Fostex HP-A8MK2 User manual

32 bit/DAC Headphone amplier
HP-A8MK2
Owner's Manual
© FOSTEX COMPANY All Rights Reserved.
Thank you very much for purchasing a Fostex product.
This manual provides instructions for basic use of the unit.
Read this before using the unit for the rst time.
<Note>
Before connecting this product to a Windows computer with a USB cable, install the USB Audio
Class 2.0 driver for HP-A8MK2. You can download the driver software from our website below. For
Macintosh computers, you can use the product without downloading the driver software. Please
use FOSTEX-AudioPlayer (freeware) for audio playback which can be found at the URL below.
http://www.fostexinternational.com/
8289706002
(612164)

2
Preparation
WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS
• CAUTION: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK,
MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT,
FULLY INSERT.
ATTENTION: POUR PREVENIR LES CHOCS
ELECTRIQUES, APAR DE LA FENTE LARGE,
FOND.
• WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric
shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or
moisture.
AVIS: Pour réduire le risque d’incendie ou de
choc électrique, ne pas exposer cet appareil
sous la pluie et l’humidité.
• CAUTION: Use of any controls or adjustments
or performance of procedures other than
those herein specified may result in hazardous
radiation exposure.
ATTENTION: L'utilisation de tout contrôle
ou de réglages ou de procédures autres que
celles indiquées ci-après peut entraîner une
exposition à des radiations dangereuses.
• WARNING: Changes or modifications to this
unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
AVIS: Les changements ou modifications
à cette unité n'étant pas expressément
approuvé par la partie responsable de la
conformité pourrait annuler l'autorité de
l'utilisateur de faire fonctionner l'équipement.
• WARNING: Do not place the unit on top of
any soft, porous, or sensitive surfaces to avoid
damaging the surface. Use a protective barrier
between the unit and surface to protect the
surface.
AVIS: Ne placez pas l'appareil au-dessus
de toutes les surfaces souples, poreux, ou
sensibles pour éviter d'endommager la
surface. Utilisez une barrière de protection
entre l'unité et la surface à protéger la surface.
• WARNING: Use of this unit near fluorescent
lighting may cause interference regarding use
of the remote. If the unit is displaying erratic
behavior move away from any fluorescent
lighting, as it may be the cause.
AVIS: L'utilisation de cet appareil à proximité
d'éclairage fluorescent peut provoquer
des interférences sur l'utilisation de la
télécommande. Si l'appareil affiche un
comportement erratique s'éloigner de tout
éclairage fluorescent, telle qu'elle peut être
la cause.
• CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is
incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the
same or equivalent type.
ATTENTION: Danger d’explosion si les
piles sont remplacées de façon incorrect.
Remplacer les piles seulement par le même
type de pile ou l’équivalent.
• WARNING: Do not install this equipment in a
confined space such as a book case or similar
unit.
AVIS: Ne pas installer cet équipement dans un
espace confiné comme une bibliothèque ou
une unité similaire.
• WARNING: Mains plug is used as disconnect
device and it should remain readily operable
during intended use. In order to disconnect
the apparatus from the mains completely, the
mains plug should be disconnected from the
mains socket outlet completely.
AVIS: La prise du secteur est utilisé pour
déconnecter le système. La prise du secteur ne
doit pas être obstruée ou doit être facilement
accessible pendant son utilisation. Pour être
complètement déconnecté de l’alimentation
d’entrée, la prise doit être débranchée du
secteur.
• Do not mix old and new batteries. Do not
mix alkaline, standard (carbonzinc), or
rechargeable (ni-cad, ni-mh, etc) batteries.
Ne mélangez pas une pile neuve et une pile
usée. Ne mélangez pas des piles alcalines,
standard (carbone-zinc) ou rechargeables
(Ni-Cd, Ni-MH, etc).
CAUTION
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK
OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
AVERTISSEMENT: POUR RÉDUIRE
LE RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE,
NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE
(NI LE DOS).
NO USERSERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
AUCUNE PIÈCE À
L'INTÉRIEUR. ENTRETIEN DE
PERSONNELQUALIFIE.
The lightning flash with arrowhead
symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is
intended to alert the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric
shock to persons.
Le symbole de l’éclair fléché dans un triangle
équilatéral, est destiné à alerter l’utilisateur
de la présence d’une “tension dangereuse”
dans le boîtier du produit qui peuvent être
des ampleur suffisante pour constituer un
risque d’électrocution aux personnes.

