Octave RE 320 User manual

RE 320
Owner's Manual
English

3
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations and thank you for choosing OCTAVE!
RE 320
You are now the owner of one of the world's most innovative and reliable amplifiers. Look
after it, and it will provide you many years of listening pleasure.
You often hear people claim that tube amplifier design has not progressed for years. The
operating principles of tubes have indeed been documented extensively and are well
known to amplifier designers. Of course, the same can be said for transistor amplifiers.
However, advances in both technologies are still possible thanks to the development of
innovative and improved components, our greater appreciation of the fundamental
principles and, of course, deeper and more advanced insights into the interaction of
amplifier and loudspeaker. With tube amplifiers in particular, a general reluctance to depart
from the classic circuit designs has not done the technology any favors. Although today's
loudspeakers and source equipment provide better performance than ever before, they
also present greater demands on amplifiers. Modern sound reproduction equipment
delivers a level of performance at a price that simply would not have been possible 20 or
even 10 years ago.
These advances have been achieved through the application of the latest technological
developments as they become available and affordable. OCTAVE has specialized in tube
amplification for the past 30 years, during which time we have developed a number of
innovative technologies that have earned us a reputation as one of the leaders in the field.
Here's wishing you many happy hours of musical pleasure!
Andreas Hofmann

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CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................... 3
1. DESCRIPTION RE 320.................................................................................. 6
2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2.1. Before you begin ............................................................................................ 8
2.1.1. In case of emergency: disconnect the plug from the mains supply ............... 8
2.1.2. Do not open the case ..................................................................................... 8
2.1.3. Service and maintenance............................................................................... 8
2.1.4. Symbols and terms used in warnings ............................................................ 8
2.1.5. Before connecting .......................................................................................... 9
2.1.6. Grounding....................................................................................................... 9
2.2. Placement....................................................................................................... 9
2.2.1. Location .......................................................................................................... 9
2.2.2. Cover .............................................................................................................. 9
2.2.3. Ventilation....................................................................................................... 9
2.3. Warranty ......................................................................................................... 9
3. SETTING UP.................................................................................................. 10
3.1 Unpacking, package contents ........................................................................ 10
3.2 Removing the grille......................................................................................... 10
3.3 Installing the power tubes............................................................................... 11
3.4 Switching on for the first time: the soft-start feature....................................... 11
3.5 Checking the tubes – setting the bias ............................................................ 12
3.6 Connecting the unit ........................................................................................ 12
4. OPERATION
4.1. RE 320 front panel ......................................................................................... 13
5. CONNECTIONS
5.1. RE 320 rear panel ............................................................................................... 14
6. ADVANCED FUNCTIONS.................................................................................. 16
6.1 Power selector, alternative power tubes ............................................................. 16
6.2 Soft-Start, Inrush current limitation...................................................................... 16
6.3 Electronic Protection System .............................................................................. 17
6.4 Muting Function................................................................................................... 17
6.5 Electronic Balanced Input Circuit ........................................................................ 17
6.6 Ecomode (power saving mode) .......................................................................... 18
7. TUBES ................................................................................................................ 19
7.1 Removing the grille.............................................................................................. 19
7.2 Tube layout.......................................................................................................... 19
7.3 BIAS measurement electronic............................................................................. 20
7.3.1 How to set the BIAS ............................................................................................ 21
7.3.2 LED graphs, advanced adjustment of the BIAS setting ...................................... 22
7.4 Replacing the tubes............................................................................................. 23
7.5 Running in the tubes ........................................................................................... 23
7.6 Tube service life .................................................................................................. 23

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CONTENTS
Page
8. OPTION BLACK BOX AND SUPER BLACK BOX
8.1 The Black Box option .......................................................................................... 24
8.2 Connecting to the amplifier.................................................................................. 24
8.3 The Super Black Box option................................................................................ 25
8.4 Technical Data .................................................................................................... 25
9. TROUBLESHOOTING........................................................................................ 26
9.1. Faults caused by external issues ........................................................................ 26
9.1.1. Buzzing and hum in the speakers ....................................................................... 26
9.1.2. Mains interference............................................................................................... 27
9.1.3. Channels are not balanced ................................................................................. 27
9.2. Faults caused by tubes ....................................................................................... 28
9.2.1. Mechanical tube faults that do not trip the protection system ............................. 28
9.2.2. Tube faults that trip the protection system .......................................................... 29
10. TECHNICAL DATA
10.1. Specifications ................................................................................................. 30
10.2 Dimensions..................................................................................................... 31
10.3. Diagrams ........................................................................................................ 31
11. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)................................................ 33

