Goldmund MIMESIS 30 User manual

USER MANUAL
Goldmund MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER

Goldmund was founded in 1978 and has ever since been dedicated to the accurate reproduction of sound
and image.
At Goldmund, we strive to lead in the creation, development and manufacture of the industry’s most
advanced technologies, including audio and video systems, home - networking and music distribution.
The guiding principle at Goldmund is to produce a precise sound with the least possible loss of quality
through the different stages. Goldmund will never adopt a technology before it is sufficiently developed to
satisfy the high quality standards we set. This is why Goldmund has often rejected mainstream technologies
and developed its own.
INTRODUCTION
The GOLDMUND MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL Preamplifier
Congratulations.
Thank you for purchasing the Goldmund Mimesis 30.
You have acquired the best multi-usage Preamplifier ever made for professional and domestic uses. Please
take some time to read this manual. It may provide you with useful information to make your pleasure of
listening to the Mimesis 30 even higher.
User manual - GOLDMUND MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER

This high quality controller possesses new
technical features which are necessary for
accurate multi-channel processing of today’s
best Audio Multi-channel signals.
Only careful use can provide all the
satisfaction you are expecting.
All handling must be performed according to
the following instructions to avoid impairing
the preamplifier's performance.
Nevertheless, if the instructions are perfectly
carried out, you will notice that the use of the
GOLDMUND MIMESIS 30 is quite simple and
convenient.
IMPORTANT
PLEASE DO NOT CONNECT ANY CABLES OR
MOVE ANY PARTS BEFORE READING THE
FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS.
WARNING
!
Goldmund MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
User manual - GOLDMUND MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER

1SETTING UP THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
1.1 Preliminaries p 4
1.2 Unpacking p 5
1.3 Choice of the MIMESIS 30 Location p 6
1.4 Power Supply p 7
1.5 First Installation and Connections p 7 - 8
Power Connection p 7
Computer Configurator p 8
Sources Connection p 8
2OPERATING THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
2.1 Front Panel Keyboard functions p9-12
Standby function p 9
Input Source Selection for the Local Zone p 9
Input Source Selection for other Zones p 9
Recording Source Selection p10
Direct output Source Selection p10
Output Volume Adjustment p10
Balance Adjustments p 10
Muting p 10
Mode selection p11
The Led Display p11
The Setup Menu Functions p11
To enter the Menu Function selection p12
To leave the Menu Function selection p12
2.2 Remote-Control p 13
2.3 Cleaning p 14
3TECHNICAL DATA
Inputs and tape configuration p15
Digital Outputs
Remote control
Front panel controls p16
Power supply
Size and weight
Warranty
4SCHEMA p17
CONTENTS
DTS Trademark: Manufactured under license from Digital Theater
Systems, Inc. U.S. Pat. No's. 5,451,942; 5,956,674; 5,974,380;
5,978,762; 6,226,616; 6,487,535 and other U.S. and world-wide
patents issued and pending. "DTS" and "DTS Digital Surround" are
registered trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. Copyright
1996, 2003 Digital Theater Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
User manual GOLDMUND MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER

SETTING UP THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
PRELIMINARIES
Please read the following instructions very carefully. This high-precision unit will provide the
best digital signal possible to your digital-input power amplifiers thanks to its unique
technology.
For exacting technicians, musicians, and all amateurs who demand the very best in musical
reproduction, we strongly recommend the use of top quality amplifiers with a digital input,
since most of the digital signal performance delivered by the Mimesis 30 can be eroded by
using lower quality amplifiers or D/A converters.
The connection between the analog and digital sources and the preamplifier, as well as
between the Mimesis 30 and the power amplifiers are critical. Ultra low reflection
interconnect cables are absolutely mandatory in analog and precise impedance SPDIF cables
in digital to keep the time integrity that the best systems may provide. In all typical cases
Goldmund recommends using the special Goldmund Lineal interconnect and digital cables.
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1.1

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1.2
SETTING UP THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
UNPACKING
You will find in the package:
❑the Controller itself,
❑the power cord,
❑the remote control,
❑this owner's manual.
Unpack the above-mentioned parts carefully.
Keep all packaging for future use.
WARNING
IF YOU NEED TO RETURN THE MIMESIS 30 TO THE FACTORY OR TO YOUR LOCAL
REPRESENTATIVE FOR A WARRANTY REPAIR, PLEASE NOTE THAT IT MUST BE REPACKED IN
THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
THIS PACKAGING HAS BEEN DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO PROTECT YOUR MIMESIS 30 IN
TRANSIT. USE OF ALTERNATIVE PACKAGING IS LIKELY TO RESULT IN DAMAGE, INVALIDATING
WARRANTY COVER.

