Rotel RB-976-MK2 Owners Manual

Owner’s Manual

Bedienungsanleitung

Manuale di istruzioni

Manual de instrucciones

Gebruiksaanwijzing

RB-976MkII

Six-Channel Power Amplifier

Sechskanal-Endstufe

Amplificatore di Potenza a 6 Canali

Etapa de Potencia de Seis Canales

Zes Kanaals Eindversterker

SIX CHANNEL POWER AMPLIFIER
RB-976MkII
1	2	3	4	5	6
CHANNEL
BRIDGED MONO
PROTECTION
POWER
LEVEL ADJUST	A		B		C

RB-976MkII

2

1:Controls and Connections

Bedienelemente und Anschlüsse • Controlli e collegamenti Controles y Conexiones • Bedieningsorganen en aansluitingen

SIX CHANNEL POWER AMPLIFIER
RB-976MkII
1	2	3	4	5	6
CHANNEL
BRIDGED MONO
PROTECTION
POWER
LEVEL ADJUST	A		B		C

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

8

9

8

9

10

		C
12 TRIG IN		INPUT
SIGNAL SENSE	R	L	LINK
OFF		BRIDGED	STEREO

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK,

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

	SPEAKERS
RIGHT	LEFT	RIGHT

		B			A	SIGNAL OUTPUT
	INPUT				INPUT		LINK	POWER AMPLIFIER
R	L	LINK		R	L	R	L	MODEL NO. RB-976MkII
								POWER CONSUMPTION: 700W
		BRIDGED	STEREO		BRIDGED	STEREO
	SPEAKER IMPEDANCE		STEREO	4 OHMS MINIMUM
			BRIDGED	8 OHMS MINIMUM
SPEAKERS					SPEAKERS		SERIAL NO.
		LEFT			RIGHT	LEFT

BRIDGED

BRIDGED

BRIDGED

11

12

3

2:Hookup (Stereo mode)

Anschlußdiagramm bei Stereobetrieb • Collegamenti (modalità stereo)

Conexión (Modo Estereofónico) • Het aansluiten als een zes kanalen eindversterker

PREAMPLIFIER • VORVERSTÄRKER • PREAMPLIFICATORI • PREAMPLIFICADOR • VOORVERSTERKER

12 TRIG IN

SIGNAL SENSE

				OUTPUTS
		CENTER			LEFT
		SUB			RIGHT
				REAR	FRONT
		C		B
	INPUT			INPUT
R	L	LINK	R	L	LINK

OFF

BRIDGED

STEREO

BRIDGED

STEREO

	A	SIGNAL OUTPUT
	INPUT		LINK	POWER AMPLIFIER
R	L	R	L	MODEL NO. RB-976MkII
				POWER CONSUMPTION: 700W
	BRIDGED	STEREO

	WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK,	SPEAKER IMPEDANCE	STEREO	4 OHMS MINIMUM
	DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.		BRIDGED	8 OHMS MINIMUM

	SPEAKERS
RIGHT	LEFT
	BRIDGED

	SPEAKERS		SPEAKERS	SERIAL NO.
RIGHT	LEFT	RIGHT		LEFT
	BRIDGED		BRIDGED

RB-976MkII

4

3:Hookup (Bridged Mono mode)

Anschlußdiagramm bei Brückenschaltung • Collegamenti (modalità mono bridged) Conexión (Modo Monofónico Puenteado)

Het aansluiten als een drie kanalen gebrugde eindversterker

PREAMPLIFIER • VORVERSTÄRKER • PREAMPLIFICATORI • PREAMPLIFICADOR • VOORVERSTERKER

OUTPUTS

CENTER LEFT

SUB

RIGHT

REAR FRONT

C

B

A

SIGNAL OUTPUT

12 TRIG IN

INPUT

INPUT

INPUT

LINK

POWER AMPLIFIER

SIGNAL SENSE

R

L

LINK

R

L

LINK

R

L

R

L

MODEL NO. RB-976MkII

POWER CONSUMPTION: 700W

OFF

BRIDGED

STEREO

BRIDGED

STEREO

BRIDGED

STEREO

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK,

SPEAKER IMPEDANCE

STEREO

4 OHMS MINIMUM

DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

BRIDGED

8 OHMS MINIMUM

SPEAKERS

SPEAKERS

SPEAKERS

SERIAL NO.

