Audiotricity Chimera Signature User manual
CHIMERA
SIGNATURE
EXCLUSIVE POWER
CONDITIONER
OWNER’S MANUAL
A note from Nuno Silva
FOUNDER, CEO, AND CHIEF DESIGNER OF AUDIOTRICITY
Thank you for purchasing the Chimera Signature Power Conditioner!
Unquestionably one of the world’s nest power conditioners, 100% hand made under my
supervision throughout the entire process at our own factory. We have combined the best
materials with the most advanced manufacturing techniques resulting in a very special product.
I am so proud of what we have accomplished that I had to put my signature on it.
There’s a reason behind everything and Audiotricity is not an exception! All the eort, dedication
and time spent designing, testing and building was to prove the idea that – “A top performer
should look and sound like one” – and that’s the reason why I started! In addition, when I started
I had the goal to build the best sound product within its price range, selecting the best parts
without any trade-of to decrease its cots or production time. Specially in the Chimera Signature
model that features very exclusive parts.
Please enjoy the Chimera Signature and I truly hope it will bring you many years of musical
enjoyment.
Take a few minutes to read this Owner’s Manual before proceeding with the installation of the
power conditioner. A thorough understanding of the operational features will allow you to gain
the maximum performance and ease of use for which this product was designed.
Sincerely,
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LEGAL NOTIFICATIONS
PRODUCT FEATURES
UNPACKING AND INSTALLATION
FRONT PANEL
REAR PANEL
MAKING CONNECTIONS
OPERATION
POWER-OFF
MAINTENANCE
PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION
UPGRADE PROGRAM
LIMITED WARRANTY
SPECIFICATIONS
DIMENSIONS
TROUBLESHOOTING
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8
10
12
13
14
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
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© AUDIOTRICITY 2014, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
LEGAL NOTIFICATIONS
Audiotricty is a European registered trademark. The information in this owner’s manual can
be subject to change without any previous notice. The current version, 1.3, of this manual was
produced by the Audiotricity engineering, sales, and marketing departments.
The information in this manual is the sole property of Audiotricity. Any reproduction in whole or
part without the expressed written permission of Audiotricity is prohibited.
CAUTION: NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. Do not open the power conditioner chassis or
remove any of its screws. Please contact Audiotricity or your dealer if you have any problems.
WARNING: Do not expose this power conditioner to moisture or excessive humidity, and do not
use it outdoors. Fire hazard may result.
The lightning ash with arrowhead, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sucient magnitude to constitute a risk of electrical
shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user
to the presence of important operating maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
READ ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING THIS UNIT
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1600-238 LISBON, PORTUGAL
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
PRODUCT FEATURES
The Chimera Signature is a very special and unique version of the well-known Chimera. In order
to push the Chimera performance a bit further, our engineers had done research, small tweaks,
and used even better parts (some of them present in Stheno). The Chimera Signature is the right
choice for demanding audiophiles that don’t need to go for Stheno performance and price, but
want to upgrade Chimera features a bit more. All the Chimera Signature units are built by hand
and deliver a stunning performance for High-End audio and video systems.
PMAF II Filter
This state of art proprietary lter technology takes noise reduction to another level without any
undesired eect in the currents. The lter has a multistage design with only passive components
which reduces inductance and resistance, and it can be used even with large ampliers without
any constraints.
IAGDB Surge protection (optional)
This product uses our surge protection proprietary technology. It protects your system against
surges without any performance degradation. This technology is implemented in an independent
path and uses only passive components without TMOV.
SIPD Architecture
Our proprietary power distribution architecture ensures not only a completely independent
power distribution (avoiding cross contamination between plugged components), but also a
symmetrical distribution (the same available current to all plugged components).
Dedicated ground lter
One of the most common issues is the ground loops, generated between plugged components
in your home which creates the well known oor noise. In order to solve this problem, we
included a dedicated two stage ground lter.
Power factor correction
Every power grid has power factor degradation. This power factor degradation can get even
worst when you use electric components such as lights and refrigerators. The Hi-Fi system only
perform at its best with a 100% power factor, so we have included a power factor correction
feature to feed your system with a perfect power factor.
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© AUDIOTRICITY 2014, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Six isolated Furutech FT-SDS power outlets
Each output power outlet is placed in an isolated power distribution branch, with independent
lters. It avoids any possible cross contamination between the plugged components, and allows
us to design specic lters to specic components and therefore get a better performance from
each component.
Hydraulic breaker
The common used thermal breakers or switches add extra resistance, and their performance
can be changed according to the temperature and the amount of current needed. By using
Hydraulic breakers, we can remove all these constraints without any side eect.
