Before using your Stewart Audio Inc. Power Amplier, please read this
Owner’s Manual carefully to ensure optimum trouble-free performance.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO NOT EX-
POSE THIS AMPLIFIER TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. DANGEROUS HIGH
VOLTAGES ARE PRESENT INSIDE THE ENCLOSURE. DO NOT OPEN THE
CABINET. REFER
SERVIC-ING TO
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.
Important Safety Instruction – Please Read Prior to Product
Installation.
1. Installation should be performed by a trained and licensed professional to
insure safe and lasting operation.
2. All of the safety and operating instructions should be read before the am-
plier is installed or operated. Retain these instructions for future refer-
The lighting bolt within arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of un-insulated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure that may be of sufcient magnitude to constitute a risk of electrical shock to person.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle, is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instruction in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
2
Page 3
3. The amplier should be situated so that its location and position does not
interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the amplier must not
be placed on a rug, bed, sofa or similar surface that impedes airow
across the chassis. Airow around the unit should be unobstructed.
4. This amplier should not be used near water, for example, near a bathtub,
in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, etc. This amplier is intended
to be operated in a controlled indoor environment.
5. Do not place the amplier near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances that produce heat.
6. The amplier’s power supply should only be connected to 120 VAC, 60
Hz power source. Do not defeat the ground or polarization of the power
plug.
7. Route power cord and other cables so that they are not likely to be
walked on, tripped over or stressed. Pay particular attention to condition
of cords and cables at plugs and at the point where they exit the amplier. To prevent risk of re or injury, damaged cords and cables should be
replaced immediately.
8. Clean the amplier with a clean, damp cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Never pour any liquid on the amplier.
9. When left unused for a long period of time, the power cord should be
unplugged from the outlet.
10. Damaged Ampliers requiring service should be repaired by a qualied
service technician when:
a. The power cord or AC plug has been damaged.
b. Objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into the unit.
c. The amplier has been exposed to rain or other moisture.
d. The amplier does not appear to operate normally or exhibits
a marked change in performance.
e. The amplier has been dropped or the enclosure
damaged.
11. The user should not attempt to service the amplier beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred
to qualied service personnel.
3
Page 4
Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions ······························································ 2
Table of Contents ················································································ 4
1 Welcome ························································································· 5
1.1 Features ··············································································· 5
1.2 Using this Manual ································································ 5
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Stewart Audio CVA100-2
power amplier. This amplier has been designed and built to provide
you with years of high-quality audio performance and trouble-free operation. If after reading this manual you should have any questions concerning amplier installation and operation, please contact your Authorized Stewart Dealer, or you may contact us directly using the contact
information provided on the back of this manual.
1.1 Features
Your Stewart Audio CVA 100-2 amplier is the result of years of experience in the design and manufacture of quality ampliers. As such it
provides a combination of performance and operational benets that
simply cannot be found in conventional ampliers.
Compact 1/ 2 rack package
2 channel constant voltage amplier
Optional Factory-Installed Dante or CobraNet
Selectable Hi-Pass Filter
Remote volume control and muting
Signal Sense Technology™
RS232 or IR controllable via available accessories
Ultra-efcient switch-mode power supply. <PFC>
Made in the USA
1.2 Using this Manual
This manual provides you with the information necessary to safely install and operate your new CVA 100-2 amplier in the most common
scenarios. If you nd yourself requiring additional assistance, please
feel free to contact your Authorized Dealer, or you may contact us directly using the contact information provided on the back of this manual.
5
Page 6
2 Setup
2.1 Setup Precautions
CAUTION: Before installing your amplier, make sure that
you have read the Important Safety Precautions at the beginning of this manual.
2.2 Rackmount Installation
The CVA100-2 amplier takes up only 1/2 of a standard 19” rack unit.
While it is not necessary to rackmount your CVA100-2 amplier, there
are two options available if you would like to do so : a single rackmount
or a double-rackmount.
NOTE: Regardless of which rackmount option is used, the
4 adhesive rubber feet must be removed from the bottom
of the unit.
