Esoteric AZ-1 User manual

D00905700A
Digital Integrated Amplifier and
Master Clock Generator
Owner’s Manual

2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with a soft dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat
registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including ampliers) that
may produce heat.
9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with
one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two
blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the
third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug
does not t into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the non-conforming outlet.
10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched
particularly at plug ends, convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the apparatus.
11)Only use attachments/accessories specied by the
manufacturer.
12) Use only with the cart, stand, tripod,
bracket, or table specied by the
manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus.
When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.
14) Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel. Servicing is
required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way,
such as power-supply cord or plug damage, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped.
<Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
<Do not place any objects lled with liquids, such as vases on
the apparatus.
<Do not install this apparatus in a conned space such as a
book case or similar unit.
<The apparatus draws nominal non-operating power from the
AC outlet with its POWER switch in the o position.
<The apparatus should be located close enough to the AC
outlet so that you can easily grasp the power cord plug at any
time.Always use the plug and do not pull on the cord.
<An apparatus with construction shall be connected to
an AC outlet with a protective grounding connection.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER
SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE. REFER
SERVICEING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
p resence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within
the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient
magnitudetoconstituteariskofelectricshockto
a person orpersons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the appliance.

3
CAUTION
<DO NOT REMOVE THE EXTERNAL CASES OR CABINETS TO
EXPOSE THE ELECTRONICS. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS
ARE INSIDE!
<IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THIS PRODUCT,
CONTACT ESOTERIC/ TEAC FOR A SERVICE REFERRAL.
DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT UNTIL IT HAS BEEN REPAIRED.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference
to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
• Reorient or relocate the equipment and/or the receiving
antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent
from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.
CAUTION
Changes or modications to this equipments not expressly
approved by TEAC CORPORATION for compliance will void the
user’s warranty.
For U.S.A.
Contents
Thank you for choosing Esoteri c. Read this manual
carefully to get the best performance from this unit.
Before Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Speaker Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
i.LINK (IEEE 1394) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Restoring factory settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Front panel features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Understanding the remote control unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Basic Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Display dimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Muting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Word sync . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Specications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
CAUTION Regarding Placement
To maintain proper ventilation, be sure to leave a space
around the unit (from the largest outer dimensions including
projections) equal to, or greater than, shown below.
Left and Right Panels: 5 cm
Rear Panel: 10 cm
Top Panel: 20 cm

What’s in the box ?
Please conrm that the following accessories are in the box
when you open it.
Remote control unit (RC-1056) x 1
Batteries (AA, R6, SUM-3) x 2
Screwdriver x 1
Felt sheet x 4
Power cord x 1
Owner’s manual x 1
Warranty card x 1
If any item is missing please contact your retail dealer.
Before Use
For European customers
Disposal of your old appliance
1.When this crossed-out wheeled bin
symbol is attached to a product it means
the product is covered by the European
Directive 2002/96/EC.
2. All electrical and electronic products
should be disposed of separately from
the municipal waste stream via designated collection
facilities appointed by the government or the local
authorities.
3. The correct disposal of your old appliance will help prevent
potential negative consequences for the environment and
human health.
4. For more detailed information about disposal of your old
appliance, please contact your city oce, waste disposal
service or the shop where you purchased the product.
Read this before operation
<As the unit may become warm during operation, always leave
sucient space around the unit for ventilation.
The ventilation holes should not be covered. Make sure there
is at least 20 cm of space above and at least 5 cm of space on
each side of the unit. Do NOT place anything on top of the
unit.
<The voltage supplied to the unit should match the voltage as
printed on the rear panel. If you are in any doubt regarding
this matter, consult an electrician.
<Choose the installation location of your unit carefully. Avoid
placing it in direct sunlight or close to a source of heat. Also
avoid locations subject to vibrations and excessive dust, heat,
cold or moisture.
<Do not place the unit on the amplier/receiver.
<Do not open the cabinet as this might result in damage to the
circuitry or electrical shock. If a foreign object should get into
the unit, contact your dealer or service company.
<When removing the power plug from the wall outlet, always
pull directly on the plug, never yank the cord.
<Do not attempt to clean the unit with chemical solvents as
this might damage the nish. Use a clean, dry or slightly
damp cloth.
<
To protect furniture from being scratched, you may stick
the felt pads supplied with the unit on the feet.
<Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.
CAUTION
Ensure this product is not exposed to dripping or splashing
and that no object lled with liquids, such as vases, are
placedontheproduct.
Do not install this equipment in a conned space such as a
book case or similar unit. Allow adequate air circulation
around this product.
Maintenance
If the surface of the unit gets dirty, wipe with a soft cloth or
use diluted neutral cleaning liquid. Be sure to remove any
uid completely. Do not use thinner, benzene or alcohol as
they may damage the surface of the unit.
Short Circuit and Output Protection
“OVER LEVEL” blinks on the display when the short circuit
protection (or the output protection) is activated. In this case,
turn the unit o and check the speaker cables. The metal
portions of the two separate wires or the two separate wires
themselveshould not touch.
If there is no shorted wire, turn down the volume using the
VOLUME knob.
Thermal Overload Protection
“HIGH TEMP” blinks on the display when the overload
protection is activated. In this case, turn the unit o and leave
it for a few hours to cool it down.
Check the location of your unit. Place the unit in a cool
place, and always leave sufficient space around the unit for
ventilation.

