Manley The WAVE DAC/Preamp 20 Bit Version Serial Code WAVE000-015 1999 - 2002 - Manual (Page 13)

The Wave uses 128X oversampling Ultra-Analog converters in a differential mode. We use what is considered 2 stereo
converters per channel. Here, the left and right halves of each converter are working in opposing polarities, thus
cancellation of distortion and noise is maximized. This requires that subsequent analog filtering (at 48 kHz), relays ,
attenuators be doubled and needs a balanced line amp. The first stage of the line amp acts to cancel noise and distortion
through high common mode rejection. The all tube line amplifier is a combination of our tried and true totem output but
with a new differential input.
We expect most users to get 5 to ten years of life from the factory supplied tubes. Sometimes this is optimistic. If
replacing one or all tubes do not attempt to use any but the same type tube as removed. The pin-out of the 7044 is
unusual and most tubes will not work. The 5751 is a tube preferred by Manley because of its fidelity, low noise and
exceptionally low microphonics. The latter is critical due to the fact that the gain control is ahead of the tube line
amplifiers and does not attenuate any tube "problems". Manley always has good tested tubes in stock if needed.
Analog switching is accomplished with gold contact sealed relays. Left and right relays are well separated and single
relays switch both halves of a balanced signal. Virtually all of the logic involved for the front panel buttons and LEDS is
taken care of on the front panel board which uses standard TTL logic (no clock) for all functions. The only oscillator
involved is enabled only while a button is pushed. One power supply keeps the logic active even while in Standby and all
the other supplys are disconnected (from the AC mains) in Standby. The button switches are EAO, and are rated for an
extreme number of operations and long life. The Volume control is a custom made 4 deck precision conductive plastic
motor driven attenuator made by Noble. Left/right tracking is exceptional. We use Van den Hull ultra-low capacitance,
shielded, balanced wire for point-to-point audio connections.
OUTPUT 1 receives its signal directly from the plate output through an expensive MIT MULTICAP. OUTPUT 3 gets its
signal through a custom 1:1 Manley transformer. In the professional world where balanced lines are standard,
transformers are acknowledged as the absolute best (and most expensive) technique. Not only does a transformer provide
a true balanced output, it can also be "floating" which isolates grounds from one piece of equipment from the next if
needed. A transformer also tends to isolate the line driver from the cable.
The external power supply utilizes overkill ripple 'pi' filtering for the B+ volts and L & R are filtered separately.
Filaments are DC regulated to 12 volts. Logic and Leds 5V is two stage regulated. First to 12V in the supply and then to
several individual 5V for the DACs, panel, relays and LEDS. There is also +15/-15 regulators for the DAC (plus the
Insert function if unbalanced is opted for). The power supply depends on a signal from the Wave to turn on most of the
supply and should not be tested in isolation. The multi-pin connector has 4 extra-heavy duty pins for the filament and
logic power and 12 heavy duty pins for the remaining power systems. The cable is a combination of 16 wires in 14 and
20 guage. The plastic shell has less rattles than the alternative metal parts.
The Wave uses a .375" thick 24 karat gold plated billet aluminum panel mounted to a steel chassis. There are removable
panels on the chassis bottom for service and ventilation slots in the front, bottom and top of the chassis. All connectors
are gold plated including the power supply to provide minimal oxidation and longest consistantly reliable life.
Credits
An EveAnna Manley Production. The Wave is EveAnna's concept and most of the cosmetic look and list of
functions and features is from her. It had to fine enough and just right for her living room too (it is).
Baltazar Hernandez is Manley's Chief Draftsman and he spent the biggest number of hours on the CAD
programs laying out circuit boards, panels and boxes. He built the first few prototypes by hand as well.
Craig 'Hutch' Hutchison is Manley's Chief Designer and the new balanced line stage is from his bench as well
as the myriad of options and configuration possibilities. Blame him for this over-the-top manual too.
Jerry Garszva designed the logic involved in the front panel and remote control. You can also see his name
on any copy of Steely Dan's Gaucho and Fagen's Nightfly for which he received a few Grammys.
Bascom King & Fred Forsell are behind the 24/96 digital board and too many to list contributed to the ULTRA-
ANALOG DAC board. And many contributed in listenening tests, and suggestions - our thanks to all of them !
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