icon Audio Stereo 30se Guide

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icon Audio
Instruction Manual and User Guide:
Stereo 30se KT150
Pictured with upgraded David Shaw 6SN7 and Full Music 6SN7
Contents
1 Introduction & Final Inspection
2 Quick Set Up Guide
3 Connecting inputs & outputs
4 Getting the best out of your amplifier
5 Trouble Shooting
6 Bias Checking & Valve Replacement
7 Specifications
8 Packing and Shipping
1 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Stereo 30se. This
unique design by David Shaw is the result of a
lifetime working with audio amplification. A great deal
of care has been taken in the design, selection of
components and production of this amplifier. With a
little care and attention the ST30se should give a
lifetime of pleasure.
The Stereo 30se is an integrated valve amplifier
capable of running in either pure triode mode (18w)
or Ultralinear mode (28w) which will give higher
power. Because the amplifier operates in CLASS A
the ST30 draws constant power at all times giving a
very smooth and warm sound.
The pre-amp is a high quality ‘Passive’ circuit using
silver audio cable and an ALPS volume control with
remote control. The ST30se is sensitive enough to be
used with virtually any modern source. A pre
amplifier may be used if desired using the “low
sensitivity” mode.
The circuit design is our own using only two stages
employing the venerable 6SN7 to giving an excellent
combination of the best of vintage valve sound, yet
accurate and dynamic to suit modern speakers and
recordings.
In order to get the best out of your amplifier,
please read the enclosed notes. Even if you are
experienced with valve amps please read the
‘quick set up guide’. Should you be uncertain
about using your amplifier please contact us for
advice.
Valve (or Tube) amplifiers do the same job as a
solid state amplifier, but they do it differently. And
whilst solid state specifications look good on
paper even quite modest valve amplifiers can
have a richer, more textured sound. Our “old
school” method of point to point wiring hand wiring
without using printed circuit boards significantly
adds to the sound quality. Your ears may have
become accustomed to your old amplifier, so it
may take some hours before your ears attune
themselves to the new sound.
Your source, loudspeakers and room acoustics
will also affect the sound before it finally reaches
your ear. Some people find a small adjustment in
re positioning their speakers can help too. The
weakest link will always affect the listening quality.
When making judgements use a good well
balanced recording. Remember that a new
amplifier will take a few months to fully “burn in”.
IMPORTANT!
THIS MANUAL CONTAINS
ESSENTIAL HEALTH & SAFETY
INFORMATION FOR YOU AND
YOUR AMPLIFIER. PLEASE
READ & KEEP SAFE AND
REFER TO IF NECESSARY

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2 Final Inspection - Your Guarantee of Quality
To assure you of optimum performance and reliability, this amplifier has passed our rigorous
final inspection and listening test by the Icon Audio team in Leicester. During which the final set
up and adjustments were made.
Date …./…./….
Model ……….
Amp Serial Number ……….
Customer ……………………………
Check amplifier finish ……….
Check valve cover ……….
Internal wiring check ……….
Check Triode mode ……….
Run min 12 hour test ……….
Check inputs & tape monitor ……….
Output Valve Bias level ……mv
Sound Quality ……….
Channel Balance ……….
Valve Microphony ……….
Valve Seating ……….
Hum level left/right ...../…..mv
RF Test ……….
LED brightness ……….
Serial No sticker and recorded ……….
Mains voltage 117 / 230-240V
IEC Mains Fuse T
UK Plug Mains Fuse …….5A
Remote Control Function ……….
Sales invoice ……….
Bottom label ……….
IEC power cable type .………
Customer survey form .………
Packed for shipping/collection
Upgrades:
Capacitor type ……………….
Output valves ……....……….
1st Stage valves ……………….
2nd Stage valves ……………….
Other
……………………………………………….
……………………………………………….
……………………………………………….
……………………………………………….
……………………………………………….
Signed off by ……………………….
Notes:

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IMPORTANT YOU MUST READ THIS FIRST!
2 QUICK SET UP GUIDE
Box contents:
Amplifier, remote control, mains lead, manual.
1 Unpack unit carefully and check that it is in good
condition. Transit damage must be reported to Icon
Audio within 3 days. It is important that you keep
packaging for warranty/service return.