5
Speaker Connections
CAUTION:
<Switch o the power to all equipment before making
connections.
<Read the instructions of each component you intend to use
with this unit.
<Be sure to insert each plug securely. To prevent hum and
noise, avoid bundling the signal interconnection cables
together with the AC power cord or speaker cables.
Note:
<The black speaker terminals are – (negative).
Generally, the + (positive) side of the speaker cable is marked
to make it distinguishable from the – side of the cable.
Connect this marked side to the (red) + terminal and th e
unmarked side to the black – terminal.
<The metal portions or wire ends of the two separate
speaker wires should not touch or an electrical short can
occur. Shorted wires can create a fire hazard or induce
a failure in your equipment.
<Ideally, left and right speaker cables should be the same
length. Thelengthofcablesshouldbeasshortas
possible for better sound quality.
Connection using speaker cables with
spades or bare wire
1. Turn the terminal cap counterclockwise to loosen it. The
speaker terminal caps cannot be fully removed from the base.
2. Insert the wire or spade into the terminal and turn the
terminal cap clockwise to securely connect it:
Make sure none of the wire insulation is under the terminal,
only the bare, stripped wire.
3. Make sure it is fastened rmly by pulling the cable lightly.
Right
Speaker
Connection using speaker cables with
banana plugs
Tighten the terminal cap and insert a banana plug.
<The inside diameter of spades should be 8 mm or more.
When your speaker cable has bare wire at the end
Prepare the speaker cables for connection by stripping o
approximately 10 mm or less of the outer insulation.
(Removing too much insulation may lead to a short circuit if
the bared wired should come in contact with each other.)
Twist the strands of the stripped wires tightly together.
The thickness of wires should be less than 4 mm.
Left
Speaker

When you are using two or three AZ-1 units for multi-channel listening, connect them as shown here.
DIGITAL OUT WORD SYNC
IN
AUDIO OUT
D
A
B
B
F
E
C
6
Connections
i.LINK cable
RCA coaxial cable
Optical digital cable
BNC coaxial cable
Turntable
Supplied power cord
Wall socket
RCA cable
Connect one of
these cables.
Master clock generator
(G-0s, AZ-1, etc.)
Tuner, Cassette tape deck, etc.
i.LINK(AUDIO)
AZ-1
(C/LFE)
WORD SYNC
OUT
i.LINK(AUDIO)
i.LINK(AUDIO)
AZ-1
(LS/RS)
i.LINK(AUDIO)
i.LINK(AUDIO)
AZ-1
(L/R)
WORD SYNC
IN
i.LINK(AUDIO)
(IEEE 1394)
SZ-1
UZ-1
Setting of the SZ-1/UZ-1
i.LINK button “PCM”
WORD button “ON”
Analog Out setting “Multi ch”
Digital Out setting “ON”
CD Direct setting “Normal”
Speaker setting necessary
Setting of the AZ-1
INPUT “i.LINK”
WORD button One of the AZ-1 that receives channel
L/R: “W_OUT”
The others: “OFF”
W_OUT setting “176.4” or “88.2”
CH setting respective channels
i_RC setting “ON”

