JEFF ROWLAND AERIS DAC User manual

AERIS DAC
Owner’s Manual
REVA5 2012
© Jeff Rowland Design Group 2012 !All Rights Reserved

TABLE OF CONTENTS
............................................................................Important Safety Instructions!3
...........................................................................................Protective Systems!3
.........................................................................................Rear Panel Symbols!4
............................................................Note from Jeff Rowland Design Group!5
...........................................................................................Technical Features!6
................................................................................................Initial Inspection!9
........................................................................................................Unpacking!9
................................................................................Rear Panel Connections!10
......................................................................................Front Panel Controls!11
...................................................................................External Power Supply!12
........................................................................Handheld Remote Transmitter!13
.....................................................Remote Transmitter Battery Replacement!14
.............................................................Using the Aeris DAC Volume Control!15
........................................................Digital Versus Analogue Volume Control!16
..............................................................Using Aeris DAC with a Preamplifier!16
...............................................Using the Aeris DAC Directly with an Amplifier!16
.............................................................................Audio Output Connections!17
.....................................................................Digital Audio Input Connections!18
.................................................................................................Specifications!19
............................................................................................Limited Warranty!20
...............................................................................Guide Use and Copyright!21
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
The AERIS DAC has been designed to operate at the highest level of efficiency and
performance in any normal operating situation; however, there are a few important use
and care principles that must be kept in mind when operating the AERIS DAC:
!Do not expose the AERIS DAC to rain, moisture, or excessively damp conditions.
!Due to auto-ranging circuitry and dual-stage voltage regulation, the audio
performance will not be affected by any voltage fluctuations within the operating
voltage range. The AERIS DAC can be operated at any mains voltage over the
range of 85 to 265 VAC without any adjustments necessary.
!The AERIS DAC must not be modified in any way, other than according to official
service bulletins from Jeff Rowland Design Group. Otherwise, the factory
warranty will be immediately voided.
!When operating the AERIS DAC, a properly grounded AC receptacle should be
used. A potential shock hazard may result if the supplied 3-wire, grounded AC
cable ground terminal is defeated or lifted or the unit is connected to a 2-wire
ungrounded AC outlet.
!Because of the energy efficiency of the AERIS DAC, there is no need to unplug
the unit when not in use; however, the AERIS DAC can be muted, if desired.
The AERIS DAC is designed to perform optimally with no adjustments or maintenance for
the lifetime of the product. Do not attempt to open the AERIS DAC and refer all service
issues to qualified personnel. The voltages inside the AERIS DAC can be hazardous.
PROTECTIVE SYSTEMS
The AERIS DAC is equipped with internal fuses for protection against excessive AC
current draw; however, since no protection circuitry or system can completely protect a
product from every electrical hazard, certain precautions should be observed. In the
event of severe voltage hazards such as lightning or when the preamplifier will not be
used for extended periods of time, the preamplifier should be unplugged from the AC
mains to avoid potential damage to the internal circuitry. All other audio/video system
components should also be disconnected from AC mains power as hazardous voltages
can easily travel throughout an interconnected system.
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REAR PANEL SYMBOLS
The crossed-out wheeled bin is the European Union symbol for
indicating separate collection for electrical and electronic equipment.
This product contains electrical and electronic equipment which should
be reused, recycled or recovered and should not be disposed of with
unsorted regular waste. Please return the unit or contact the authorized
dealer from whom you purchased this product for more information.
This product complies with European Low Voltage (2006/95/EC) and
Electromagnetic Compatibility (89/336/EEC) Directives when used and
installed according to this instruction manual. For continued compliance
servicing must be referred to qualified service personnel.
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NOTE FROM JEFF ROWLAND DESIGN GROUP
Welcome to the Jeff Rowland Design Group “family” and congratulations on your
purchase of what is unquestionably one of the world’s finest DACs. With its combination
of features such as precision electronic circuitry, exceptional efficiency, and accurately
machined chassis components throughout, your AERIS DAC will offer you many years of
musically satisfying enjoyment.
Please take a few minutes to read the remainder of this Owner’s Manual before
proceeding with the installation of the AERIS DAC. A thorough understanding of the
operational features will allow you to gain the maximum performance and ease of use for
which the AERIS DAC was designed.
