CH D1.5 User manual

D1.5 SACD/CD Player/transport
User Manual

Dear Valued Customer,
We are honored that you have chosen the CH D1.5 SACD/CD player/
transport. It represents the considerable total of all our efforts
and experience, making this an outstanding product that we are
proud to present to you. We are condent that your D1.5 will bring
you uncountable hours of musical enjoyment from your SACD and
CD collection.
But before starting your musical journey, we kindly ask you to
appreciate and apply the information contained in this manual.
The D1.5, as you will discover in the following pages, is a Swiss
precision product designed for ultimate performance and exibility.
However, achieving its maximum possible performance requires your
unit to be setup and operated correctly and that is what this manual is
all about. If you have any questions or require assistance, please don’t
hesitate to contact your authorized dealer.
We hope you will enjoy your D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport for
many years.
The Concert has just begun...
Cossy F.
Heeb T.
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Table of contents
1 Getting to know your CH Precision D1.5 4
1.1 SACD/CD optical disc mechanism 5
1.2 Mechanical construction 6
1.3 Modular architecture and slot-in boards 6
1.4 Power supply 7
1.5 Optional external power supply 7
2 Before use 7
2.1 Safety notice 7
2.2 Mains supply 8
2.3 Transport and packaging 8
2.4 Cleaning 8
2.5 Maintenance and service 9
3 Installation
3.1 Unpacking 9
3.2 Package contents 9
3.3 Positioning your D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport 10
4 Connections 12
4.1 CONTROL board functionality 14
4.2 CONTROL board USB port 14
4.3 CONTROL board Ethernet port 14
5 Output capabilities
5.1 DIGITAL_OUT_HD board 14
5.2 Monaural ANALOG_OUT boards 15
5.3 SYNC_IO board 15
6 External power supply connector 16
7 Operation
7.1 Front panel controls 16
7.2 User control knob 17
8 Operating modes
8.1 Normal mode 18
8.2 Normal mode control actions 19
8.3 Menu mode 20
9 Conguration
9.1 D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport menu structure 21
9.2 D1.5 conguration menu items 21
9.3 SHORTCUTS 22
9.4 NETWORK 22
9.5 FACTORY 23
10 Remote control
10.1 Remote control operation 24
10.2 Changing the remote control batteries 25
11 Advanced clocking
11.1 General clocking considerations 26
11.2 D1.5 SACD/CD Player/transport Without SYNC_IO board 26
11.3 D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport with SYNC_IO board + CH DAC (C1 DAC/Controller or I1) 26
with SYNC_IO board
11.4 D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport with SYNC_IO board + CH DAC (C1 or I1) with SYNC_IO 27
board + T1 Time Reference
11.5 Returning to factory defaults 27
12 Firmware update
12.1 Preparing the USB stick 28
12.2 Updating the unit’s rmware 28
12.3 Emergency rmware update procedure 29
13 Troubleshooting 30
14 Specications 31

1 Getting to know your CH Precision D1.5
Technical highlights
CH products are proudly designed and manufactured in Switzerland by CH Precision Sàrl. Our engineers have
put all their knowledge and experience into creating the D1.5, a high quality modular SACD/CD player/transport
based on slot-in boards and USB ash-drive updatable rmware. In its base version the D1.5 is a pure digital,
two-channel SACD/CD drive to be used with a high quality external Digital to Analog Converter (DAC). It includes
a DIGITAL_OUT_HD board and a CONTROL board. The highest quality playback performance is ensured when
the D1.5 is paired to a matching CH Precision DAC, using the proprietary high denition CH Link HD interface.
Optional boards allow owners to extend the functionality of the base version of the D1.5 SACD/CD drive. By
adding a pair of monaural ANALOG_OUT boards, the D1.5 becomes an integrated stereo SACD/CD player.
Finally, the optional SYNC_IO board allows the D1.5 to be synchronized with an external 10MHz clock
generator (like the CH T1 Time Reference) or a CH DAC like the C1 or I1.
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123
98
D1.5 System Architecture
1. External power supply input (for X1 optional
external power supply only)
2. Fuse holder, voltage selector and power cord
receptacle (on back panel)
3. Mains power switch
4. Adjustment shafts and screws
5. Power supply section
6. Main power transformer
7. Standby power transformer (ensures green
mode Standby)
8. Custom made optical disc mechanism.
9. SACD/CD drawer and AMOLED display
(on front panel)
10. Audio, clock, USB (rmware update) and RJ-45
(control) connectors (from slot-in boards). Analog
ground to Earth jumper
11. Slot-in boards (CONTROL, SYNC_IO, DIGITAL_
OUT_HD, Monaural ANALOG_OUT
12. Audio Processing board
13. Power supply regulation board
14. Concentric push control knob
4 4
10
11
12
13
14
5
6
4 4
7