3
Preparation
1) Read these instructions.
Lisez ces instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
Conservez ces instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
Respectez tous les avertissements.
4) Follow all instructions.
Suivez toutes les instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
Ne pas utiliser cet appareil près de l’eau.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
Nettoyer uniquement avec un chiffon sec.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings.
Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
Ne pas bloquer les ouvertures de ventilation.
Installer conformément aux instructions du
fabricant.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such
as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce
heat.
Ne pas installer près de sources de chaleur
telles que radiateurs, registres de chaleur,
poêles ou autres appareils (y compris les
amplificateurs) produisant de la chaleur.
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
fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Ne détruisez pas la sécurité de la terre ou
polarisées - fiche. Une fiche polarisée possède
deux lames dont une est plus large que l’autre.
Une prise de terre possède deux lames et une
broche de terre. La lame large ou la troisième
broche sont prévues pour votre sécurité. Si la
fiche fournie ne rentre pas dans votre prise,
consultez un électricien pour remplacer la
prise obsolète.
10) Protect the power cord from being walked on
or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit
from the apparatus.
Protégez le cordon d’alimentation d’être
piétiné ou pincé, particulièrement au niveau
des fiches, des prises, et le point où ils sortent
de l’appareil.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by
the manufacturer.
N’utilisez que des accessoires spécifiés par le
fabricant.
12) Use only with the cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table specified
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 tipover.
Utilisez seulement avec la charrette, position,
trépied, support ou table spécifiée par
le fabricant, ou a vendu avec l’appareil .
Lorsqu’une charrette est utilisée, utilise la
prudence quand déplacer la combinaison de
charrette / appareil pour éviter la blessure de
pointe-sur.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms
or when unused for long periods of time.
Débranchez cet appareil pendant les orages
ou lorsqu’il n’est pas utilisé pendant de
longues périodes de temps.
14) Refer all servicing to qualified service
personnel. Servicing is required when the
apparatus has been damaged in any way, such
as power supply cord or plug is damaged,
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.
Confiez toute réparation à un personnel
qualifié. Une réparation est nécessaire lorsque
l’appareil a été endommagé de quelque façon
que ce cordon d’alimentation ou la fiche est
endommagé, liquide a été renversé ou des
objets sont tombés dans l’appareil, l’appareil
a été exposé à la pluie ou à l’humidité, ne
fonctionne pas normalement, ou s’il est tombé.
15) The apparatus shall be used in an open area.
Cet apprareil doit être utilisé dans un endroit
a aire ouverte.
16) Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or
splashing and that no objects filled with liquids,
such as vases, shall be placed on apparatus.
L’appareil ne doit pas êclaboussures et aucun
objet ne contenant de liquide, tel qu’un vase,
ne doit être placé sur lobjet.
17) Mains plug is used as disconnect device. It
shall remain readily operable and should
not be obstructed during intended use. To
completely disconnect the apparatus from
supply mains, the main plug of the apparatus
shall be disconnected from the mains socket
outlet completely.
La prise du secteur et utilisé pou déconnecter
le système. La prise du secteur ne doit pas étre
obstruée ou doit être facilement accessible
pendant son utilisation. Pour être complèment
déconnecté de l’alimentation d’entrée, la prise
doit être débranchée du secteur.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

4
Preparation
Contents
WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS ................2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ......3
Introductions ............................................5
Features of the HP-A8MK2 ............................ 5
Accessories ................................................... 5
Functions ...................................................6
Front panel ................................................... 6
Rear panel ..................................................... 7
Remote controller ...................................... 8
Connecting external audio devices .........9
Connecting output devices ....................10
Connecting the power cord .................10
Listening to an external audio device ...11
Listening to the external device .........11
Listening to the les on an SD card .......12
Playable les ..............................................12
Hierarchy example in the SD card .....12
Ejecting the SD card ...............................13
Using the remote controller ................13
Changing the settings ............................14
Setting item list ........................................14
Troubleshooting .....................................17
Resetting the product ............................17
Updating the version .............................18
Specications ..........................................19
* Microsoft, Windows and Windows Vista are
either registered trademarks or trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.
* Apple, Macintosh, Mac and Mac OS are
trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S.
and other countries. Other company names
and product names in this document are the
trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective owners.
* All other company names, product names
and logos are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective owners.
* "DSD" is a trademark.
* ASIO is a trademark of Steinberg Media
Technologies GmbH.
<ErP Directive>
European model only
The HP-A8MK2 conforms to ErP directive and
pursues energy eciency. When the operation
continues for about 30 minutes, it will
automatically turn OFF the power. This mode
can be disabled by the ''AUTO POWER OFF" on
the Setting item list.
FCC (U.S.A.) & ICES-003 (Canada) INFORMATION
1. IMPORTANT NOTICE
This product, when installed as indicated in the
instructions contained in this manual, meets FCC and
ICES-003 requirements. Changes or modifications not
expressly approved by Fostex Company for compliance
could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment. DO NOT MODIFY THIS PRODUCT.
2. IMPORTANT
In order to comply with FCC and ICES-003 requirements,
use high quality shielded cables for connection to
accessories and / or another products. If any cables are
supplied with this product, they MUST be used. Follow
all installation instructions. Failure to do so could void
your FCC/ ICES-003 authorization to use this product in
the USA / Canada.
3. NOTE
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
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 off and on, the user is
encouraged to correct the interference by one or more
of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
4. Compliance with Part 15 of FCC Rules and Canadian
ICES-003.
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, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that many cause undesired
operation.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la
norme NMB-003 du Canada.

