Musical Fidelity NU-VISTA Series User manual

Installation Guide

Instructions for use
Thank you for purchasing the Nu-Vista DAC by Musical Fidelity. Based on our excellent nuvistor tube
technology, we decided to go all out “fully balanced” on the Nu-Vista range.
The Nu-Vista DAC is our new flagship DAC built around the critically acclaimed ESS 32-bit HyperStream II
DAC architecture. It features RCA and XLR outputs, 3x optical and 1x coax SPDIF inputs, 1x USB and 1x
AES/EBU inputs. A I2S input is also there, for a future yet to be announced Nu-Vista CD-player!
Building on our knowledge and experience with Sabre ESS chips, the Nu-Vista DAC uses 2x ES9038Q2M
chips in dual differential mode for a pristine dual mono design. The inclusion of a Time Domain Jitter Eliminator
results in superb SNRand THD+N performance with unbelievably detailed transient response. Other advances
in the DAC section include optional upsampling and re-clocking and an oversampling bypass mode. The 16-
core XMOS and CPLD MAX II Altera processors ensure there is always enough headroom for these
operations, the digital filters, including our own new proprietary filter for optimum transient response, and the
MQA processing.
Optionally, the Nu-Vista DAC can be powered by the Nu-Vista Uni PSU (set to be released in 2024). This will
achieve better noise performance, by moving the AC mains power supply from the main unit and build it into
another matching box. We are taking advantage of the extra space to set up mains and output filtering a step
above what is usually possible in one-box-solutions.
Also included is the Nu-Vista remote control which is a solid “Nu-Vista” style re-imagination of usual remote
controls. Machined from solid, it has the same feel as the front panel of the unit, has a powerful beam, and
runs off easily replaceable AAA batteries.
Used properly and carefully, it should give many yearsof outstanding musical reproduction. Dust regularly with
a soft duster or soft brush, but be careful when using cleaning or polishing agents - they may harm the surface
finish.
If there are any questions about the audio system, please consult the dealer, who is there to help and advise.
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*UK English “valve” mentioned hereafter, refers to the ‘electron valve’ kind, also known as electron “tube” in
other parts of the world.

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Section
Page
Safety Information
–Mains plug (UK only), modification warning
4
General advice
–Installation precautions
5
Installation
–Introduction, cleaning, installation, power connections, audio
connections, spike feet
6
Facilities and connections
–Illustrations, front & rear panels
8
Remote control handset
–Operation and illustration
9
Operation
–Starting
–Input Selection
–Menu Navigation
–Main View
–Nuvistor LED Indicator Line
–Audio Formats
–Sample Rate
–Digital Oversampling FIR Filter
–Input
–Volume
–Reclocking
–Upsampling
–Bit Depth
–System Settings
–Digital Filters
10
Problems?
–Troubleshooting
15
Specifications
Manual history
–Product specifications
16
Item disposal information
17
CONTENTS

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IMPORTANT! (U.K. only)
This unit is supplied in the U.K. with mains lead fitted with a moulded 13 amp plug. If, for any reason, it is
necessary to remove the plug, please remove the fuse holder and dispose of the plug safely, out of reach of
children.
It must not be plugged into a mains outlet.
The wires in the mains lead supplied with this appliance are coloured in accordance with the following code:
Green and yellow............................Earth
Blue..............................................Neutral
Brown................................................Live
WARNING –This appliance MUST be earthed
As the colours of the wires of the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings
identifying the terminals in the plug, proceed as follows:
•The wire which is coloured green-and-yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked
with the letter E or coloured green or green-and-yellow, or by the earth symbol:
•The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or
coloured red.
•The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or
coloured black.
•If connecting to a BS1363 plug, a 13 amp fuse must be used.
WARNING:
ANY MODIFICATIONS TO THIS PRODUCT NOT EXPRESSLY
APPROVED BY MUSICAL FIDELITY WHO IS THE PARTY
RESPONSIBLE FOR STANDARDS COMPLIANCE COULD VOID THE
USER'S AUTHORITY TO OPERATE THIS EQUIPMENT.
SAFETY INFORMATION