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SETTING UP THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
CHOICE OF THE MIMESIS 30 LOCATION
Select a very rigid support, as required for your CD player transport.
The distance between the Mimesis 30 and the power amplifiers is usually not critical since
the signal is carried in the digital domain. However, you must use coaxial links of highest
quality such as the Goldmund Lineal in order to maintain the time accuracy of the signal. The
Goldmund Lineal cables have been designed to maintain this accuracy and are highly
recommended, especially for long distances. For some high impedance output analog
sources, a short distance to the Preamplifier is mandatory.
If you want to achieve the best possible sonic result, select a position on a shelf or on a piece
of furniture where the Preamplifier is isolated from vibrations of mechanical components,
including the CD transport itself.
You must also be careful to locate your Mimesis 30 in a very well ventilated location. When
powered on, the Mimesis 30, as all high quality electronic equipment, generates a significant
amount of heat, which has to be evacuated by natural ventilation.
For the same reason, it is perfectly normal that, after few hours of operation, your Mimesis
30gets quite hot.
1.3

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SETTING UP THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
POWER SUPPLY
The Goldmund Mimesis 30 uses multiple power supplies developed by Goldmund to
provide totally separate voltage to each part of the digital and analog circuitry.
Your power supply has been set to operate with the mains voltage of your area. Check on
the power supply voltage switch if there is any doubt. If you move after purchasing the
preamplifier to an area using a different AC mains voltage, you can change the voltage
yourself or consult your local Goldmund dealer for assistance.
The power supply unit tolerates both 50 & 60 Hz mains.
FIRST INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS
POWER CONNECTION
Plug the ACpower cord to the power supply and into a wall socket.
The Preamplifier is and remains on power as soon as the power switch located on the back
panel is turned on. For best sonic results, Goldmund recommends to leave the unit powered
on permanently.
The unit has a standby position that can be activated by pressing the front panel key marked
“CTRL” first, then without releasing it, the “MUTE” key. A repetition of the same operation
brings the unit back to normal functioning.
When the machine is in standby mode the front panel Led controls are off except the red
STBY Led, but the circuitry remains connected as long as the power supply switch is not
turned off.
When turned ON by the back panel power switch, the unit performs a self test run via its
internal software, then a software routine successively test the modules inside the machine.
If any abnormal functioning is detected, it is displayed on the front panel.
1.4
1.5

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SETTING UP THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
FIRST INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS
COMPUTER CONFIGURATOR
The Mimesis 30 is so versatile that the configurations in which it can be used are limitless.
In order to set the unit to work in your own configuration, a Windows configurator is
available on our web site. The installer or dealer who is setting up the machine must
download this program in any Windows compatible machine and run it to describe the
environment in which the machine will be used. A serial cable (null-modem type) linking the
computer with the Mimesis 30will be used to download the resulting configuration into the
Mimesis 30. The Configuration software is provided with a small "Readme" file which
explains its functions.
SOURCES CONNECTION
Connect the analog sources or tape machines to the back panel analog inputs and the digital
sources to the digital inputs of the Goldmund Mimesis 30, using the RCA input connectors
for analog sources and the choice of RCA for SPDIF, XLR for AES-EBU or optical for the digital
sources.
The inputs are numbered on the back panel. The digital tape output is separated.
The first analog inputs (ANA IN1) are switchable for 2-channel or 6-channel input to connect
SACD players or DVD Audio players.
Connect your favorite 2-channel analog sources to ANA IN2 and ANA IN3 (corresponds to
key 5,6,7 on the front panel).
If you use analog tape machines, their analog output can be connected to any of the
available inputs. The Computer configurator of the Mimesis 30will allow you to dedicate any
input to a tape machine and automatically avoid the input-output loop accordingly.
Digital inputs are numbered from DIG IN 1 to DIG IN 4 (corresponds to keys 1 to 4 on front
panel). Digital tape machines may be connected to one or more specific output zones as
defined in the Computer Configurator.
The DIG IN 1, DIG IN 2 and DIG IN 3 digital inputs offer two different connector standards.
Only one must be used per input, but both work equally well.
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2.1
OPERATING THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
FRONT PANEL KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS
STANDBY FUNCTION
The Standby state can be activated by pressing the front panel key marked “CTRL” first, then
without releasing it, the “MUTE” key. A repetition of the same operation brings back the unit
to normal functioning.
When the machine is in standby the front panel Led controls are off except the red “STBY”
Led, but the circuitry remains connected as long as the power supply switch is not turned
off. In Standby, all local zone outputs are muted.
INPUT SOURCE SELECTION FOR THE LOCAL ZONE
The back panel inputs are selected by pressing the front panel keys from 1 to 7. The first left
4keys are for digital inputs, the 3 right keys for analog inputs.
When a digital input has been selected, the corresponding key will light in flashing green
until the digital source has locked to the source frequency.
INPUT SOURCE SELECTION FOR OTHER ZONES
The zone selection is made by pressing the "Mode" key until the Zone Led glows, then by
turning the left knob. The selected zone appears on the 2 digits of the display.
Browse the existing zones (Zone creation is made in the configurator program during the
initial machine installation).
When you have reached the zone you want to change the input for,select it by pressing the
"MODE" key and then select the input using the 7 channel keys, as for the local zone.
The back panel inputs are selected by pressing the front panel input keys.
To deselect the input playing in the zone selected, press the "MUTE" key.
When a digital input has been selected, the corresponding key will light in flashing green
until the digital source has locked to the source frequency.
In Zone selection Mode, the zone number display may show a "-" which means it is currently
using the decoder.

