Lehmannaudio Black Cube Statement User manual

Bedienungsanleitung/Manual/Mode d‘emploi/Manual de instrucciones/Istruzioni per l’uso
Black Cube
Statement
Phonoverstärker
Phono Stage/Amplificateur Phono
Amplificador Phono/Amplificatore Acustico
FR
ES
IT
EN

29 | Introduction
30 | Safety instructions
34 | Important safety instructions for wide range wall power supplies
35 | Installation
37 | Functional description
40 | Putting into operation
41 | Common settings
42 | Expert notes
44 | Sound optimisation tips
45 | Technical data
46 | Troubleshooting
50 | Legal notes
Although you may have had some experience with phono stages from other
manufacturers, please read the manual carefully before putting the Black Cube
Statement to service and keep it close to the device for future reference!
Table of content
Lehmannaudio Vertriebs GmbH
Waltherstr. 49 – 51
51069 Köln (Germany)
Phone: +49 221 – 29 49 33 20
Fax: +49 221 – 29 49 33 19
[email protected]
www.lehmannaudio.com
www.facebook.com/lehmannaudio
www.twitter.com/lehmannaudio
Introduction
Dear Customer,
Thank you for expressing your confidence in us by purchasing the Black Cube
Statement. The Black Cube Statement is a carefully engineered phono ampli-
fier for connection to conventional record players with MM or MC systems.
Like all of our products, it was developed and manufactured in Germany.
Since the founding of the company in 1988, we have stood for outstanding
devices that consistently produce an original sound and are produced with
a love for details. By using the best components and a sophisticated circuit
design, we can guarantee a listening experience of outstanding quality.
The Black Cube Statement is superior to industrial mass products in every
respect. It meets the highest standards for the detailed musical playback of
your records. Thanks to its competitive price, it is the ideal entry-level model
in the world of high-end phono amplifiers.
Further information is found in this operating manual and on our website at
www.lehmannaudio.com.
Now your favourite records can truly come into their own, allowing you to
experience the pleasure of listening to analogue music full of passion.
Yours, Norbert Lehmann
Managing Director
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Important safety notes
In this manual we use hierarchic ‘red flags’. Warning notes are printed in bold
and also marked and highlighted by a symbol (warning sign) in the text.
The warning notes are classified hierarchically according to the following
scheme:
1. WARNING!
2. CAUTION!
3. NOTE!
This symbol points to important operation and maintenance
notes in the accompanying documentation. Please refer to the
manual.
This symbol warns of the presence of a non-insulated
hazardous voltage inside the device and the risk of a potentially
life-threatening electric shock.
This symbol refers to additional information in the manual. Here
you will find supplementary information, recommendations and
tipps regarding the use of the product.
CAUTION!
Read all safety and operation notes before putting the device
to service.
Storage
Keep the safety and operation notes for future reference.
Warning notes
Observe all warning notes printed on the device or contained in the manual.
Operation notes
Follow all operation notes and advice for users.
Heat
The device must not be placed near heat sources like radiators, heat accumu-
lators, stoves or other heat-generating appliances (e.g. amplifiers).
Ventilation
Do not cover any ventilation slots on the device and when mounting it in a rack,
make sure that there is sufficient air circulation. Always heed the appropriate
manufacturer notes when installing the unit.
Water and moisture
Do not expose the unit to rain nor use it in close proximity to water (bath tub,
swimming pool etc.) or in high air humidity (condensation).
Ingress of liquids
Make sure that no dripping or spray water can enter into the interior of the unit.
Don’t place objects filled with liquids (such as vases or drinking vessels) on the
device.
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Power cable
Use only power cables which are officially approved for your country. The power
cable must be designed for the product and its corresponding power consump-
tion (voltage/current) as stated on the device label and in the user manual.
CAUTION!
Use the device only on a power outlet with protective conductor
connection and correct polarity. Do not disable the function of
the protective conductor connection on the included power cord.
If the plug of the included cable won’t fit into your mains outlet,
contact your local electrician.
Mains connection
Protect the power cord from footsteps and crushing, notably on the device plug,
the extension cord and the cable outlet on the device.
Power supply
Only use the included power supply.
Thunderstorm
Disconnect the unit from mains to protect it from lightning strokes and excess
voltage.
Electric overload
Do not exceed the maximum load current for power outlets, extension cables or
integrated multi sockets. Overload may cause a fire.
