Dared Dr-100 User manual

Thank-you for selecting DARED

as your choice for your

audio entertainment system

and listening pleasure.

Experience The Art of Tube

Tube The Purity of Sound

11.0 Technical Specifications

DR-100 Tube DAB/DAB+/FM RDS Receiver with USB DAC

-Maximum Power Output: 2 x 25 Watts

-Frequency Response: 20-20KHz

-DAB/DAB+/RDS Receiver Sensitivity: 98 dB

-DAB/DAB+ Receiver Frequency Range: Band III, 174-240 MHz

-RDS/FM Tuning Range: 87.45 -108 MHz

-OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) Display

-S/N Ratio: 86 dB

-Distortion: 0.1%

-Input Impedance: 47 K-Ohms

-Output Impedance: Speaker: 4/8 Ohms

-Maximum Power Consumption: 110 Watts

-Input Source: DAB/DAB+/DAB III, FM/RDS, Line In (2 x RCA),

USB DAC; Aux In (3.5 mm stereo mini

phono)

-Output: Speaker (L & R); Headphone

-Voltage Input: AC 100-120 V, 50/60 Hz

AC 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz

-Tubes: 6N1;12AX7; 6E2 Cats-Eye

-Dimensions: 260 x 160 x 155 mm ( L x W x H)

10 1/4” x 6 3/16” x 6 1/8” (L x W x H)

-Weight: 3.8 kg,

8.37lbs

subject to change without notice. Failure to read and follow the guidelines estab-

lished in the manual may void warranty. Customer is solely responsible for use.

Tampering or modifying the unit voids warranty. Consult Warranty Statement for all

details.

DARED AUDIO INTERNATIONAL

www.dared.com.hk

WARNING!

Read the instruction manual

completely before use.

IT CONTAINS VITAL SAFETY, WARRANTY

AND LIABILITY INFORMATION.

By using the product the user acknowledges their responsi-

bility and agrees to the warranty and liability statements

and safety notices.

Manual Rev 3.2 July 16 2014

Model DR-100

Tube DAB/RDS/FM Receiver

with USB DAC Connection,

Wireless Remote Control

and advanced OLED Display

Thank-you for purchasing our revolutionary DAB/DAB+ FM RDS Re-

ceiver for your home or office as part of your music entertainment sys-

tem. This component has been designed to offer state-of-the-art high-

end performance in an elegant package while retaining all the sonic

hallmarks on which DARED has been recognized for since 1995. Our

dedication to the “Purity of Sound” is an important reason why our prod-

ucts are sought after retain their value over time.

The performance of your DR-100 will continue to improve during the

first 480 hours of listening. This is the result of a “break-in” period re-

quired for the numerous high quality electronic parts and ageing of the

tube used throughout this integrated amplifier. Before use we encour-

age you to please read this manual thoroughly to properly acquaint

yourself with its features. We hope you enjoy listening to our Product as

much as we have had the pride that we have taken in manufacturing

this fine receiver for your listening pleasure. Thank-you for choosing

DARED for your audio experience!

FCC NOTICE: This device complies with Part 15

of the FCC Rules.

Accurate Technology Co., Ltd,

Declares that this equipment complies with the essential requirements of the

following application directive: 2006/95EC Low Voltage Directive

Model No. MP-5BT Vacuum Tube Amplifier.

This compliance is based on conformity with the following harmonized standards or

documents:

EN 60065:2002 +A1:2006 + A11: 2008 + A2:2010

Shenzhen China March 5 2012 Per ATC Labs

Place and Date of Issue Jenny Zhou

Certificate on File

CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful Interference.

2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may

cause undesired operation.

This equipment generates RF energy and if not installed or used in accordance with the

instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications and other devic-

es. There is no guarantee that interference will not occur. If this equipment does cause

harmful interference which can be determined by turning the equipment on or off or

transmitting momentarily, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by

one or more of the following methods:

-Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.

-Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

-Connect equipment into an outlet on a circuit that is different from that to the re-

ceiver is connected to.

-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV/ communications technician.

Dear Valued Customer:

10.0 MAINTENANCE:

10.1 Tube Replacement

When should I replace tubes? This is a hard one to answer as in this unit your

tubes should last depending on use for a long time. If you have low output, dis-

torted output, it is time to consider replacing the tubes. Your DARED Dealer may

assist. Replace tubes always with the same model number and place them in the

same location as shown on Page 6.