2 If Necessary fit the valves, or check that they
are in the correct position, firmly in place. The
valves and sockets are numbered. The large KT150
valves need fitting in sockets V1 and V2. Continue
fitting the 3 other valves in V3, V4, V5 (3x 6SN7)
6SN7=CV181/6N8. YOU MUST OBSERVE THE
CENTRAL “SPIGOT” WHEN INSERTING THE
VALVES. Inserting the valves incorrectly will damage
both valves and amplifier and will not be covered by
the warranty.
Do not push or pull the valves excessively by the
glass envelope, this could cause the glass envelope
to become detached from the base, damaging the
valve. Take care to observe the alignment of the
centre spigot when inserting all valves.
3 Connect to source units, e.g. CD, Tuner, Tape,
Phono pre amp (if used) etc via appropriate phono
sockets.
4 Connect to speakers Modern speaker impedance
can fall as low as 3 Ohms and rise as high as 20
Ohms, so the “nominal” figure quoted by
manufacturers has little practical meaning, therefore
you may wish to try both, most people prefer the
results at 8 Ohms, but the type of speaker and room
acoustics can also have a big affect, so choose by
personal preference.
If ‘bi-wiring’ both ‘common’ should go to the black
terminal, and both ‘positive’ (or red) should go to
either 4 or 8 ohm terminals. (A second banana plug
may be fitted vertically in the hole of the socket
stem).
5 Connect to mains supply using supplied IEC
mains lead to your wall supply. If for some reason
the welded plug must be removed, please remove
fuse and dispose of immediately. (As they can be
a danger to children if plugged in). The replacement
plug should be wired in the following way Brown to
Live terminal, Blue to Neutral terminal and
Green/Yellow to Earth.
6 Before switching on make sure that the
“standby switch” is in the “up” position.
SWITCH ON! The meter should light up. Leave for at
least 60 seconds for the valves to warm up, and then
push the “standby” switch into the “down” position.
The amplifier should now be working. All valves
should have a visible orange glow from the cathode
heaters. With the volume control set to minimum
(fully anti-clockwise) there should be no sound
coming from the speakers except a barely discernible
gentle hum. If there are any unpleasant sounds
coming from the speakers, switch off and refer to the
‘Trouble Shooting’ section or contact Icon Audio.
Check the BIAS of the KT150s by switching the Bias
switch “up” and then “down”.
If you do not intend to use the amplifier for a for a few
hours you can switch into “standby”, it will then use
minimal power and be ready for use “instantly”. In
standby you may hear low distorted sound from the
speakers this is normal, reduce the volume during
this time.
7 Your amplifier should now be working. If not
check wiring again and/Use selector/tape
monitor/volume to choose source program and
suitable listening volume. Do not operate at a high
volume for the first five minutes to allow the valves to
warm up properly.
8, Remote Control. You may need to remove plastic
tape (if any) to activate. If the batteries are OK (2x
AAA) the LED should light when any of the keys are
pressed. A little skill is needed in pointing and
pressing, as the unit has a motorised “pot” which may
not be as responsive as your TV is.
Please note all these things are normal for valve
amplifiers:
A, Valves can get very hot, BEWARE!
B, The transformer cover will get quite warm
C, The amplifier may smell slightly for a few weeks.
D, Mobile phone ‘breakthrough’ is normal.
E, Valves may make a ‘tinkling’ sound when warming
up and cooling down.
F, The volume control may sometimes appear to
sound ‘Scratchy’, this is not a fault!
G, Valves occasionally “Pop” or “Crackle” when new.
If this is regular problem it could be your CH
boiler/cooker/fridge etc. (see trouble shooting).
8 Health and Safety. The valves when operating
have high surface temperatures. Keep out of reach of
children and pets. The use of the supplied guard is
recommended in these circumstances. Always
unplug when making adjustments. Like all
amplifiers there are potentially lethal high
voltages inside (over 400v DC), which when
switched off can take twenty minutes to
discharge! Do not remove bottom panel unless you
are a competent engineer. There are no user
serviceable parts inside. Like other household
electrical appliances do not leave unattended
whilst switched on. Do not adjust the output valve
grid bias pre sets without reference to the manual.
Incorrect adjustment could cause the valves to
overheat, with resulting in damage to valves and
amplifier.
To maintain the best performance of the amplifier
you should check the bias of the output valves
from time to time (say twice a year). Full details
will be found in section 7.