RIGHT

LEFT

RIGHT

LEFT

RIGHT

LEFT

BRIDGED

BRIDGED

BRIDGED

5

English												8
Deutsch												12
Italiano												17
Español												22
Nederlands												27

English

WARNING: There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose the unit to moisture or water. Do not allow foreign objects to get into the enclosure. If the unit is exposed to moisture, or a foreign object gets into the enclosure, immediately disconnect the power cord from the wall. Take the unit to a qualified service person for inspection and necessary repairs.

Read all the instructions before connecting or operating the component. Keep this manual so you can refer to these safety instructions.

Heed all warnings and safety information in these instructions and on the product itself. Follow all operating instructions.

Clean the enclosure only with a dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner.

You must allow 10 cm or 4 inches of unobstructed clearance around the unit. Do not place the unit on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that could block the ventilation openings. If the unit is placed in a bookcase or cabinet, there must be ventilation of the cabinet to allow proper cooling.

Keep the component away from radiators, heat registers, stoves, or any other appliance that produces heat.

The unit must be connected to a power supply only of the type and voltage specified on the rear panel of the unit. (USA: 115 V/ 60Hz, EC: 230V/50Hz)

Connect the component to the power outlet only with the supplied power supply cable or an exact equivalent. Do not modify the supplied cable in any way. Do not attempt to defeat grounding and/or polarization provisions. The cable should be connected to a 2-pin polarized wall outlet, matching the wide blade of the plug to the wide slot of the receptacle. Do not use extension cords.

Do not route the power cord where it will be crushed, pinched, bent at severe angles, exposed to heat, or damaged in any way. Pay particular attention to the power cord at the plug and where it exits the back of the unit.

The power cord should be unplugged from the wall outlet if the unit is to be left unused for a long period of time.

Immediately stop using the component and have it inspected and/ or serviced by a qualified service agency if:

•The power supply cord or plug has been damaged.

•Objects have fallen or liquid has been spilled into the unit.

•The unit has been exposed to rain.

•The unit shows signs of improper operation

•The unit has been dropped or damaged in any way

Place the unit on a fixed, level surface strong enough to support its weight. Do not place it on a moveable cart that could tip over.

RB-976MkII

6

Deutsch

Bitte lesen Sie sich die Bedienungsanleitung vor Gebrauch des Gerätes genau durch. Sie enthält wichtige Sicherheitsvorschriften, die unbedingt zu beachten sind! Bewahren Sie die Bedienungsanleitung so auf, daß sie jederzeit zugänglich ist.

WARNUNG: Außer den in der Bedienungsanleitung beschriebenen Handgriffen sollten vom Bediener keine Arbeiten am Gerät vorgenommen werden. Das Gerät ist ausschließlich von einem qualifizierten Fachmann zu öffnen und zu reparieren.

WARNUNG: Dieses Gerät darf nur in trockenen Räumen betrieben werden. Um die Gefahr von Feuer oder eines elektrischen Schlags auszuschließen, dürfen keine Flüssigkeiten oder Fremdkörper in das Gerät gelangen. Sollte dieser Fall trotzdem einmal eintreten, trennen Sie das Gerät sofort vom Netz ab. Lassen Sie es von einem Fachmann prüfen und die notwendigen Reparaturarbeiten durchführen.

Befolgen Sie alle Warnund Sicherheitshinweise in der Bedienungsanleitung und auf dem Gerät.

Dieses Gerät sollte, wie andere Elektrogeräte auch, nicht unbeaufsichtigt betrieben werden.

Ist das Gerät z.B. während des Transports über längere Zeit Kälte ausgesetzt worden, so warten Sie mit der Inbetriebnahme, bis es sich auf Raumtemperatur erwärmt hat und das Kondenswasser verdunstet ist.

Oberhalb des Gerätes sollte ein Freiraum von 10 cm vorhanden sein. Stellen Sie das Gerät daher weder auf ein Bett, Sofa, Teppich oder ähnliche Oberflächen. Ferner sollte es nicht an einem Ort aufgestellt werden, an dem keine ausreichende Luftzufuhr gegeben ist, zum Beispiel in einem engen Regalfach oder in einem Einbauschrank.

Stellen Sie das Gerät nicht in die Nähe von Wärmequellen (Heizkörper, Wärmespeicher, Öfen oder sonstige wärmeerzeugende Geräte).