2.2.1 Single Rackmount
A single CVA100-2 amplier can be mounted on one rack unit with the
RMK-70-S rackmount kit. The kit includes 2 brackets which will center
the CVA100-2 on a single rack unit.
2.2.2 Dual Rackmount
Two CVA100-2 ampliers can be mounted on one rack unit with the
RMK-70-D rackmount kit. The kit will connect the two ampliers and
center them on a single rack unit.
6
CVA100-2
Sig/Clip
#1#2
Single Rackmount with RMK-70-S
CVA100-2
Sig/Clip
#1#2
Power/Active
Dual Rackmount with RMK-70-D
Power/Active
CVA100-2
Sig/Clip
#1#2
Power/Active
Page 7
2.2.3 Proper Cooling Considerations
Cooling of the CVA 100-2 amplier is achieved by Stewart’s unique
whole chassis heatsink design, which utilizes the entire chassis as a
heatsink to cool the heat generating components inside. In the event
the internal ambient temperature reaches 85 degrees centigrade, the
protection circuit will shut down the power supply until the amplier
cools down.
Although the sophisticated thermal management system in the
CVA100-2 makes it less susceptible to overheating than other ampliers, it remains good practice to provide airspace around the chassis.
CAUTION: Inadequate airow to the amplier can cause the
amplier to overheat and potentially become damaged in
the process. Be sure to provide plenty of air space to allow
for convection cooling.
2.4 Product Dimensions
CVA100-2
Sig/Clip
#1#2
8.26in
21cm
Power/Active
10.6in
27cm
Side View
1.75in
4.6cm
1.75in
4.6cm
7
Page 8
2.4 Input Connections
Your CVA 100-2 amplier is provided with a 3-pin Euro Block connector
for each of the two input connection. This connector will accept both
balanced or unbalanced connections, however some modications
must be made for an unbalanced connection. See the next two sections for instructions on connecting your amplier to its input source.
2.4.1 Balanced Input Connections
When using a balanced input source and connector, you must ensure
that the hot, cold, and ground pins of the connector are matched up to
the +, -, and ground pins of the CVA 100-2’s Euro Block connector respectively. Diagrams have been provided for standard XLR and TRS
connectors. Please refer to the manual of your input source in case it
does not follow the standard pin-out.
8
NOTE: The CVA 100-2 does not accept TRS inputs wired
for a stereo source. TRS inputs should only be used for balanced mono inputs.
Page 9
2.4.2 Unbalanced Input Connections
When using an unbalanced input source and connector, a jumper must
be added between the negative (-) terminals and the ground terminals.
Once this has been done, the unbalanced source can be connected to
the positive (+) and ground terminals. Please refer to the manual of
your input source in case it does not follow the standard pin-out. For
your convenience, pre-wired connectors are available for purchase, see
the next page for details.
NOTE: A jumper is required for connecting an unbalanced
input.
NOTE: The CVA 100-2 does not accept stereo inputs. Either
one side must be selected from the stereo source or an
overload-protected Y-cable must be used to sum them to
mono. It is highly recommended that you purchase the pre
-wired connectors mentioned on the next page. Damage to
source equipment can result from the use of a standard Y-
9
Page 10
Pre-wired unbalanced connectors are available for purchase from Stewart Audio. These will allow for a quicker installation with less room for
error when connecting the CVA 100-2 amplier to an unbalanced
source. The summing adapters will properly sum a stereo source for
use with the mono input on the rear of the amplier without causing
sound cancellation. Part numbers are found below the diagrams.
ADPT-RCA
Mono
Female RCA
ADPT-SUMRCA
Stereo
Female RCA
ADPT-SUM35
Stereo
Female 3.5mm
2.5 Output Connections
Because of the differences in the way that constant-voltage ampliers
work as opposed to a typical 8-ohm setup, the wiring procedure and
the gauge of wire used is very different.
Constant voltage systems and speakers use a smaller current ow than
the typical 8ohm systems and thus can use a higher gauge (thinner
diameter) wire. Please refer to the following g chart to choose the appropriate wire gauge for your installation.