7
Digital audio input terminals [DIGITAL IN]
Connect any one of these terminals to the digital output
terminal of a digital device (SZ-1, UZ-1, etc.) using a
commercially available cable.
COAXIAL (RCA): Use RCA (pin) digital audio cable
OPTICAL: Use optical digital audio cable (TOS)
i.LINK (AUDIO): Use S400 compatible IEEE1394 6pin cable
<The i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal is an interface that transmits
data both ways between the AZ-1 and an external device.
You don’t need to be concerned with distinguishing
between inputs and outputs.
<The optical terminal is covered by a shutter. Make sure that
the cable is rmly insert ed but do not force the cable when
connecting it or removing it in order not to cause damage
to the unit.
<The COAXIAL (RCA) and OPTICAL terminals cannot transmit
digital audio from Super Audio CDs.
<If Esoteric SZ-1 or UZ-1 is connected to the AZ-1 using an
i.LINK cable, the following setup will provide you with the
best quality sound:
i.LINK button: PCM
Digital Output setting: ON
Analog audio input terminals [LINE IN]
These connections are used for the input of analog
2-channel audio signals from a cassette tape deck, tuner,etc.
Connect the component with commercially-available RCA
cables.
Make sure to connect :
white plug to white jack (L: left channel)
red plug to red jack (R: right channel)
B
A
CAUTION:
<Switch o the power to all equipment before making
connections.
<Read the instructions of each component you intend to use
with this unit.
<Be sure to insert each plug securely. To prevent hum and
noise, avoid bundling the signal interconnection cables
together with the AC power cord or speaker cables.
LINE3/PHONO terminal
In addition to a cassette tape deck or tuner, you can connect
a turntable to this terminal.
Make sure to connect the ground lead of the turntable to
the SIGNAL GND terminal of the AZ-1.
The cartridge of the turntable should be Moving Magnet or
similar.
LINE3/PHONO switch
Select PHONO when a turntable is connected to the
LINE3/PHONO terminal. Select LINE3 when a cassette tape
deck, tuner, etc. is connected to the LINE3/PHONO terminal.
SIGNAL GND connection
Use a commercially available PVC-covered cord to connect
the signal ground terminal on the unit to the player’s signal
ground.
<Note that this is NOT an electrical safety ground ( Earth).
<When a turntable is connected, make sure to connect the
ground lead of the turntable.
WORD SYNC output terminal
This sends out a sync signal ( Word).
Connect this to the WORD IN terminal of a digital device
such as the SZ-1, UZ-1, etc.
For connection, use a commercially available BNC coaxial
digital cable (75 7impedance).
Power cord receptacle
After all other connections have been made, insert the
supplied AC power cord into this receptacle, then connect
the other end of the power cord into the wall socket. Ensure
that your AC voltage corresponds to the voltage marked on
the rear panel of the unit. Consult a qualied electrician if
you are in doubt.
<Although the receptacle has a 3-pin plug, the ground pin is
not connected to the chassis.
<In order to avoid the risk of electric shock, on fire.
Use only the supplied power cord.
.
<If you are not going to use the unit for some time,
disconnect the power cord from the wall socket.
Main Power switch
Use this switch to turn the unit on or off.
The equipment draws nominal non-operating power
from the AC outlet with its POWER switch in the OFF
position.
F
E
D
C