Fire sources
Do not put any open fire sources (e.g. burning candles) on the device.
Accessories
Use only accessories/extensions with the device which have been approved by
the manufacturer for this purpose.
Mounting
Use the device only in a safe, level position on a table, dolly or a special
designed stand. Don’t drop the unit, since this may cause personal injuries and
damages to the device. When installing the device, make sure that the mains
plug will remain easily accessible.
Cleaning
Use only a dry cloth for cleaning the device.
Non-use
Pull the mains plug if the unit is not used over prolonged periods of time.
Service
All service and repair works must be carried out by an authorised service techni-
cian. Service is required if the device has been damaged in any way, for instance
if
≠the power cord or mains plug have been damaged,
≠liquid or some object has got into the unit,
≠the device has been exposed to rain or moisture
≠or if it does not function normally or after it has been dropped.
Spare parts
Only such spare parts must be used exclusively for repair works which have been
specified and approved by the manufacturer.
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Important safety instructions
for wide range wall power supplies
≠The operating manual must be read carefully prior to use, stored in a safe place and
followed.
≠Only use the included power supply.
≠In case of visible damage to the housing or cables, do not use the power supply.
≠The wall power supply is not suitable for
outdoor operation.
≠Make sure that the wall power supply:
- Is properly plugged into the outlet
- Is easily accessible and in good condition
- Is only used within the allowable temperature range (ambient temperature of 0°C
to +40°C (up to 90% relative humidity, non-condensing). Storage temperature:
-40°C to +70°C (10% to 95% relative humidity)
- Is not uncovered or exposed to sunlight for extended periods
- Is not overheated, and is adequately cooled
≠The device should never be installed or stored in the following locations, since
damage may occur during operation:
- Locations exposed to high moisture levels and/or condensation
- Locations exposed to various environmental influences
- Locations exposed to continuous vibrations
- Locations exposed to pronounced temperature fluctuations
≠Only use accessories such as line adapters recommended by the manufacturer
≠Disconnect the wall power supply from the outlet:
- When the device is not being used for a longer time
- During a thunderstorm
≠Never pull on the cable to disconnect the device from the mains network.
Installation
This section tells you about the connections, control elements
and application possibilities of your Lehmannaudio Black Cube
Statement phono amplifier.
1 | Unpacking
After unpacking the Black Cube Statement check it for possible transport dam-
ages. If you notice visible damages, you must by no means connect the device to
mains. In this case consult your dealer immediately.
Delivery includes the following components:
≠Only use the wall power supply with power sources that meet the specifications in
the section „Technical data“.
≠Make sure that using the wall power supply does not overload the outlet or an
extension cord. Otherwise there is a risk of fire or electric shock.
≠The power supply does not require maintenance. Opening it is prohibited (risk of
electric shock).
≠Modifying the power supply is prohibited (voids the warranty).
≠The device may only be repaired by authorised, qualified personnel.
≠Black Cube Statement device
≠Power supply with matching primary
adapter
≠Operating manual
≠Allen key (2 mm)
≠4 Jumpers
≠Guarantee voucher
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Note
We recommend keeping the entire packaging for later shipment.
That way you will avoid transport damages. Use by no means
‘foam chips’ or similar packaging material. Otherwise the device
will jolt through to the bottom of the cardboard box during
transport and can be damaged! If the original packaging is no
longer available, it’s best to use bubble wrap in which to wrap up
the device in a generous manner. Finally the whole should be put
into a solid cardboard box.
2 | Setup
Always position the Black Cube Statement on a stable surface. Thanks to the
compact dimensions and low weight, you can set up the Black Cube Statement
directly next to the record player.
3 | Connecting
Check whether the included mains adapter is suitable for connection to the
mains network used in your country. On the adapter, you will find information
about the specified mains voltage for the device. Now connect the Black Cube
Statement to the mains network using the external power supply and the con-
nection on the rear of the device.
Note the safety instructions starting on page 32!
Input
Functional description
In this chapter you will learn more about the connections,
controls and also the application possibilities of your
Lehmannaudio Black Cube Statement phono stage.
1 2
1 | Ground terminal (GND)
If your record player has a separate ground cable, please connect it here. The
terminal is suitable for connecting a cable, flex, open cable ends, cable lug or
4mm banana plug.