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3 Connecting inputs & outputs
Most problems associated with electronic equipment
involve connecting leads, which are usually either
‘BAD CONNECTION’ or a ‘WRONG
CONNECTION’. So it’s worth making sure that you
have good connections and that your leads are the
right way round.
Inputs
The amplifier will work with any standard piece of hi fi
e.g. CD, Tuner, Tape Deck, Mini Disc, TV, Video
Recorder, DVD etc having an output of 250mv or
more, to get full power.
If you wish to use a turntable you will need a phono
pre-amp. Icon Audio make several pure valve models
ideal for the ST30se. See our website or your dealer
can advise you.
“H” & “L” sensitivity/Power Amplifier mode.
Located on the rear of the amplifier the High and Low
sensitivity switch has two functions. “H” gives higher
sensitivity with lower “feedback”. “L” gives lower gain
with higher feedback. Either setting may be used
depending upon personal preferences. We suggest
trying the “High” setting initially, this will give you
good volume levels even with low output devices
such as an iPhone the low feedback is suited to older
speaker designs.
The “Low” setting may be used if you find you find
the volume control is “too steep”, or if you want to
use a line pre-amplifier. Also the higher feedback
may better suit more modern design of speakers.
Switching may be done during operation The tape
input will provide the most direct signal path.
Feedback. The sensitivity switch does not attenuate
the signal, but alters the gain by adjusting the
feedback within the amplifier. In “H” the feedback is
low, in “L” position the moderate.
Connecting a tape deck/Recorder/Equaliser
The STEREO 30se will work with any tape deck
having suitable output, and it is possible to record
from any connected source using the terminals
marked ‘Pre-out’. The STEREO 30se has a ‘Tape
Monitor’ facility, which enables you to use a ‘three
head deck’ or an equalizer.
Some tape decks ‘Present a load’ to the amplifier
terminals, even when not in use, which can affect
sound quality. (You can do an audible check for this
by removing the plugs and listening for a change).
Therefore for best results do not leave anything
connected to “Rec out” unnecessarily.
Connecting loudspeakers
It is important to use good quality loudspeaker cable.
This should be relatively thick and multi-stranded. i.e.
QED ‘Original’ or better. Take care to connect the
correct polarity. The use of ‘Banana plugs’ or ‘spade’
connections will ensure a good connection whilst
minimising the risk of ‘shorts’.
In our experience valve amplifiers are more tolerant
of cables, therefore the benefits of very ‘exotic’
cables may be wasted! But this is personal taste.
Icon or your dealer will advise you.
As all cables have losses, keeping the speaker
cables short is best. It may be better and be cheaper
to re-arrange your room and use shorter cables than
to spend a fortune on longer cables!
You can either ‘hard wire’ your cable to the amplifier
by baring enough cable to fit in the connector and
twist together to avoid any spare strands touching
anywhere else (soldering the stands together helps).
The ST30se amplifier does not have an output
protection device, which would degrade the
sound. So a prolonged short due to strands of
wire touching could damage the valves.
Alternatively use good quality ‘banana’ plugs, once
fitted they are trouble free.
Speaker polarity. It is essential that you observe
the polarity of the terminals; they must be the
same for the left/right connections at the
amplifier end and at the loudspeaker end.
Otherwise the sound will be ‘out of phase’ with the
sound stage ‘inside out’ with reduced bass. If you
are unable to check this or confirm the polarity
(e.g. if you have ‘built in’ wiring), try the following;
Connect the system up and play some music with
plenty of bass (e.g. dance music), preferably in mono
(FM tuners are usually switchable to mono) and
stand the speakers close together. If correct you
should hear plenty of bass, if not reverse the
terminals for one channel only, either at the amp
or speaker. You will now hear more, or less bass.
The higher bass output is the correct setting to use.
Another alternative is to use a test disc. If you are ‘bi-
wiring’ your speakers only two terminals, you must
use only 4 or 8 ohms, not both, as this will not load
the amplifier properly.
The STEREO 30se is designed to work with full
range, medium to high efficiency having impedance
of 4 ohms to 8 ohms. Speakers having efficiency of
lower than 86db will have greater difficulty in
providing a high sound level. But this will also depend
upon individual speakers, room size, type of music
and positioning etc.