Bevor Sie das Gerät in Betrieb nehmen, prüfen Sie, ob die Betriebsspannung mit der örtlichen Netzspannung übereinstimmt. Die Betriebsspannung ist an der Rückseite des Gerätes angegeben. (USA: 115 V/60Hz, EC: 230V/50Hz)

Schließen Sie das Gerät nur mit dem dazugehörigen zweipoligen Netzkabel an die Wandsteckdose an. Modifizieren Sie das Netzkabel auf keinen Fall. Versuchen Sie nicht, die Erdungsund/oder Polarisationsvorschriften zu umgehen. Das Netzkabel sollte an eine zweipolige Wandsteckdose angeschlossen werden. Verwenden Sie keine Verlängerungskabel.

Netzkabel sind so zu verlegen, daß sie nicht beschädigt werden können (z.B. durch Trittbelastung, Möbelstücke oder Erwärmung). Besondere Vorsicht ist dabei an den Steckern, Verteilern und den Anschlußstellen des Gerätes geboten.

Sollten Sie das Gerät für eine längere Zeit nicht in Betrieb nehmen, ziehen Sie den Netzstecker aus der Steckdose.

Schalten Sie das Gerät sofort aus und ziehen Sie geschultes Fachpersonal zu Rate, wenn:

•das Netzkabel oder der Stecker beschädigt sind,

•Gegenstände bzw. Flüssigkeit in das Gerät gelangt sind,

•das Gerät Regen ausgesetzt war,

•das Gerät nicht ordnungsgemäß funktioniert bzw. eine deutliche Leistungsminderung aufweist,

•das Gerät hingefallen ist bzw. beschädigt wurde.

Ziehen Sie den Netzstecker aus der Steckdose, bevor Sie mit der Reinigung des Gerätes beginnen. Reinigen Sie die Oberflächen des Gerätes nur mit einem weichen, trockenen Tuch. Verwenden Sie keine scharfen Reinigungsoder Lösungsmittel. Vor der erneuten Inbetriebnahme des Gerätes ist sicherzustellen, daß an den Anschlußstellen keine Kurzschlüsse bestehen und alle Anschlüsse ordnungsgemäß sind.

Stellen Sie das Gerät waagerecht auf eine feste, ebene Unterlage. Es sollte weder auf beweglichen Unterlagen noch Wagen oder fahrbaren Untergestellen transportiert werden.

Italiano

ATTENZIONE: rischio di scossa elettrica, non aprire.

AVVERTENZA: per ridurre il rischio di scossa, non togliete il coperchio del cabinet. Non contiene parti utili per l'utente. Per l'assistenza fate riferimento a personale qualificato.

SPIEGAZIONE DEI SIMBOLI GRAFICI:

Il fulmine inserito in un triangolo vi avverte della presenza di materiale non isolato a "voltaggio elevato" all'interno del prodotto che può essere abbastanza potente da costituire pericolo di folgorazione.

Il punto esclamativo entro un triangolo equilatero vi avverte della presenza di istruzioni importanti per l'utilizzo e la manutenzione nel manuale che accompagna l'apparecchiatura.

ATTENZIONE: Non vi sono parti interne riparabili dall’utilizzatore. Per l’assistenza fate riferimento a personale qualificato.

ATTENZIONE: Per ridurre il rischio di incendio o di folgorazione, non esporre all’umidità o all’acqua. Evitare che oggetti estranei cadano all’interno del cabinet. Se l’apparecchio è stato esposto all’umidità o un oggetto estraneo è caduto all’interno del cabinet, staccare il cordone di alimentazione dalla presa di rete. Portare l’apparecchio ad un centro di assistenza qualificato per i necessari controlli e riparazioni.

Leggere attentamente tutte le istruzioni prima di collegare l’apparecchio alla rete di alimentazione. Conservate questo manuale per ogni riferimento futuro alle istruzioni di sicurezza.

Seguire attentamente tutte le avvertenze e le operazioni per il funzionamento.

Pulire l’unità solamente con un panno asciutto o con un piccolo aspirapolvere.

Mantenete liberi circa 10cm intorno all’apparecchio. L’apparecchiatura non dovrebbe essere posta su un letto, divano, tappeto, o posti che possano bloccare le aperture di ventilazione. Se l’apparecchio è posizionato in una libreria o in un cabinet, fate in modo che ci sia abbastanza spazio attorno all’unità per consentire un’adeguata ventilazione e raffreddamento.