Speaker leads connect by means of removable Euro Block connectors
supplied with the unit. Strip speaker leads 1/4” and insert leads into
connector observing proper polarity. With a small, at-blade screwdriver, tighten the screw until the leads are held securely in place. Inspect
for possible shorts or broken wires.
Distance Wire Gauge
Up to 500ft 22 AWG
500-1000 ft. 20 AWG
Over 1000ft 18 AWG
10
Page 11
2.5.1 Constant Voltage Wiring Example
The diagram below is a typical wiring setup for two speakers with outboard step-down transformers wired in parallel to one of the 70V outputs on a CVA100-2 amplier.
+ - + -
11
Page 12
3 Operation
3.1 Operating Precautions
1. Before use, your amplier must be congured for proper operation, including input and output wiring hookup. Improper wiring
can result in damage to equipment or potentially harm to the
operator. Consult section 2 for setup instructions.
2. Tampering with the circuitry, or making unauthorized changes
is not only dangerous but may also violate local regulations.
3. Use care when making connections between the amplier and
the input or output equipment. Using equipment that is not
capable of handling the output wattage may lead to permanent
damage.
NOTE: Stewart Audio will not be held responsible for
damage to your CVA 100-2 amplier or connected equipment if the instructions in this manual are not followed.
NOTE: For additional operating precautions, please refer
to “Important Safety Instructions” located on Page 2.
12
Page 13
3.2 Controls, Indicators, and Connectors
1
2
3
7
8
4
5
6
9
10
11
1
2
3
8
4
5
6
9
10
11
7
CVA100-2
Sig/Clip
#1#2
Power/Active
Front Signal and Clip LEDs
1
Front Power/Sleep Indicator
Power Connector (PFC)
Rear Power/Sleep Indicator
RVC and Mute Connector
Speaker Output Connector
10V
RVC
Com
Mute
+ - + -
RVC#1 Spkr #2
10
11
Power/Active
Network
Level
#1#2
11
85
65 1508565 150
#1 High Pass #2
#1 Sig/Clip #2
Network Input (Optional)
High-Pass Filter Selector
Rear Signal and Clip LEDs
Input Connectors (Balanced)
Channel Level Controls
- + - +
#1 Input #2
10
13
Page 14
3.2.1 Indicators
The CVA100-2 has a set of indicators for power, signal, and clip located
on both the front and the rear of the amplier. The redundant indicators
are intended to ease installation by giving feedback regardless of being
in front of or behind the unit.
The “Power” and “Active” LEDs indicate whether the amplier is being supplied proper AC power and is active (not in sleep mode) respectively. The amplier will go into sleep mode after approximately thirty
minutes of no signal on either input. When it does so, the “Active”
light will go out leaving just the “Power” light on. As soon as signal is
detected again the “Active” LED will illuminate indicating that the amplier is now back in normal operation mode.
The green LEDs, labeled “Sig”, will light when an audio signal is present on the corresponding audio input channel. The red LEDs, labeled
“Clip” will illuminate when the signal is too hot. The “Level” control
for that channel must be adjusted until the “Clip” LED goes out for undistorted sound amplication. If clipping still occurs when the “Level”
control is turned all the way down (counter-clockwise), reduce the signal at the source.
3.2.2 Controls
All CVA100-2 controls are located on the rear of the unit. There is no
power switch so the amplier will power up into a sleep state when
power is rst applied. The CVA 100-2’s Signal Sense Technology
(SST™) will power up the amplier from sleep when a signal is detected. After 30 minutes without an input signal the amplier will go into
sleep mode.
To adjust the input sensitivity knob, you will need a small at-head
screwdriver. While a typical program source level is present, spin the
rotary knob as far clockwise as you can without hearing distortion or
without the “Clip” indicator glowing red. If the signal is distorting and
the knob is all the way counter-clockwise, adjust the gain down at the
source level.
14
Page 15
Your CVA100-2 amplier has 2 high-pass lters, one for each channel.