5
Preparation
Introductions
HP-A8MK2 is a DAC headphone amplier with high eciency, high-quality sound. You can
enjoy high-quality digital audio signals from your computer or from a digital audio player.
 Features of the HP-A8MK2
• Headphone amplier equipped with high-quality sound 32bit-DAC (AK4490) and all discrete circuit.
• Supports a sampling frequency of up to 32 bit/192 kHz through in house developed USB driver. In
addition, supports DSD 11.2 MHz (ASIO).
* DSD playback on Mac is compatible up to 5.6 MHz.
• Eliminates the jitter caused by low accuracy of the source clock of the computer, etc. by using the
asynchronous mode of an SPXO for audio (crystal oscillator).
• Equipped with high-quality sound, high-accuracy electronic volume for audio level control.
• Equipped with a large capacity toroidal power transformer.
• Computers, and digital and analog audio devices can be used as the input source.
• Plays DSF les, WAV les and AIFF les on an SD (SDHC) card directly using built-in SD (SDHC) card
drive. The drive can also be used for future updates.
* There are several conditions for playback from an SD card. For more information, please refer to
"Listening to the les on an SD card" on page 12.
• Equipped with an analog output terminal (RCA pin jack).
• Both the internal clock and the external clock are available for the master clock (only for SPDIF).
• 2x or 4x upsampling function (can also be turned o ).
• Switchable digital lter.
• 24 level gain settings for headphone output.
• Direct analog output that does not pass through the volume.
• Equipped with an infrared remote controller.
• Equipped with an organic EL display.
• Equipped with independent clocks for 44.1K factor and 48K factor.
 Accessories
Supplied accessories are listed below. Conrm that accessories are present after purchase.
• Remote controller × 1
• AAA battery for remote controller × 2
• Power cord × 1
• Owner's Manual (this book) × 1
• Safety information × 1

6
Preparation
Functions
 Front panel
 
   

Power indicator
Lights in red when the power is on.
Display
Various information (page 11, 13) and
menu screen (page 14) are displayed.
volume knob
Adjusts the volume of the headphones or
the analog output.
• You can not adjust the analog output volume
when the "DIRECT" setting is set to "ON"
(page 15).
power switch
Switches the power on/o. The recessed
position is on.
When set up item ''AUTO POWER OFF'' is
set to "ON", the HP-A8MK2 will automatically
turn OFF the power. Press the switch twice
to return the power ON. You can disable
''AUTO POWER OFF'' mode by Setting item.
 output sel switch
Switches the output source. Outputs the
signal from analog output terminal at the
recessed position.
[phones] terminals (1/2)
Connect the headphones with a standard
stereo jack. Up to 2 pairs of headphones
can be connected at the same time.
 input sel knob/switch
Turn the knob clockwise or counter-
clockwise to switch the input source
(page 11).
Also, press and hold the switch to display
the menu screen, and press to select a
menu item. (page 14).

7
Preparation
IN
AC IN
SD CARD
AES/EBU
USB
RIGHT LEFTRIGHTLEFT
ANALOG OUT ANALOG IN
1 2
OPTICAL COAXIAL COAXIALOPTICAL
DIGITAL IN DIGITAL OUT
 Rear panel
     
 [DIGITAL IN - OPTICAL (1/2)] terminals
Connect a digital audio device as an input
source using a square optical cable. Up to
two devices can be connected.
[DIGITAL IN - COAXIAL] terminal
Connect a digital audio device as an input
source using a coaxial cable.

[DIGITAL OUT - OPTICAL] terminal
Outputs a digital audio signal to the
connected digital audio device via a square
optical cable.
[DIGITAL OUT - COAXIAL] terminal
Outputs a digital audio signal to the
connected digital audio device via a coaxial
cable.
[USB] terminal
Connect a computer (Win/Mac) as an input
source using a USB cable.
[SD CARD] slot
Insert an SD (SDHC) card including WAV
les, AIFF les or DSF les with the label
side facing upward.
[ANALOG OUT] terminals (RIGHT/LEFT)
Connect a device such as an amplier
using an RCA pin cable.
 [ANALOG IN] terminals (RIGHT/LEFT)
Connect an analog audio device as an
input source using an RCA pin cable.

[AES/EBU] terminal (IN)
Connect a digital audio device as an input
source using an AES/EBU cable.

[AC IN] terminal
Connect the supplied power cable.
• S/PDIF format is used for digital audio input/
output.
• The signal is always output from the [DIGITAL OUT]
terminal regardless of the "OUTPUT SEL" setting
(page 11, 13). Digital signal does not output when
the input source is set to [ANALOG IN] ("RCA") or a
DSD signal is input.
   