L’unità dovrebbe essere posta lontano da fonti di calore come caloriferi, termostati, stufe, o altri apparecchi che producano calore

L’apparecchiatura dovrebbe essere collegata solamente a una sorgente elettrica del tipo descritto nelle istruzioni o indicato sul pannello posteriore dell’apparecchiatura. (USA: 115 V/60Hz, EC: 230V/50Hz)

Collegate l’unità alla presa di alimentazione solo con il cavo a due poli polarizzato che viene fornito o con un equivalente. Non cercate di eliminare la massa o di manomettere le polarizzazioni. Il cavo dovrebbe essere collegato ad un’uscita a muro polarizzata a due poli collegando la lamella piatta della spina nella fessura più ampia. Non usate prolunghe.

Non far passare il cavo di alimentazione dove potrebbe essere schiacciato, pizzicato, piegato ad angoli acuti, esposto al calore o danneggiato in alcun modo. Fate particolare attenzione al cavo di alimentazione all’altezza della spina e nel punto in cui esce dalla parte posteriore dell’apparecchio.

Il cordone di alimentazione dovrebbe essere scollegato quando l’apparecchiatura è inutilizzata per un periodo piuttosto lungo.

L’apparecchiatura dovrebbe essere subito disattivata e data a personale qualificato quando:

•Il cavo di alimentazione o la spina sono stati danneggiati

•Oggetti sono caduti, o del liquido è stato versato nell’apparecchio

•L’apparecchiatura è stata esposta alla pioggia

•L’apparecchiatura non sembra funzionare in modo normale

•L’apparecchiatura è caduta, o è stata in qualche modo danneggiata

Posizionate l’unità su una superficie piana abbastanza resistente da sopportare il suo peso. Non posizionatela su un carrello che potrebbe ribaltarsi.

Español

PRECAUCION: Para reducir el riesgo de recibir una descarga eléctrica, no quitar la cubierta superior. No hay componentes manipulables por el usuario en el interior del aparato. Cualquier operación de mantenimiento debe ser llevada a cabo por personal cualificado.

Este símbolo es para alertar al usuario sobre la presencia de tensiones peligrosas no aisladas en el interior del aparato

susceptibles de constituir un riesgo de electrocución.

Este símbolo es para alertar al usuario sobre la presencia de instrucciones importantes relacionadas con el funcionamiento

y el mantenimiento (servicio) tanto en este manual como en la literatura que acompaña al producto.

ADVERTENCIA: No hay componentes manipulables por el usuario en el interior del aparato. Cualquier operación de mantenimiento debe ser llevada a cabo por personal cualificado.

ADVERTENCIA: Para reducir el riesgo de que se produzca un incendio o una descarga eléctrica, no exponga la RB-976MKII al agua o la humedad. No permita que ningún objeto extraño penetre en el interior del aparato. Si el aparato está expuesto a la humedad o algún objeto extraño penetra en su interior, desconecte inmediatamente el cable de alimentación de la red eléctrica. En caso de que fuera necesario, envíe el aparato a un especialista cualificado para su inspección y posterior reparación.

Lea todas las instrucciones del presente manual antes de conectar o hacer funcionar la RB-976MkII. Conserve este manual cerca de usted para el caso de que necesite revisar las instrucciones de seguridad que se indican a continuación.

Tenga siempre en mente las advertencias y la información relativa a seguridad que figuran tanto en estas instrucciones como en el propio aparato. Siga al pie de letra todas las instrucciones relacionadas con el funcionamiento del mismo.

Limpie la RB-976MkII únicamente con una gamuza seca o un aspirador.

Debería dejar unos 10 centímetros de espacio libre alrededor del aparato. No coloque nunca la RB-976MkII sobre una cama, un sofá, una alfombra o una superficie similar susceptible de bloquear las ranuras de ventilación. Si la RB-976MkII está ubicada en la estantería de una librería o un mueble, debe haber suficiente espacio a su alrededor y ventilación en el mueble para permitir una refrigeración adecuada.

Mantenga a la RB-976MkII alejada de radiadores, estufas, cocinas o cualquier otra instalación que produzca calor.

7

La RB-976MkII debe ser conectada únicamente a una fuente de alimentación del tipo y la tensión especificados en su panel posterior. (EE.UU.: 115 V/60Hz, CE: 230V/ 50Hz)

Conecte la RB-976MkII a una toma de corriente eléctrica únicamente a través del cable de alimentación de dos clavijas polarizado suministrado de serie o un equivalente exacto del mismo. No modifique de ningún modo dicho cable. No intente desactivar los terminales destinados a la conexión a tierra o polarización. No utilice ningún tipo de cable de extensión.