Anti-vibration spikes
The anti-vibration spikes reduces the mechanical vibration of the electrical components, allowing
an increase on the power conditioner performance and on all neighbor components.
Aluminum chassis
The Aluminum chassis massively reduces the possible absorption of the noise elds placed near
the power conditioner, and of the noise generated by the magnetic elds. Along with the use of
Anti-vibration spikes, the aluminum chassis also reduce the vibration.
32A Neutrik powerCON input
By using a 32A Neutrik input, the power conditioner is fed without any power constraint and with
all available current in the wall power outlet.
Central ground point
This provides a central ground point for all electronic components in the system; it normalizes
voltage dierentials between component chassis’, which may reduce the ground loops, and it
also lowers chassis ground noise using dedicated ground lter.
DC blocker (optional)
We included a dedicated DC blocker to remove any DC current contamination that might exist in
the power line (it’s usually responsible for the typical humming in your speakers).
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E-MAIL: support@audiotricity-hi.com www.audiotricity-hi.com TELEPHONE (+351) 916 236 200
1600-238 LISBON, PORTUGAL
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
OWNER’S MANUAL
UNPACKING AND INSTALLATION
Initial inspection
Inspect the shipping container for damage. If any portion of the shipping container, packing
material, power conditioner, or accessories are damaged or missing, notify Audiotricity or your
dealer and the shipper (if a claim is to be made) immediately.
NOTE: Many shippers require notication and inspection within 24 hours of delivery to
determine the nature of damages incurred.
Your Chimera Signature has undergone extensive performance evaluations such as: listening
tests, quality control inspections, and a minimum 72 hour burn-in period prior to shipment and
should therefore be in perfect operating condition upon delivery. If the power conditioner does
not operate correctly, please notify your Audiotricity or your dealer immediately.
We strongly suggest that you save all of the packing materials. If the power conditioner is returned
to Audiotricity or your dealer, the original packing materials must be used for shipment to avoid
possible damage. Neither Audiotricity nor the shipper can be held responsible for damages
incurred during transit if the original factory packing is not used. All factory returns require that
Audiotricity issue a Return Authorization (RA) number prior to shipment.
Package contents
Ensure that all of the auxiliary components listed below are enclosed within the shipping carton
and accessory box. Refer to the illustrations and verify that the proper components are included.
235
CHIMERA SIGNATURE AC POWER CABLE
WARRANTY CARD
WARRANTY CARD PROTECTION GLOVES MICROFIBER CLOTH
CHIMERA
SIGNATURE
EXCLUSIVE POWER
CONDITIONER
OWNER’S MANUAL
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© AUDIOTRICITY 2014, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Unpacking the Chimera Signature from the case
When the power conditioner is still in its case, please move it to a location near the place where
it will be installed. Remove any metal object like watches and rings to avoid any scratch in the
unit’s chassis. Put on the included white lifting gloves to avoid leaving ngerprints on the chassis
as well.
Installation requirements
The surface that will support the Chimera Signature power conditioner must be capable of safely
supporting the nearly 16kg weight of the power conditioner.
The power conditioner doesn’t need too much ventilation, it can be mounted tight in the rack
without regard for air ow.
For best possible sound quality and maximum output, we recommend you connect the Chimera
Signature power conditioner to a dedicated 15-amp outlet or if possible to a 32-amp direct
connection.
WARNING: This unit is not water proof. DO NOT submerge unit in water or any other uid. DO NOT
operate unit in an environment of water condensation. DO NOT operate unit with standing water
on the oor.
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1600-238 LISBON, PORTUGAL
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
FRONT PANEL
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1
2
1. Operation Indicator LED: When the Chimera Signature is in operation, this led is
illuminated.
2. Digital Voltmeter display: When Chimera Signature is in operation, this display will
continuously monitor your mains voltage with a 3 reads/sec.
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© AUDIOTRICITY 2014, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
REAR PANEL
6
1
5
2
2
3344
1. 32A NEUTRIK PowerCON input: This is the Mains power input. You can use the power
cable provided with the Chimera Signature or you can use other after-market with 32A NEUTRIK
powerCON plug.
2. High current outlets: These outlets are designed with low frequency ltering and with
very low resistance to enhance the performance of power hungry components. Max 16A each.
3. Analog low current outlets: These outlets are designed with medium frequency
ltering in order to improve performance of analog components. Max 5A each.
4. Digital outlets: Specially designed to reduce high frequency noise that particularly
aects the performance of digital components. Max 5A each.