The high-pass lter is used to attenuate (reduce the volume of) frequencies below a desired cutoff point. The high-pass lters on the
CVA100-2 have 3 cutoff points which can be selected: 65Hz, 85Hz,
150Hz. To make a selection, slide the switch to the desired cutoff
point.
The purpose of this high-pass lter is to both prevent unwanted noise
that can come in with the signal sources as well as to prevent damage
to speakers which are unable to handle frequencies which are more
suited for a subwoofer.
3.2.3 Remote Volume Control
CVA 100-2 ampliers can have their volume remotely controlled (or
muted) via the Euro Block input on the rear of the amplier. Remote
muting is also useful for re-alarm situations in which all unnecessary
sound must be silenced.
NOTE: If the remote volume control connector is utilized,
it will override the volume knob on the rear of the unit.
In order to remotely control the volume of the unit, a 10k-ohm potentiometer should be placed between the +10V pin and the GND (Ground)
pin on the rear of the unit with its wiper on the RVC pin. The volume
will be determined by the selected resistance on the potentiometer,
the greater the resistance the louder the volume.
The amplier can be remotely muted by making a connection between
the GND pin and the MUTE pin. No power should be applied to these
pins, simply a contact connection.
15
Page 16
3.3 Dante
If you have selected the Dante version of the CVA100-2, conguration
is done using the Dante Controller software from Audinate.
Dante Controller Software can be found on Audinate’s website at
www.audinate.com.
From there you can select Dante Controller under the Products section.
This will require registration for Audinate’s portal and also includes access to the Dante Controller User Manual which should be read for
complete conguration instructions.
16
Page 17
3.3.1 Using Audinate’s Dante Controller
Software
Once Dante Controller has been installed following the instructions in
the Dante Controller Software User Manual (found at
www.audinate.com), launch the application to see the connection
matrix.
Unlike CobraNet, Dante does not require IP conguration or bundle
conguration. Instead, connections are made on the connection matrix
shown above
17
Page 18
All Stewart Audio products will ship from the factory as being
named Ultimo-<MAC>. This can be renamed within the device
conguration in the Dante Controller.
Transmitters are shown on the top of the matrix while Receivers are
shown on the left-hand side. The CVA100-2 includes 2 receive channels. In order to make a connection, click on the matrix node between
the appropriate transmitter and receiver. If a connection is successful,
it will display a green checkmark.
3.3.2 Dante FAQ
Q: I am having problems installing or using the Dante Controller Software
A: Please refer to the ofcial documentation available in the Audinate
portal where you downloaded the Controller Software.
Q: I do not see the CVA100-2 showing up on the network?
A: All Stewart Audio products are tagged as Ultimo-<MAC_ADDRESS>
from the factory. You can nd the correct Ultimo device by choosing
the correct MAC address from the list. You can rename this using the
device conguration.
18
Page 19
3.4 CobraNet
3.4.1 CobraNet FAQ
Q: How do CobraNet devices communicate on the network? Do they
receive an IP address?
A: CobraNet devices operate without the need for an IP address. Many
conguration applications for CobraNet devices will assign an IP address for organizational purposes. However, CobraNet devices operate
using data channels called “bundles”. In order to connect a transmitter
and a receiver in a CobraNet network, both devices simply need to be
set to the same bundle number. There is no need for a DHCP server (a
router for example).
Q: How do I congure the bundles of the CVA100-2?
A: Bundle settings should be congured using Cirrus Logic’s CobraNet
Discovery Utility. Instructions for downloading and operation can be
found in section 3.4.2.
Q: Why is the CobraNet Discovery Utility not detecting any devices?
A: First, ensure that your computer has an IP address. If you are operating without a DHCP server (ie in a switch-only network) then you will
need to manually set an IP address in the Network Conguration section of Windows. Next, go to Tools > Options in the top menu and
make sure the proper network device is selected in the top dropdown.
Q: Can the CVA100-2 transmit the input channels to other CobraNet
devices?
