ROTEL RA-04 - Manual (Page 7)

7
Recorder Connections
T
[See Figure 2.]
The Tape inputs and outputs can be connected
to any record/playback device that accepts
standard line level analog input and output
signals. Typically that will be a conventional
tape recorder.
When connecting a recorder to the RA-04
remember that the outputs of the recorder must
be connected to the tape inputs of the RA-04.
Similarly the tape outputs of the RA-04 must
be connected to the inputs of the recorder. As
with other sources be sure to connect the Left
and Right channels of each device to the proper
channels on the associated components. Use
high quality connecting cables to prevent loss
of sound quality.
NOTE: The Tape Outputs are not affected
by the Volume, Balance or Tone controls.
They receive a fixed level signal.
Preamp Outputs
Y
The RA-04 has a set of preamp outputs.
The signal from the source selected with the
Function Selector is always available from
these outputs. Typically these outputs are
used to provide a signal to another integrated
amplifier or power amplifier, which is used to
drive remote speakers
NOTE: Changes to the settings of the Vol-
ume, Balance or Tone controls affect the
signal from the Preamp Outputs.
Speaker Outputs
UI
Speaker Selector Switch
[See Figure 2.]
The RA-04 has two sets of speaker outputs,
labeled “A”
U and “B” I . The speaker
outputs are controlled by the switch on
the front panel.
Speaker Selection
If only one set of speakers will be used at any
given time, the speakers may have an imped-
ance as low as 4 ohms. If there are times when
both the A and B speakers will be used, all
the speakers should have an impedance of 8
ohms or more. Speaker impedance ratings
are less than precise. In practice, very few
loudspeakers will present any problems for
the RA-04. See your authorized Rotel dealer
if you have any questions.
Speaker Wire Selection
Use insulated two-conductor stranded wire to
connect the RA-04 to the speakers. The size
and quality of the wire can have an audible
effect on the performance of the system. Stan-
dard 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 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 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.
Speaker Connection
Turn off all the components in the system before
connecting the speakers. The RA-04 has color-
coded binding post type speaker connectors on
the back panel (except in European Community
countries where their use is not permitted). These
connectors accept bare wire, connector lugs,
or dual banana type connectors.
Route the wire from the RA-04 to the speakers.
Give yourself enough slack so you can move
the components to allow access to the speaker
connectors. If you are using dual banana plugs,
connect them to the wires and then plug into the
backs of the binding posts. The thumbscrews
of the binding posts should be screwed in all
the way (clockwise).
If you are using terminal lugs, connect them
to the wires. If you are attaching bare wires
directly to the binding posts, separate the wire
conductors and strip the insulation from the end
of each conductor. Be careful not to cut into the
wire strands. Unscrew (turn counterclockwise)
the binding post thumbscrews. Place the connec-
tor lug or wire around the binding post shaft.
Turn the thumbscrews clockwise to clamp the
connector lug or wire firmly in place.
NOTE: Be sure there are no loose wire
strands that could touch adjacent wires or
connectors.
Phones Output
The Phones output allows you to connect
headphones for private listening. This output
accommodates standard stereo phone (1/8”)
plugs. Plugging in a set of headphones does
not cut off the signal to the outputs. Use the
Speaker Selector to turn off the speakers. The
settings of the Function Selector and the Tape
Monitor Control determines which source is
heard. To listen to or monitor the component
connected to the Tape input set the Monitor
Control to the Tape position. For all other inputs
leave the Monitor Control in the Source position
and select the source you want to listen to with
the front panel Function Selector .
Media Player
A 3.5mm (1/8”) stereo input socket for a
“Media Player” is provided on the front of the
amplifier and is selected by setting the function
control to (AUX2). Any portable stereo cassette,
compact disc player or hard disc playback
device can be connected via this input. If
the device you are connecting has its output
via the headphone socket then note that you
must adjust the volume control on the player
for sound to be heard. Should the sound be
loud and distorted turn down the volume on
the player and if it is only just audible through
the speakers even when the amplifier volume
control is turned up fairly high then adjust the
volume control on the player.
NOTE: When the 3.5mm (mimi jack) is inserted
into the Media Player socket the rear input called
AUX2 is disconnected. Removing the 3.5mm plug
from the Media player socket will allow the rear
AUX2 input to function.
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