5. Central ground point: Designed to connect all your system components ground at
this point providing the same potential for all. It reduces ground noise and breaks any possible
ground loop.
6. Hydraulic breaker: This is NOT a master ON/OFF switch. The breaker is designed to
protect the unit and the components in the event of an over-current event; you should NOT use
it as a master ON/OFF switch. Only use it to power ON/OFF the power conditioner if it will be for
long periods of time. Otherwise, the power conditioner should remain in operation.
7. Serial Number: Space reserved to unit serial number.
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1600-238 LISBON, PORTUGAL
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
MAKING CONNECTIONS
1. Put the hydraulic breaker in the OFF position
Ensure that hydraulic breaker (6) is turned o before start to connect
your Chimera Signature power conditioner.
2. Plug the power cable in the 32A NEUTRIK powerCON input (1)
3. Ensure all system electronic components are in the OFF position
4. Plug each system component into an available outlet
Start with the outlet nearest to the incoming power line with the
power amps; follow with the preamp and other analog components;
and at last with all the digital components in the farthest outlets.
5. Plug each system component into central ground point
6. Plug the power cable to the wall outlet
7. Put the hydraulic breaker in the ON position
Turn on the hydraulic breaker (6). If the breaker trips automatically
right after you turned it on read the “Troubleshooting” section.
Chimera Signature power cable
Chimera Signature requires a 32A NEUTRIK powerCON terminated power
cable. We have supplied a high-end power cord with the Chimera Signature.
However, many users may wish to use after-market AC power cords available
from many cable manufacturers. Only use power cables rated for 20-Amps
of continuous current.
Power-up sequence
WARNING: Serious damage to internal circuitry can occur if improperly wired or unapproved AC
power cables are used. Do NOT operate this unit with a cable with ground pin disconnected. Also
if the unit is plugged into a voltage dierent from the range listed on the rear panel, it will result in
serious damage and will void the warranty.
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© AUDIOTRICITY 2014, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
WARNING: Never plug the power cable to the NEUTRIK 32A powerCON input with the
cable connected to the wall outlet.
8. Turn each of the system components ON
Turn each system component on, starting with your sources rst
ending with ampliers last. Wait approximately 5 seconds between
each component to avoid current spikes.
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1600-238 LISBON, PORTUGAL
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
OPERATION
Initial power-up of the conditioner
Your Chimera Signature power conditioner is shipped with a minimum 72h burn-in period
ensuring an outstanding performance right after it’s turned on. However, it’s performance will
continue to improve until the 300 hours of burn-in.
Every time you switch on Chimera Signature it requires approximately 30 minutes to reach
optimal operating temperature. Although the power conditioner will sound excellent upon initial
listening, the sound quality will improve as it warms up.
During operation
The Chimera Signature was designed to be always in operation even when you are not using
your system. You should only turn o the power conditioner if you won’t need it for a long period
of time or if it exists any operational problem.
The Chimera Signature power conditioner requires no adjustments during normal operation. If
there is no sound or the sound quality is in some way impaired, consult the “Troubleshooting”
section.
Protection Systems
The Chimera Signature power conditioner is equipped with magnetic breaker for protection
against excessive AC current draw. Unfortunately, since no protection circuitry or system
can completely protect a product from every electrical hazard, certain precautions should be
observed. In the event of severe voltage hazards such as lightning or when the power conditioner
will not be used for extended periods of time, the power conditioner should be unplugged from
the AC mains to avoid potential damage to the internal circuitry. All other audio/video system
components should also be disconnected from AC mains power as hazardous voltages can
easily travel throughout an interconnected system.
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© AUDIOTRICITY 2014, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
POWER-OFF
WARNING: Do NOT ever pull the unit’s power cable from the wall outlet while the system is
operating. This unit carries very high currents and pulling the cable may cause damage to the wall
outlet and power conditioner.
WARNING: Do NOT ever unplug power cable from the 32A NEUTRIK powerCON input (1) while
cable is connected to the wall outlet. Always disconnect rst from wall outlet.
WARNING: The ltering elements present in the unit store a electrical charge for a short time. This
charge is present in the power conditioner outlet pins and will be safety discharged in less than a
minute. In order to avoid risk of electrical shock, always wait a minute between turn o and unplug
cables from the power conditioner.
To power-o the power conditioner, proceed in the inverse order of power-
on.
1. Turn each system components OFF
Turn each system component o, starting with your ampliers rst
ending with sources last.
2. Put the hydraulic breaker in the OFF position
Turn o the hydraulic breaker (6) present in the power conditioner
rear panel.