8
Preparation
 Remote controller
 key
Not used.
Input source selection keys
Selects the input source.
USB: [USB] terminal
SD: [SD CARD] slot
AUX: [AES/EBU] terminal
ANALOG BAL: Not used
ANALOG RCA: [ANALOG IN] terminal
OPTICAL1: [DIGITAL IN - OPTICAL 1]
terminal
OPTICAL2: [DIGITAL IN - OPTICAL 2]
terminal
COAXIAL1: [DIGITAL IN - COAXIAL] terminal
COAXIAL2: Not used
MENU key
Displays the menu screen.

<
/
<
keys
Selects folders when using an SD card.
 key
Turns the repeat function on/o when
using an SD card.
A key
Not used.
  key
Stops playback when using an SD card.
 key
Starts/pauses playback when using an SD
card.
MUTE key
Mutes/restores the sound each time it is
pressed.
VOLUME +/− keys
Adjusts the volume.
ENTER key
Determines the selected menu or value, or
unmounts the SD card.
</> keys
Selects items and values on the menu
screen.
DISPLAY key
Turns the display on/o .
B key
Not used.
key
While using an SD card, moves to the next
track when pressed, and fast-forwards the
currently playing track when held down.
key
While using an SD card, moves to the
previous track when pressed, and fast-
rewinds the currently playing track when
held down.
• The included battery is for checking operation.
Replace it as soon as possible.
• Read "Safety information" (attached sheet) and
handle the battery correctly.
• Dispose of the battery in the proper manner
according to the local regulations.











9
Connection
Connecting external audio devices
Connect a digital audio device as an input source to the digital audio input terminal, square
optical terminals [OPTICAL 1]/[OPTICAL 2], the coaxial terminal [COAXIAL] or the AES/EBU
terminal [AES/EBU].
Connect an analog audio device as an input source to the analog audio input terminal
[ANALOG IN].
To listen to music les from a computer, connect the computer to the USB terminal [USB].
To change the input source, turn the input sel knob on the front panel.
• Do not connect the power cord until all connections are nished.
IN
AC IN
SD CARD
AES/EBU
USB
RIGHT LEFTRIGHTLEFT
ANALOG OUT ANALOG IN
1 2
OPTICAL COAXIAL COAXIALOPTICAL
DIGITAL IN DIGITAL OUT
To a digital audio device
To an analog audio device, etc.
To a computer
RCA cable USB cable
AES/EBU cable
Coaxial cable
Optical cable

10
Connection
Connecting output devices
Connect headphones to the headphone terminals [phones] (1/2) on the front panel, or
connect an amplier or active speaker to the analog output terminal [ANALOG OUT] to
enjoy music. To change the output, use the output sel switch on the left side of the front
panel. You can obtain S/PDIF format signals through the square optical terminal [OPTICAL]
or coaxial terminal [COAXIAL] when connecting a digital audio device.
• Do not connect the power cord until all connections are nished.
• The signal is always output from the [DIGITAL OUT] terminal regardless of the "OUTPUT SEL" setting
(page 11, 13). Digital signal does not output when the input source is set to [ANALOG IN] ("RCA") or a DSD
signal is input.
IN
AC IN
SD CARD
AES/EBU
USB
RIGHT LEFTRIGHTLEFT
ANALOG OUT ANALOG IN
1 2
OPTICAL COAXIAL COAXIALOPTICAL
DIGITAL IN DIGITAL OUT
1 2
Fostex
PM0.5d, etc. (sold separately)
To a digital audio device
RCA cable
Headphones
To an analog amplier, etc.
To an AC outlet
Optical cable
Coaxial cable
Front panel
(sold separately)
Rear panel
 Connecting the power cord
Connect the power cord after all connections are nished.

11
Listening
Listening to an external audio device
You can enjoy music from the external audio device connected to the unit through
headphone output or analog output.
Connect the desired device before the operation. (page 9)
1 Turn on the product.
Push in the power switch.
The power indicator lights in red when the
power is on.
Power indicator
• When an ampli er is connected, turn the
volume of the ampli er to the minimum
before powering on the product.
2 Select the input source.
Turn the input sel knob on the main unit, or
use the Input source selection keys on the
remote controller.
Input source name
• "AES/EBU": Device connected to [AES/EBU]
• "USB": Computer connected to [USB]
• "RCA": Device connected to [ANALOG IN]
• "SD": Inserted SD card (page 12)
• "COX": Device connected to [DIGITAL IN -
COAXIAL]
• "OPT1": Device connected to [DIGITAL IN -
OPTICAL 1]
• "OPT2": Device connected to [DIGITAL IN -
OPTICAL 2]
3 Select the output source.
Select headphones or analog output.
• Listening via headphones:
Do not push in the output sel switch
• Listening via analog output:
Push in the output sel switch
4 Adjust the volume.
Turn the volume knob on the main unit, or
press the VOLUME +/– keys on the remote
controller.
• You cannot adjust the analog output volume
when the "DIRECT" setting is set to "ON".
 Listening to the external device
<Display during playback>
Input source name
Sampling frequency (Fs)
Volume

