Arcam Alpha 8 Handbook

ENGLISH
Introduction & Installation
INTRODUCTION
Arcam’s Alpha series of amplifiers is designed to be the
finest sounding range of hi-fi amplifiers currently available in
its price category.
The latest Alpha 7 and 8 models feature improved output
circuit protection compared with their predecessors. They
may also be upgraded at any time with the addition of the
matching Alpha 8P or 9P power amplifiers.
The Alpha 7 amplifier is rated at 40 watts per channel into
8 ohms. The Alpha 8 and 8P are rated at 50 watts per
channel into 8 ohms. In addition the Alpha 8's volume
control is motorised, allowing it to be operated from a
suitable remote control handset such as those supplied with
ail Arcam CD players. Arcam’s “Handi-Remote”, model
CR30 is also suitable. This is available as an optional extra
from your Arcam dealer. For the above reasons no handset
is supplied with the Alpha 8 amplifier.
This manual is in four parts:
A. This section has information relevant to both the
Alpha 7, 8 and Alpha 8P.
B. Alpha 7/8 integrated amplifier operating instructions.
C. Alpha 8P power amplifier operating instructions.
D. Instructions on how to bi-wire or to bi-amplify (“bi¬
amp”) your loudspeakers.
N.B. Circled numbers e.g. refer to items on the
diagrams inside the flap of the front cover.
Section A
INSTALLATION
O Check that your mains supply voltage agrees with the
voltage setting indicated on the rear panel of the unit.
■ If your mains supply voltage is different, consult your
Arcam dealer or Arcam Customer Services on 01223
203203.
MAINS SAFETY
■ This product is normally supplied with a moulded
mains plug already fitted to the lead. If for any reason
the plug needs to be removed, it must be disposed of
immediately and securely, as it is a potential shock
hazard when inserted into a mains socket.
■ Warning; This apparatus must be earthed.
NOTICE FOR U.K. OWNERS ONLY
■ If the plug is removed then the remaining lead must be
rewired as follows:
■ The blue wire must be connected to the terminal
which is coloured blue or marked witti the letter N.
■ The brown wire must be connected to the terminal
which is coloured brown or marked with the letter L.
■ The green and yellow wire must be connected to the
terminal which is coloured green and yellow, or
marked with the letter E or the safety earth symbol.
■ When replacing the fuse in the supplied moulded
mains plug, the integral fuse holder/cover must always
be refitted. Use a 5 amp fuse.
MAINS SUPPLY CONNECTIONS
Insert the lEC line socket of the mains lead fully into
the power inlet on the rear panel. Connect the other
end to your mains supply.
Section B
ALPHA 7 /8 INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER
Please refer to drawings inside front cover.
LOUDSPEAKER CONNECTIONS
■ Dependent on the market where the amplifier is
intended for sale it may be fitted with either “Camcon”
loudspeaker connectors, which are designed to meet
EU safety standards, or with 4mm loudspeaker
sockets.
In Europe the 4mm holes will have been blanked off in
order to comply with European product safety
regulations. These sockets will still accept bare wire or
pin terminations.
The “Camcon” connector will accept spade terminals,
bare wires up to 4mm in diameter or a “Camcon”
plug. “Camcon” plugs are available from your arcam
dealer.
/
■ Connect your loudspeakers so that the red (positive;
terminal on each loudspeaker is connected to the
appropriate red terminal on the amplifier. Your
loudspeaker cables may be clearly terminated to show
polarity; if not, then the positive conductor can usually
be identified by a ridge or coloured marking.
Ensure that no stray strands are allowed to touch
another cable or the amplifier's casing. This can
cause a short circuit and damage your amplifier!
@,O SP1 - DIRECT CONNECTION - Connect terminals @
to your right speaker and terminals O to your left
speaker ensuring correct polarity.
ee SP2 - SWITCHED CONNECTION - To drive a
second pair of speakers, connect terminals ® to the
right speaker and terminals ® to the left speaker,
ensuring correct polarity. Push the SP2 button in to
listen to this second set of speakers. To listen on
headphones and mute the loudspeakers use the SP2
connection and release the SP2 button.

Arcam Alpha 8 Specifications

General

Brand	Arcam
Model	Alpha 8
Category	Amplifier
Language	English