3. Unplug the power cable from the wall outlet
4. Wait 1 minute before proceed with the next steps
The ltering elements store an electrical charge for a short time. This
charge is present in the power conditioner outlet pins. This charge will
be safety discharged in less than a minute.
5. Unplug each system component from the central ground point
6. Unplug each system component from the power conditioner
Start with the digital components, follow by the analog components
and ending with ampliers.
7. Unplug the power cable from the 32A NEUTRIK powerCON input
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E-MAIL: support@audiotricity-hi.com www.audiotricity-hi.com TELEPHONE (+351) 916 236 200
1600-238 LISBON, PORTUGAL
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance
All Audiotricity products are designed to provide a lifetime of enjoyment and listening pleasure.
The Chimera Signature power conditioner is constructed from a precision-machined aluminum;
it’s chassis is sealed to prevent dust from entering the interior of the chassis and thus should never
need interior cleaning during the lifetime of the product. All internal circuitry is maintenance-
free in which no adjustments of any kind are necessary over the lifetime of the product. If the
power conditioner is ever in need of service, updating, or upgrading, it should only be returned
to an authorized repair facility or technician for servicing.
Cleaning
The front panel of the unit should never be cleaned with anything than the provided cloth
and plain water. Due to the ne nish of the front panel, use of any other cleaning agent may
permanently scratch the nish.
The top cover, sides and bottom are protected by a durable black anodized nish and can be
cleaned with the provided cloth or other soft cotton cloth dampened with plain water. Water
should be applied directly to the cloth and not the chassis. If a mark has been left on the chassis,
do not use any type of abrasive or chemical cleaner to remove the mark.
If you have any questions about the care or cleaning of your Chimera Signature power
conditioner, please contact Audiotricity customer support or your dealer before attempting
to clean the chassis. The use of a cleanser or abrasive to clean the chassis that has not been
approved by Audiotricity will almost certainly damage the nish and will not be covered under
warranty.
WARNING: Do not attempt to access the interior of the Chimera Signature power conditioner.
Doing so will void your warranty and could expose you to dangerous, potential lethal electric
voltages.
WARNING: Cleaner/water should be applied directly to the cloth and not the chassis.
WARNING: We do NOT recommend the use of any king of contact enhancer uids,
pastes or gels. This kind of products usually leaves a residue that can contaminate
or damage the contact metals, decreasing its performance. Never attempt to clean
contacts inside the outlets. The only safe product we know is CAIG DeoxIT® and
DeoxIT® Gold.
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© AUDIOTRICITY 2014, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION
Burn-In
The power distributor is constructed using massive wiring and heavy duty contacts throughout.
For best performance allow at least 300 hours of continuous operation.
Mounting platforms
Ideally the Chimera Signature should be placed on a proper shelf, amp stand or solid platform.
A heavy plank of wood or a granite slab works well also.
Cones and isolation feet
The Chimera Signature uses steel isolation spikes that were designed specically to reduce
vibration from the underlying platform. You may wish to experiment with other after-market
products.
AC wall outlets
We strongly recommend that you replace the wall outlet at least with a high quality commercial
grade unit. The standard wall outlet is not adequate for high current applications. There are also
many audiophile grade outlets that are plated with a variety of metals including silver, gold and
rhodium, that will perform even better.
WARNING: We DO NOT recommend using the Chimera Signature with other power
distributors, conditioners or regenerators. Connecting multiple power components in
series usually delivers unpredictable or poor results. If extra outlets are needed, use
separated Audiotricity power conditioners or an High-End extension block.
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1600-238 LISBON, PORTUGAL
OWNER’S MANUAL CHIMERA SIGNATURE POWER CONDITIONER
UPGRADE PROGRAM
Audiotricity is committed to create long-term relationships with the customers. The Upgrade
Program is one example of this commitment because it helps you follow a logical and slowly
progression of system improvement, and protects your initial investment.
Audiotricity upgrade program not only let you upgrade to follow levels as you can upgrade to
new Technology generations. This way, with a single upgrade, you can give your audio system
two level upgraded.
Here’s how upgrade program works:
All Audiotricity power conditioners (Mormo, Pholus, Chimera, Chimera Signature, and Stheno)
are eligible for the Upgrade Program.
The cost of upgrading is amazingly close to the dierence in cost between the original Audiotricity
power conditioner and the desired level of the new one.
If you own older-technology Audiotricity power conditioner, upgrading to the next higher level
it’s also possible for a fraction of the price of the new technology.
Even a customized power conditioner can be upgraded.
If you are interested in upgrading your Audiotricity power conditioner contact Audiotricity or
your dealer.
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