No coloque el cable de alimentación en lugares en que pueda ser aplastado, pinchado, doblado en ángulos críticos, expuesto al calor o dañado de algún modo. Preste particular atención al punto de unión entre el cable y la toma de corriente y también a la ubicación de esta última en el panel posterior del aparato.

El cable de alimentación debería desconectarse de la red eléctrica cuando el aparato no vaya a ser utilizado durante un largo período de tiempo (por ejemplo las vacaciones de verano).

Desconecte inmediatamente la RB-976MkII y envíela a un servicio técnico cualificado para su inspección/reparación si:

•El cable de alimentación o alguna clavija del mismo ha sido dañado.

•Han caído objetos o se ha derramado líquido en el interior del aparato.

•El aparato ha sido expuesto a la lluvia.

•El aparato muestra signos de funcionamiento inadecuado.

•El aparato ha sido golpeado o dañado de algún modo.

Coloque la RB-976MKII sobre una superficie fija y equilibrada que sea suficientemente resistente para soportar su peso. No coloque nunca la RB-976MKII en una carretilla móvil de la que pueda volcar.

Nederlands

WAARSCHUWING:

Om het risico op elektrische schokken of brand te vermijden: zorg dat het apparaat niet nat wordt. Verwijder de kast niet: er bevinden zich in het apparaat geen bedieningsorganen. Indien nodig waarschuw een bevoegd technicus!

EEN LAATSTE WAARSCHUWING:

Om het risico op elektrische schokken te voorkomen: laat het apparaat gesloten. Iedere reparatie dient door een gekwalificeerde technicus verricht te worden.

Lees de gehele gebruiksaanwijzing. Voordat u met het apparaat gaat werken is het van groot belang dat u weet hoe u ermee om moet gaan en dat zo veilig mogelijk. Bewaar deze gebruiksaanwijzing op een plek, die u zich na verloop van tijd nog weet te herinneren.

De waarschuwingen op het apparaat en in de gebruiksaanwijzing zijn belangrijk, sla ze niet in de wind.

Als het apparaat vuil wordt, stof het dan af met een zachte droge doek, of maak gebruik van een stofzuiger. Gebruik nooit een oplosmiddel van welke soort dan ook.

Het apparaat moet dusdanig gebruikt worden, dat een behoorlijke koeling niet in het gedrang komt. Voorbeeldjes: Gebruik het apparaat niet op bed, sofa, plaid of andere onregelmatige oppervlakken, waardoor de ventilatiegaten geblokkeerd zouden kunnen worden. Ook het inbouwen in een te kleine ruimte kan een voldoende koeling in de weg staan, zorg dan ook voor een ruimte boven de versterker van zo'n 10 cm.

Het apparaat moet verre gehouden worden van warmtebronnen zoals: radiatoren en kachels, maar ook versterkers.

Het apparaat mag alleen aangesloten worden op het voltage zoals aangegeven op de achterkant, in dit geval 220 - 240 Volts 50 Hz.

Het apparaat dient alleen aangesloten te worden met de bijgeleverde netkabel, of een soortgelijke.

Maatregelen dienen genomen te worden, die de aarding en polarisatie van het apparaat niet te niet doen. Gebruik vooral geen verlengsnoeren.

De lichtnetkabel dient zo neergelegd te worden, dat er niet op getrapt kan worden of geklemd kan worden door scherpe voorwerpen. Vooral de aansluitpunten zijn belangrijk: de aansluiting in de wandcontactdoos en daar waar de kabel het apparaat binnengaat.

Wanneer het apparaat voor langere tijd niet in gebruik is, dient de lichtnetkabel uit het lichtnet verwijderd te zijn.

Het apparaat zal in service gegeven moeten worden wanneer één van de volgende situaties zich voordoet:

•Wanneer het netsnoer en/of steker beschadigd zijn.

•Wanneer er toch voorwerpen/vloeistof in het apparaat terecht zijn gekomen.

•Als het apparaat in de regen heeft gestaan.

•Als het apparaat niet normaal functioneert of een duidelijk afwijkend gedrag vertoont..

•Wanneer het apparaat gevallen is en/of de kast beschadigd is.

Plaats het apparaat op een vaste, vlakke en stevige ondergrond. Plaats hem niet op een verrijdbare wagen die gemakkelijk om kan vallen.