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RECORDING SOURCE SELECTION
Any source can be selected to be recorded independent of the source which is played (it can
be the same or a different one).
To select the source that will be recorded, first press the "MODE" key until all the red Leds
on the input keys are flashing. Then press the input key corresponding to the source you
want to record. The record signal is available from the "Tape Out" jack on the rear panel.
DIRECT OUTPUT SOURCE SELECTION
One of the sources may be sent directly to the direct out jack without attenuation. To select
the input press the "MODE" key until the "DIRECT" Led shows on the front panel. Then press
one of the input keys to select the input for that mode. Press the "MODE" key again to
register it.
OUTPUT VOLUMEADJUSTMENT
The level control may be adjusted manually or by remote control. It acts only on the Local
zone and for all channels simultaneously if the unit is playing a multi-channel source.
BALANCE ADJUSTMENTS
Toadjust the various speaker balances in multi-channel or stereo, press the "BALANCE" or
"ENTER" key and turn the left knob to select which balance to adjust. In stereo only the Right-
Left balance can be adjusted, so the left button has no action.
Adjust the selected balance using the right knob.
To deselect the Balance Mode, press again the "BALANCE or "ENTER" key.
MUTING
Tomute the preamplifier output, press the "MUTE" key. The same operation repeated brings
back the preamplifier to normal operation.
2.1
OPERATING THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
FRONT PANEL KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS
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2.1
OPERATING THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
FRONT PANEL KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS
MODE SELECTION
Depending on the capabilities of the source you have selected to listen in the local Zone,
several modes may be accessible. A stereo source supports different playback modes than a
DVD, for example.
THE LED DISPLAY SHOWS YOU 3 DIFFERENT KIND OF INFORMATION
- the coding existing on the present source (DTS, Dolby, AAC)
- the number of input source channels
- the G2, G6 or G8 output formats which are preconfigured in the Computer configurator
for your room speakers.
The left knob allows you to browse directly the possible modes available for the source you
have selected.
When you reach the mode you want to select, press the “MODE” key to select it. The
playback will be changed accordingly.
THE SETUP MENU FUNCTIONS
Your Mimesis 30 may be personalized thanks to the Menu Functions.
Your personal choice for each Menu Function is kept in machine memory even if the
machine is disconnected from power.

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2.1
OPERATING THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
FRONT PANEL KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS
TOENTER THE MENU FUNCTION SELECTION
Press “CTRL” and, without releasing it, press the “MODE” key. You are entering the Menu
mode.
Press the “REC/MENU” key until you reach the Menu Function you want to modify.
The existing Menu Functions (in the software release 1) are the following:
•Display Time:To select the display temporary or permanent, use the temporary
time adjustment. Select one of the 5 second internal times (05(s) - 30(s)) for temporary
display. 00 indicates a permanent display.
TOLEAVE THE MENU FUNCTION SELECTION
• To leave the Menu function, press the "MODE" key.
•If you leave the controller unattended for 10seconds, it will also automatically return to
normal operation.