1.1 SACD/CD optical disc mechanism
The D1.5 SACD/CD transport is built around our Mechanically Optimized Reading System (MORSe), whose
critical mechanical parts are designed and manufactured in-house. The MORSe consists of a heavy brass
module, weighing almost 1 kg, on which the optical pick-up and disc drive motor are precisely assembled.
This unusually high weight allows us to push the mechanical resonance frequency of the module several orders
of magnitude lower than in most other transports, while ensuring an ideal counter-weight to the torque of the
spinning disc.
The complete module is isolated from the rest of the chassis using four alpha-gel isolators, ne-tuned to lter
vibrations all the way down to AC mains frequencies. This prevents vibrations generated by the spinning of
the disc from reaching sensitive electronic boards, as well as low frequency vibrations originating in the power
supply or chassis disturbing the accurate tracking of the laser mechanism.
The disc clamp is made of lightweight PEEK polymer, which provides optimal grip and dimensional stability,
ensuring slip-free transmission from the direct drive motor to the disc.
The chassis holding this crucial sub-system is a 2 kg rigid aluminum structure, directly coupled to the heavy base
of the D1.5. This makes an ideal mechanical ground reference for the rotating parts.
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high friction
lightweight
magnetic clamp
high-mass
optical disc
reading module
high rigidity
mounting structure
high-compliance
damping system
MORSe optical disc mechanism

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1.2 Mechanical construction
The D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport is assembled from high-quality aluminum and steel elements with no visible
screws on the front, top and side panels. The base of the unit is made of a thick, rectied aluminum plate while
the front panel, side panels and the top cover are machined from laminated aluminum plates. The power supply
is isolated from the audio section in its own compartment to avoid any contamination of the audio circuits by
noise radiated from the supply. Pin assembly of all chassis elements provides smooth joints between elements
while screws every 6cm ensures protection against electromagnetic interference. First class mechanical and
chemical surface treatments provide the luxury nish of the D1.5.
Four steel feet support the unit. Each foot incorporates an elastomer ring to sit on delicate surfaces but is
also equipped with a height adjustable hardened aluminum alloy/polymer spike (and optional polymer spike
shoe) to ne-tune the unit’s level and mechanical grounding. Adjustment is carried out with the screwdriver
provided, via the four caps/shafts accessible from the top of the unit. In addition to providing a precise
leveling capability, the spike/shaft assemblies also serve as mechanical ground paths if you choose to stack
CH units. Special shaft caps are provided to interface with the spikes of the stacked unit. Any vibration from
the upper unit is transmitted through the shaft cap to the shaft/spike below, forming a direct ground path for
mechanical vibration.
1.3 Modular architecture and slot-in boards
The D1.5 benets from a fully modular architecture. It features separated sections for power-supply, disc
mechanism and related control, front panel, audio processing and slot-in boards. This modular architecture
combined with the USB input for rmware updates (MCU, DSP, and FPGA) allows for easy servicing and upgrade
should one section become faulty or obsolete.
The slot-in board port consists of a vertically mounted mother-board with optional boards being plugged into it
to provide user selectable audio functionality and connectivity to other equipment. The D1.5 is factory tted with
the CONTROL and DIGITAL OUT HD Boards as standard. In addition, owners can order their D1.5 with additional
boards to increase functionality, or have them installed by their authorized dealer at a later point in time:
SYNC_IO: provides advanced clock synchronization options (one clock input, two clock outputs) for use with a
DAC such as the C1 DAC/Controller, or with an external master clock such as the T1 10MHz Time Reference.
Monaural ANALOG_OUT: each board provides one fully balanced channel of analog audio output. Supplied as
a pair, labeled and color-coded for Left or Right channel they turn the D1.5 transport into a standalone disc
player.
Please note that optional boards MUST be installed by a qualied technician. Failure to do so will void your
unit’s warranty.