RB-976MkII Six-Channel Power Amplifier

8

Contents
1: Controls and Connections	2
2: Hookup (Stereo mode)	3
3: Hookup (Bridged Mono mode)	4
About Rotel ...........................................	8
Getting Started ......................................	8

About Rotel

A family whose passionate interest in music led them to manufacture high fidelity components of uncompromising quality founded Rotel over 30 years ago. Over the years that passion has remained undiminished and the goal of providing exceptional value for audiophiles and music lovers regardless of their budget, is shared by all Rotel employees.

Operating Features	8
A Few Precautions	8
Placement	8
AC Power and Control ............................	9
AC Power Input	9
Power Switch and Indicator	9
Auto Turn On/Off Mode Selector	9
+12V Trigger Input	9
Protection Indicators	9
Stereo/Bridged Mono Mode Selection .....	9
Input Select Switches
Channel LEDs
Bridged Mono LEDs	10
Signal Connections ................................	10
RCA Inputs	10

The engineers work as a close team, listening to, and fine tuning each new product until it reaches their exacting musical standards. They are free to choose components from around the world in order to make that product the best they can. You are likely to find capacitors from the United Kingdom and Germany, semiconductors from Japan or the United States, and toroidal power transformers manufactured in Rotel’s own factory.

Rotel’s reputation for excellence has been earned through hundreds of good reviews and awards from the most respected reviewers in the industry, who listen to music every day. Their comments keep the company true to its goal – the pursuit of equipment that is musical, reliable and affordable.

All of us at Rotel thank you for buying this product and hope it will bring you many hours of enjoyment.

Input Level Controls	10	Getting Started
Signal Output Link	10

Speakers ..............................................	10
Speaker Selection	10
Speaker Wire Selection	10
Polarity and Phasing	10
Speaker Connections	11
Troubleshooting ....................................	11
Front Panel Power Indicator Is Not Lit	11
No Sound	11
Protection Indicator Is Lit	11
Specifications .......................................	11

Thank you for purchasing the Rotel RB-976MkII Six-Channel Power Amplifier. When used in a high-quality music or home theater system, your Rotel amplifier will provide years of musical enjoyment.

The RB-976MkII is a sophisticated six--channel power amplifier. Discrete output devices, a massive power supply with toroidal transformer, premium components, and Rotel’s Balanced Design ensure superb sound quality. High current capability allows the RB-976MkII to drive difficult speaker loads with ease.

Operating Features

•Three pair of amplifier channels, any of which can be bridged for mono operation (back panel switchable). Possible configurations: 6, 5, 4, or 3 channel operation.

•User selectable power on/off configuration: manual, automatic signal sensing, or controlled by remote 12 volt trigger signal.

•Front panel input level controls.

•Front panel LEDs indicate Stereo or Bridged Mono mode for each pair of amplifier channels.

•Protection circuitry with front panel indicators.

•Signal link output to pass-through the input signal to another component.

A Few Precautions

Please read this manual carefully. In addition to installation and operating instructions, it provides information on various RB-976MkII system configurations. Please contact your authorized Rotel dealer for answers to any questions you might have. In addition, all of us at Rotel welcome your questions and comments.

Save the RB-976MkII shipping carton and packing material for future use. Shipping or moving the RB-976MkII in anything other than the original packing material may result in severe damage to your amplifier.

Be sure to keep the original sales receipt. It is your best record of the date of purchase, which you will need in the event warranty service is ever required.

Placement

The RB-976MkII generates heat as part of its normal operation. The heat sinks and ventilation openings in the amplifier are designed to dissipate this heat. The ventilation slots in the top cover must be unobstructed. There should be 10 cm (4 inches) of clearance around the chassis, and reasonable airflow through the installation location, to prevent the amplifier from overheating.

Likewise, remember the weight of the amplifier when you select an installation location. Make sure that the shelf or cabinet can support its considerable bulk.

AC Power and Control

AC Power Input

The RB-976MkII is supplied with the proper AC power cord. Use only this cord or an exact equivalent. Do not use an extension cord. A heavy duty multi-tap power outlet strip may be used, but only if it is rated to handle the current demand of the RB-976MkII.

Be sure the power switch on the front panel of the RB-976MkII is turned off. Then, plug one end of the cord into the AC power connector on the back panel of the amplifier. Plug the other end into an appropriate AC outlet.