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2.2
OPERATING THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER
REMOTE-CONTROL
Your Mimesis 30 has built-in remote-control for volume, balance and input selection.
The Mute circuit can also be controlled using the remote. To mute or de-mute the Mimesis
30 with the remote, press the "MUTE/STBY" key briefly.
To put the Mimesis 30 in Standby mode, press the "MUTE/STBY" key continuously until the
Mimesis 30 goes to Standby, indicated by the Standby Led on the front panel.
The remote control is used for controlling only the local zone.
The SCREEN and LIGHT keys will be used in future applications.
The VOL+ and VOL- are adjusting the global volume of the local zone.
The 4 balance keys (diamond configuration) are controlling the right/left and front/rear
balance directly, maintaining a constant global volume.
The 1 to 7 keys are selecting the source to listen.
MODE key: selection of a mode for adjustment of the format and menu functions.
CALIB key: Lights the leds selecting the remote red-inscribed functions, to adjust the level of
center and Subwoofer channels when in multi-channel operation. To deactivate, press the
CALIB key again.
TEST: activates the pink noise.
In the Test mode:
• Use the balance RIGHT and LEFT keys of the "diamond" to select one channel at a time.
The balance front and rear keys are used for adjusting the selected speaker level.
• The IN4 key makes all speakers play the pink noise together.
• The IN1 key returns the pink noise only to the selected speaker.
• The IN3 key stops the pink noise from all speakers.
• The IN2 key is a toggle switch for the pink noise on the selected speaker.
The corresponding keys of the Mimesis 30 front panel provide the same functions.

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2.2
OPERATING THE MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIE
REMOTE-CONTROL
In the TESTmode, Leds of the front panel indicate the speaker selection:
In Multi-channel mode, this is the meaning of the Leds:
•MODE and BALANCE (ENTER) on: indicates a Front selection
•CTRL and MUTE on: indicates a Rear selection
•IN2 on: means a left speaker (either front or rear)
•IN6 on: means a right speaker (either front or rear)
•IN4 on: Front or Rear Center
•IN3+IN4+IN5+MODE+BALANCE(ENTER)+CTRL+MUTE: Subwoofer
In 2-Channel mode:
•IN2 led on: Left channel
• IN6 led on:Right channel
The Mimesis 30 can be controlled by any RC5 coded remote-control emitter. The codes are
available upon request.
Most of the programmable transmitter units available have the capabilities to drive the
Mimesis 30as a standard digital preamplifier,for all the specified functions.
CLEANING
Always disconnect the power cord from the wall socket before cleaning your Preamplifier.
To clean the external metal of the Preamplifier, always use a clean, soft, damp cloth. Dampen
with water or a mild detergent solution. Avoid abrasive or harsh cleansers (eg. products
containing sodium carbonate).
The identification plates are gold plated. Simply clean them with a soft cloth, without any
chemical solution.

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TECHNICAL DATA
INPUTS AND TAPE CONFIGURATION
• 1 analog 6-channel / 2-channel input.
• 2 analog 2-channel inputs.
• 4 digital inputs (1 x RCA / ATT optical, 1 x RCA / XLR, 1 x RCA / Toslink optical, 1 x RCA).
Any one can be selected to receive multi-channel encoded signal by the software
configurator.
• 1 analog tape loop with tape inputs using any input channel. Separate recording loop
allowing a source selection for listening independently from the source recorded.
DIGITAL OUTPUTS
•8Digital RCA SPDIF outputs with 2 channels for each.
• Front panel and remote-control adjustable level control with more than 102 dB range and
0.2dB accuracy in the 0->-50dB range.
REMOTE CONTROL
•RC5 Standard remote system compatible with standard programmable remote control
transmitter (codes available on request).
• Volume and balance control.
• Selection of the source.
• Remote Muting and Standby.
• Calibration and test tone.
• Individual Led input display controls.
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS
• 11 keys for all machine functions including the menu controls.
•Individual Led input display controls.
• Direct Led format, balance and function display.
•2characters numeric display.

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TECHNICAL DATA
POWER SUPPLY
• 3 separate transformers.
• 6 separately regulated power supplies.
• Nominal AC line voltage: 117 V or 234 V.
• Input voltage range: +/- 15%.
• Maximum power consumption: 55 W.
SIZE AND WEIGHT
• 44 cm W x 38 cm D x 9 cm H.
• 12 kg.
WARRANTY
• 3 years parts and labor.

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GOLDMUND MIMESIS 30 UNIVERSAL PREAMPLIFIER Back Panel
SCHEMA