8
i.LINK (IEEE 1394)
The i.LINKconnection is also known as IEEE 1394or "firewire"
an international specification.
This unit is ready for i.LINK (AUDIO).
By connecting an i.LINK (AUDIO)-capable device to the IEEE 1394
(or i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal on this unit using an i.LINK cable, you
can transmit Super Audio CD multi-channel signals. This allows
Super Audio CD muiti-channel information to be transmitted in
its original digital format, in addition to the capability of
transmitting 2-ch linear PCM data and multi-channel compressed
audio signals.
If you have multiple i.LINK-capable devices, you can connect them
through other devices to transmit data between them, In this case
you do not need to be concerned with the order of connection.
Copyright protection system DTCP
To play back audio sounds recorded on Super Audio CD or DVD
discs using i. LINK, the player and the internal D/A converter need
to be compliant with the protection system known as DTCP
(Digital Transmission Content Protection).
This unit is fully compliant with DTCP.
Data transfer rate
There are three transfer rates: 100 Mbps (S100), 200 Mbps
(S200), and 400 Mbps (S400). This unit is capable of transferring
data at a maximu m rate of 400Mbps.
For connection to an i.LINK-capable device, use a commercially
available S400-compliant 6-pin i.LINK cable.
When connecting multiple i.LINK-capable devices, avoid
connecting a device having a slow transfer rate between
devices having high transfer rates since this reduces the
transfer rate of the entire system.
Connect devices having high transfer rate towards the source
as far "up-stream" as possible.
NOTES
<Among the i.LINK formats there are “MPEG-2 TS” for BS
digital sources and “DV” for digital video for DVD recorders,
as well as the “i.LINK (AUDIO)” (A&M Protocol). Never
connect devices that are not ready for i.LINK (AUDIO) to this
unit. If you do, this unit and others may become out of order or
become damaged.
<While in the process of data transfer, avoid plugging/unplugging the
i.LINK cables while in use or switching the power control on or off.
<Among i.LINK-capable devices there are some that if not
turned on, are not capable of relaying data.
<Some i.LINK-capable devices may not respond to this
unit's command.
How to connect multiple i.LINK-capable
devices
Daisy chain connection
You can daisy-chain up to 17 devices including this unit.
Connection in tree structure
If you are using a device having three or more i.LINK connectors,
you may want t ohavethe connection branched out. This way of
connection allows you to connect up to 17 devices including this
unit.
Your system will not work if data is fed back to the output
device. Therefore, be careful not to create an iLink signal loop.
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK cable
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
i.LINK-capable
device
The i.LINK interface of this unit is designed in accordance with
the following specications:
1) IEEE Std 1394a-2000, Standard for a High Performance
Serial Bus
2) Audio and Music Data Transmission Protocol 2.0
This unit is compliant with IEC 60958 bit stream, DVD-Audio,
and Super Audio CD in the AM824 sequence adaptation
layers of this protocol.
Flow rate control
This unit supports i.LINK ow rate control. Flow rate control
means that audio data transferred via i.LINK is rst stored in
RAM inside this unit after which the high-precision clock within
the unit is used to move the data from RAM to avoid, the
transfer jitter normally associated with i.LINK transfer.
This unit transfers commands to the playback device to
change the data transfer rate and controls the playback device
when data accumulated in RAM exceeds or goes below a
certain rate due to differences in clock frequencies in the
playback device and this unit. Flow rate control functions in
transfers between this unit and other units within the chain.

9
Battery Replacement
If the operating distance required between the
remote control unit and main unit decreases,
the batteries are exhausted. In this case
replace the batteries with new ones.
Precautions concerning batteries
<Be sure to insert the batteries with correct positive “ +” and
negative “ _” polarities.
<Use batteries of the same type. Never use dierent types of
batteries together.
<Rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries can be used but
not mixed together. Refer to the precautions on their labels.
<When the remote control unit is not to be used for a lon g
period of time (more than a month), remove the batteries
from the remote control unit to prevent them from leaking.
If they leak, wipe away the liquid inside the battery
compartment and replace the batteries with new ones.
<Do not heat or disassemble batteries and never dispose of old
batteries by throwing them in a re.
Notes on use
<Point the remote control unit at the main unit’s remote sensor
within seven meters (23 feet) of the main unit. There should
not be any obstacles between the main unit and the remote
control unit.
<Do not allow direct sun or other light to shine on the remote
sensor area of the main unit. This may cause the remote
control unit to work incorrectly.
<Note that other units with remote controls may operate
incorrectly because of infrared light “overspill” when you
operate this remote control unit.
How to insert the batteries
Remove the cover of the remote control unit with a
screwdriver. After checking the polarity ( +/_) of two AA
batteries, insert the batteries, replace the cover and replace
the screws.
Remote Control Unit Restoring factory settings
If you have made a lot of changes to the setup selections and want to
restart from a known set of options, restore the unit to the its
factory settings as follows:
1. With the unit turned o, press and hold down the SETUP
button.
2. While holding down the SETUP button, turn on the POWER
switch.
All memories are then erased, and the unit returns to its factory
settings.