Speaker impedance. It is important to use the
correct speaker impedance terminals, as this will give
the best sound quality and power matching. If using
15-ohm speakers use the 8-ohm connections. If you
are unsure or “6 ohms” or “4 to 8 ohms” is quoted; a
rule of thumb guide is to try both positions. The
loudest being the best match.
Although your personal taste should be the final
deciding factor.
Do not connect to more than one pair of terminals for
each channel. If two pairs of speakers are required to
be connected, they must both be 8-ohm and
connected 4 ohm terminals. Contact Icon Audio for
more information. Damage could be occur if care is
not taken.

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4 How to get the best out of your amplifier
•Do not leave the amplifier switched on all the time. This is not necessary. Use “Standby” if not required
•Do not switch off and on without a short rest of 60 seconds
•Do not adjust the output valve grid bias unless you know how, see section 6 below
•Do not switch from Ultralinear to Triode without switching to Standby or switching off
•Do not operate the amplifier without loudspeakers connected
•Do not use valves other than listed as there could be danger of shock or damage to the amplifier
•Do check the bias regularly at least once a month for best performance.
•Make sure the speakers are in phase.
•Use the best possible source material.
•Using larger, more efficient well-designed speakers will give a huge benefit in overall sound.
What is safe maximum volume?
If you can hear distortion when operating at high
sound levels ensure that you use “UL” mode for
higher power. If you cannot get a high level this
means your speakers “dB efficiency” is too low.
With a pure “sine” wave full power, both channels =
100% on the meter scale in Ultralinear, Triode is
lower at 70%, however because music is intermittent
with high transients the maximum volume will
normally read around 2/3 of this.
Triode Switch. This switch causes the KT150s to
operate as Triode valves. Please remember to put
the amplifier into “Standby” first as switching will
stress the output transformers. The majority of
listeners prefer the “triode” sound believing it to be
more pleasant to listen to, the maximum power
available is 18w. The volume in triode mode is almost
the same. But if you hear distortion at higher volumes
you need more power, in which case switch to
ULTRALINEAR.
Leaving the amplifier switched on
Do not leave the amplifier switched on 24/7. Your
valves will be worn out in approximately nine months!
Whilst the amplifier will sound at its best when it is
properly warmed up, there is no advantage leaving it
switched on when it is not in use. Never leave the
amplifier switched on when unattended. Always
switch off when not in use.
Standby Switch. This switch has 3 functions. One to
allow the amplifier to warm up before applying power
to the KT150 output valves.
Two, when switching between Ultralinear to Triode
(and back again) use the “Standby” function to
prevent damage to the output transformers by high
voltages “spikes”.
Three, power saving. If the amplifier is temporarily
not required about 75% of normal power will be
saved. This enables the valves to be fully warmed
and ready to use the instant you put the standby
switch down.
‘Burning in’
Although the amp should sound good within
about 10 mins it can take up to an 20 mins to
sound at its best and will take several months of
regular use before it is fully ‘run in’.
Upgrading Valves!
Good quality new valves sound better, have good
performance and reliability. The upgraded valves
supplied with selected models are the result of
careful comparison with other makes. But beware of
paying excessive amounts for “New Old Stock”,
second hand or “Fake”, valves. At this time we
recommend Tung Sol, our Russian and US NOS,
Shuguang, Treasure, Full Music, JJ.
Cabinet Care
To remove dust we suggest gentle brushing of the
painted steel cabinet and alloy plate with a soft
paintbrush. Other marks can usually be removed with
a damp cloth. The Perspex valve cover may need a
gentle wipe with damp cloth with a gentle detergent
to remove finger marks etc, and dry with a duster. On
no account use anything wet on the amplifier, and
always clean with the power disconnected.
5 Trouble Shooting
1. Amplifier Dead
Check the 3 amp (5 amp USA) mains fuse at the back of
the amplifier. To gain access, remove the mains lead.
The fuse is in a small plastic drawer, which forms part of
the socket assembly. To open insert a flat bade
screwdriver or similar and prise open. The fuse in use
is the innermost the outer is a spare. Should the
replacement fuse also blow there is a fault.
Replacements should be 3 (or 5 amp USA) amp ‘anti-
surge’. Available from Icon Audio free in the UK (outside
the UK you must pay postage).
The fuse in the power cord plug (if any) should be a 5
amp fuse, although unlikely, this should be checked if
the amplifier fuse is OK.