Please note that your AERIS DAC and power supply serial numbers begin with the letters
“DS” and “F” respectively. Please include this number with any correspondence
regarding your AERIS DAC. It has been my joy to create an audio component of enduring
value that reflects the highest ideals of musical and artistic expression. It is my hope that
these qualities will enrich your experience and pride of ownership.
If you have any additional questions regarding the installation or operation of the AERIS
DAC, please contact your authorized Jeff Rowland Design Group dealer or check the
Jeff Rowland Design Group web site at http://jeffrowland.com.
Enjoy the music!
JEFF ROWLAND
President, Jeff Rowland Design Group
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TECHNICAL FEATURES
IsoSyncECS Isolated Synchronous Error Correction System. Based upon an
asynchronous buffer, voltage controlled crystal oscillators, and a
24 bit D/A converter – all under the precise control of an FPGA
(Field Programmable Gate Array) running proprietary algorithms.
BIT PERFECT AND
VIRTUALLY JITTER
FREE!
Bit perfect conversion with total jitter output noise of less than 10
picoseconds RMS from any input – USB, TOSLINK, and SPDIF.
MULTI-STAGE
ISOLATED POWER
SUPPLY
Main power supply is isolated inside an external machined
aluminum chassis. Eleven precision high-speed regulators
provide low impedance and low noise “point of load” DC current
to all analogue and digital circuits.
ISOLATED AUDIO AND
DIGITAL CIRCUITRY
Left and right channel audio output circuits, digital processing,
and D/A conversion circuits are isolated within individual milled
aluminum pockets resulting in exceptional EMI shielding, and
thermal stabilization.
VOLUME CONTROL Wide range level control of outputs permit direct connection to
power amplifiers.
DRIVER-FREE
OPERATION
The USB interface requires no additional drivers to install or
maintain/update.
CROSS-PLATFORM The USB interface is plug-n-play with all operating systems,
including PC, Mac, or Linux.
MACHINED ALUMINUM
CHASSIS
Precision-machined chassis milled from a solid block of aircraft
grade 6061-T6 aluminum, provides exceptional thermal stability,
RFI/EMI shielding, and resonance control.
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6-LAYER CIRCUIT
BOARDS
Multi-layer circuit boards provide extremely low impedance
ground and power distribution for remarkably low digital noise
contamination.
HIGH-PRECISION
SURFACE MOUNT
COMPONENTS
Extensive use of Lead (Pb)-free, low temperature coefficient,
active and passive surface-mount components results in
significantly smaller loop areas, reduced circuit capacitance and
inductance, and introduces less noise than conventional leaded
components.
TRANSFORMER
COUPLED OUTPUTS
Transformer balanced XLR line outputs provide outstanding
output common-mode noise rejection, eliminate potential ground
loops, and ensure compatibility with other equipment.
OUTPUT CONNECTORS Rhodium / Teflon Cardas output connectors for both balanced
and unbalanced outputs preserve maximum audio signal
integrity.
REMOTE CONTROL Allows remote control of volume, mute, standby, and input
selection.
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MAINTENANCE AND CARE
All Jeff Rowland Design Group products are designed to provide a lifetime of enjoyment
and listening pleasure.
Chassis is sealed to prevent dust from entering the interior of the chassis and thus
should never need interior cleaning during the lifetime of the product. All internal circuitry
is maintenance-free such that no adjustments of any kind are necessary over the lifetime
of the product. If the AERIS DAC is ever in need of service, updating, or upgrading, it
should only be returned to an authorized repair facility or technician for servicing.
The front panel of the unit is precision-machined in a unique process that incorporates a
diamond tipped cutting tool. This process was refined over many years to produce an
attractive and unique appearance. Because the surface is not finished in the typical
fashion of most audio and video equipment, there are a few rules that must be kept in
mind when cleaning the equipment.
!Please allow the front panel, which is coated with an automotive-grade
polyurethane finish, to cure for 6 months before attempting to clean it. This will
prevent small scratches from marring the surface before the surface coating has
had a chance to harden completely.
!The front panel of the unit should never be cleaned with anything other than a
very soft cotton cloth and plain water or fine oil-based furniture polish. Because
of the fine finish of the front panel, use of any other cleaning agent may
permanently scratch the finish.
The top cover, sides and bottom are protected by a durable black anodized finish and
can be cleaned with a soft cotton cloth (such as an optical lens or microfiber cleaning
cloth) dampened with plain water. Water should be applied directly to the cloth and not
the chassis. A very mild plastic or glass cleaner that does not contain ammonia may also
be used. If a mark has been left on the chassis, do not use any type of abrasive or
chemical cleaner to remove the mark.