10
BA C D E GF
??????
Front panel
INPUT
Turn this knob to select an input.
In the setup mode, use this knob to change settings.
STANDBY
When the main power switch on the rear panel is on, use this
button to turn the unit on and to enter a standby mode.
The indicator is red during standby mode. The indicator
turns blue when the unit is turned on.
SETUP
Use this button to enter or exit the setup mode.
Remote control sensor
Receives signals from the remote control unit. Point the
remote control unit at this sensor when operating the remote
control unit.
MUTING
Use this button to mute the sound.
WORD
Use this to turn on or o the word sync function.
The indicator lights when the word sync output function is on.
VOLUME
Turn this knob to adjust the volume.
G
F
E
D
C
B
A
Display
d
ca b
Display
i.LINK indicator
Lights when the INPUT knob is set to “i.LINK” or when the i_RC
setting is set to ON.
This indicator blinks when the unit cannot receive a digital signal.
In that case connect a digital device to the i.LINK(AUDIO)
terminal and switch it on.
SETUP indicator
Lights in the setup mode.
Message area
Alphanumeric display to show sources, sampling frequencies,
status messages, etc.
Normally, “current input” is shown on the left of the display.
When detecting a device that is connected with an i.LINK cable,
the display shows its model name (such as SZ-1).
The right of the display shows “the sampling frequency of an
incoming digital signal” when a CD is played back or direct stream digital(DS
D
when a Super Audio CD is played back.
Channel indicators
Channels selected are illuminated in the “CH” setting display area.
d
c
b
a
Front panel features
Front panel
Display

11
B
A
D
F
E
G
C
Understanding the remote control unit
Note:
To simplify explanations, instructions in this manual refer to
the names of the buttons and controls on the front panel
only. Associated controls on the remote control will also
operate similarly.
ON/STANDBY
When the main power switch on the rear panel is on, use the
ON button to turn the unit on. Use the STANDBY button to
turn it to standby mode.
VOLUME
Use these buttons to adjust t he volume up or down.
DIMMER
Use this button to change the brightness of the front panel
display.
SETUP
Use this button to enter or exit the setup program mode.
MUTING
Use this button to mute the sound.
INPUT
Use these buttons to select an input.
Buttons for the basic operation o f an Esoteric SZ-1 or UZ-1
You can use these buttons to operate Esoteric's SZ-1 or UZ-1
CD/SACD/DVD player.
To operate the players point the remote control unit at the remote
sensor of the SZ-1 or UZ-1.
G
F
E
D
C
B
A

12
2
43 2
Turn on the power of the AZ-1 using the MAIN POWER
switch on the rear panel.
2
Standby indicator
If the red standby indicator lights, press the STANDBY button
to turn the unit on.
Turn on the power of the connected
components.
1
It may take several seconds for the unit to start outputting
sound. Wait until “WAIT ...” disappears from the display.
Select an input by turning the INPUT knob.
3
The current source input sources on the left of the display.
Repeatedly turn the knob slowly until the desired input
appears on the display.
COAX1, COAX2, OPT1, OPT2, LINE1, LINE2,
LINE3 or PHONO*, i.LINK
*: PHONO appears only when the LINE3/PHONO switch is set to
PHONO.
<When you select a digital terminal, “the sampling frequency
of an incoming digital signal” or “DSD” appears on the right
of the display.
<The i.LINK indicator blinks when the unit cannot receive a
digital signal from the i.LINK input. In that case, connect
a digital device to the i.LINK(AUDIO) terminal and switch it on.
Play the source, and gradually turn up the volume to
the required level by turning the VOLUME knob.
4
Basic Operation
To turn the unit o (standby)
To prevent sudden noise from the speakers, make sure to turn
the unit o in the following way.
1. Stop the playback of the connected component.
2. Turn the AZ-1 standby or o using the STANDBY button
or the POWER switch.
3. Turn the connected components o.

13
Display dimming
The display on the main unit can be dimmed to suit the
environment. There are three levels and an “off” setting.
Use the DIMMER button to cycle between these
settings.
<Note that the OFF setting is not memorized when the power
is turned o. When the unit is switched o with the display
o, and then turned on again, the display will reset to
minimum brightness.
<In the OFF mode, when you press a button such as VOLUME,
the front panel illuminations will temporarily turn on.
Muting
To mute sound temporarily, press the MUTING button.
Press the MUTING button again to restore the sound.
<While muting is engaged, “MUTING” and the name of the
selected terminal alternately blink on the display.
This feature is used when you want to get your whole system
locked to a single sync signal (clock) by connecting this unit to
the Esoteric SZ-1 UZ-1 or other devices that are capable of
inputting a sync signal (word clock).
Use the WORD button to switch between W_OUT and
WORD OFF.
W_OUT
The unit internally generates and sends out a Word Clock signal.
The indicator lights.
You can change the frequency of the word sync signal. See
the next page for details.
<Mak e your WORD SYNC connections before powering on the unit.
<It takes several seconds to detect and lock to a clock.
If the received digital signa l does not match, the sync signal, the
display shows “WRD ERROR!”. Check all your Word connections
if this occurs.
WORD OFF
The unit does not output a word clock signal.
Word sync