12
Listening
1 Insert an SD card.
Insert an SD (SDHC) card into the [SD
CARD] slot on the rear panel with the
label side facing upward.
IN
AC IN
SD CARD
AES/EBU
USB
RIGHT LEFTRIGHTLEFT
ANALOG OUT ANALOG IN
1 2
OPTICAL COAXIAL COAXIALOPTICAL
DIGITAL IN DIGITAL OUT
[SD CARD] slot
IN
AC IN
SD CARD
AES/EBU
USB
RIGHT LEFTRIGHTLEFT
ANALOG OUT ANALOG IN
1 2
OPTICAL COAXIAL COAXIALOPTICAL
DIGITAL IN DIGITAL OUT
USB
SD CARD
2 Turn on the product.
Push in the power switch.
The power indicator lights in red when the
power is on.
Power indicator
• When an ampli er is connected, turn the
volume of the ampli er to the minimum
before turning on the product.
3 Select the input source.
Turn the input sel knob on the main unit, or
press the SD key on the remote controller to
select "SD".
 Playable  les
• Format the card in FAT32.
• The maximum number of folders you can
create on an SD card is 15.
• The maximum number of  les you can copy in
each folder is 30.
• You can use up to 50 alphanumeric characters
for folder names, 70 characters for  le names.
2 byte characters are displayed as "".
DSF  les (extension: .dsf)
• Format: 2.8 MHz
WAV  les (extension: .wav),
AIFF  les (extension: .aiff )
• Sampling frequency: 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz
• Bit rate: 16 Bit, 24 Bit, 32 Bit
• Format: Linear PCM
 Hierarchy example in the
SD card
SD (root)
FOLDER1…… folder 1
FOLDER2…… folder 2
456.aif…… music  le 4
ABC.wav… music  le 1
123.dsf…… music  le 2
DEF.ai …… music  le 3
Listening to the  les on an SD card
You can enjoy DSF  les, WAV  les and AIFF  les.
• To make folders on or copy  les to an SD card, please use a computer. The unit does not support these
operations.

13
Listening
4 Select the output source.
Select headphones or analog output.
• Listening via headphones:
Do not push in the output sel switch
• Listening via analog output:
Push in the output sel switch
5 Adjust the volume.
Turn the volume knob on the main unit, or
press the VOLUME +/– keys on the remote
controller.
• You cannot adjust the analog output volume
when the "DIRECT" setting is set to "ON".
 Ejecting the SD card
Unmount the SD card by the following
procedure before ejection. Otherwise, the
data may be damaged.
1 Stop playback.
Press the  key on the remote controller.
2 Press the ENTER key on the remote
controller.
SD (SDHC) card is unmounted, and "EJECT" is
displayed.
3 Push in the card gently until a clicking
sound is heard.
The card pops out a little.
4 Grasp the card and pull it out straight.
 Using the remote controller
You can control the product using the
remote controller.
: Start/pause playback of current le
 : Stop playback
ENTER : Select a folder or unmount the
SD card
: Press to move to next track/hold to
fast-forward
: Press to move to previous track/
hold to fast-rewind
<
: Next folder
<
: Previous folder
: Repeat on/o
• You can select the repeat playback range with the
"SD REPEAT MODE" setting (page 16).
• If you change the settings on the menu screen
during SD card playback, the changes are stored
when you stop playback. Also, the volume setting
of the "IN/VOL MEM" setting is stored when you
stop playback.
<Display during playback>
Input source
name
Repeat mode indicator (page 16)
Upsampling indicator
(page 14)
File information/Folder name/File
name
Play/Stop
indicator
Volume

14
Listening
Changing the settings
You can change the settings according to your environment.
1 Press and hold the input sel switch on
the main unit or press the MENU key
on the remote controller.
The menu screen is displayed.
2 Turn the input sel knob on the main
unit or press the </> key on the
remote controller to select the item to
change.
"" on the rst line indicates the selected
item.
3 Press the input sel switch on the main
unit or press the ENTER key on the
remote controller to select the current
item.
"" on the second line indicates the selected
setting value.
4 Turn the input sel knob on the main
unit or press the </> key on the
remote controller to select the setting
value.
5 Press the input sel switch on the main
unit or press the ENTER key on the
remote controller to apply the current
setting value.
6 Press and hold the input sel switch on
the main unit or press the MENU key
on the remote controller.
The display changes from the menu screen
to the normal screen.
 Setting item list
Setting item Setting value
"AMP GAIN"
Selects the gain according
to the sensitivity of your
headphones.
Default: "0 dB"
"0 dB" to "20 dB" (0.5 dB step)
"UP SAMPLING"
Activates the upsampling
function.
Default: "×1"
"× 1", "× 2", "× 4"
* The product upsamples up to 192 kHz. This function
does not aect DSD signals.