2. No sound
Have you selected the right input? Are the connections
OK? Is everything switched on? Are the speakers
connected? Is the amp in “standby”?
If you think you have tried everything and the meter
light is working and the heaters are glowing the two
internal fuses may have blown. They are located
inside the amplifier and should be replaced by a
competent engineer. Replacements free on request
from Icon Audio. Contact us or your dealer for further
guidance.
Remote control not working
This is usually due to either: Batteries worn out or
corroded terminals. Try replacing or cleaning the
terminals. Make sure the blue LED is working.
Maximum distance is 4-5m. if still not working it could
be the sensor, control board or motor drive, in which
case return to Icon or dealer for service.

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Distorted sound.
One channel or both? Try another source; if sound
improves then it’s probably something wrong with the
first source. If no improvement try different speakers, if
no improvement could be an amplifier problem. If one
channel try swapping the input cables over if the
distortion does not move could be an amplifier fault. If so
double check by swapping the speaker cables over If
fault moves to the other speaker this will confirm an
amplifier fault. It fault does not move this would indicate
a speaker problem.
Hum Problems
If you experience hum, try disconnecting all inputs, if
hum persists this is probably an amplifier fault.
If not, identify which input is causing hum. Connect one
input at a time. A common cause is a ‘hum loop’ caused
by having too many earths, and may be identified by
unplugging each input source from the mains. One
remedy for this is to use an interconnect which only has
the screen connected at one end. Other causes of low-
level hum can be from adjacent equipment, so
experiment with moving equipment around to see if this
makes the hum better or worse.
Interference Problems
The amplifier design incorporates features and devices
which make it resistant to mains-born interference. But
some heating systems/fridges/cookers etc. can generate
RF (radio frequency) interference which travels through
the air (and walls). Although rare this can be very
irritating. Relocating the equipment will often help. Or a
simple suppressor capacitor is often all that is needed to
effect a permanent cure (ask us).
One channel missing.
Usually ‘bad’ connection on either the input or the
speakers. Try swapping the connection over to establish
if the cause is:
(a) Input to the amp. Sound will move to the other
channel.
(b) Amplifier or speakers. Sound will not move.
(c) Consider checking internal fuses (see section
5.2).
Strange noises coming from speakers:
Turn volume to minimum on unused input, if problem
corrected either fault with source unit or with connection.
If noise persists, problem with amplifier.
If a whole output valve glows red (other than the heater),
often accompanied by a hum through the speakers,
switch off immediately, and refer to Icon Audio or a
service engineer, as this could be valve failure.
A valve that is lit up is not a guarantee that it is working
properly; conversely a valve that is not lit up will not be
working (usually cold to the touch).
Valve Life and Replacement
Valve life will depend upon such things as hours of use
and number of on/off cycles, Do not switch on and off
unnecessarily (see Standby). Also it is not good practice
to remove the valves unnecessarily as this can strain the
pins and cause tiny air leaks.
The KT150 valves are operating in “CLASS A” mode
they are using high current all of the time. Therefore we
would suggest for high use of more than 6 hours per day
replace every year.
Service: Should you suspect a problem, you could
return the unit to Icon Audio for a periodic service or
return the valves for testing free of charge. Carefully
remove the valves, hold by the base when removing,
to prevent damage Number them with a marker or
tape, so they may be replaced in the same position.
They should be well packed in cardboard & foam or
similar, and returned to Icon Audio for testing.
(Valves are very rugged if packed properly).
Mains Supply
This amplifier is hard wired to work on 230/240v AC
(or 117v US). The transformer may easily be re-
configured for 110/120v ac. Contact for more
information.
6. KT150 Bias Check & Adjustment
If you are unsure about any aspect of bias
contact your retailer, Icon Audio or a competent
service engineer.
The Stereo 30se uses the ‘Fixed bias’ method of
valve operation. This has the advantage of higher
power, lower feedback and cooler running.
However you should regularly check the bias
reading using the built in meter to ensure best
performance from the amplifier. This is very easy
using the built in meter, V1 Left, V2 Right.
1, Tools you will need:
A small flat blade screwdriver.
2, How to read the meter.