If you have any questions about the care or cleaning of your Corus Preamplifier, please
contact your dealer or the Jeff Rowland Design Group factory before attempting to clean
the chassis. The use of a cleanser or abrasive to clean the chassis that has not been
approved by the factory will almost certainly damage the finish and will not be covered
under warranty.
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INITIAL INSPECTION
Inspect the shipping container for damage. If any portion of the shipping container,
packing material, amplifier, or accessories are damaged or missing, notify your dealer
and the shipper (if a claim is to be made) immediately.
NOTE: Many shippers require notification and inspection within 24 hours of delivery to
determine the nature of damages incurred.
Your AERIS DAC has undergone extensive performance evaluations, listening tests,
quality control inspections, and a minimum 72-hour burn-in period prior to shipment and
should therefore be in perfect operating condition upon delivery. If the unit does not
operate correctly, please notify your dealer immediately.
We strongly suggest that you save all of the packing materials. If the unit is returned to
your dealer or Jeff Rowland Design Group, the original packing materials must be used
for shipment to avoid possible damage. Neither Jeff Rowland Design Group nor the
shipper can be held responsible for damages incurred during transit if the original factory
packing is not used. All factory returns require that Jeff Rowland Design Group issue a
Return Authorization (RA) number prior to shipment.
UNPACKING
Carefully remove AERIS DAC and power supply from original packing box. Remove all
accessory items from the accessory box. Accessories include:
(1) Machined External Power Supply
(1) Detachable DC Power Cable
(1) Detachable IEC AC Power Cord
(1) Operational Manual
(1) Warranty Card
IMPORTANT: Retain all packing materials for future transport. Shipping product in
inadequate packing materials may violate the Jeff Rowland Design Group
Manufacturer’s Warranty.
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REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS
!BALANCED AUDIO
OUTPUTS
One (1) Pair XLR balanced line level outputs. For
best results, use these outputs to connect your
preamplifier or amplifier whenever possible.
"UNBALANCED AUDIO
OUTPUTS
One (1) Pair RCA unbalanced line level outputs. Use
these outputs if your preamplifier or amplifier does
not accept balanced inputs. These outputs can be
use to simultaneously feed a second amplifier.
#DIGITAL INPUT Two (2) BNC/S/PDIF – to obtain best results use a
high quality 75 ohm digital BNC interconnect cable.
$DIGITAL INPUT One (1) TOSLINK – to obtain best results use a high
quality fiber-optic interconnect cable designed
specifically for audio use.
%USB IN One (1) USB ‘Type B’ input allowing direct
connection to a PC via a Type B to Type A USB lead.
The AERIS DAC operates independently of your
PCs sound card.
&DC IN POWER INPUT
RECEPTACLE
One (1) DC Power supply cable is utilized to connect
the power supply to the AERIS DAC.
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FRONT PANEL CONTROLS
!INPUT Press to select between Toslink, USB, BNC1, and BNC2 inputs.
The corresponding LED will illuminate to show which input has
been selected.
"STANBY Switches unit between Standby Mode and ON. A corresponding
LED will dim slightly when Standby Mode is activated.
#SAMPLE
RATE
LED indicates digital sample rate of selected input, including
44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 76.4, and 192 kHz.
$SRC Illuminated LED indicates a non-standard sample rate has been
detected.
%LOCK Illuminated LED indicates a valid digital lock at the selected
digital audio input at the indicated sample rate.
&IR
RECEIVER
Receives IR transmission from the AERIS DAC handheld
remote transmitter.
'MUTE Pressing the mute button will mute all outputs and illuminate the
corresponding LED. Pressing the mute button again will activate
all outputs.
(VOLUME Adjusts the main input volume level. Pressing the left volume
control button (VOL-) will decrease the volume. Pressing the
right volume (VOL+) control button will increase the volume.
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EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY
!DC POWER
SUPPLY
One (1) 2 meter length DC Power supply cable is utilized to
connect the power supply to the AERIS DC POWER
SUPPLY.
"POWER SWITCH Toggles operation between ON and OFF. Please ensure
that all connections are made between AERIS DAC, power
supply, and AC Mains wall outlet before turning switch to
ON position.