15
Listening
Setting item Setting value
"DIGITAL FILTER"
Selects the digital lter.
Default: "SHORT DLY SHAP"
You can select from one of the 5 types of digital lters
listed below.
"SHORT DLY SHAP"
"SHORT DLY SLOW"
"SHARP ROLL-OFF"
"SLOW ROLL-OFF"
"SUPER SLOW"
"MSCK SEL"
Selects the master clock of the
DAC.
* The internal clock is always
used when the input source is
set to "USB" or "SD" regardless
of this setting.
Default: "DIR"
"DIR"
Uses the external clock of the digital input source.
"XTAL"
Uses the high precision internal SPXO clock.
"DIRECT"
Selects whether the signal for
the [ANALOG OUT] terminal
goes through volume or not.
* The signals for headphones
always go through volume
regardless of this setting.
Default: "OFF"
"OFF"
Goes through volume (You can change the volume with
volume)
"ON"
Does not go through volume (You can not change the
volume with volume)
When you change the setting value and press the ENTER
key, "WARNING" is displayed, then "ARE YOU SURE?" will
be displayed. Press the ENTER key again to determine
the setting value.
"IN/VOL MEM"
Activates the memory function
of the last source and volume.
Default: "DISABLE"
"DISABLE"
The last source and volume are not memorized.
"INPUT"
Switches to the last source automatically at power on.
The volume is set to MUTE.
"VOLUME"
Switches to the last volume automatically at power on.
The source is set to "COX".
"INPUT+VOLUME"
Switches to the last source and volume automatically at
power on.

16
Listening
Setting item Setting value
"USB MUTE SEL"
Activates cross-fade processing
(volume down) between les
when the input source is set to
"USB".
Default: "OFF"
"OFF"
Play the signal from USB directly. A snapping noise may
be produced between les.
"ON"
Activates cross-fade processing at the beginning and end
of the le. For the continuously recorded sound source,
such as a live recording album, sound may be interrupted
for a moment.
"SD REPEAT MODE"
Selects the repeat range of the
SD card playback.
Default: "FOLDER"
"FOLDER"
Repeats the current folder ("F" indicator is displayed).
"ALL"
Repeats the whole card ("A" indicator is displayed).
"SINGLE"
Repeats the current le ("1" indicator is displayed).
"LCD ON/OFF"
Selects the lighting pattern of
the LCD display.
Default: "ON"
"ON"
LCD is always on.
"OFF"
The LCD turns o automatically approximately 8 seconds
after the last operation is performed.
"AUTO POWER OFF"
Selects the ''AUTO POWER OFF''
mode ON or OFF.
Default: ''ON''
"ON":
The HP-A8MK2 will automatically turn OFF the power,
when the operation continues for about 30 minutes.
"OFF'':
The HP-A8MK2 does not automatically power OFF. i.e., it
keeps powering ON even after 30 minutes of operation.
"SYSTEM INFO"
Displays the current software
version.
Default: "VerX.XXX"
"VerX.XXX"
Current version.
"VERSION UP"
Executes the update. (page 18)
"RESET"
Returns to the factory settings (page 17).

17
Information
Troubleshooting
Common problems and solutions are listed below.
Problem Solutions
There is no sound. • Conrm that the product is connected properly
(page 9).
• Conrm that the input source is selected
properly. (page 11)
• Conrm that the output source is selected
properly. (page 11)
Cannot be recognized from a Windows PC. • Download the driver from our site and install.
Cannot playback the SD card. • The les may not be played back if the
transfer rate is insucient. Use a Class 6 or
higher SDHC card.
• We do not guarantee the operation of all
cards. Try a dierent card. In addition, this
product does not support SDXC cards.
 Resetting the product
You can reset the product back to the factory settings.
1 Select "RESET" on the "SYSTEM INFO" setting in menu screen.
All settings are set to the default settings.

18
Information
 Updating the version
An update le may be released to solve
problems and provide a better listening
environment. Update the product by the
following procedure.
1 Save the obtained update le on an
SD (SDHC) card.
Save the le in the root directory.
• Format the card in FAT32.
• Do not save les other than the update le on
the SD card.
2 Insert the card into the slot on the
rear panel with the label side facing
upward.
3 Turn on the product, and select "COX"
as the input source.
4 Press and hold the input sel switch on
the main unit or press the MENU key
on the remote controller to display
the menu screen.
5 Select "SYSTEM INFO" from the menu
item.
The current version is displayed.
6 Select "VERSION UP" from the setting
value.
7 Select "VERSION UP".
Updating starts.
It takes about 30 seconds to nish updating.
Wait until "VER UP COMPLETED/POWER OFF"
or "VERSION UP END/POWER OFF" is displayd,
and do not turn o the product during
updating.
8 Turn o the product.
The update is now completed.
• Refer page 14 for menu screen operations.
• All settings will return to the factory settings after
updating.