14
SETUPINPUT
Settings
<If you leave the unit idle for 10 seconds, the setup mode will
automatically be cancelled.
Repeatedly press the SETUP button to select the menu
item to be changed.
1
Turn the INPUT knob to select the options within the
menu item.
2
Repeatedly press the SETUP button (or leave the unit
idle for 10 seconds) to exit the setup mode.
3
<Settings are stored even when power is turned off and the
unit is unplugged. If left unplugged for an extended period
of time, the settings may be lost.
<Repeat steps and as require d.
21
Bass/Treble
Select “Bass” to adjust the level of low frequency sound
range. Select “Treble” to adjust the level of high frequency
sound.
These levels can be adjusted from –10 to +10. The factory
setting is 0.
W_OUT (Word sync output frequency)
Select the frequency of the word sync signal. The factory
setting is “44.1”.
100--44.1--88.2--176(176.4)--48--96--192
<The word sync signal is output only when the WORD button
is set to “W`_OUT” (see page 13).
CH (Channel)
When the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal is connected to a digital
device, select the channels for this unit.
The factory setting is L/R.
L/R: front left and right channels
C/LFE: center channel and LFE (subwoofer)
LS/RS: surround left and right channels
<The icons of the selected channels light on the display.
i_RC (i.LINK remote control function)
When multiple AZ-1 units are directly connected using i.LINK
cables and you have this function on, the volume, muting and
dimmer of all AZ-1’s in the chain can be controlled using only
the L/R channel AZ-1.
The linking of the control functions among the AZ-1s is
available as long as i.LINK cables are used to connect the AZ-1
units. You can use a dierent input type other than i.LINK if
you chose. If you do use a dierent input type, by also
connecting the AZ-1s with i.LINK cables you can control all
AZ-1s with only one unit as long as this function is switched
on.
With this remote control function switched o, the i.LINK
circuit is powered only when the input is set to i.LINK.
(Normal display)
Select this to exit the setup mode.