A: Yes, the CVA100-2 is designed to transmit two channels and receive
two channels over CobraNet.
19
Page 20
3.4.2 Using CobraNet Discovery Utility
The CobraNet Discovery utility can be downloaded from the Cirrus Logic website at: http://www.cobranet.info/downloads/disco
Once installed, it should be launched from a computer on the same
network as the CVA100-2. After the program launches it will search for
CobraNet devices. The CVA100-2 will appear as “Attero Tech CobraNet
CEP2224”. If this is the rst time you are setting up this device, or the
device has been power cycled, the IP address will appear as 0.0.0.0. To
set an IP address for easier recognition, right-click the device and select “Update IP Address”. To ensure visibility, assign it to the same
subnet as the computer you are conguring it from.
3.4.2 Setting Up Bundles
To open up the bundle conguration window, double-click on the device listed in the screen above. You will see 2 Tx and 2 Rx bundles
ready to congure.
Single-click on each of the Rx bundles (shown as 300 and 301 in the
screen capture on the next page) to make the elds editable. From
here you can enter a new bundle numbers.
Repeat the same procedure for the Tx bundles..
20
Page 21
4 Troubleshooting
Problem: Power indicator does not turn on.
Procedure: Check that the unit is plugged into a functioning outlet. En-
sure that there is an audio signal present on the audio input indicated
by the green LED being lit. If the unit is powered up but in sleep mode
(due to no signal), the blue active LED will not be lit.
Problem: No output heard on speakers; Blue power indicator is lit.
Procedure: Check that physical level controls are not turned down.
Check that input and output connections are secure. Ensure signal present LED is lit to denote a signal. If there is no signal detected check
signal source and that level controls are set high enough. If using CobraNet, ensure that it is properly congured and sending full-level audio. Refer to section 3.3.
Problem: Amplier overheats and/or shuts off.
Procedure: Review section 2.2.3 on proper cooling procedures. Check
the clip LEDs on the front or rear of the amplier to see if the signal is
overdriving (the signal light ashes red frequently). Overdriving the amplier for extended periods of time can cause a thermal shutdown.
Problem: Output sound is distorted or cracking.
Procedure: Check all cables for damage or loose connections and re-
duce the gain on the input signal at the mixer or preamp level. Replace
the cables and loudspeakers temporarily to see if this resolves the
problem. If problem still exists, contact your Authorized Dealer for service.
Stewart Audio reserves the rate to change features and specications without notice.
22
Page 23
6 Warranty Information
6.1 Warranty Summary
All Stewart Audio ampliers and accessories, unless excluded in this
summary, are covered by a 3-year limited warranty on parts and labor
from the data of purchase. In order to be eligible for warranty repairs,
the ampliers and accessories must have been purchased through an
authorized Stewart Audio dealer and submitted by the original purchaser. This warranty is only valid in the country in which the amplier was
purchased.
6.1.1 Eligibility Requirements
Stewart Audio warrants against all malfunctions which come as a result
of component or manufacturer defect. The amplier is also covered
from all failures which arise during the warranty period (3 years from
date of purchase) that are not a result of misuse. The following actions
will void your warranty:
The power cord or AC plug has been damaged through misuse.
The amplier has been exposed to moisture or extreme tempera-
tures.
The amplier has been dropped, items have been dropped on the
amplier, or the enclosure has been damaged.
The amplier has been opened by the operator.
The amplier was improperly packaged when sending to the fac-
tory for repair, resulting in damage.
Any of the precautions or instructions found in this manual were
not followed.
Damages resulting to the amplier which are not covered under this
warranty can be factory-repaired at cost to the customer. Use the contact information below to initiate the repair process.
6.2 Return Procedure
This section includes the return procedures which must be followed in
order to prevent processing delay or cost to the customer. Please read
the entire section before contacting Stewart Audio for returns.
23
Page 24
6.2.1 Return Authorization Number
All returns to the factory for service must be accompanied by a Return
Authorization (RA) number. One can be obtained by contacting Stewart
Audio at (209) 588-8111 or via e-mail at support@stewartaudio.com.
