great deal of power and could affect the Altair’s performance if both are plugged into the same electrical circuit
or AC outlet.
When you connect or disconnect the AC cord, always grasp it by the plug, not by the cord itself. Pulling the plug
out by the cord can damage the cord, the AC socket, and/or the Altair.
Installation notes
The Altair preamplifier uses passive cooling; there are no internal fans. While the Altair does not generate as
much heat as an amplifier, it should still be located in an area with adequate ventilation.
There should be at least 6 in/15 cm of clearance between the sides and top of the preamp and the nearest
wall or cabinet. If the Altair is installed in a cabinet or an equipment closet, ensure the cabinet/closet has
adequate ventilation. Installation in an unventilated cabinet or closet may cause the Altair to overheat,
significantly reducing its lifespan.
The Altair requires a room-temperature environment to operation properly. Ambient temperature should be
about 70°F/21°C, plus or minus 10°F/5°C. Never install the Altair in a place where it may be exposed to
direct sunlight, and do not install it next to a room heater, radiator, air conditioner, etc.
Make sure that the Altair will not be exposed to moisture. Do not locate it in an area where it might be spilled
on, and do not place it in a humid location (such as an unfinished basement).
Installing the Altair in a place where it will be exposed to direct sunlight or moisture, or where it will not have
adequate ventilation, will void your warranty.
Amplifier
The Altair preamp is designed to be paired with any high-quality audio amplifier; ideally Constellation's own
Hercules amps. Both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) connections are available. XLR will provide the
highest quality/lowest noise signals, and should be used when possible.
Source components
The Altair preamp has four analog audio inputs, both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA), and can be used
with any audio component with line-level analog outputs. As with the outputs mentioned above, an XLR
connection will provide the highest quality signal, and should be used when possible. If you are using a record
turntable, you will need to connect a high-quality phono preamplifier, such as the Constellation Audio Orion,
between the turntable and the Altair preamp.
In the event of malfunction
Do not under any circumstances open the chassis of the Altair. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
Opening the chassis can present a shock hazard even if the AC power is disconnected. Any alteration or
modification of the Altair’s internal parts or circuit will immediately void your warranty.
If your Altair does not function correctly, refer to the Troubleshooting section at the end of this manual. If you
are still unable to resolve the problem, contact your Constellation Audio dealer.
If any liquid is spilled on the preamp, or if any metal object (such as a staple or a paper clip) is inadvertently
forced inside, immediately disconnect the AC power and contact your Constellation Audio dealer.