Your RB-976MkII is configured at the factory for the proper AC line voltage in the country where you purchased it (USA: 115 volts/60 Hz , Europe: 230 volts/50 Hz). The AC line configuration is noted on a label on the back panel.

NOTE: Should you move your RB-976MkII to another country, it is possible to configure your amplifier for use on a different line voltage. Do not attempt to perform this conversion yourself. Opening the enclosure of the RB-976MkII exposes you to dangerous voltages. Consult a qualified technician or the Rotel factory service department for information.

If you are going to be away from home for an extended period of time, it is a sensible precaution to unplug your amplifier.

Power Switch and Indicator

The power switch is located on the left side of the front panel. To turn the amplifier on (or to activate either of the optional automatic power-on modes), push the switch in. The LED indicator above the switch will light, indicating that the amplifier is turned on. To turn the amplifier off, push the button again and return it to the out position.

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Auto Turn On/Off Mode

Selector

The RB-976MkII provides three options for manual or automatic power on/off operation. These modes are selectable using a threeposition slide switch on the back panel:

•With the switch in the OFF position, the amplifier is turned on or off manually using the front panel power switch. Use this mode if you are using a switched AC outlet to control power to the amplifier.

•With the switch in the SIGNAL SENSING position, the amplifier turns on automatically when a signal is sensed at the inputs. The amplifier will go into standby mode after five minutes with no signal. The front panel power switch overrides this function. It must be ON for the signal sensing to work. Turning the switch OFF cuts power to the amplifier, regardless of whether or not a signal is present.

•With the switch in the +12V TRIG. IN position, the amplifier is turned on automatically when a 12 volt trigger signal is present at the screw terminals adjacent to the left of the switch. The amplifier will go into standby mode if the +12 volt signal is not present. The front panel POWER SWITCH overrides this function. It must be ON for the +12V trigger to work. Turning the switch OFF cuts power to the amplifier, regardless of whether or not a trigger signal is present.

+12V Trigger Input

A pair of screw terminals for connecting the wires carrying a +12 volt trigger signal to turn the amplifier on and off, such as might be used in a custom installation. To use this feature the adjacent slide switch must be placed to the left position (see previous section).

The TRIGGER INPUT accepts any control signal (AC or DC) ranging from 3 volts to 30 volts. The screw terminals are labeled “+ and –” Observe proper polarity when connecting the trigger signal wiring.

Protection Indicators

Thermal and protection circuits protect the amplifier against potential damage in the event of extreme or faulty operating conditions. Unlike many designs, the RB-976MkII’s protection circuit is independent of the audio signal and

has no impact on sonic performance. Instead, the protection circuit monitors the temperature of the output devices and shuts down the amplifier if safe limits are exceeded.

In addition, the RB-976MkII includes overcurrent protection which operates only when load impedances drops too low. This protection is independent for each of the three pair of channels with separate front panel PROTECTION LEDS for each.

Should a faulty condition arise, the amplifier will stop playing and one or more of the PROTECTION LEDS on the front panel will light.

If this happens, turn the amplifier off, let it cool down for several minutes, and attempt to identify and correct the problem. When you turn the amplifier back on, the protection circuit will automatically reset and the PROTECTION LEDS should go out.

In most cases, the protection circuitry activates because of a fault condition such as shorted speaker wires, or inadequate ventilation leading to an overheating condition. In very rare cases, highly reactive or extremely low impedance speaker loads could cause the protection circuit to engage.

Stereo/Bridged Mono

Mode Selection

It is useful to think of the RB-976MkII as three stereo amplifiers in a single chassis. Each of the three pair of amplifier channels can be operated in Stereo or Bridged Mono mode.

•Stereo mode: Conventional 2-channel stereo operation for a pair of amplifier channels. Minimum speaker load: 4 ohms.

•Bridged Mono mode: Bridged Mono mode more than doubles the power into a single speaker. Minimum speaker load: 8 ohms.

The two modes are selected by three rear panel switches, one for each pair of channels. Stereo or Bridged Mono configuration is independent for each pair of channels. You can configure some pairs of channels in Stereo mode and others in Bridged Mono mode.

RB-976MkII Six-Channel Power Amplifier		10
Input Select Switches	RCA Inputs

	Channel LEDs	See Figures 2 and 3
	Bridged Mono LEDs

A rear panel switch adjacent to the inputs selects Stereo mode or Bridged Mono mode for each of the three pair of amplifier channels.