19
Information
Specications
<Input>
USB terminal
Connector B type (Standard)
Quantization, sampling frequency 16/24/32 bit, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz/176.4 kHz/192 kHz,
DSD 2.8 MHz/5.6 MHz/11.2 MHz (ASIO)
* DSD playback on Mac is compatible up to 5.6 MHz.
Interface USB High Speed
DIGITAL INPUT-OPTICAL (1, 2) terminal
Connector Square optical
Format S/P DIF
Quantization, sampling frequency 16/24 bit, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz/176.4 kHz/192 kHz
DIGITAL INPUT-COAXIAL terminal
Connector RCA pin jack
Format S/P DIF
Quantization, sampling frequency 16/24 bit, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz/176.4 kHz/192 kHz
DIGITAL INPUT-AES/EBU terminal
Connector XLR-3-31 type (No.2 hot)
Format AES/EBU
Quantization, sampling frequency 16/24 bit, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz/176.4 kHz/192 kHz
ANALOG INPUT (L, R) terminal
Connector RCA pin jack
SD card
Card SDHC
File system FAT32
Format DSF/WAV/AIFF
Quantization, sampling frequency 16/24/32 bit, 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz, DSD 2.8 MHz
<Output>
PHONES (1, 2) terminal
Connector Standard stereo jack
Maximum output 700 mW (load resistance 32 Ω)
Conformity load impedance 16 Ω to 600 Ω
THD 0.002% or less (at 1 kHz, load resistance 32 Ω, 1 Vrms )
Frequency response 10 Hz to 80 kHz ± 3 dB
ANALOG OUTPUT (L, R) terminal
Connector RCA pin jack
Conformity load impedance 10 kΩ or more
THD 0.002% or less
Frequency response 10 Hz to 80 kHz ±3 dB (at 192 kHz usage)
DIGITAL OUTPUT-OPTICAL terminal
Connector Square optical
Format S/P DIF
Quantization, sampling frequency 16/24 bit, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz/176.4 kHz/192 kHz
DIGITAL OUTPUT-COAXIAL terminal
Connector RCA pin jack
Format S/P DIF
Quantization, sampling frequency 16/24 bit, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz/88.2 kHz/96 kHz/176.4 kHz/192 kHz
<General>
Accessories Remote controller (x 1), AAA battery for remote controller (× 2), Power cord (x 1), Owner's
Manual (this book) (x 1)*1, Safety information (x 1)
*1: Addendums for added settings, etc. will be attached at each update.
External dimensions (mm) 213 (W) x 78 (H, including legs) x 315 (D, including protrusions)
Weight Approx. 3.8 kg
Power input AC 100 V
Power consumption 24 W
* This product is compatible with European RoHS Directive.