15
Troubleshooting
In case you experience any problem with this unit, please take the time
to look through this chart and see if you can solve the problem yourself
before you call your dealer.
No power
eCheck the connection to the AC power supply. Check and make
sure the AC source is not a switched outlet and that, if it is, the
switch is turned on. Make sure there is power to the AC outlet by
plugging in another item such as a lamp or fan.
ePress the POWER switch of the main unit to turn it on (Make sure
the master power switch on hte rear of the unit is turned on).
Remote control doesn’t work.
ePress the POWER switch of the main unit to turn it on.
eIf the batteries are dead, change the batteries.
eUse remote control unit within the rang e (5m/15ft) and point the
remote control at the front panel.
eClear any obstacles between the remote control unit and the main unit.
eIf a strong light is near the unit, turn it off.
There is no sound or only a very low-level sound is heard.
eAdjust the volume by turning the VOLUME knob.
eSelect the proper source using the INPUT knob.
eCheck that the speakers and components are connected securely.
eCheck the operation of the connected component.
No i.LINK output.
eCheck the channel setting. The L/R channel on the mode for the
AZ-1 is necessary even when multiple AZ-1 units are connected.
No sound from a Super Audio CD.
eDigital audio from a Super Audio CD cannot go through the
OPTICAL or COAXIAL terminals. Use the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal.
No digital audio output.
eThe AZ-1 isn’t equipped with Dolby Digital/DTS/MPEG decoders.
The digital output setting of the connected player must be set tp
PCM, or use the analog audio output terminals.
Unstable sound.
eSpeaker polarity ( +/_) is reversed. Check all speakers for correct
polarity.
The i.LINK indicator blinks.
eTurn on the digital device connected to the i.LINK(AUDIO) terminal.
When you don’t use the i.LINK terminal, turn the i_RC setting o.
The display shows “WRD ERROR!”
eThe connected unit may not be in word sync mode while the AZ-1
is in word sync mode. Check the word sync terminal for correct
connection and the settings on the connected unit.
eThe received digital signal doesn’t match the sync signal.
The proper word sync frequencies for Super Audio CDs are 44.1,
88.2 or 176.4.
Buzzing noise produced at regular intervals.
eThe connected unit may not be in word sync mode while the AZ-1
is in word sync mode. Check the word sync terminal for correct
connection and the settings on the connected unit.
Normally, if this problem occurs, the display reads “WRD ERROR!”,
but this message does not appear when deviation in sync is too
small and out of the word error detection threshold of the AZ-1.
If normal operation cannot be obtained, unplug the power cord
from the outlet and plug it again. This resets the internal micro-
computer which can be disturbed during electrical storms, power
interruption s, power surges, etc.
Specications
General
Power supply
Europe model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC 230 V, 50 Hz
U.S.A./Canada model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Korea model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC 220 V, 60 Hz
Power consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 W
Weight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.2 kg (20 1/4 lbs)
External dimensions (W x H x D) . . . . . . . . 400 x 77 x 372 mm
(15 3/4” x 3 1/16” x 14 5/8”)
Operating temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +5˚C - +35˚C
Operating humidity . . . . . . . . . 5% to 85% (no condensation)
Storage temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . –20˚C - +55˚C
Digital Input Terminals
Input format . . . DSD, linear PCM (44.1kHz-192kHz, 16-24bit)
i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal (6pin) x2
RCA x2, Input level: more than 0.2Vp-p/75 7
OPTICAL x2, Input level: –24.0 to –14.5dBm peak
Amplier Section
Output Power . . . . . . . . . . . . .Minimum45 W + 45 W (1 kHz, 8 ohms)
Minimum75 W + 75 W (1 kHz, 4 ohms
)
Minimum impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 ohms
Total Harmonic Distortion . . . 0.3 % (at 47 W, 1 kHz, 8 ohms)
Frequency Response (COAXIAL, OPTICAL, i.LINK)
5 Hz to 95 kHz, –3 dB (at 1 W, 8 ohms)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (COAXIAL, OPTICAL, i.LINK)
more than 115 dB (JEITA)
Input Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LINE: 240 mVrms
LINE3 PHONO (MM): 5.6 mVrms
Input impedance . . . . . . . LINE: 100 k., PHONO (MM): 39 k.
RIAA deviation . . . . . . PHONO (MM): ±0.5 dB (20 Hz-15 kHz)
Word Clock
Jack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BNC
Output level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TTL level/75 7
Word Clock Output Frequency
44.1, 88.2, 176.4, 48, 96, 192, 100 (kHz)
Accessories
Remote control unit (RC-1056) x 1
Batteries (AA, R6, SUM-3) x 2
Screwdriver x 1
Felt sheet x 4
Power cord x 1
Owner’s manual x 1
Warranty card x 1
• Design and specications are subject to change without
notice.
• Weight and dimensions are approximate.
• Illustrations may dier slightly from production models.

1005 .MA-1033A
This appliance has a serial number located on the rear panel. Please record
the model number and serial number and retain them for your records.
Model number Serial number
TEAC ESOTERIC COMPANY 3-7-3, Nakacho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo 180-8550, Japan Phone: [phone] e-mail: [email protected]
TEAC AMERICA, INC. 7733 Telegraph Road, Montebello, California 90640 Phone: [phone]
TEAC CANADA LTD. 5939 Wallace Street, Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 1Z8, Canada Phone: [phone]
TEAC MEXICO, S.A. De C.V Campesinos N°184, Colonia Granjas Esmeralda, Delegacion Iztapalapa, CP 09810, México DF Phone: [phone]
TEAC UK LIMITED Unit 19 & 20, The Courtyards, Hatters Lane, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 8TE , U.K. Phone: [phone]
TEAC EUROPE GmbH Bahnstrasse 12, 65205 Wiesbaden-Erbenheim, Germany Phone: [phone]
TEAC ITALIANA S.p.A. Via C. Cantù 9/A, 20092 Cinisello Balsamo, Milano, Italy Phone: [phone]