10.2 Regular Care

Keep the unit clean and free of dust.

Always turn of power and let the tubes cool before cleaning the tube area and

unit.

Vacuum tubes may be removed easily with a gentle jiggle while lifting the tube

upwards out of its socket. Use the same method when re-installing the tubes.

Only touch when cool.

When cool the vacuum tubes may be cleaned with a soft and slightly dampened

microfiber cloth.

The case may be cleaned with a slightly sampled microfiber cloth and then pol-

ished using a separate dry soft microfiber cloth.

If you continue to experience difficulty and cannot solve your

issue or have other problems, contact your Authorized

DARED Dealer for assistance.

Symptom Observation Possible Solution

A. Unit does

not power

Unit does not power up

when power switch

turned on

1) Check equipment is plugged into

electrical outlet

2) Check if power cable is plugged

into the power socket on the rear

panel of unit

3) Check if there is power on the

outlet being used.

B. Vacuum Tube

does not light

up, glow.

1) Faulty Vacuum Tube

2) No Power to unit

1) Replace tube

2) Consult Section (A) above

C. No Sound

from

Speakers

1) Audio input not

connected

2) Incorrect Input

setting

3) Low volume

1) Check input connections and

make sure that the source is in

play mode if applicable

2) Check input selector

3) Check volume control, check speak-

er connection, check tube

4) For DAB/FM: Check antenna

D. Poor sound

stage, Poor

audio presence

1) Speaker polarities are

reversed

1) Check speaker connections: Right

Speaker Output connection for Right

Speaker, Left Output connection for

Left Speaker, Check that speaker po-

larity connections are correct: Red of

Amp to Red of Speaker (+); Black of

Amp to Black of Speaker (-)

9.0 Basic Troubleshooting

8.3 Setting Date: Select the “Set Date” mode. The current system date will appear with

the first digit of the Pre-set Day flashing. Use the Search +/- buttons or Channel +/-

keys to maneuver through the date set up. Press the Select button or Enter key to

Save.

8.4 Auto (Time) Update: Automatically synchronizes the clock using the DAB+

Digital Broadcast Information (available only in areas where DAB+ is available).

8.5 Set 12/24 Hour Format: Allows you to set the clock to either a 12 or 24

(military) hour format.

8.6 Language Setting: Choose between “English”, “Traditional Chinese”, and

“Simplified Chinese”.

8.7 Delete Station: (Only for DAB/DAB+): Allows one to remove from the radio’s

memory a digital station that is no longer available. Park on the station to be removed.

(1) Select “SYSTEM SETUP” Mode; (2) Select ”PRUNE STATION”; (4) Then Press

Select or Enter to Confirm.

8.8 Station Order (Only for DAB/DAB+ Digital Radio Modes): Allows you to con-

figure how the digital radio stations are displayed. In “SYSTEM SETUP” Mode, Select

“STATION ORDER”. Select among: “Multiplex”, “Alphanumeric”, and “Active” order for-

mat.

8.9 Reset to Factory Default: This deletes all stored settings, stations back to fac-

tory default. In “SYSTEM SETUP” Mode, Select “FACTORY RESET”.

8.10 Software Version: The firmware revision level may be checked when re-

quired. In “SYSTEM SETUP” Model, Select “SW VERSION”. The f/w version will be

displayed.

1.0 UNPACKING: The DARED MODEL DR-100 Tube DAB/RDS/FM

Receiver should be removed from its box with care. The following

accessories should be found inside:

AC power cable USB Cable

This Owner’s Manual One set of lint free gloves

Wireless Antenna Remote Control (with batteries)

3.5 mm cable for input from portable audio player

Warranty Information and Product Registration Card

As soon as the integrated preamplifier is safely removed from its packag-

ing please perform a thorough physical inspection and report any physical

damage to your dealer immediately. We suggest that you keep all of the

original packaging, storing it in a safe, dry place in the event that you may

need it later to transport or move this product.

At this time also please locate the Product Registration Card and write

down the serial number of your new DARED DR-100 Tube DAB+RDS FM

Receiver in the space provided on the card as well as below for future

reference.

Serial No.: _______________ Date of Purchase:___________

2.0 About your DR-100: World’s first Tube DAB+/RDS FM Receiver!

A “Must Have” for Music lovers and audiophiles who want warm, detailed

and true analog-like sound from highly compressed over-the-air digital

sources in addition to MP3/MP4 players, iPods, computers or CD players

when connected to the USB DAC or Line input connection.

