Dared I-30HD User manual
12
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
I-30HD INTEGRATED CLASS A AMPLIFIER WITH USB DAC
．Power Output: Class A RMS 30 W per channel. Push-Pull
．Frequency Response: 20Hz-30 kHz (+/-0.5dB 1W)
．Output Power Distortion: <1% (10W 1kHz)
．Input Sensitivity: 220mV
．Input Impedance: 100 kOhms
．Inputs: LINE 1, LINE 2, LINE 3, AUX, USB DAC
．Max. Line Input: RMS 3.5V
．USB DAC Spec: 32 Bit 384kHz
(Option)
．Speaker Output Impedance: 4Ω or 8Ω
．Headphone Output Impedance: 32-600Ω
．Overall Negative Feedback: -40dB
．Overall S/N Ratio: 86dB
．Power Consumption: Max. 180W
．Operation Method: Single End Class A
．Power Tubes Required: Matched pair 6L6G/5881/EL-34
．Preamp & Driver Tubes Required: 12AX7 x2, 12AU7 x 2
．Tube Bias: Automatic
．Dimensions: 380 x 295 x 160mm (W x D x H)
x 11 x 6
．Weight: 17kg, 37.5 lbs.
© 2010-2014 DARED Due to constant improvements, specifications and functions
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
responsibility and agrees to the warranty and liability
statements and safety notices.
Manual Rev 3.3 Sept 17 2014
Model I-30HD
CLASS A Push-Pull
INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER
WITH USB DAC
OWNER’S MANUAL
2
Thank-you for purchasing our revolutionary and classic Class A Inte-
grated Amplifier for your home or office as part of your music entertain-
ment system. 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
products are sought after retain their value over time.
The performance of your I-30HD will continue to improve during the first
480 hours of listening. This is the result of a “break-in” period required
for the numerous high quality electronic parts and ageing of the tube
used throughout this integrated amplifier. Before use we encourage 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 receiv-
er 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.
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:
Accurate Technology Co., Ltd,
Declares that this equipment complies with the essential requirements of the
following application directive: 2004/108/EC Elecytromagnetic Compatability:
Model No. I30 Vacuum Tube Amplifier. This compliance is based on conformity
with the following harmonized standards or documents:
EN 55013:2001 + A1: 2003 + A2: 2006
EN 6100-3-2:2006
EN 6100-3-3:1995 + A1:2001+ A2:2005
EN 55020: 2007
Shenzhen China April 24 2009 Per ATC Labs
Place and Date of Issue Sean Liu
Certificate om File
CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
11
11.0 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 period of time. If you
hear unusual sounds, squeals, or have low audio output, or distorted
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.
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 polished using a separate dry soft microfiber cloth.
10
Symptom Cause Possible Solution
A. Unit does
not power
up when the
Power
Switch is
Pressed
1) No Power to unit
2) Blown Fuse
1) Check that amplifier is plugged into
a powered electrical outlet
2) Check if the power cable is plugged
into the power socket on the rear panel
of the amplifier.
3) Check the fuse.
B. Unit powers
up, Vacuum
Tube does not
light up or glow.
1) Tube not seated
2) Tube is defective
1) Check tube
2) Replace tube
C. No Sound
from
Speakers
1) Audio input not
connected
2) Incorrect Input
setting
3) Low volume
4) Speaker issue
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) Check speaker connections
5) Check speakers
D. Poor sound
stage, Poor
audio presence,
acoustic image is
unstable charac-
terized by an
unnatural sound
and insufficient
low range tonal
quality.
1) Speaker polarities
are reversed and not
unmatched to the
polarity of the ampli-
fier.
2) Output tubes may
need to be changed.
3) Check speaker connections: Right
Speaker Output connection for
Right Speaker, Left Output con-
nection for Left Speaker
4) Check that speaker polarity con-
nections are correct: Red of Amp
to Red of Speaker (+); Black of
Amp to Black of Speaker (-)
5) Change both output tubes with
new unused ones of the same
type.
10.0 Basic Troubleshooting
If you continue to experience difficulty and cannot solve your
issue or have other problems or where the particular problem is
not listed, disconnect the power cord and contact
your Authorized DARED Dealer for assistance.
3
1.0 UNPACKING: The I-30HD Tube Class A Integrated Amplifier with
USB/DAC should be removed from its box with care. The following
accessories should be found inside:
AC power cable USB Cable
This Owners Manual One set of lint free gloves
Warranty Information and Product Registration Card
As soon as the amplifier is safely removed from its packaging please per-
form 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 I-30HD Amplifier in the space pro-
vided on the card as well as below for future reference.
Serial No.: _________________ Date of Purchase:___________
2.0 About your I-30HD Tube Integrated Class A Amplifier: 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 audio-
phile quality music like you've never experienced it before.
The I-30HD 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 as-
sembly that should provide you with many years of listening pleasure.