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Installation, Precautions & User Information
This new Nu-Vista DAC is designed and built to provide trouble-free performance, but as with all electronic
devices it is necessary to observe a few precautions:
•Heed all warnings shown on the back of the product.
•Only connect the Nu-Vista DAC to a mains outlet having the same voltage as marked at the back of the
unit.
•Always ensure that when disconnecting and reconnecting your audio equipment the mains supply is
switched off.
•Position the mains lead and signal interconnects where they are not likely to be walked on or trapped by
items placed on them.
•Do not use near water, or place water-filled containers on the Nu-Vista DAC, for example, a flower vase or
potted plants. If water does spill inside, immediately pull out the mains plug from the wall socket and
inform your dealer, who should then check the unit before further use. Entry of liquid into the Nu-
Vista DAC is dangerous, and may cause electric shock or fire hazard.
•Do not place the unit near direct heat sources such as radiators, direct sunlight or other equipment.
•Do not remove any covers or try to gain access to the inside. There are no internal adjustments or fuses
you can replace yourself. Refer all service work to an authorised Musical Fidelity agent.
* Note: Unauthorised opening of the equipment will invalidate any warranty claim.
•Dust regularly with a soft cloth or soft brush but be careful when using cleaning or polishing agents - they
may harm the surface finish.
The electronics in modern hi-fi equipment is complex and may, therefore, be adversely affected or damaged
by lightning. For protection of the audio system during electrical storms, remove the mains plugs.
If after-sales service is required, to help the dealer identify the Nu-Vista DAC please quote the serial number
located on the rear panel of the unit.
GENERAL ADVICE

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Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of the new Nu-Vista DAC. Great attention has been paid to internal layout,
isolating each circuit section to prevent possible interaction. The unit features a finely tuned and tweaked Nu-
Vista valve design, for smooth sound coupled with low noise and virtually no distortion.
This unit will deliver the ultimate performance possible from any digital source. It is designed to upgrade CD
players, TVs, set-top-boxes, DAB tuners, USB Streamers and PCs and Laptops and any other source
providing a variety of digital outputs.
Cleaning
Before cleaning the unit, switch off power at the mains switch and remove themains plug from the wall socket.
Clean the cabinets using a moist cloth. Using solvents, white spirit or thinners is not advised, as they could
damage the surface finish.
Setting up
Position the Nu-Vista DAC on a stable, horizontal surface where there is no risk of it being knocked.
Make sure ALL units involved are switched off and unplugged from mains supply before making or removing
any connections.
Important note:
During normal operation, the unit dissipates an appreciable quantity of power at all times, and it
is important that it is well ventilated. The top and bottom are perforated to allow the smooth flow
of heat through the unit. However, the unit must not be enclosed in a cabinet or placed where
the ventilation holes are impeded as this could result in excessive heat build-up.
The Nu-Vista DAC must be protected from humidity –if the unit is moved from a cold place to a
warm room, leave the unit for an hour or so to allowsufficient time for the moisture to evaporate.
Power Connections
The Nu-Vista DAC is supplied with a standard IEC mains cable which plugs into the IEC socket at the back of
the unit.
Upgrade power connection:
Optionally, the Nu-Vista DAC can be powered by the Nu-Vista Uni PSU (set to be released in 2024) via the
PSU RH Power, LH Power and Control connections. Please refer to the Nu-Vista Uni PSU manual for details.
Audio Connections
Outputs: The Nu-Vista DAC has a single ended RCA line level and a balanced XLR line level output. Both
can be used simultaneously.
RCA audio output: Use good quality RCA phono audio cables (fully connected signal and ground), for
optimum signal transfer.
XLR audio output: Use good quality XLR audio cables (fully connected hot and cold signals and ground), for
absolute optimum signal transfer.
Digital Input Connections
COAXIAL input: Connect RCA digital source to digital input RCA socket. Use a good quality fully connected
(signal and ground) coaxial digital cable, for optimum signal transfer.
OPTICAL inputs: Connect optical digital source to optical input socket. Use a good quality “Toslink” cable, for
optimum signal transfer.
USB input: Connect computer or similar USB “host” source to USB input socket. Use a good quality USB 2.0
type cable (not supplied), for optimum signal transfer. Try to keep USB cable length to a minimum for best
reliability. The USB standard maximumfor asingle cable is 5M, after which repeaters (normally mains-powered
USB hubs) are required. We do however; recommend avoiding such a setup if at all possible.
AES/EBU input: Connect a balanced AES/EBU source to digital input XLR socket. Use a good quality XLR
cable, specifically designed to carry digital signals and not XLR cables for analogue audio transmission!
I2S input: Use a good quality HDMI cable to connect the upcoming (released in 2024) Nu-Vista CD.
INSTALLATION

