Phoenix Gold pt1800 - Manual (Page 21)

Operating Tips
Using the pt1250/pt1800/pt2400
Once the amplifier has been installed and wired into the system, you are ready to use it. Here are some tips
to help you get the most from it.
• Verify that all switches (Stereo / Mono, Clipping Eliminator and Level Defeat) have been set to the mode
that you want.
• When you power the system up for the first time (out of the carton), it’s a good idea to start with all of the amplifier
level controls turned down, then advance them slowly, one at a time, so that you can confirm that each amplifier
channel is operating normally.
• Be sure that the Input Level controls are set sufficiently high to allow the preceding device to drive the amplifier to
full output. For most installations, this is wide open (fully clockwise).
• Once you have established settings, it is a good idea to mark them down, either on paper, or on pieces of tape or
sticky-dots attached to the amplifier’s panel.
• In bi-amplified (multi-amp) systems, it is a good idea to start with the low-frequency amplifiers turned off or down, and
to check each frequency range from highest to lowest to ensure that each loudspeaker component is operating correctly.
In Case of Difficulty
If you’re having trouble or suspect a problem with the pt1250/1800/2400, try some simple troubleshooting before contacting an
Authorized Carver Professional Service Center.
No Sound, No Power
This is usually an indication of a power supply problem, either the power line itself or the amplifier’s power supply.
1. Amplifier power is switched off.
2. Linecord is disconnected.
3. Poor fit between the plug and AC receptacle.
4. Power off at AC receptacle (check with tester or lamp).
5. The amplifier is plugged into a switched outlet. Verify that the outlet is live.
6. Amplifier fuse has blown. Check and replace fuse.
Power On, Low Output or No Output
Low or no output problems are usually signal-source, bad cable or partial output short circuit related. If the items listed below
check out, then the problem may be internal to the pt1250/1800/2400.
1. The Input Level controls are set too low.
2. Move the input connections to another amplifier that you know is working to verify that it is not a source problem.
3. Check the speaker connections. Be sure that there are no small strands of wire touching similar strands coming from the
other wire in the cable.
4. Make sure the speakers are functioning correctly.
5. If you are using bridged-mono mode, ensure that the Stereo/Mono switch is set correctly.
6. Use a voltmeter to determine if the power line voltage is dropping excessively when the amplifier is driven hard.
Playback Is Mixed with Hum
1. Check or replace the connecting cables.
2. Make sure that each screw terminal connection is tight.
3. Signal cables may have been routed too closely to AC cables, power transformers, motors or another type of EMI
inducing device.
4. Try connecting another source to the power amplifier inputs. If the hum stops, the problem lies with the original
source component.
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