Included in your components design and fabrication :
Custom made OFC winding toroidal audio output transformer for perfect sound
reproduction
Nichicon high quality electrolytic capacitors
Custom made OFC winding power transformer
PCB using 2 oz copper layer to maintain extreme low resistance and noise
ALPS brand high fidelity grade potentiometers
Custom made High Quality Audio Coupling Capacitors
Custom made 5881 Vacuum Tubes by Shuguang
Custom made 12AX7 superior grade high end audio vacuum tubes
Ceramic tube sockets
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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.
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9.0 More information about your I-30HD integrated amplifier.
This is a Class A push pull integrated amplifier where two vacuum tubes
are used. One tube pushes current out into the loudspeaker while
the other pullscurrent from when necessary and as a result the signal
pushed into a speaker is therefore amplified.
One benefit of a push-pull design where this leads to higher power out-
put over a Single Ended Tube (triode amplifier). Another is where there
is less current drawn when there is no sound. Both are inherent benefits
of a push pull amplifier. Unlike a SET amplifier, additional circuitry in-
side generates an output of the wanted audio signals and removing un-
wanted ones that add to distortion.
This amplifier may use either 6L6G, 5881, or EL-34 power amp tubes.
It is supplied with Dared6L6G tubes which we feel provide you with
the best, natural sound. Your amplifier has an automatic internal bias
system that adjusts over the life of the tube for best performance. This
feature also allows you to experiment and change out the same model
tube with tubes manufactured by different manufacturers. Many audio-
philes like this where they can fine tune the sound or color of the
amplifier by changing out tubes to accommodate the types of music
styles listened to. While tubes from varying manufacturers have the
same model number, Tubes do havea soundFor those so musi-
cally inclined, gut and metal strings sound different on the violin, and
violinists select strings to define their sound, and likewise guitarists
select their tubes for sound.
Having said this, you will most certainly enjoy more tubesonic char-
acteristic from this amplifier than others on the market today. You will
also appreciate this amplifiers soundstage presence and its dynamics
and high resolution sound with a very low noise level with musical bal-
ance.
Time for you to enjoy your I-30HD!
8
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 your I-30HD. 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 ship-
ping.
Then turn on your I-30HD in the following manner:
A. Press in the main power switch on the front panel. Immediately you will
see the front panel VU Meters backlight illuminate and where you will also
see the tubes start to glow. There is a 20 second delay before all the tubes
are operating normally, this is called a Soft Startto increase the longevity of
the tubes.
Allow the unit to warm up for another 1-2 minutes before using. Do not turn
the amplifier 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. This is good practice as not to damage
your speakers accidently should you have the volume turned up all the
way and one of the selected inputs has an audio signal present.
C. Select the desired Source Input by rotating the Input Selector Switch on
the front panel to the desired input setting.
D. Turn on the Input Device and, for an example a CD, press play on the CD
player.
You are now ready to begin listening to music. Adjust the volume control to
a comfortable and desired sound level.
NOTE: It is good practice for the first 480 hours play your selected music at
normal listening levels to further burn in the tubes and all components.
8.0 Removing the Protective Tube Cage: To enhance your visual
enjoyment of your I-30HD Integrated Amplifier you may use a long shaft,
magnetized, Philips/Star-head screwdriver to access the mounting screws
accessible though the holes on the top cage (cover).
WARNING!
Take care in not
touching or handing
or cleaning HOT tubes
as they may cause a
serious burn or they
may shatter cutting you.
Keep Children Away.
5
6. NEVER bypass any fuse or replace any fuse with a value or type other
than those specified.
7. NEVER expose the I-30HD to extremely high or low temperatures. If the
integrated amplifier has been taken out of storage from an unheated envi-
ronment, 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 I-30HD 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 I-30HD.
6
5.0 FAMILIARIZING YOURSELF WITH YOUR I-30HD
Rear Panel Layout
Front Panel Layout Shown with protective tube cage removed.
(1) Power On/Off Switch
(2) Input Selector (Line 1,2,3; AUX; USB DAC)
(3) Volume Control
(4) Headphone Output
(5) Speaker Output (Right, 4 or 8 Ohms)
(6) Voltage Selector Switch (115 V or 230 V)
(7) Speaker Output (Left, 4 or 8 Ohms)
(8) USB DAC Input
(9) AUX Input
(10) LINE 1,2,3 Inputs
(11) AC Power Input
7
6.0 SYSTEM CONNECTIONS
6.1 Connect your I-30HD 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 PC to the DAC input via USB cable.)
Check Channel designations (L + R, Red and Black).
6.2 Connect your amplifiers speaker outputs using good quality designated
audiophile speaker cable to your speakers. (Your Authorized DARED Dealer
may be of assistance regarding cable selections.) Check channel designa-
tions, L & R (Left & Right) as well as Speaker Polarity Red & Black (+ and -).
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 amplifiers chassis. Ensure that the
AC wall outlet you use has a functioning ground. Then, it is preferable that
you plug your I30-HD 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 I
-30HD. In the event that this cant 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.
6.0 CONNECTIONS
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