(If changing valves see next section below)
If possible warm up the amplifier for 10 minutes
(unless you suspect a fault), with Standby “off”, in
Ultralinear mode, volume at “zero”. Move the “bias”
switch to V1, This corresponds with the output valves
left and right (viewed from the front). Each valve
should have the black pointer in or near the black
section. (50-75).
About 5% percent difference on each KT150 will
make little difference in performance.
Adjust if necessary, repeat for V2.
A high reading (80+) needs adjustment, as this valve
is drawing too much current. Lower than 50 will
cause no harm but the performance will be reduced.
NOTE
3. The readings are affected by your local mains
voltage. So if they are both slightly high or low this is
probably OK, and check again later.
4. How to adjust the bias:
Make sure you are reading the valve to adjust, e.g.
read V1 to adjust V1 screw. If the reading is
incorrect, set this by using the screw very slowly up
or down until the correct reading is obtained. They
are very sensitive so adjust very carefully. If the
reading appears a little unstable this is normally due
to mains fluctuations.
You may need to repeat this a couple of times as the
adjustment of one valve may affect the other
readings. Allow 20 minutes to fully warm up.
5, If one or more valves are showing erratic readings
or you cannot set the correct voltage, then that valve
is probably faulty or out of specification. If you are
unable to set the reading high enough this means the
emission of the valve is too low.

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Replacing the KT150 Valves
Important: Do not attempt to change the KT150
without reading these notes. Failure to do so could
be both dangerous and damaging to the amplifier.
When replacing valves, we recommend that you use
a “matched pairs”, for best performance.
Use only KT150 valves. KT88, 6550, KT120 etc are not
suitable.
Health & safety; High voltages are present inside the
amplifier and on exposed valve sockets when valves
are removed, so take suitable care. It is not
necessary to remove the bottom cover. Beware
valves get hot in operation!
5, Changing valves: You should if possible check the
bias setting before you attempt to change the valve(s), in
order to familiarise yourself with the procedure.
Replace and bias one valve at a time. Remove the first
old valve and fit the replacement. Switch on and
measure and adjust the bias.
Do not allow the reading to go above 95. Don’t worry
how low the reading goes this will not cause damage.
Continue in the same way and fit both valves. Do final
adjustment when the amplifier is fully warmed up.
If all is well there should be no more than a barely
detectable hum from the speakers, and the amplifier
should sound OK when tested.
6, If you cannot set up the bias then the valve is probably
faulty. If the valves are brand new, you will need to
check again after approximately 10 & 100 hours, after
that only occasionally or if you suspect a problem.
7, To avoid damage to the amplifier and electric
shock hazard you must use only valves marked
KT150, 6SN7/6N8/CV181 Or that you know to be
direct equivalents. Use only valves which you know to
be new or good condition and test the amplifier
thoroughly before resuming normal use.
8, Replacing the small valves:
These are three 6SN7 valves. None of these requires
any set up procedure. It’s just ‘plug and play’, although
care should be taken when removing and inserting not to
break the centre spigot.
Icon Audio are happy to check your valves Free of
Charge if you send them to us in Leicester. We will also
gladly check you ST30se and re-bias free of charge for
personal callers.
The 3 fuses inside this amplifier are critical safety parts
They should only be replaced with the same type. These
are available without charge (in the UK) from Icon Audio.
Outside the UK postage will be charged.
7 Specification & Features
(Typical conditions @ 230v 50Hz)
•KT150 output valves
•3x 6SN7 double triodes driver stage
•Low or medium feedback used (L and H)
•Icon designed and manufactured Tertiary wound
output transformers
•Hand wired point to point components
•No printed circuit board
•Ceramic valve bases for low noise/leakage
•28w RMS Ultralinear @ 1.2% THD low gain
•28w RMS Ultralinear @ 2% THD high gain
•18w RMS Triode @ 0.6% THD low gain
•18w RMS Triode @ 1% THD high gain
•Signal to noise level -84dB ref 28w low gain UL
•Freq. response 30-20kHz +0-0.5db 8w UL low gain
•Freq. response 30-20kHz +0-0.5db 8w Triode low gain
•0.4% THD at 8 watts UL and Triode
•Channel balance typically less than 0.1 dB
•4 and 8 ohms output taps
•Choke regulated power supply
•Supplied with attractive valve cover
•Audiophile quality metal film resistors
•SCR Audiophile polypropylene audio caps
•Optional Jensen copper foil upgrade
•Japanese ALPS volume pot.
