Ayre K-1x User manual

A y r e
K-1x Preamplifier
Owner’s Manual

Table of
Contents
Welcome to Ayre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Installation and Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Optimizing the Phono Stage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Numbers and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
In Case of Trouble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Statement of Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
A Place for Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Welcome to
Ayre
Please send in your warranty
registration card so we can
stay in contact with you.
The Ayre K-1x offers a significant advance in the musical
performance of audio preamplifiers. The warmth and
immediacy of a live performance are apparent from the first
listening. The combination of superb resolution and a
natural, relaxed quality will draw you into the music, time
and time again. This level of performance has been
implemented using the highest level of workmanship and
materials. Your Ayre K-1x preamplifier will provide a
lifetime of musical enjoyment.
Page 2

Installation and
Operation
The Ayre K-1x is easy to hook up and use. The following
guidelines will ensure that the installation goes smoothly.
Location
The Ayre K-1x comprises two components - the main
preamplifier and the external power supply, which are
joined by an umbilical cable. A detachable connector allows
these units to be temporarily separated for easy installation.
The preamplifier’s power
supply emits a mild hum
field, and should be located
away from other components.
The main unit produces very little heat and can normally be
stacked with other components. However, in certain
situations, hum can be induced into the audio circuitry. In
this case, try separating the components by a few feet (one
meter or so) to isolate the interfering component.
The receiver for the optional infrared remote control is
mounted behind the left-most scallop on the preamplifier’s
front panel. Although the transmitter’s beam will reflect off
of most wall surfaces, a direct line of sight from the
listening position will ensure the maximum range. The
beam will also travel through glass if necessary.
Page 3

Inputs
When you have a choice, a
balanced connection will offer
slightly higher sound quality
than an unbalanced
connection.
The Ayre K-1x offers three pairs of balanced inputs and
three pairs of unbalanced inputs. Balanced connections are
made via three-pin XLR connectors, while unbalanced
connections are made via RCA jacks. In accordance with the
IEC standard, XLR pin 2 is the positive phase (hot).
The input connectors on the rear panel are labeled “1”
through “6”.
If you are connecting a tape deck to your
system, be sure to connect it to input “6”.
This will prevent the undesired possibility of a feedback
loop when monitoring a tape recording. If a tape deck is not
installed in your system, input “6” performs like the other
unbalanced inputs.
If the optional phono stage is installed, it will
use input “2”. Do not connect a high-level
source to the phono input.
If the phono stage is not installed, input “2” performs like
the other balanced inputs. Please refer to the section
“Optimizing the Phono Stage” for more detailed
information on connecting your turntable.
Input Labels
Input “1” on the rear panel
corresponds to the top label,
while input “6” corresponds to
the bottom label.
The front panel switches can be labeled to reflect the
components in your individual system. The faceplate must
be removed to install custom labels for the selector switches.
Use the supplied 1/8" allen wrench to remove the four
screws visible on the faceplate. Then slide the faceplate away
from the unit, taking care not to scratch the knobs.
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Page 4

Remove the old label by using a small object (such as an
allen wrench) to push through the access holes on the rear of
the faceplate. The labels have a self-adhesive backing, and
new ones are simply pressed into place.
Outputs
All three pairs of outputs may
be used simultaneously if
desired.
The Ayre K-1x offers two pairs of balanced outputs and one
pair of unbalanced outputs.
Please note that the unbalanced outputs invert
absolute polarity.
When using an unbalanced connection between the Ayre
K-1x and your power amplifier, it is suggested that the
speaker cables’ “plus” and “minus” leads be reversed at the
amplifier. This will restore absolute polarity and can
enhance the sense of realism on many recordings.
!
Off
Record
Listen
Mute
A y r e
Phono
Tuner
Auxil
Video
Disk
Tape
Infrared Remote
Control Receiver
1.0 dB Steps
4.0 dB Steps 2.0 dB Steps
Input #1
Input #6
Unity Gain
Status Indicator
Red = Warm-Up
Green = Mute
Blue = Listen
3.0 dB Steps2.0 dB Steps
Page 5