NOTE: Any defective products received without an RA number will
be returned to sender at their expense.
If Stewart Audio is unable to contact the sender in 14 days, the merchandise will be considered scrap and may be disposed of.
6.2.2 Shipment Instructions
If Stewart Audio requests that you ship the defective product back to
their service center, please refer to the guide below. To ensure prompt
warranty service, be sure to follow all instructions.
1. Return Authorization (RA) is required for product being sent to the
factory for service.
2. See packing instructions in section 6.2.3.
3. Ship the defective product using a method which provides for order tracking or order conrmation. The service center is located at
the following address:
Stewart Audio
14397 Cuesta Court Suite D1
Sonora, CA 95370
4. Use a bold black marker and write the RA number on three sides
of the box.
5. Record the RMA number for future reference. The RA number can
be used to check the repair status.
6.2.3 Packaging Instructions
Should Stewart Audio request that you ship your product to their service center, these instructions must be followed in order to ensure safe
delivery. If they are not followed, Stewart Audio assumes no responsibility for damaged goods and/or accessories that are sent with your
unit.
24
Page 25
6.2.3 Packaging Instructions (cont.)
1. Please write the RA number on three sides of the box. Include the
Stewart Audio RA number inside the box and a brief description of
the problem.
2. Do not ship any accessories (manuals, cords, hardware, etc.) with
your unit. These items are not needed to service your product.
Stewart Audio will not be held responsible for these items if they
are returned with the ampliers.
3. When shipping your amplier, it is important that it has adequate
protection. We recommend you use the original packing material
when returning the product for repair. If you do not have the original box, see number 4.
4. If you provide your own shipping pack, the minimum recommended requirements for materials are as follows:
a. 275 P.S.I. burst test, Double-Wall carton that allows for 2-
inch solid Styrofoam on all six sides of unit or 3 inches of
plastic bubble wrap on all six sides of unit.
b. Securely seal the package with an adequate carton sealing
tape.
c. Do not use light boxes or “peanuts”.
NOTE: Damage caused by poor packaging will not be covered under warranty.
6.2.4 Estimate Approval
An estimate for all non-warranty repairs will be provided to the customer once the unit has been shipped to the factory. The customer is responsible to approve this estimate within 7 days. If the repairs are not
approved within 14 days, Stewart Audio reserves the right to consider
the unit scrap and may discard it.
6.2.5 Payment of Non-Warranty Repairs
Payment for non-warranty repairs must be submitted to Stewart Audio
before the product will be returned to the customer.
25
Page 26
7 Accessories
The following accessories are available from Stewart Audio for your
amplier.
All part numbers shown are Stewart Audio Part Numbers.
Rack Mounting Brackets
RMK-70-S Hardware for racking a single amplier centered in a
1U space
RMK-70-D Hardware for racking two ampliers side-by-side in a
1U space
Connection Adapters
ADPT-RCA Mono Female RCA to male Euroblock.
ADPT-SUMRCA Stereo Female RCA to male Euroblock.
ADPT-SUM35 Stereo Female 3.5mm to male Euroblock
Wall Plates
WP-RVC-B Wallplate with 10k potentiometer and knob for re-
mote volume control (Black)
WP-RVC-A Wallplate with 10k potentiometer and knob for re-
mote volume control (Aluminum)
To purchase these accessories or to see the full
Stewart Audio product lineup, visit us at:
www.stewartaudio.com
26
Page 27
8 Notes
For Your Record
In the spaces provided below, record the model and serial
number located at the rear of your amplier.
Model No. ________________________________________
Serial No. _________________________________________
Purchase Date _____________________________________
Retain this information for future reference.
27
Page 28
14397 Cuesta Court
Suite D1
Sonora, Ca. 95370
Phone: 209-588-8111
Fax: 209-588-8113
28
www.stewartaudio.com
Loading...
+ hidden pages
You need points to download manuals.
1 point = 1 manual.
You can buy points or you can get point for every manual you upload.