•Rubicon/Nichichron power caps.
•Internal wiring using PTFE silver plated cable
•Valves carefully matched for best performance
•Gold plated Input & speaker terminals
•Inputs for CD, Tape, Tuner, Aux, iPhone
•Record loop with monitor switch
•240mv sensitivity for full output “H” UL/Triode
•550mv sensitivity for full output “L” UL/Triode
•220-240volts 50 Hz for EU and UK countries
•117v 60Hz for USA Canada
•50 W Standby 180w Min, 220watts max
•IEC SKT 3.0A AS (5A USA) fuse (with spare)
•Internal HT fuse 250ma AS ceramic. (2x spares)
•380W, 230H, 345D mm Amp overall 21kg
•Carton= 52x44x36cm 28kg packed
•IEC mains lead
•Conforms to CE ROHS and WEEE where applicable
Specification subject to change without notice.
Technical Explanation:
*RMS watts Do not literally exist! But this figure is based upon the RMS
voltage output (V²/R).
*Class A Where the valve is configured to work at near maximum current
without “switching off” at all times even at zero volume. Although this uses
more power and the valves run hotter, shortening their life, this results in a
superior sound without harshness or obvious distortion and is often used in
conjunction with Single Ended Triode designs.
*Single Ended is where only one output (or power) valve is used. Although
relatively inefficient and of lower power than push-pull designs, these
designs offer a very smooth musical sound which many people consider
much easier to listen to than more powerful modern designs.
*Triode a simple valve with only 3 elements, this gives very linear
amplification. Many “pentode” (5 element) valves can also be wired to act as
triode valves.
*Ultralinear (or Distributed Load). This is a true “win-win” output stage
design. Giving 90% of the power of pure Pentode and 90% of the
characteristics of pure Triode valves. But some people (but not all) still
consider the sound slightly inferior to pure triode.

Page 8
Guarantee
(UK only) This amplifier is guaranteed by your
dealer for 12 months from the date of purchase
for parts and labour, excluding shipping. Valves
are consumables and therefore on a 12 months
pro-rata wear basis.
Other countries may vary, ask your re-seller.
Please keep your receipt as proof of purchase,
this may be needed.
In the event of any difficulty you are welcome to
contact us.
Exclusions
Claims for any damage to either amplifiers or valves
must be reported within three days of receipt.
This amplifier is designed for normal domestic hi fi
use. It is not guaranteed for commercial, Public
Address use, or use in other situations. The
guarantee becomes void if the unit has been
modified in any way not approved by Icon Audio.
Future service and spares
Your dealer should be able to provide any support
you need. Or you are welcome to contact for advice,
spares and repairs.
We expect our amplifiers to give a service life of
approximately 20 years, with regular maintenance.
During this time we will make every effort to supply
spare parts and repair them at an economical cost.
Supply is subject to availability from third party
suppliers which Icon Audio is not responsible for.
This does not cover unique parts including remote
control systems, meters and cosmetic parts.
If you believe the unit is not functioning correctly, it
may be helpful to contact us first as we may be able
to assist you. Then we would request that you return
the item to us for further action.
You are advised to inform us of any change of
address in order that we may keep you up to date of
any upgrades or improvements. Check our website.
Returning for service
Should your amplifier need service in the UK return it
to the address below with a description of the
problem.
Outside the UK contact your dealer/distributor. In
case of difficulty email us at the address below.
8 Packing Instructions
It is essential that the original box and packing be
kept in good condition, as this provides vital
protection during transit. Please do not write on
box, but use removable labels. If returning for
service do not send the cover, as this is easily
damaged. The valve cover is normally supplied in a
separate box with the valves. We recommend that
the cover be sent separately as rough handling
can damage both cover and amplifier.
•Re-use the supplied plastic bag to keep the
amp clean and free from damp.
•The mains lead and remote control fits in a
foam cut-out underneath the amplifier.
•Valves should be removed, numbered and
packed in “Bubblewrap” or similar for
protection inside the valve cover.
•If the amplifier is stored in the box, keep
upright and remove batteries from remote
control to prevent corrosion.
icon Audio (UK) Ltd
351 Aylestone Road Leicester LE2 8TA
Email: [email protected] www.iconaudio.com
Phone [phone] [phone]
Gen 15/01/2019