Powering the Unit
Be sure to connect the umbilical cable to the power supply
before plugging in the AC power.
Install or remove the umbilical connector only
when the AC power is disconnected.
The Ayre K-1x draws very
little power and is designed to
be left on at all times.
The Ayre K-1x features a sophisticated power monitoring
system. When first plugged in to an AC power source, the
front panel indicator light will glow red for approximately
90 seconds. During this time, the outputs are muted and
the mute switch is inoperable.
After the circuitry has stabilized, the indicator light will
change to green, indicating that the unit is ready for play,
though the unit remains muted. When the listener toggles
the mute control, the unit is operational and the indicator
light glows blue.
Should the AC line lose power, the preamplifier’s outputs
are immediately muted. Similarly, if the AC line voltage
drops below 80% of normal (brown-out), the outputs will
mute and the indicator light will glow red. After the line
voltage returns to normal, the initial power-up cycle will
begin again.
Controls
The volume control and the
mute switch may be operated
either by the optional remote
control or the front panel
controls.
There are four controls on the Ayre K-1x preamplifer - the
volume control, the input selector (“Listen”), the tape record
selector (“Record”), and the mute switch. These controls
provide the ideal combination of flexibility and ease of use.
Page 6
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Unlike other products that use conventional volume
controls (potentiometers), the Ayre K-1x uses a mil-spec,
precision stepped attenuator with solid-silver contacts to
provide the ultimate in sound quality. This volume control
features 46 distinct positions, offering precise and repeatable
settings.
It is normal to listen with the
volume knob advanced farther
than you may be used to with
other equipment.
The volume control offers 1.0 dB steps over most of its
range, allowing you to exactly select the desired listening
level. To maximize its capabilities, it has been designed so
that the volume knob will be between 1 o’clock and 3
o’clock for a loud playback level in most systems.
When a surround-sound processor is used, it is sometimes
useful to know the unity-gain volume setting. Since the
gain of the Ayre K-1x line-stage is 16 dB when driving a
power amplifier with balanced inputs, unity gain occurs
when the volume control is 10 steps below the maximum
setting (see illustration).
Since the tape record selector
(“Record”) is controlled
separately from the main
input selector (“Listen”), it is
possible to listen to one source
while recording from another.
The tape record selector (“Record”) controls which source
component is connected to the tape output jacks. It is
recommended that the tape record selector be switched to
the “Off” position except when making a recording. This
will isolate the tape deck’s circuitry from the preamplifier,
providing the highest level of sound quality when listening.
Remote Control
Please note that the supplied
batteries (2 x AAA) must be
installed in the remote control
unit prior to use.
The optional remote control for the Ayre K-1x has four
buttons. The top two buttons on the right side control the
volume level, while the bottom button on the right side
toggles the preamplifier’s mute control. The single button
on the left side of the hand-held transmitter will operate an
Ayre V-1x power amplifier.
Page 7

Unbalanced Power Amplifiers
When using the Ayre K-1x
with an unbalanced power
amplifier, note tha t the
unity-gain volume setting will
now occur when the volume
control is five steps below the
maximum setting.
Unbalanced power amplifiers with single-ended inputs only
utilize one-half of the Ayre K-1x’s balanced output signal.
The result is a 6 dB gain reduction, requiring that the
volume control be further advanced for an equivalent
listening level. However, certain systems may have
insufficient gain to produce a satisfying listening level, even
with the volume control turned fully up.
If required, the gain of the line stage can be increased 6 dB
to compensate for this loss. Please contact your authorized
Ayre dealer or the factory for information on this
procedure. (It is not recommended to increase the gain of
the Ayre K-1x when using a balanced amplifier, as the level
of the lowest volume setting may be too loud.)
Break-In
Please note that the optional
phono stage utilizes
additional circuitry and will
require its own break-in
period.
A break-in period is required to achieve the maximum sonic
potential of the Ayre K-1x due to the manufacturing
processes used in the capacitors, circuit board material, and
wires. This normally requires between 100 and 500 hours of
playing time.
Page 8