2 | Input jacks (IN)
Connect the cables coming from your record player to these jacks. The left jack
(black) is for the left channel, the right jack (red) for the right channel. Please be
sure to connect the channels correctly.
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Functional description
Output
543
3 | Output jacks (OUT)
RIAA filtered high-level output. Connect the cables that either lead to the input
of a downstream high-level pre-amplifier (high-level inputs are labelled ‘Line’,
‘AUX’, ‘CD’, ‘Tuner’ etc.) or directly to a power amplifier with volume control.
Here too, please be sure to connect the cables to the correct channels. When
the device is viewed from above, the respective matching channels are arranged
in a line.
ATTENTION!
Never connect the output of the Black Cube Statement to the
phono input of another device. This could damage the phono
stage or speakers.
4 | Operating mode display (LED)
When the LED is lit up, the Black Cube Statement is operational. The device
does not have a power switch.
5 | External power supply input
The included external power supply or an equivalent 24 V DC power supply is
connected here. Do not connect or disconnect the power supply cable during
operation.
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Putting into operation
To put your Black Cube Statement into operation, you need
information about your pick-up system.
Two details are important: Are we talking about an MM (moving magnet) or MC
(moving coil) system? What is the required connection resistance? As a rule, you will
find both pieces of information on the product packaging of your pick-up system.
Please ask your specialist dealer for recommended values in case of doubt. Support
for correctly configuring your Black Cube Statement will be gladly provided.
Once you have the required information, please proceed as follows:
1 | Set the volume on your system to minimum or turn your amplifier off
entirely.
2 | Set the gain for your pick-up system (MM/MC) on the Black Cube State-
ment. The setting must be identical for both channels. Use the DIP switches
on the bottom of the device and the gain Jumpers on the inside. Common
amplifier settings for various types of pick-ups are found on the next page.
The gain Jumpers are inserted at the factory.
3 |
Set the terminating resistance on the Black Cube Statement. The setting
must be identical for both channels. Use the custom impedances inside and
the DIP switches on the bottom of the device. Further information is found
on page 43.
3 | Connect the record player to the input on the Black Cube Statement.
4 | Connect the output on the Black Cube Statement to a line input on the
downstream amplifier. To largely exclude line losses, the signal cables
should be kept short.
5 | Connect the power supply .
Common settings
The switch/gain Jumper configurations for some systems are
listed below. Please note that both channels must have the
same setting in all cases.
System Switch Gain Jumper
MM X
MM High output –
MC 47 kOhm X
MC 47 kOhm Mid output –
MC 1 kOhm X
MC 1 kOhm Mid output –
MC 100 Ohm X
MC 100 Ohm Mid output –
MC custom impedance X
MC custom impedance Mid output –
X = Jumper inserted (delivery condition)
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Expert notes
The Black Cube Statement can be adapted to virtually all sys-
tems available on the market.
With the exception of the DIP switches, the adjustment mechanisms are located
inside the device and should only be changed by experts. An Allen key to open the
housing and Jumpers to change the amplification are included with the device.
LED 1
DC 1
A O I
Gain_1
Bass_1
R 102
ON
1234
ON
1234
R 202
DC 2
Gain_2
Bass_2
Output 1
RCA 3
Output 2
RCA 4
Input 1
RCA 1
Input 2
RCA 2
1
2
3
4
Interior view
1 | DC 1/DC 2
The MKP output capacitors are bridged with these Jumpers so they are no
longer in the signal path. These Jumpers are not activated at delivery.
2 | Gain_L/Gain_R
These Jumpers change the amplification by +10 dB and are activated at delivery.
With the DIP switches accessible on the bottom of the device (respectively no.
1), you can switch the gain between 41 dB (MM) and 61 dB (MC). You can remove
the Jumpers if this amplification is too high.
3 | Bass_L/Bass_R
These Jumpers activate the soft bass roll-off filter to prevent membrane flutter
when playing back warped records. The cut-off frequency is 50 Hz,
the filter slope is 6 dB/oct. These Jumpers are not activated at delivery.
4 | R102/R202
Available custom impedance plug connections for activation with the DIP switch-
es for the channels (respectively no. 3). An impedance/capacity activated here is
switched in parallel to all other impedances/capacities activated by switches and
the 47 kOhm/100 pF.
ATTENTION!