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1.4 Power supply
The power supply of the D1.5 is a linear supply with multiple independent local regulation stages. It is based
on an oversized, magnetically shielded toroidal main transformer and includes a mains lter. A secondary
transformer (also toroidal) is used as for Standby operation to ensure that the green Standby mode meets the
latest energy saving regulations. Both transformers have static shields between their primary and secondary
windings. They are mounted on a separate plate, which is mechanically decoupled from the main base plate by
‘silent block’ isolators.
Discrete (power-transistor and op-amp based) ultra low noise regulators are used throughout the power
supply and special care has been paid to the master clock power supply. The master clock benets from its own
dedicated shunt regulated power supply, completely decoupled from the noisy digital and motor sections. This
ensures an ultra-low jitter clock source for the whole system.
Input AC voltage to the power supply can be set to 100V, 115V or 230V AC depending on your local mains
voltage.
1.5 Optional external power supply
The D1.5 is equipped with a socket for an optional external power supply input. This input is specic to the CH
X1 external power supply. When the external power supply is connected, the internal power supply of the D1.5
is turned off (only the Standby transformer remains active). Turning the main internal transformer off ensures
that no power supply induced noise, vibration or radiation is generated inside the D1.5’s chassis, thus ensuring
optimal operating conditions for the critical digital and analog audio circuits. Moreover, the D1.5’s internal
voltage regulation stages remain active, used in a cascaded topology with the X1’s regulation stages, signicantly
lowering the noise oor.
2 Before use
Please read this manual carefully before making connections or operating your D1.5. The latest version can be
accessed at www.chprecision.com at any time. If after reading this manual you feel unsure about how to make
connections or operate the unit, please contact your authorized dealer for assistance.
2.1 Safety notice
Make sure to observe the following rules:
Always handle with care. The D1.5 SACD/CD unit is very heavy, so have someone help you when moving it
around.
Install your D1.5 SACD/CD player on a stable base.
Do not install your D1.5 SACD/CD unit near water.
Do not expose the unit to any kind of liquid.
Do not install in direct sun light or near any heat source such as radiators or other sources of signicant heat.
Do not install in a conned space and make sure sufcient air can ow around the unit.
Do not operate under high ambient temperatures (>40C) or with extremely high humidity such as in humid
cellars.

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Only use options and accessories specied or recommended by the manufacturer.
Do not open the unit nor try to service it by yourself. Do not try to install any option board by yourself.
Always refer to a qualied technician for service, maintenance or upgrades. Failure to do so will void the
unit’s warranty.
2.2 Mains supply
Make sure to use a fully grounded AC power cord (one with three terminals – live, neutral and ground).
Make sure that the mains voltage selection of the unit matches your local mains voltage.
Make sure your D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport is disconnected from the AC supply/wall socket in the
following cases:
When making connections (we also recommended disconnecting the rest of the system from the AC supply
when installing signal and speaker cables).
When cleaning.
During thunder storms.
When left unused for a long period.
2.3 Transport and packaging
The D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport must always be packed in its original carton for transportation. Doing so
will ensure the optimal level of protection for your unit. Therefore, keep all the packaging material in a dry and
clean place for future use.
To avoid any damage to the SACD/CD mechanism,
never transport your unit with a disc loaded.
Finally we recommend removal of the adjustable spikes, putting them into the holes provided in the D1.5
packaging for transportation. Indeed, vibrations during transport may cause the adjustment spikes to move
from their fully retracted position. There is then a risk of scratching the supporting surface when re-installing
the unit.
2.4 Cleaning
Use a soft, dry towel or cloth for cleaning. Never use any solvent or liquids as they may damage the surface
treatment or penetrate inside the unit.
2.5 Maintenance and service
The D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport contains no user serviceable parts. Do not try to open, modify or repair
your D1.5 by yourself. This will void any warranty. Your D1.5 SACD/CD player should be checked by a qualied
technician if:
The unit is not functioning properly.
The mains cable or the power cord receptacle is damaged.
The unit shows signs of having been dropped or presents external damage.
The D1.5 SACD/CD player has been exposed to liquids (such as rain) or unknown substances.