Enjoy audiophile quality music like you've never experienced it before.

The DR-100 has a very good transient response offering you with every

precise detail and note along with an incredible soundstage and very

high resolution due to our unique design. Notably, careful selection of

components are used throughout the assembly that should provide you

with many years of listening pleasure. Included in your component’s de-

sign and fabrication :

 All wiring used is made of Oxygen Free Copper (OFC) having enhanced

conductivity advantageous to audio signal transmission.

 Custom made EI transformer with multi-core wiring to prevent noise interference

 PCB using 2 oz copper layer to maintain extreme low resistance and noise

 Japanese Nichicon high quality Electrolytic Capacitors

 Panasonic High Quality Coupling Capacitors

 High End Grade, Select Vacuum Tubes

 Gold Electroplated RCA input connectors

 OLED Display

3.0 SAFETY NOTICES:

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings and follow all instructions in this Manual.

4. Do not use this apparatus near water.

5. Clean only with a dry cloth.

6. Do not block ventilation openings. Install in accordance with instructions.

7. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,

stoves or another apparatus that produces heat.

8. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type plug. If

the provided plug does not fit into the outlet, consult your Reseller.

9. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at

plugs, convenience receptacles,, etc.. Unplug the AC mains cord as well as

all other connecting cables during transportation.

10. Only use attachments and accessories specified by DARED or your Au-

thorized DARED Dealer.

11. Use a surge protector on the main AC-Line to this component as well as

all other components connected to this product. Unplug this apparatus during

lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

12. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. NO USER

SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. Owner may change tubes.

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR

ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

OTHER SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

1. ALWAYS disconnect your entire system from the AC mains before con-

necting or disconnecting any cables, or when cleaning any component. To

completely disconnect this apparatus from the AC mains, disconnect the

power supply cord plug from the AC receptacle.

2. NEVER use flammable or combustible chemicals for cleaning audio com-

ponents.

3. NEVER wet the inside of this component with any liquid. If a liquid sub-

stance does enter your unit, immediately disconnect it from the AC mains and

take it to your DARED Dealer for inspection.

4. NEVER spill or pour liquids directly onto this component.

5. NEVER block air flow through ventilation slots or heat sinks.

7.4 Radio Information: When listening to an FM station, by pressing the INFO key

on the front panel or on the remote will display RDS information such as the Channel

Property, Station Signal Strength or Time.

7.5 Audio Setting: Selecting Stereo or Mono Operation: Select the FM Mode.

Press the MENU key, the display will show “Audio Setting”: Press the Select button or

Enter key, Use the Search +/- Button or Channel +/- key to scroll between “Mono” or

“Stereo”. Press the Select button or Enter key to confirm.

7.6 Selecting the Line Input Source: With a traditional audio input such as a CD

player connected to the Receiver using an RCA cable connected to LINE INPUT; press

the Source button on the front panel until you see “LINE” displayed; or press the AUX

key on the remote to select this input.

7.7 Selecting the USB DAC Input Source: The DR-100 can be used as a USB audio

device for a computer. Use the supplied USB cable to connect the PC to the DR-100.

On the front panel press the SOURCE button repeatedly until “USB” is displayed on the

unit’s display. When using the Remote, simply press the “USB” key.

7.8 Selecting the AUX Input: Used for connecting to portable audio devices such

as MP3 Players, use a 3.5 mm mini-phone jack stereo cable. Connect the cable be-

tween the DR-100 and the MP3 Player. On the front panel press the SOURCE button

repeatedly until “AUX” appears on the unit’s display. When using the Remote, simply

press the “AUX” key.

7.9 Built-in Audio Equalizer, (EQ): 5 Presets positions are available for you to tai-

lor the output frequency: “Bass Boost”, “Jazz”, “Live”, “Vocal Acoustic”, and “EQ Off”. To

enter this mode, Press the “EQ” button on either the Remote or the front panel. When

using the front panel control, then Press the Search +/- button to scroll though the avail-

able settings. Press the Select button to save. When using the Remote after choosing

the “EQ” setting using the “EQ” key, Use the Channel +/- key to scroll though the set-

ting. Press the ENTER button to select.

7.7 Display Dimmer: The display’s brightness may be adjusted. Press the

DIMMER button on the front panel or the DIMMER Key on the Remote repeatedly to

scroll through and adjust the brightness setting to your liking.