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1. DESCRIPTION OF THE RE 320
The new Octave RE 320 stereo power amplifier is designed to deliver 2
x 130 W RMS output power (into 4 ohms loads).Peak Output Power
climbs up to 200 W per channel. As with all Octave models, all research
and development (R&D) and production has been conducted exclusively
in-house, and the amplifier is comprehensively safeguarded against user
error and parts wear – including catastrophic power tube failure.
The RE 320 is based on the stable and reliable SE technology of the
MRE220 model, while incorporating the benefits of the recently-
developed KT150 power tube.
SE Technology The SE technology offers great improvements in the fine resolution, the
dynamics and the microdistortions- often simplified described as noise
The KT150 allows an output power of more than 150 W with two tubes
in push-pull mode, while its current capacity is higher compared to the
classic KT88 tube designs. Increased stability with difficult, low
impedance speakers is achieved through the increased bandwidth and
OCTAVE’s specially designed output and mains transformers. The
average Output power of the RE 320 is limited to increase the stability
and the lifetime of the tubes
The configuration of the output stage of the RE 320:
push pull pentode circuit, class A/B; negative grid voltage adjustable
separate for each power tube through ten turn precision regulators.
Special wideband output transformers using high efficient PMZ core.
BIAS Measurement The RE 320 is fixed BIAS, and utilizes external precision BIAS trim pots
and LED confirmation which allows the user to readily monitor the output
tubes and simply correct their BIAS individually at the front panel of the
unit without the need of a micrometer let alone any special knowledge or
tools – just the supplied 3 mm flat-head screwdriver.
(Super) Black Box
Option The RE 320 is fitted with a connector for the optional Octave “Black
Box” capacitance modules – available in normal and “Super” versions.
The use of the Black Box or Super Black Box significantly increases
power supply capacitance to stabilize current delivery and reduce
impedance interaction of the load, thus improving dynamic range,
separation, depth, soundstage size and articulation. This enables
optimizing the RE 320 in respect to the speaker, which is a tremendous
benefit if the speaker is difficult to drive.
Input Section Unlike other designs, the RE 320 offers single ended RCA and true
balanced XLR inputs with a very high common mode rejection ratio that
eliminates unwanted hum and high frequency distortion induced in the
small signal connection to the preamp

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1. DESCRIPTION OF THE RE 320
Power Management
The RE 320 input and output tube heaters as well as its high-voltage
rails are logic-controlled to ensure that the conduction of the output tubes
as well as the input stage voltages are constantly monitored and
controlled by the Power Management System, which serves to protect
the vital internal parts (tubes, rectifier, electrolytic caps, switches, etc.)
against excessive turn-on current. This increases the lifetime of not only
the tubes, but all power related components as each derives benefit
through this system. The Power Management ensures stable operation
even situations where the mains voltage is not stable
Ecomode The Ecomode serves to reduce heat and unnecessary power
consumption when the unit is switched on but not in use. After 10
minutes without receiving signal, the RE 320 Ecomode is activated,
turning down the power. In this “sleep” mode, the RE 320 draws only 20
W Idle current. Therefore, the unit produces no heat while it remains
switched on. When a music signal is once again detected by the RE 320,
the Ecomode circuit will power the unit back on, with a short warm-
up/start-up delay (approximately 35 seconds) before the unit will
operate.
The Ecomode also serves to increase the lifetime of the tubes, while
providing an added benefit of increased safety allowing the RE 320
owner a level of security against any problems when leaving the unit
switched on.