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Trigger Input and Output
Triggering input and outputs are available to allow the DAC to be turned on automatically by other equipment
or turn on other equipment automatically when the Nu-Vista DAC is turned on. This is a 2-way 3.5mm jack on
the back of the unit labelled “TRIGGER”. It requires 5 to 12V (either polarity) to switch the DAC on.
Mounting optional Spike Feet
The Nu-Vista DAC can optionally be used with spike feet. We recommend to ask a second person to help you
lift the Nu-Vista DAC for mounting the feet or felt pads.
If you want to use the standard mounted feet, you can attach the big felt pads to those feet (remove the small
rubber feet first if necessary).
To mount the spike feet, screwthe threaded rods into the spike feet so that the allen key side is inside the foot
(this way, when you want to remove the foot from the amplifier again, you can unscrew the foot and then
unscrew the threaded rod from the amplifier with an allen key, should it be too tight to unscrew by hand). Then
screw the feet into the amplifier (remove the small rubber feet first if necessary). Attach the small felt pads to
the bottom of the spike feet cups and place these cups under the spike feet.
XLR Balanced input and output lead
connections:
(for reference, no XLR signal leads supplied)
Pin functions:
1
Ground (cable shield)
2
Normal polarity ("hot" or “+”)
3
Inverted polarity ("cold" or “-“)

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1 2 3
4 5 6
1 INPUT selector
2 DISPLAY
3 Menu/VOLUME selector
4 POWER / STANDBY button
5 BACK button
6 ENTER button
7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
7 PSU –CONTROL optional power input
8 PSU –RH POWER optional power input
9 RCA SINGLE ENDED output
10 XLR BALANCED output
11 PSU –LH POWER optional power input
12 TRIGGER output and input
13 I2S input for upcoming Nu-Vista CD
(released later in 2024)
14 OPTICAL SPDIF inputs
15 COAXIAL SPDIF input
16 AES/EBU input
17 USB Audio Class 2.0 input
18 230/120V selector
19 MAINS IEC socket
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FACILITIES & CONNECTIONS

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The universal remote control shown below enables functions from this and related units to be operated from
a convenient distance.
Equivalent buttons on the remote control have the same functions as those on the front panel of the unit. Other
functions are only available by remote control.
As the handset uses an invisible infra-red light beam, the front edge must be pointed directly towards the
receiver window at the front of the player, without visual obstruction between them.
If the range of the remote control greatly decreases, replace the batteries with new ones. Do not mix old and
new batteries –two are required, size AAA, LR03 or SUM-4.
Please dispose of used batteries in accordance to local regulations.
MUTE –toggle mute
RECLK –enable/disable reclocking
FILTER DOWN –select previous filter
UPSAMP –enable/disabe upsampling
VOL DOWN –decrease volume
Arrow buttons –menu navigation
OPTO1 –select optical input 1
OPTO2 –select optical input 2
OPTO3 –select optical input 3
COAX –select coaxial input
POWER –turn unit ON and to Standby
FILTER UP –select next filter
VOL UP –increase volume
OK –confirm
USB –select USB input
AES/EBU –select AES/EBU input
I2S –select I2S input