Optimizing the
Phono Stage
The optional phono stage in the Ayre K-1x offers the
ultimate in flexibility and performance for all types of
phono cartridges.
Connections
As the phono cartridge is an inherently balanced device, the
phono stage is also balanced, using XLR jacks at the input.
This configuration yields maximum sonic performance with
minimum noise and hum. Since most tone arms and/or
turntables are not equipped with XLR connectors, there are
two choices for making the proper connection:
1) Use an RCA-to-XLR adapter. This often may be the
easiest solution to implement, but introduces an extra set of
contacts into the signal path. In addition, this converts the
balanced input into an unbalanced input and causes a slight
loss of sound quality.
2) Use dedicated cables with XLR connectors at the
preamplifier end and the appropriate connector (RCA or
DIN, depending on the particular installation) at the
turntable end. This is the preferred solution and offers the
highest level of sound quality.
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Ayre manufactures both adapters and dedicated cables.
These high-performance custom designs are available from
your authorized Ayre dealer. In addition, termination
instructions are available if you wish to reterminate your
current cables. Please contact the factory for further details.
Gain and Loading
The gain of the phono stage is set at the factory to 50 dB,
which is well suited to most modern phono cartridges. In
addition, the gain is adjustable in 10 dB steps from 40 dB
to 60 dB, accommodating virtually any cartridge made.
Recommended gain settings are as follows:
Cartridge Output Phono Gain Gain Resistor
Less than 1.0 mV . . . . . 60 dB . . . . . . . 10Ω
1.0 mV to 3.0 mV . . . . 50 dB . . . . . . . 75Ω
Greater than 3.0 mV . . . 40 dB . . . . . . 249Ω
These are guidelines only. Variations from these settings are
perfectly acceptable.
It is recommended that the
loading not be changed from
50 kΩwhen using a
moving-magnet cartridge.
The default cartridge load is 50 kΩ, which is suitable for
almost all cartridges. However, many moving-coil cartridges
yield better performance if they are loaded with a lower
impedance.
Usually, a lower load impedance results in a more focused
soundstage, with greater image solidity and less apparent
distortion. A higher load impedance will give a more open
sound, with greater “air” and “life”. The final value must be
chosen by ear to give the best sound in your particular
system.
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The phono gain and loading can be adjusted by your
authorized Ayre dealer. However, for those owners that
prefer to perform this task themselves, the following tools
are required:
5/64" allen wrench (supplied)
Small screwdriver - 0.080" to 0.100" (2.0 to 2.5 mm)
Tweezers, or small needle-nose pliers
Changing the phono gain and loading resistors
is comparable in complexity to installing a
phono cartridge. Do not perform this task
yourself unless you are completely comfortable
with it.
!
Phono Gain Resistor Cartridge Loading
Page 11

Disconnect the preamplifier’s power supply
from the AC power before working on the
unit.
To adjust the gain or loading of the phono stage, use the
supplied 5/64" allen wrench to remove the six screws that
secure the top cover. The two phono boards (one per
channel) are mounted vertically on the right and left sides of
the chassis.
Each phono board has two small brown terminal strips used
to connect small metal-film resistors. The terminal strip
towards the rear of the preamplifier is used to adjust the
gain of the phono stage, while the terminal strip towards
the front of the unit accepts the loading resis tor . The
resistor leads are clamped by the two screws in the terminal
strip, forming a gas-tight connection for optimum sound
quality.
To remove the installed resistors, use a small flat-bladed
screwdriver to loosen the two screws in the terminal strip
until the screw heads are flush with the top surface of the
terminal strip. Gently remove the resistor with a pair of
tweezers or small needle-nose pliers.
To install the new resistors, use the tweezers or small
needle-nose pliers to insert the two leads into the holes on
the side of the terminal strip. Orientation is not important
— the resistor can be installed either way. Use the
flat-bladed screwdriver to gently snug the two screws down.
Do not overtighten them.
Do not operate the preamplifier without the
gain-adjusting resistors installed.
Replace the top cover, reinstalling the six screws with the
5/64" allen wrench.
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Numbers and
Specifications
Gain - Line 16 dB to balanced outputs, 10 dB to unbalanced outputs
Gain - Phono Adjustable — 40 dB, 50 dB (factory setting), 60 dB
Input Impedance - Line 10 kΩ(each phase)
Input Impedance - Phono Adjustable — 50 kΩ(factory setting)
100 Ω, 249 Ω, 499 Ω, 1000 Ωloading resistors supplied.
Other values available upon request.
Output Impedance 300 Ω(each phase)
Power Consumption 30 watts
Dimensions 18" W x 11" D x 5-1/2" H
(46cm x 28cm x 14cm) - Main Unit
13" W x 8" D x 3" H
(33cm x 20.3cm x 7.6cm) - Power Supply
Weight 45 pounds (20 kg)
Page 13