#FUSE ACCESS Access for power supply fuse. Fuse type GDC 630ma SLO-
BLO.
$AC INLET Receptacle for detachable IEC AC power cord. 85-265
VAC.
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HANDHELD REMOTE TRANSMITTER
INPUTS 1 - 4
Selects main inputs in the following order: USB,
TOSLINK, BNC1, and BNC2.
MUTE
This button will immediately mute the outputs of
the AERIS DAC. Pressing the button a second time
will reactivate the outputs.
VOL UP / VOL DOWN
Adjusts the main input volume. Press the right
button to increase volume. Press the left button to
decrease volume.
STANDBY
Switches unit between Standby Mode and ON.
The corresponding LED on the AERIS DAC will dim
slightly when Standby Mode is activated.
ACTIVITY LED
Illuminates during IR transmission. A faint activity
light is an indication that the AA alkaline batteries
inside the handheld remote are depleted, and
need to be replaced.
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REMOTE TRANSMITTER BATTERY REPLACEMENT
The AERIS DAC handheld remote transmitter is powered by 2 standard alkaline AA
batteries. When the remote transmission range decreases or no longer operates, the
batteries need to be replaced.
!Using a standard flat blade screw driver, unfasten the holding screw located in
the bottom end of the transmitter unit.
!Remove the spring-loaded cover.
!Remove both AA batteries.
!Orient the remote transmitter with the keypad facing up, and with the battery
compartment towards you.
!Insert a fresh battery into the left barrel with negative pole (flat end) first.
!Insert a fresh battery into the right barrel with positive pole (button end) first.
!Install the spring-loaded cover.
!Gently refasten the holding screw. Do not over-tighten.
NOTE: When removing the old battery, wait at least 30 minutes before installing a new
battery to alloy the new internal circuitry to discharge completely and reset.
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USING THE AERIS DAC VOLUME CONTROL
The AERIS DAC is designed such that the volume control attenuates the signal up to 32
dB below the point of LED flashing. When the right LED starts flashing, the AERIS DAC
begins digital multiplication to increase the volume up to 20 dB above full scale. This
would be for direct drive applications where the user would like to "rock out" and not be
so concerned about potential clipping of the signal in the digital domain.
FLASHING LEFT LED
Indicates unit volume is less than -32 dB.
SOLID RIGHT LED/NO LEFT LED
Indicates maximum volume level with no potential
loss of resolution.
FLASHING RIGHT LED
Indicates digital multiplication to increase the
volume up to 20 dB above full scale. Can be used
for recordings with low digital signal levels.
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DIGITAL VERSUS ANALOGUE VOLUME CONTROL
The 32 dB of volume attenuation covers the full range of listening levels for critical
listening and does not effect the signal level in any way since the level attenuation is
adjusting the reference voltage of the digital to analog converter. Therefore the volume is
neither adjusted in the digital or analog domains. The AERIS DAC does not have a
separate analog volume control circuitry which would add circuit complexity and potential
signal loss.
USING AERIS DAC WITH A PREAMPLIFIER
The full scale volume level is is indicated by a solid LED above the right volume button
at maximum brightness yet not flashing. This would be the maximum level that could be
used when using with a preamplifier, otherwise the AERIS DAC could overload the
preamplifier. Adjust the AERIS DAC volume level such that the preamplifier volume
control is in its normal position at a normal listening level.
USING THE AERIS DAC DIRECTLY WITH AN AMPLIFIER
The AERIS DAC has a sufficient output level to drive any power amplifier directly. The
output driving capability of the AERIS DAC is sufficient to drive any type of amplifier
regardless of the length or type of interconnect cable with no signal loss or degradation.
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AUDIO OUTPUT CONNECTIONS
Note: Do not turn on the unit until all connections have been made.
!BALANCED
XLR
For best results, use one (1) pair balanced XLR line
outputs to connect your preamplifier or amplifier
whenever possible.
"UNBALANCED
RCA
Use these one (1) pair unbalanced RCA line outputs if
your preamplifier or amplifier does not accept
balanced inputs. These outputs can be use to
simultaneously feed a second amplifier.
NOTE: The output levels of each pair of outputs are equivalent. It is unnecessary to compensate
for a 6dB loss when using the RCA outputs.
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DIGITAL AUDIO INPUT CONNECTIONS
Note: Do not turn on the unit until all connections have been made.