© Printed in Japan June 2016 8289706002 612164
FOSTEX CO.
1-1-109, Tsutsujigaoka, Akishima City, Tokyo, 196-8550, Japan
Declaration of EC Directive
This equipment is compatible with the EMC Directive (2004/108/EC) - Directive on approximation of member nation’s ordinance
concerning the electromagnetic compatibility and with the Low Voltage Directive (2006/95/EC) - Directive on approximation of
member nation’s ordinance concerning electric equipment designed to be used within the specified voltage range.
This equipment is also compatible with the Ecodesign Directive (2009/125/EC) - Directive on approximation of member nation’s ordinance
concerning the ecodesign requirement for energy-using products and with EU RoHS 2 Directive (2011/65/EU) - Directive on approximation
of member nation’s ordinance concerning the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electric equipment.
The Affect of Immunity on This Equipment
The affect of the European Specification EN61000-6-1 (coexistence of electromagnetic waves - common immunity specification)
on this equipment are as shown below.
In the electrical fast transient/burst requirements, surge, conducted disturbances by radio-frequency fields, power frequency
magnetic field, radiate electromagnetic field requirements and static electricity discharging environment, this could be affected by
generation of noise in some cases.
FOSTEX DISTRIBUTORS LIST IN EUROPE
* Including non-EU countries (as of Jan. 2016)
Albania, Bosnia and Hezegovina, Croatia,
Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia
& Slovenia
NAME: Player Plus d.o.o.
ADD: St. Sestara Strain 1/13, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.player.rs
Austria, Germany & Hungary
NAME: Mega Audio GmbH
ADD:Feldborn 3, in 55444 Waldlaubersheim,
Germany
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.megaaudio.de
Belgium
NAME: XLR sprl/bvba
ADD: Pierre Strauwenstraat 24, 1020 Brussels,
Belgium
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.xlrpro.be
Czecho
NAME: Praha Music Center spol s.r.o.
ADD: Ocelarska 937/39, Praha 9, 190 00, Czecho
TEL: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.pmc.cz
Denmark
NAME: SC Sound A/S
ADD: Dalgas Alle 15, DK-6600 Vejen, Denmark
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.sc-sound.dk
Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania
NAME: Mafico BV
ADD: Weg en Bos 2 2661 DH Bergschenhoek
Nederland
TEL: (+31) (0)10 - 414 8426
FAX: (+31) (0)10 - 404 8863
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.mafico.com
Finland
NAME: Noretron Oy Audio
ADD: Mankkaantie 32, FIN-02180 ESPOO, Finland
TEL: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
Web Site: http://www.noretron.fi
France
NAME: Hamy Sound (Consumer and Hi-Fi Systems)
ADD: 28 Rue Edith Cavell, 92400 Courvevoie, France
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]om
Web Site: http://www.hamysound.com
France
NAME: Selectronic (Speaker Components)
ADD: Zac de L'Oree du Golf, 16 rue Jules Verne, 59790
Ronchin, France
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
France
NAME: Sennheiser France (Pro-Audio)
ADD: 128 bis, avenue Jean-Jaures, 94851 Ivry-sur-
Seine Cedex, France
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Web Site: http://www.sennheiser.fr
Greece
NAME: Bon Studio S.A
ADD: 6 Zaimi Street, Exarchia, 106.83 Athens,
Greece
TEL: [phone], 606, 607, 608
FAX: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.bonstudio.gr
Italy
NAME: Art of Music sas (Consumer/Hi-Fi Systems/
Speaker Components)
ADD: Via Dal Lino 23/2, 40134 Bologna, Italy
TEL: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.artofmusic.it
Italy
NAME: Backline S.u.r.l. (Pro-Audio)
ADD: Via dell’Aprica, 16 - 20158 Milano, Italy
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.backline.it
The Netherlands
NAME: Iemke Roos Audio B.V.
ADD: Kuiperbergweg 20, 1101 AG Amsterdam,
TheNetherlands
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.iemkeroos.nl
Norway
NAME: Siv. Ing. Benum AS
ADD: Østre Aker vei 68, 0581 OSLO
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.benum.no
Poland
NAME: Mega Music Spolka z o.o
ADD: Ul. Lesna 15, 81-876 Sopot, Poland
TEL: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://pro.megamusic.pl
Portugal & Spain
NAME: ATCONSUMER (Consumer/Hi-Fi Systems/
Speaker Components)
ADD: PO BOX 15, 08340Vilassar de Mar, Barcelona,
Spain
TEL: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.atconsumer.es
Portugal & Spain
NAME: LETUSA S.A. (Pro-Audio)
ADD: C/Laguna No.10, Poligono Industrial Urtinsa,
28923 Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.letusa.es
Russia
NAME: Audio Mania LLC (Speaker Components)
ADD: 107023 Barabanniy Lane 4/4, Moscow Russia
TEL: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.audiomania.ru
Russia
NAME: BLADE Group of Companies (Consumer)
ADD: Elizavetinskiy per, 12 Moscow 105005, Russia
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.blade.ru/
Russia
NAME: MS-MAX (Pro-Audio)
ADD: Entrance 12B, Kutuzovsky prospekt, 30/32,
121165, Moscow, Russia
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.ms-max.ru
Russia
NAME: Qvinta Company LLC (Hi-Fi Systems)
ADD: Building 2, Street 26A, Dmitriy Uliyanova,
Moscow 117036 Russia
TEL: [phone]
Slovakia
NAME: Rockcentrum
ADD: Ambra Pietra 40, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: rock[email protected]
Web Site: http://rock-centrum.sk
Sweden
NAME: Benum Nordic AS
ADD: Vastberga Allé 26, 126 30 Hagersten, Sweden
TEL: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.benum.se
Switzerland
NAME: Audio Bauer Pro AG
ADD: Bernerstrasse-Nord 182, CH-8064 Zurich,
Switzerland
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.audio-bauerpro.ch
Turkey
NAME: Extreme Audio (Consumer/Hi-Fi Systems)
ADD: Sheraton Istanbul Maslak Kat B2 Buykdere Cad.
Nr:233 Ucyol Mevkii 34398 Maslak Istanbuul Turkey
TEL: [phone], FAX: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.extreme-audio.com
Turkey
NAME: Radikal Elektronik Ltd. Sti. (Pro-Audio)
ADD: Ihlamur-Yildiz Cad, Kessaf Sok. 4/12 Besiktas,
Istanbul 34353, Turkey
TEL: (+90) [phone]
FAX: (+90) [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://www.radikaltr.com
UK
NAME: Pro-Hifi (Consumer/Hi-Fi Systems)
ADD: Unit C1 Belcon Industrial Estate, Geddings
Road, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, EN11 0NT, UK
TEL: (+44) (0)3301 22 2500
FAX: (+44) (0)1992 44 9171
Email: [email protected].uk
Web Site: http://www.pro-hifi.co.uk
UK
NAME: SCV Distribution (Pro Audio/Speaker
Components)
ADD: Unit C1 Belcon Industrial Estate, Geddings
Road, Hodesdon, Hertfordshire, EN11 0NT, UK
TEL: (+44) (0)3301 22 2500
FAX: (+44) (0)1992 44 9171
Email: [email protected].uk
Web Site: http://www.scvdistribution.co.uk
Ukraine
NAME: A & T Trade Petroshop
ADD: 29, Obolonskaya Str., Kiev, Ukraine 04071
TEL: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: http://kiev.attrade.ru