subwoofer.

LFE LEVEL Can be adjusted between 0.0dB

and -10.0dB to reduce the LFE
level.

VOLUME
DEFAULT

Determines the default volume
(0 to 99) when the SPA23 is
turned on from standby.



s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

V i d e o o u t P u t

The VIDEO OUTPUT menu allows you to
customise the HDMI output settings.

For each output you can set:

Option Description

RESOLUTION Set to PASS-THRU, AUTO,

480p/576p, 720p, 1080i,
1080p, or 1080p24.

COLOR SPACE Set to AUTO, RGB for a

Red, Green, Blue color space
standard using 8 bits per
primary color, YCbCr 422 for
10-bit component, or YCbCr
444 for 8-bit component.

COLORIMETRY Determines how RGB is

converted to YCbCr: AUTO,
ITU.601 for Standard
Definition video formats, or
ITU.709 for High Definition
video formats.

OUTPUT VID
LEVEL

Set to VIDEO for levels
suitable for a TV, or PC for
levels suitable for a computer
display.

You can also set the following settings that apply
to both outputs:

Option Description

DEFAULT FRAME
RATE

TESTPATTERN Displays one of a set of

Set to 50p (PAL) or 60p
(NTSC) to specify the native
system of your display.

alternative test patterns for
aligning projection displays.

s P e A k e r s e t t i n g

The SPEAKER SETTING menu allows you to
set up the speakers:

Option Description

MODE See below.

FRONT L+R Select SMALL or LARGE

to specify whether the front
speakers can handle bass.

CENTER Select NONE, SMALL, or

LARGE to specify whether
there is a center speaker in the
system, and whether it is small
or large.

SURROUND Select NONE, SMALL, or

LARGE to specify information
about the surround speakers.

SURR BACK Select NONE, 1/SMALL,

1/LARGE, 2/SMALL, or 2/
LARGE to specify the number

and size of the surround back
speakers.

SUBWOOFER Select OFF or ON to specify

whether the layout should
include a subwoofer.

LR+LFE XOVER
CENTER XOVER
SURR XOVER

Allows you to define the
crossover frequency (40Hz
to 200Hz) used for the LFE,
CENTER, and SURR speakers.

Set MODE to GENERAL, and then set

•

the other parameters as appropriate for the
speakers in your system.

You can then define DOLBY D, DTS, and
OTHER modes, which can be used to add an
offset to the GENERAL settings for Dolby
Digital, DTS, and 2-channel sources respectively.

1 0

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

l e V e l A d J u s t

The LEVEL ADJUST menu allows you to adjust
the levels so that the sound from each speaker is
equally loud at the listening position.

Highlight each of the speakers in turn; a white

•

noise signal will be played through the speaker.

Use the < and > buttons on the remote

•

control to adjust the level.

For best results measure the level at the listening
position using a Sound Pressure Level meter.

s P e A k e r d i s t

The SPEAKER DIST menu allows you to
specify the distance of each speaker from the
listening position, in feet or metres. The SPA23 will
then add delays to each channel to ensure that
the sound from each speaker reaches the listener
at the same time.

You can also add an extra delay to the surround
speakers to make the sound more spacious.

Use the < and > buttons on the remote

•

control to adjust the distance or delay.

In GENERAL mode you can adjust the
distance between 0 and 20 feet (0 and 6m).
Setting DISTANCE UNITS to MS shows the
calculated delays and allows you to adjust them
directly.

c o n t r o l s e t t i n g s

Allows you to configure hardware settings of the
SPA23.

Option Description

OSD
TRANSPARENT

OSD POPUP Determines what information is

OSD POPUP
TIME

OSD POPUP
POS.

VFD
BRIGHTNESS

Set to YES to allow the video
image to show through the
background of the on-screen
display, or NO to blank the
video image when the on-screen
display is displayed.

shown on the on-screen display
when changing source. FULL
shows the same information as
the front panel display, SIMPLE
shows just the source name, and
OFF turns it off.

Set to 1-10 sec to determine
how long the on-screen display
stays on the screen.

Position of on-screen display.

1-3 to specify the front panel
display brightness.

Option Description

VFD DISPLAY
TIME

TRIGGER 1 to
TRIGGER 3

REMOTE
SELECT *

FRONT PANEL Select LOCKED to lock the

* Note: After changing this option you will not
be able to use the remote control to control the
SPA23. To reset this option operate the menus
from the front panel.

If the front-panel display is
blanked, sets the delay (1-10
sec) before the display is blanked
after operating any control.

See

Trigger settings

Select FRONT to use an infra­red remote control pointer at
the front panel, or BACK to
control the SPA23 using the IR
input on the back panel.

front panel; you will then only
be able to operate the SPA23
via the remote control. Reset to
UNLOCKED when you turn
off the SPA23 at the back panel.

below.