When output capacitors are bridged, there may be DC voltage
on the outputs. Before activating these Jumpers, it is therefore
necessary to ensure that the downstream input stage has a DC
voltage input filter since DC voltage can damage the speakers. In
case of doubt, have your system checked by the dealer first.
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1 | Adjusting the pick-up arm geometry and system should always be performed by
a specialist. In case of incorrect settings, the effects range from sound problems to
one-sided and therefore premature wear of the system. Good specialist dealers have
special measuring and adjusting equipment. It is much more accurate than what may
be included with the pick-up system.
2 | On record players with a sub-chassis, the vibration behaviour should also be
optimised by an expert. Sound improvements are possible here as well.
3 | Using a decoupling mat that contributes to better mechanical separation
between the record and turntable can further improve the sound quite significantly.
4 | Special attention should also be paid to the chosen cable materials and
assembly . This applies in particular to the system cables (headshell), the cables
from the pick-up to the Black Cube Statement and the cables to the downstream
pre-amplifier.
Sound optimisation tips
The Black Cube Statement can only be as good as the signal
supplied by the turntable or pick-up system. Since playing back
a record consists of mechanical sampling with many important
influencing variables, we provide some sound optimisation tips
here. For high-end record players in particular, you should consult
your dealer for the required service and adjustments.
Technical specifications
MM MC
Sensitivity for output level
775 mV/0 dB
(with activated high gain Jumper)
7.4 mV/1 kHz 0.74 mV/1 kHz
Gain 1 kHz 41 dB 61 dB
Maximum input level 58 mV 5.6 mV
Signal to noise ratio
(RMS unweighted)
78 dB 57 dB
Gain 31 dB, 41 dB, 51 dB, 61 dB
Channel separation > 85 dB at 10 kHz
Input impedance 47 kohms, 1 kohm, 100 ohms
1 x custom load
Output impedance < 100 ohms
Input capacitance 100 pF
Channel mismatch typ. 0.5 dB
Bass filter 50 Hz, 6 dB/oct.
Power consumption app. 1 VA
Mains voltage 100 V to 240 V AC
Outer dimensions
W x D x H
103 mm x 108 mm x 45 mm
Weight 0.28 kg netto
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Troubleshooting
Fault Cause Solution
Operating LED
does not light up.
Power supply is not
plugged in.
Plug the power supply into the
outlet.
Power supply is not con-
nected to the device.
Connect the power supply to
the device.
No signal. Power supply is not
plugged in.
Plug the power supply into the
outlet.
Power supply is not con-
nected to the device.
Connect the power supply to
the device.
The input and output on
the Black Cube Statement
are connected incorrectly.
Check whether the cables com-
ing from the record player are
connected to the input and the
cables leading to the amplifier
are connected to the output
of the Black Cube Statement,
and connect them correctly if
applicable.
The incorrect input
channel is selected on the
downstream amplifier.
Select the correct input channel.
Signal on one
channel only.
DIP switches are set
inconsistently or only one
gain Jumper is inserted.
Check the position of both DIP
switches and/or gain Jumpers.
Make sure that the settings are
the same for both channels.
Signal on one
channel only.
A connecting cable has
a loose contact, is not
properly inserted in the
jack or is defective.
Check the connecting cable
for bad contacts, loose plug
connections and defects, and
replace it if required. Possibili-
ties: System cable (head shell),
pick-up arm cable from the
record player to the Black Cube
Statement and line cable from
the Black Cube Statement to
the downstream input.
The downstream input
stage is defective.
Resolve by connecting to vari-
ous line inputs.
The left and right
channels are
inverted.
The channels are inverted
in the connecting cable.
Check the connecting cables
and swap the channels here if
applicable. Possibilities: System
cable (head shell), pick-up arm
cable from the record player to
the Black Cube Statement and
line cable from the Black Cube
Statement to the downstream
input.
Signal is too low. Adjustment between the
pick-up system and Black
Cube Statement is not
optimal.
Increase the amplification
factor according to this user
manual using the DIP switches
under the Black Cube State-
ment and/or activate the high
gain Jumper.
The input resistance on
the Black Cube Statement
is too low.
Adjust the input resistance so
it is higher than the system
impedance of the pick-up by at
least a factor of 10.
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Signal is low and
muffled.
MC impedance selected
on MM system.
Deactivate all MC impedances
per DIP switch. Note that a
custom impedance may be
inserted.
The signal is
distorted.
The amplification in the
Black Cube Statement is
set too high.