For Stereo mode: Slide the switch associated with the desired pair of amplifier channels to the right, use both LEFT and RIGHT input connectors, and connect one speaker to each pair of speaker connectors. The two corresponding front panel CHANNEL indicators will light.

NOTE: For groups “B” and/or “C”, you can also place the INPUT SELECT switch in the center LINK position for Stereo mode. This routes the input signals from the “A” group to the inputs for that pair of amplifier channels.

For Bridged Mono mode: Slide the switch to the left, use only the LEFT INPUT connection, and connect only one speaker to the two outer speaker connectors. The front panel CHANNEL LEDs will be extinguished and the BRIDGED MONO LED will light to indicate Bridged Mono mode.

Signal Connections

The RB-976MkII provides standard conventional input connections — unbalanced RCA type connections as found on nearly all audio equipment.

There is also a pair of SIGNAL OUTPUT LINK connections for passing the input signal connected to the “A” pair of channels on to another audio component. Additionally, the input signal to the “A” pair of channels can be automatically linked to the inputs for the “B” and/or “C” channels, so that a separate input signal cable is not required for those channels, for example in large systems where the RB-976MkII is being used to drive multiple pairs of speakers in stereo mode.

There are two RCA inputs for each of the three pair of amplifier channels. These RCA inputs accept audio signals from preamplifiers or surround sound processors. Use high quality audio interconnect cables for best performance.

For Stereo operation, use both inputs for that pair of channels. Connect the left channel output of your preamp to the LEFT INPUT on the RB-976MkII. Connect the right channel of your preamp to the RIGHT INPUT. Make sure that the INPUT SELECT switch is in the STEREO position.

NOTE: You can link the inputs for group “A” to groups “B” and/or “C” by placing the INPUT SELECT switch in the center LINK position. No input connection is required for that group. Placing the switch in this position leaves that pair of channels in Stereo mode.

For Bridged Mono operation, use only the LEFT INPUT for that pair of amplifier channels. Connect one output channel of your preamp to the LEFT INPUT on the RB-976MkII. Make sure that the INPUT SELECT SWITCH selector switch is in the BRIDGED position.

Input Level Controls

Three controls on the front panel, one for each pair of amplifier channels, provide input level adjustments. These allow you to adjust the gain of the amplifiers to match other components in an elaborate system.

Turn the control clockwise to increase gain. Turn counterclockwise to reduce gain.

Signal Output Link

This pair of RCA connections can be used to pass unprocessed input signals to another audio component, for example to “daisy-chain” an additional amplifier to drive a second set of speakers.

The input signals connected to the “A” inputs are always available at SIGNAL OUTPUT LINK connections. These input signals can also be linked to the “B” and/or “C” inputs by playing the INPUT SELECT switch associated with that pair of inputs in the LINK position.

Speakers

The RB-976MkII has three groups of speaker connectors, one for each pair of amplifier channels. These can be used to connect two loudspeakers in Stereo mode, or to connect one loudspeaker in Bridged Mono mode.

Speaker Selection

The nominal impedance of the loudspeaker(s) connected to the RB-976MkII in the various operating modes should be:

•Stereo mode: minimum 4 ohms

•Bridged Mono mode: minimum 8 ohms

When driving multiple pairs of speakers connected in parallel to a single amplifier channel, the effective impedance the amplifier sees is cut in half. For example, when driving two 8 ohm speakers, the amplifier sees a 4 ohm load. When driving multiple speakers in parallel, select speakers with a nominal impedance of 8 ohms or higher.

Speaker Wire Selection

Use insulated two-conductor stranded wire to connect the RB-976MkII to the speakers. The size and quality of the wire can have an audible effect on the performance of the system. Standard speaker wire will work, but can result in lower output or diminished bass response, particularly over longer distances. In general, heavier wire will improve the sound. For best performance, you may want to consider special high-quality speaker cables. Your authorized Rotel dealer can help in the selection of appropriate cables for your system.

Polarity and Phasing

The polarity – the positive/negative orientation of the connections – for every speaker and amplifier connection must be consistent so all the speakers will be in phase. If the polarity of one connection is mistakenly reversed, bass output will be very weak and stereo imaging degraded. All wire is marked so you can identify the two conductors. There may be ribs or a stripe on the insulation of one conductor. The wire may have clear insulation with different color conductors (copper and silver). There may be polarity indications printed on the insulation. Identify the positive and negative conductors and be consistent with every speaker and amplifier connection.