7.8 Mute: Press the MUTE key on the Remote to interrupt and silence the audio

output. Press the MUTE a second time to disable this function.

7.9 Clock: Once either the DAB/DAB+ or the RDS FM Radio has scanned and reg-

istered its stations and updated the DR-100’s CPU, or the time has been set manually,

pressing this button on the Remote will display time and date.

8.0 SYSTEM SET-UP, OPTIONS for Clock Set-up, Language, DAB/DAB+ Delete

and Changing Station Pre-set Order. For these functions, Select the DAB/DAB+ or

FM Radio Modes using the MENU button on the front panel or on the Remote. Use the

Search +/- button on the front panel on the Channel +/- key on the Remote until you see

“SYSTEM SET” appear on the display. Press the Select button or Enter key.

8.1 Time/Date Set-up: When in the “System Set” mode, scroll though the menus using

the Search +/- button or the Channel +/- key on the Remote until “TIME SET” appears.

Further scrolling allows you to select among: “Set Clock”, “Set Date”, “Auto Up-

date” (Using DAB or RDS), AND “12/24 Hour Format”.

8.2 Set Time: Select “Set Clock”, the current system time will be displayed with the

“Hour’s digit” flashing. Use the Search +/- button or Channel +/- key to adjust the hour.

Press Select/Enter to set and move to next digit. Repeat the process until the time is

set. Press Select or Enter to Save.

7.0 BASIC OPERATION

With all connections made and secured, and with all cables tucked away, you are

now steps away from enjoying the sound quality of the DR-100. Also it is a good idea

to remove the tube cage and ensure that the tubes are seated well before connecting

to AC power, just in case they became loose in shipping.

Then turn on your DR-100 Receiver in the following manner:

A. Switch the main rocker switch labeled “POWER” to the (ON) position on the Rear

Panel. The Display will show a start up message: “Warm Up”. You will also see the

tubes starting to glow. There is a 20 second delay before all the tubes are operating

normally, this is called a “Soft Start” to increase the longevity of the tubes. Allow the

unit to warm up for another 1-2 minutes before using. Do not turn the Receiver on

and off until you have warmed up the system for at least 3 minutes.

B. While the unit is heating up, make sure the Volume Control is turned counter-

clockwise, to a lower level.

C. Select the Source Input by using the Input Selector Switch on the front panel or by

using the Remote Control. Pressing SOURCE on the unit or MODE on the Remote

allows you to toggle though the inputs.

You are now ready to begin listening to music. Adjust the volume control to the

desired sound level. NOTE: For the first 480 hours play your selected music at a nor

mal listening levels at first to further burn in the tubes and all components.

7.1 Using the DAB/DAB+ Digital Radio, Basic Operation

Select <DAB/DAB+> as the Input Source either using the Remote or front panel

button. During initial use, the receiver will scan for all available DAB channels. At any

time you may press the SCAN button to rescan.

Press the Search +/- buttons on the front panel or the Channel +/- keys on the Re-

mote to change channels. When the desired channel is displayed, press the SEL-

ECT button on the front panel or the ENTER key on the Remote.

7.1.1 Saving Desired Stations into Memory: When your station that you wish to

save is displayed, press and hold down the Numerical key on the Remote’s key-

board until “PRESET “X”” appears on the radio’s display.

7.1.2 Selecting Stored Channels in DAB/DAB+ mode: Press the PRESET key

once. A stored channel will be displayed. (A) Use the Search+/- buttons on the front

panel or Channel +/- on the Remote until you see the desired station. Then press

the Select button or Enter key to confirm. (B) Alternatively, one may press the cor-

responding channel number on the numerical keypad on the remote.

7.1.3 Radio Information: When listening to the DAB/DAB+ Digital Radio,

pressing the INFO key repeatedly will display the Station and Channels details such

as “Channel Information, Signal Strength, Bitrate, Signal Error, and Time.”

7.2 Using the FM Radio, Basic Operation

Select the FM Radio as a source. Press the Search +/- button on the front panel or

using the Channel +/- keys on the remote will allow you manually tune in a station.

By holding down these keys will automatically see the tuner search for a station

and then stop when found.

7.3 Saving the Stations

7.3.1 Selecting Stored Channels: Press the PRESET button once. A stored

channel will be displayed. Press the Search +/- button or Channel +/- key to go

though the stored preset channels. Press the SELECT button or ENTER key to

confirm. One may also make a numerical entry using the keypad on the remote.