Increase the amplification
factor according to this user
manual using the DIP switches
under the Black Cube State-
ment and/or deactivate the
high gain Jumper.
The output on the Black
Cube Statement is con-
nected to the down-
stream phono input.
Connect the output of the
Black Cube Statement to a
line input of the downstream
amplifier.
The signal sounds
hollow, without
a proper bass and
localisation.
The pick-up connection
is phase-inverted (reverse
polarity).
Connect the system cable with
correct polarity.
Buzzing noise. Pick-arm ground is not
connected on the Black
Cube Statement.
Connect the pick-up arm
ground to the Black Cube
Statement.
Several connected devices
create a buzzing loop.
Establish a proper ground con-
nection. Consult an electrician
if necessary.
There is an interference
from another device.
Disconnect all devices con-
nected to the same circuit
one by one and check the ef-
fect. While listening to music,
leave the device causing the
interference switched off or
connect it to the circuit using a
line filter.
Buzzing noise. Power transformer of a
device set up close by
crossfeeds into the input.
Maintain sufficient distance
from the device causing the
interference.
Radio inter-
ference can be
heard in the
background.
Pick-arm ground is not
connected on the Black
Cube Statement.
Connect the pick-up arm
ground to the Black Cube
Statement.
The standard input
capacitance (100 pF) for
MC is too low.
Have the custom impedance
jack equipped with additional
capacity by the dealer.
If a problem cannot be remedied with the help of this summary, please contact
the specialist retailer where you purchased the device. If this is not possible, you
can easily find another competent dealer in your area with the dealer search at
www.lehmannaudio.com/service/dealers.
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Legal notes
Warranty
Each device from Lehmannaudio is tested individually and subject to a compre-
hensive functional check. The use of only the very best components enables us
to grant a warranty of two years.
The receipt/proof of purchase shall serve as warranty proof. A registration form
is supplied with the product or can be downloaded at www.lehmannaudio.com/
service/register.html. Damages due to incorrect installation or inappropriate
handling are not covered by warranty and will therefore be repaired at the
owner’s expense. Claims for damage of any kind, notably for secondary failures,
are excluded. In addition we exclude any liability which exceeds the merchandise
value of the device.
The general terms and conditions apply of:
Lehmannaudio Vertriebs GmbH
Waltherstr. 49 – 51
51069 Köln (Germany)
Phone: +49 221 – 29 49 33 20
Fax: +49 221 – 29 49 33 19
www.lehmannaudio.com
State of technology
To ensure the highest audio quality, Lehmannaudio devices are constantly
updated to the current state of the art. We reserve the right to make necessary
alterations in design and circuitry without prior notice. Technical data and visual
appearance may therefore differ from the present user manual.
Service
In any event all maintenance or repair works must be carried out by qualified
technical staff. If you want to send back the device, please contact Lehmannau-
dio directly to discuss the procedure in detail.
For service works on the Black Cube Statement please contact the retailer where
you purchased the device. If this is not possible, you can easily find another
competent dealer in your area with the dealer search at
www.lehmannaudio.com/
service/dealers.
Any modifications on the device are not permissible. In case of nonobservance
the device will lose its CE conformity and warranty claims.
Trademark and copyright
All trademarks and registered brands used in this manual are property of the
respective right holders.
This user manual is protected by copyright. Any duplication or reprint, even
in excerpts, is only permitted with the written consent of the Lehmannaudio
Vertriebs GmbH. This also applies to the pictures and graphic works used.
CE conformity
When properly installed in line with this handbook, this product complies with
the following European directives:
Low-Voltage Directive 2006/95/EG: EN 60065
EMV Directive (electromagnetic compatibility) 2004/108/EG:
EN 55103-1:2009, EN 55103-2:2009
RoHS conformity
The product has been manufactured in compliance with the directive 2002/95/EG.
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WEEE Disposal of waste electronic equipment
The crossed-out trash bin is the EC symbol for the separate disposal of waste
electronic equipment. The Black Cube Statement contains electric and electronic
components which, after disposal of the device, will either be reused or salvaged
and recycled. According to the directive 2003/108/EG it must therefore not be
disposed of together with household waste. In case of disposal please take the
junk device back your dealer or request further information there.
The Lehmannaudio Vertriebs GmbH is listed in the WEEE registry.
Norbert Lehmann, managing director
Cologne, January 30, 2018
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