In Case of
Trouble
Should the Ayre K-1x preamplifier ever fail to operate
properly, please check the following:
Symptom: Remote control not
working.
Check the condition of the batteries (2 x AAA) located in
the remote control.
Symptom: No sound, even
though status indicator is
glowing blue.
Check all connections on the rear panel to make sure they
are secure.
Symptom: Status indicator
lamp not lit.
1) Be sure that the power supply unit is connected to a
working AC outlet.
2) Check the AC line fuse.
To check the fuse, locate the rectangular fuse holder
mounted on the rear panel of the power supply. Press
downwards on the top edge, then pull outward. There are
two fuses mounted in the fuse holder. The inner one is the
operating fuse, and the outer one is a spare.
Page 14

The condition of the fuse can be determined by a visual
inspection, although an ohm-meter provides a more reliable
method. If in doubt, substitute the spare for the operating
fuse. If the spare fuse also blows, do not attempt further
repairs.
Always use the correct fuse! Line Voltage Fuse Rating (Time-Delay)
100 V . . . . . . . . . . . 1 A
120 V . . . . . . . . . . . 1 A
230 V . . . . . . . . . . . 1 A
There are no user-serviceable parts in the Ayre K-1x. If the
preamplifier still does not operate, bring the unit to your
dealer for assistance.
Do not remove the power supply cover.
Hazardous voltages may exist inside the unit.
!
Page 15

Statement of
Warranty
Please take the time to fill out
and return the enclosed
warranty registration card.
Your Ayre K-1x preamplifier is warranted against defects in
workmanship and materials for a period of five years from
the date of purchase. This warranty is transferable to
subsequent purchasers within the original five-year period.
All warranty claims must be made through an authorized
Ayre dealer or distributor. A complete statement of
warranty is given below.
Warranty Statement
1. Ayre Acoustics, Inc. (Ayre) warrants the materials and
workmanship of this product for a period of five years from
date of first purchase. If any defects are found in the
materials or workmanship of this Ayre product within the
warranty period, the unit will be repaired or replaced by
Ayre or its authorized agent.
2. Purchaser must return the product, packed in the original
shipping carton, freight prepaid to:
Ayre Acoustics, Inc.
2300-B Central Avenue
Boulder, Colorado 80301
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3. Ayre reserves the right to inspect any product that is the
subject of any warranty claim prior to repairing or replacing
it. Final determination of warranty coverage lies solely with
Ayre. Out-of-warranty claims will be billed for labor,
materials, return freight, and insurance as required. Any
product for which a warranty claim is accepted will be
returned to the purchaser and the cost of shipping and
insurance will be factory prepaid within the boundaries of
the USA. Units to be shipped outside of the USA will be
shipped freight collect only. This warranty gives specific
legal rights. The purchaser also has implied warranty rights,
and may also have other rights which vary from state to
state.
4. Ayre strives to manufacture the finest possible
equipment, and therefore reserves the right to make
improvements on its products, without necessarily assuming
an obligation to retrofit such changes upon its previously
manufactured models.
5. The above warranty is the sole warranty given by Ayre,
and is in lieu of all other warranties. All implied warranties,
including warranties of merchantability or fitness for any
particular purpose shall be strictly limited in duration to
five years from the date of original purchase, and upon
expiration of the warranty period (five years), Ayre shall
have no further obligation of any kind, whether express or
implied. Further, Ayre shall in no event be obligated for any
incidental or consequential damages as a result of any defect
or any warranty claim, whether express or implied. Some
states do not allow exclusion or limitations of incidental or
consequential damages or limitations on how long implied
warranties last, so the above limitation and exclusions may
not apply to you.
Page 17

6. Ayre does not authorize any third party, including any
dealer or sales representative to assume any liability of Ayre
or make any warranty for Ayre. The unit must not have been
altered or improperly serviced. The serial number on the
unit must not have been altered or removed.
7. Warranty registration cards must be completed and
mailed to Ayre within 30 days of purchase. Ayre may, at its
option, require from the purchaser valid proof of purchase
(dated copy or photocopy of dealer’s original invoice).
8. If this product is used in a commercial or industrial
application, then special warranty exclusions may apply.
Contact Ayre for commercial warranty policies.
Page 18