Trigger settings

For each trigger you can set the following:

Option Description

TRIGGER 1-3 Specifies when the current

trigger is active: OFF,
STANDBY to enable it when
the SPA23 is in standby, INPUT

S to take the setting from the
INPUT SETTING menu, or
ZONE 2 to take the setting

from the ZONE 2 menu.

TRIGGER 1-3
ON DELAY

Allows you to specify a delay
of 0, 1, 2, or 5 secs before the
trigger is activated.

1 1

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

Z o n e 2

For each input the ZONE 2 SETTINGS menu
allows you to specify an analogue audio input to
be output to the Zone 2 output.

Option Description

INPUT Select one of the 15 inputs to

AUDIO Allows you to specify an

TRIGGER 1-3 Zone 2 trigger settings; see

VOLUME Allows you to set the current

VOLUME
DEFAULT

be configured.

analogue audio input to be
output to the Zone 2 output.

Trigger settings

Zone 2 volume (0 to 99).

Determines the default Zone
2 volume (0 to 99) when
the SPA23 is turned on from
standby.

on this page.

m e m o r y

The MEMORY menu allows you to save and
recall the SPA23 settings, or restore the factory
settings.

Saving installer settings

Once you have configured the SPA23 you can
save the settings in a password-protected file, and
then recall them at any time to restore the SPA23
to your custom configuration.

Select SAVE INST. SETTINGS from the

•

MEMORY menu.

Enter the password using the number keys (or

•

A, V, <, and >) on the remote, then press @

on the front panel or SETUP on the remote
control.

If you have successfully saved the settings you will
be returned to the MEMORY menu..

Recalling installer settings

You can recall the installer settings at any time:

On the MEMORY menu select RECALL

•

INST. SETTINGS, then select YES

The SPA23 will restart with the new configuration.

Changing the installer password

To change the installer password:

Highlight CHANGE INST. PASSWORD,

•

then press @ on the front panel or SETUP
on the remote control.

Enter the old password using the number

•

keys (or A, V, <, and >) on the remote, then
press @ on the front panel or SETUP on the
remote control.

The screen will prompt PLEASE ENTER
YOUR NEW PASSWORD TWICE.

Enter the new password and press @ on the

•

front panel or SETUP on the remote control.

Enter the new password again and press @

•

on the front panel or SETUP on the remote
control.

If you have successfully changed the password you
will be returned to the MEMORY menu..

1 2

technicAl sPecificAtion

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

o u t P u t s

Loudspeaker outputs

Front (left and right, can be switched to surr back)
Center, Sub,
Surr (left and right)

Analogue outputs

Front (left and right)
Center, Sub
Surr (left and right)
Surr back (left and right)

Analogue record output

1 RCA (left and right)

Zone2 output

1 RCA (left and right)

Digital outputs

1 RCA, 1 TOS-Link

Video output

2 HDMI

i n P u t s

Analogue inputs

8 RCA, incl. 7.1 inputs

Digital inputs

3 RCA, 3 TOS-Link.

Video Inputs

5 HDMI

d i g i t A l

Frequency response

20Hz-20kHz ±0.2dB

THD and noise

0.005% @1kHz (AES17 filter)

A n A l o g u e

THD

<0.005%, 20Hz-20kHz

Signal to noise ratio

-110dB

Frequency response

10Hz-100kHz, 1dB

Input impedance

47kΩ unbalanced

Output impedance

47Ω unbalanced

P o W e r A m P l i f i e r s

Output power

5 x 120W, 8Ω

Output power 1kHz, one channel driven

8Ω 150W THD+N <1%,
4Ω 300W THD+N <1%,
AP AUX0025 Filter

Output power 1kHz, all channels driven

120W 4/8Ω THD+N <0.1%
AP AUX0025 Filter

THD

<0.01% 20Hz-20kHz 1W 8Ω, AP AES17 Filter

Signal-to-noise

80dBr, AP AES17 filter, ref 2.828Vrms.

Frequency response

20Hz-20kHz -0.2dB, 1W 8Ω

P r o c e s s i n g

Upscaling

1080p/24

Video

HDMI with HDvideo pass-tru with 3Dpass and
HDMI OSD

Modes

Stereo, Bypass, Party,
Dolby Prologic IIx Music,
Dolby Prologic IIx Movie,
DTS NEO:6 MUSIC
DTS NEO:6 CINEMA

Decoding formats

Dolby Digital
Dolby Digital EX
Dolby Prologic II
Dolby Prologic IIx
Dolby EX
Dolby Plus
Dolby TrueHD
DTS
DTS ES
DTS Neo:6
DTS 96/24
DTS HDMaster Audio
DTS HD High Res audio
MULTI/2 CH PCM/LPCM

Sampling rates

32KHz,44.1KHz,48KHz,

88.2KHz,96KHz,192KHz

c o n t r o l

1 IR Input
3 12V outputs (triggers),
1 RS232

RS232

The RS232 connector allows your dealer to
upgrade the firmware on your SPA23, or control
the SPA23 as part of a multi-room system. Do not
connect anything to this socket unless instructed
by your dealer.

g e n e r A l

Power consumption

Operating: 800W at 1K, 8Ω ,120W all channels
driven.
Fully stabilized SMPS

Size

430 x 385 x 180mm (WxDxH)

Weight

15kg

1 3

s P A 2 3 u s e r g u i d e

c o P y r i g h t A n d
A c k n o W l e d g m e n t s

Copyright © 2013-2014 Primare AB.
All rights reserved.