6. NEVER bypass any fuse or replace any fuse with a value or type other

than those specified.

7. NEVER expose the DR-100 to extremely high or low temperatures. If the

DR-100 has been taken out of storage from an unheated environment, let

the unit acclimate to room temperature before making any connections

and applying power to the unit.

8. ALWAYS keep electrical equipment out of reach of children. This unit

has a Protective Cage / Tube Cover which guards against accidently

touching the glass tubes that are used for either power conditioning, am-

plification, or serving as a VU Meter when the product is in use, thus

avoiding a potential injury and burn. Keep children away. Do not handle

the tubes when hot, or wet them. Only touch the tubes only when they

are cold and the unit is unplugged from its source of AC Power.

9. ALWAYS unplug sensitive electronic equipment such as this unit

during lightning storms.

CONGRATULATIONS!

NOW YOU ARE READY TO START!

4.0 Installation & Placement

The DR-100 as is the case with any tube equipped device is more sensitive

than most other types of audio components to EMI (electro-magnetic inter-

ference) from power supplies and motors including vibration. Consequent-

ly, it should be placed at a minimum distance of 18 inches from power sup-

plies, turntables, tape decks, AC line filters, etc..

One should never place another component directly on top of this integrat-

ed amplifier, and as good practice, it is not recommended to directly place

this component on another audio component that generates heat.

NEVER PLACE THIS COMPONENT ON TOP OF A LOUDSPEAKER.

Vibration picked up by the tubes will damage them and shorten their useful

life.

When dressing cables, take care as to tuck away loose cables so someone

may not trip on them.

Allow also for ample air circulation around the DR-100.

5.0 FAMILIARIZING YOURSELF WITH THE DR-100

Front Panel Layout

Rear Panel Layout

Shown with tube

cage removed.

1) Remote IR sensor

2) Display

3) Search + (Up)

4) Search—(Down)

5) Preset Select Button

6) Dimmer Select Button

7) EQ Select Button

8) Volume Control

9) Headphone

10) Scan Select Button

11) Menu Select Button

12) Information Select

13) Select/Enter Button

14) Source Select Button

15) Line-In, L & R, 2 x RCA

16) AUX IN; 3.5 mm

17) USB input

18) Antenna Input

19) Right Speaker Output

20) Left Speaker Output

21) Input Voltage Selector

22) IEC AC Power Input

23) Main Power/On/Off Switch

TUBES:

A) 6N1

B) 6E2 (Cats-Eye VU Meter)

C) 12AX7

A B C

Screwdriver access holes to reach cage mounting screws,

(use long screwdriver)

Location of cage

Mounting screws

Inside cage

6.0 SYSTEM CONNECTIONS

6.1 Connect the DR-100 to the various components that you wish to use.

(Example: CD Player connected to Line Input via a pair of good quality RCA

terminated shielded cables, and your DAC Input to your PC via USB cable.)

6.2 Connect the DR-100’s speaker outputs using good quality designated au-

diophile speaker cable to your speakers. (Your Authorized DARED Dealer

may be of assistance regarding cable selections.)

6.3 With all input and output connections made, select the proper input AC

mains Voltage by sliding the voltage selector to the proper AC Voltage setting.

6.4 Use the supplied AC power cable connecting it to the IEC receptacle

located on the rear panel of the integrated amplifier’s chassis. Ensure that the

AC wall outlet you use has a functioning ground. Then, it is preferable that

you plug your DR-100 into a surge suppressor power bar used as well for

your other audio components, then best is to connect this directly into a dedi-

cated AC outlet. Best to avoid using an extension cord.

NOTE: In order to obtain the maximum performance from your audio system

we strongly recommend that the detachable power cord does not come into

physical contact with any of the interconnect cables running to and from your

DR-100. In the event that this can’t be avoided, you should ensure that any

cables coming into contact with each other are crossed at ninety degree angle

to minimize the contact area.

6.5 Insert the batteries into the Remote Control, Connect the antenna to the

Receiver

Remote Control

1) Mute

2) Line input Selector

3) FM Radio Input Selector

4) DAB Digital Input Selector

5) AUX Input Selector

6) USB DAC Input Selector

7) Volume Up

8) Volume Down

9) Channel Up

10) Channel Down

11) Enter Key

12) Menu Key

13) Scan Key

14) EQ Equalizer Key

15) Information Key

16) Dimmer Button

17) Numerical Keys

18) Preset Select Key

19) Clock Key

3 4