!S/PDIF (BNC) Two (2) S/PDIF (BNC) – to obtain best results use a high
quality 75 ohm digital BNC interconnect cable.
"TOSLINK One (1) TOSLINK – to obtain best results use a high
quality fiber-optic interconnect cable designed specifically
for audio use.
#USB One (1) USB ‘Type B’ input allowing direct connection to a
PC via a Type B to Type A USB lead. The AERIS DAC
operates independently of your PCs sound card.
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SPECIFICATIONS
INPUTS 1x USB (B-
type)!
Accepts up to 24 bit PCM at 44.1, 48,
88.2, and 96 kHz sample rates
1x Toslink (Optical) Accepts up to 24 bit PCM from 11 -
192 kHz sample rates
2x SPDIF (RCA) Accepts up to 24 bit PCM from 11 -
192 kHz sample rates
OUTPUTS 1 pair balanced XLR / 1
pair unbalanced RCA
7 volts RMS max output level
VOLUME CONTROL Dual-stage attenuation 70 dB range, plus 20 dB overdrive
SOFTWARE/DRIVERS No special drivers
necessary
USB interface is plug-n-play with all
operating systems, including PC,
Mac, or Linux.
CLOCKS (2X) 20 bit dynamic range Voltage Controlled Crystal Oscillators
(VCXO), 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz!< 10
picosecond RMS jitter
D/A CONVERTER Differential output 352.8 kHz, 24 bit
DIGITAL FILTER Finite Impulse Response
(FIR) symetrical
Flat phase and group delay
THD+N Analogue outputs < 0.0006%
OUTPUT IMPEDANCE RCA / XLR 120 ohms
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LIMITED WARRANTY
Jeff Rowland Design Group, Inc. warrants the materials, workmanship, and proper
functioning of this product for a period of five years from the date of purchase as long as
the product was operated in accordance with its operating manual, the products was not
altered or improperly serviced or prepared, or if the product failed to function from the
beginning. In the event of such a failure, the product will be repaired or replaced by Jeff
Rowland Design Group, Inc. through one of its dealers. This warranty is extended to the
original purchaser only and is non-transferable to any secondary or other purchaser.
In order to have this product repaired or replaced, the original purchaser must first obtain
the prior authorization of Jeff Rowland Design Group, Inc. or one of its dealers.
Purchaser must then return the product, PACKAGED IN ITS ORIGINAL CARTON,
FREIGHT PREPAID to: Jeff Rowland Design Group, Inc., 2911 North Prospect Street,
Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80907, or to one of its dealers.
Jeff Rowland Design Group, Inc. reserves the right to inspect any product which is
subject to any warranty claim prior to repairing or replacing it. Final determination of
warranty coverage lies solely with Jeff Rowland Design Group, Inc. Said determination
shall be made as soon as possible following receipt of the product. Jeff Rowland Design
Group, Inc. may, at its option, require from the purchaser, valid proof of purchase (dated
copy or photocopy of dealer's original invoice). Out-of-warranty claims will be billed for
labor, materials, return freight, and insurance as required. Any product for which a
warranty claim is accepted will be returned to the purchaser and costs of shipping and
insurance will be factory prepaid within the boundaries of the USA. Units to be shipped
outside of the USA will be shipped freight collect only. This warranty gives the holder
specific legal rights. The purchaser also has implied warranty rights, and may also have
other rights which may vary from state to state.
Jeff Rowland Design Group, Inc. strives to manufacture the very finest possible
equipment and therefore reserves the right to make changes in design and
improvements upon its previously manufactured models.
THE ABOVE WARRANTY IS THE SOLE WARRANTY GIVEN BY JEFF ROWLAND
DESIGN GROUP, INC. AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES; ALL IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR
PURPOSE SHALL BE STRICTLY LIMITED IN DURATION TO FIVE YEARS FROM THE
ORIGINAL DATE OF PURCHASE AND UPON THE EXPIRATION OF THIS FIVE YEAR
WARRANTY PERIOD, JEFF ROWLAND DESIGN GROUP, INC. SHALL HAVE NO
FURTHER OBLIGATION OF ANY KIND WH ETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. SOME
STATES DO NOT ALLOW EXCLUSIONS OR LIMITATION ON HOW LONG IMPLIED
WARRANTIES LAST, IN WHICH CASE THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS SHALL NOT APPLY.
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