Primare AB
Limstensgatan 7
21616 Limhamn
Sweden

http://www.primare.net

Issue: SPA23/2

The information in this guide is believed to be
correct as of the date of publication. However,
our policy is one of continuous development and
so the information is subject to change without
notice, and does not represent a commitment on
the part of Primare AB.

Primare is a trademark of Primare AB.

This guide was produced by
Human-Computer Interface Ltd.
http://www.interface.co.uk

Safety compliance

This product has been designed to meet the IEC
60065 international electrical safety standard.

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

ATTENTION

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS

OUVRIR

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electrical shock
do not remove cover (or back). No user ser viceable
parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified ser vice
personnel.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electrical
shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or
moisture.

CAUTION: In Canada and the USA, to prevent
electric shock, match the wide blade of the plug to
the wide slot in the socket and insert the plug fully
into the socket.

This product is designed and manufactured to meet
strict quality and safety standards. However, you
should be aware of the following installation and
operation precautions.

1. Take heed of warnings & instructions

You should read all the safety and operating
instructions before operating this appliance. Retain
this handbook for future reference and adhere to all
warnings in the handbook or on the appliance.

2. Water and moisture

The presence of electricity near water can be
dangerous. Do not use the appliance near water – for
example next to a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, in
a wet basement or near a swimming pool, etc.

3. Object or liquid entry

Take care that objects do not fall and liquids are
not spilled into the enclosure through any openings.
Liquid-filled objects such as vases should not be
placed on the equipment.

4. Ventilation

Do not place the equipment on a bed, sofa, rug
or similar soft surface, or in an enclosed bookcase
or cabinet, since ventilation may be impeded. We
recommend a minimum distance of 50mm around
the sides and top of the appliance to provide
adequate ventilation.

 The lightning flash with an arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the

user to the presence of uninsulated 'dangerous voltage' within the product's enclosure that may be




5. Heat

Locate the appliance away from naked flames or
heat producing equipment such as radiators, stoves
or other appliances (including other amplifiers) that
produce heat.

6. Climate

The appliance has been designed for use in moderate
climates.

7. Racks and stands

Only use a rack or stand that is recommended for
use with audio equipment. If the equipment is on a
portable rack it should be moved with great care, to
avoid overturning the combination.

8. Cleaning

Unplug the unit from the mains supply before cleaning.

The case should normally only require a wipe with a
soft, damp, lint-free cloth. Do not use paint thinners or
other chemical solvents for cleaning.

We do not advise the use of furniture cleaning sprays
or polishes as they can cause indelible white marks if
the unit is subsequently wiped with a damp cloth.

9. Power sources

This appliance must be connected to a mains socket
outlet using the supplied power cord. To disconnect
this apparatus from power, you must disconnect the
power cord. Make sure the power cord is always easily
accessible.

Only connect the appliance to a power supply of the
type described in the operating instructions or as
marked on the appliance.

This is a Class 1 device and must be earthed.

The power switch is a single-pole switch. When the
switch is in the “Off ” position, the appliance is not
completely disconnected from the main power.

10. Power-cord protection

Power supply cords should be routed so that they are

of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence

of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the
product.

not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed
upon or against them, paying particular attention to
cords and plugs, and the point where they exit from the
appliance.

11. Grounding

Ensure that the grounding means of the appliance is not
defeated.

12. Power lines

Locate any outdoor antenna/aerial away from power
lines.

13. Non-use periods

If the unit has a stand-by function, a small amount of
current will continue to flow into the equipment in this
mode. Unplug the power cord of the appliance from
the outlet if left unused for a long period of time.

14. Abnormal smell

If an abnormal smell or smoke is detected from the
appliance, turn the power off immediately and unplug
the unit from the wall outlet. Contact your dealer
immediately.

15. Servicing

You should not attempt to service the appliance
beyond that described in this handbook. All other
servicing should be referred to qualified service
personnel.

16. Damage requiring service

The appliance should be serviced by qualified service
personnel when:

A. the power-supply cord or the plug has been

damaged, or

B. objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into the

appliance, or
C. the appliance has been exposed to rain, or
D. the appliance does not appear to operate normally

or exhibits a marked change in performance, or
E. the appliance has been dropped or the enclosure

damaged.

1 

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