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3 Installation
3.1 Unpacking
Make sure that you have sufcient space in which to work and that there is a soft surface on which to place your
D1.5.
Unpack the D1.5 SACD/CD unit and store the packaging for future transportation. Do be careful when lifting the
D1.5 as the unit is heavy (almost 30kg) so if in doubt, get somebody to help you lift it clear of the carton.
Also, lifting it is one thing, extending your arms in order to place it in a rack is far more challenging. Again, it is
a good idea to get someone to help you if necessary. When unpacking and installing the D1.5, take care not to
damage the high quality surface nish.
3.2 Package contents
Make sure that the package contents are complete. If not, please contact your authorized dealer. Your
package should contain:
D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport .
Power cord.
Four aluminum/polymer spikes.
A suction cup (used to unscrew the top covers).
An accessory box containing:
–Handheld infrared remote control
–Spike adjustment screwdriver
–Torx T10 screwdriver
–Four polymer footer discs
– USB stick containing the latest CH Precision rmware.
–Four small CH dimpled polymer stacking caps
Check your D1.5 for any apparent damage. In case of damage, immediately contact your authorized dealer.
If your D1.5 is cold due to transport, please let it warm up to room temperature before powering it up.

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3.3 Positioning your D1.5 SACD/CD player/transport
Your D1.5 SACD/CD unit’s four feet are tted with elastomer rings, ensuring both scratch-protection for the
surface on which the unit sits, as well as secure, non-slip positioning. That means that it is best to lift the D1.5
slightly when placing or repositioning it.
However, we have built a far more advanced mechanical grounding system into all CH Precision products. To use
this coupling system, simply take the following steps:
1. Place the D1.5 on the stable support on which you intend to use it. Make sure cooling air is able to freely ow
around the unit and that you have enough space above the unit to remove the top-caps and insert/adjust the
support spikes.
2. Gently lift the unit’s corners in turn and insert one of the polymer support disc under each foot (an AirWedge
or similar lifting bladder is ideal for this purpose). The foot’s elastomer ring should locate into the groove in
the support disc when they are properly positioned. With all four, polymer support discs in place, ensure that
they are all properly located and that the unit is stable. The polymer discs allow the unit to be positioned
easily and precisely.
3. Unscrew the D1.5’s four top covers using the provided suction cup. Be careful not to scratch their delicate
nish.
4. Insert an aluminum alloy/polymer adjustment spike into each of the shafts revealed.
5. Using the short screwdriver provided, gently rotate each spike clockwise. First you will feel it engage the
thread at the base of the shaft adjustment shaft, then you will feel resistance as it contacts the polymer disc
and starts to lift the D1.5.
6. Once you feel resistance on all four spikes, turn each one the same amount – two turns for example – to lift
the unit’s feet completely clear of the supporting discs. Check that the unit is stable and that the loading on all
four spikes is the same.
7. It is now important to level the D1.5 precisely, using a precision spirit level. This has a direct impact on the
unit’s musical performance, so take your time and get it just right.
8. Depending on the supporting surface, you may well achieve better results by removing the polymer support
discs so that the spikes contact the surface directly. This is very much a case of trial and error, but in general,
direct spiking works best on lossy, dispersive surfaces (wood-based, carbon-bre, composite or constrained
layer supports) while hard, reective surfaces such as granite, glass or marble will sound better with the
polymer discs acting as an interface.
When removing the discs to listen to the direct spike option, remember that the spikes
protrude below the D1.5’s feet. If you try to slide or reposition the unit, you may damage the
supporting surface, while direct spiking may also mark it.
9. Once you have decided on your preferred spiking arrangement (with or without the polymer discs) make sure
that you check that the D1.5 is still perfectly level and that the loading/resistance on the four spikes is equal.
10. If no CH Precision unit is to be stacked on top of the D1.5, replace the four top covers. Otherwise, insert the
four polymer stacking caps that are also provided. If placing another CH Precision unit on top of the D1.5, do
so with extreme care and ensure that the two are precisely aligned, in order to prevent damage to the D1.5’s
top-plate.