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2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2.1. Before you begin
2.1.1. In case of emergency: disconnect the plug from the mains supply
Never use an amplifier that is damaged or faulty. Make sure that it has been labeled as defective
and that it cannot be used until it has been repaired by a qualified service engineer. Make sure that
there is easy access to the IEC socket and power cable.
2.1.2- Do not open the case
There are dangerously high voltages and hot tubes inside this equipment. To avoid a burn or the risk
of electric shock, never allow anyone except qualified personnel to open the case or remove the grill.
2.1.3. Service and maintenance
For reasons of safety, please ensure that servicing, repairs and other modifications to OCTAVE
equipment are carried out only by a qualified technician. Defective fuses should also only be replaced
by a qualified technician. Always replace fuses with ones of the same type and rating. If your amplifier
requires servicing, please ship or take your equipment directly to OCTAVE or to one of our authorized
service centers.
2.1.4. Symbols and terms used in warnings
The following warnings, symbols and terms are used in this document in compliance with the
American National Standard ANSI Z535.6-2011:
The general danger symbol, in conjunction with the terms CAUTION,
WARNING, or DANGER, warns of the risk of severe injury.
The triangle symbol with the lightning bolt warns of non-isolated, dangerous
voltages inside the case and of hazards posed by electrical shocks. Follow all
subsequent instructions to avoid injury or death.
ATTENTION Indicates a danger that could lead to damage or destruction of the device.
CAUTION Indicates a danger that represents a low or medium risk of injury.
WARNING Indicates a danger that could lead to death or severe injury.
DANGER Indicates a danger that will result in death or severe injury.
Warning format
WARNING TERM
Type and source of danger
Consequences of ignoring the warning
►Action needed to avoid danger

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2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2.1.5. Before connecting
Make sure that the voltage of your amplifier matches your local supply voltage.
2.1.6. Grounding / Earthing
This amplifier is a protection class 1 device, which is the operation with an earth conductor. As a
result, a three-pin power cable with a protective ground contact must be used (included in the scope
of delivery).
2.2. Placement
2.2.1. Location
OCTAVE equipment is designed strictly for use in a dry domestic environment. Do not use it in
open air or in damp environments!
Never place plants or liquid-filled containers on your amplifier. Take care that objects do not fall
or liquids are not spilled into the enclosure. Should this happen, disconnect the mains plug
immediately and have your amplifier checked by a qualified service technician.
Condensation may form if the amplifier is taken from a cold environment into a warm one. In
this case, wait until the amplifier has reached room temperature and is dry before switching it
on.
Avoid installing the amplifier close to sources of heat, such as heaters, or anywhere that it may
be in direct sunlight.
Do not operate your OCTAVE amplifier near flammable materials, gases, or vapors. Avoid areas
where there may be heavy accumulations of dust or where the amplifier may be subject to me-
chanical vibration.
Place your OCTAVE amplifier on a stable, even surface.
2.2.2. Cover
Never operate the amplifier without the cover.
2.2.3. Ventilation
Ensure sufficient air circulation around your amplifier. If you intend to install your equipment in
a cupboard or a shelf unit, ensure that there is at least a 10 centimeter gap between the venti-
lation slots and the walls all around the amplifier.
To prevent heat accumulation, the back of the cupboard should have ventilation holes.
Do not rest the equipment on a soft surface such as carpet or foam sheeting.
2.3. Warranty
OCTAVE can only guarantee the safety, reliability and performance of this unit if modifications and
repairs are carried out by specialized personnel and if the amplifier is operated in accordance with
the instructions contained in this manual.

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3. SETTING UP
3.1. Unpacking, package contents.
Scope of delivery
RE 320 tube stereo power amplifier
1 set power tubes packed separately
Tube layout diagram
Power cord
4.0 x 100 flat-bladed screwdriver for adjusting the bias
Owner's manual with warranty card
3.2. Removing the grille
Operating the amplifier without its protective grille is dangerous and not recommended!
To remove the grille:
1. For your own safety, switch the amplifier off using the on/off switch or disconnect the
power cord.
2. Pull the grille upward to remove.

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3. SETTING UP
3.3. Installing the power tubes
The power tubes are packed in a separate box in the tube compartment
Insert the power tubes into their sockets as shown on the tube layout. Ensure that you correctly
locate the anti-rotation lug on each of the tubes.
Anti-rotation recess
on the tube socket
3.4. Switching on for the first time – the Soft-Start feature
The RE 320 is equipped with a multi-stage Soft-Start-Turn-On protection circuit which extends
component as well as tube life considerably by protecting against stress caused by typical high
inrush currents during switch on.
1) Connect the RE 320 to the mains.
2) Switch on the RE 320 using the amplifier’s mains power on/off switch (see chap. 4 front panel
).The Power-LED will illuminate.
Turn the Input Rotary Selector to Muting – the Muting LED goes out
Turn the Function Rotary Selector to Eco off – the Ecomode LED on the top side goes out.
(see chap. 6.6 Ecomode)
3) After approx. 30 seconds you hear a relay click noise. The soft start phase is finished and the
power tubes start to work.