Octave V110 User manual

V110

3
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations and thank you for choosing OCTAVE!
V 110
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 25 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

4

5
CONTENTS
Page
Introduction ................................................................................................. 3
1 Description of the V 110............................................................................... 7
2 Safety instructions ....................................................................................... 8
2.1 Before you begin.......................................................................................... 8
2.2 Placement .................................................................................................... 9
2.3 Warranty....................................................................................................... 9
3 Getting started.............................................................................................. 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 (BIAS)........................................................................... 12
3.6 Connecting other components..................................................................... 12
3.7 Connection options: overview...................................................................... 13
4 Front panel controls ..................................................................................... 14
5 Rear panel connections ............................................................................... 16
6 Advanced functions and connection options................................................ 18
6.1 Power Selector............................................................................................. 18
6.2. Protection..................................................................................................... 19
6.3 Soft-Start...................................................................................................... 19
6.4 Ecomode...................................................................................................... 20
6.5 Front Channel ............................................................................................. 21
6.6 Pre-Out regulated ........................................................................................ 21
6.6.1 Using with an active subwoofer ................................................................... 21
6.6.2 Using in bi-amped systems.......................................................................... 21
7 Tubes ........................................................................................................... 22
7.1 Removing the grille (see 3.2)....................................................................... 22
7.2 Tube layout .................................................................................................. 22
7.3 BIAS Measurement System......................................................................... 23
7.4 Replacing the tubes ..................................................................................... 25
7.5 Running in the tubes.................................................................................... 25
7.6 Tube Service Life......................................................................................... 25
8 Remote Control............................................................................................ 26
9 Optional Phono - MC/MM............................................................................. 26
10 Using Black Box or Super Black Box........................................................... 27
10.1 The Black Box option................................................................................... 27
10.2 The Super Black Box option ........................................................................ 28
11 Troubleshooting ........................................................................................... 29
11.1 Faults caused by external issues................................................................. 29
11.2 Faults caused by tubes................................................................................ 31
12 Specifications and Dimensions.................................................................... 33
13 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)............................................................. 36

6

7
1. DESCRIPTION OF THE V 110
The Octave V 110 integrated amplifier is a push-pull pentode design delivering 2 x 110 W RMS
output power (into 4 ohm loads). 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 V 110 is a new member of KT 120 based amplifiers containing our proprietary Amplifier
Technology. Ultra Low Noise and precise regulated Power Supply voltages ensure stable operation
independent of mains fluctuations and high frequency noise distortions of the mains voltage.
The V 110 improves upon the V 70 SE predecessor, with upgrades made in the amplification
stages as well as the power supply. Ultra-low leakage Tantalum electrolytic caps are now used
instead of Aluminum electrolytic caps in the driver circuit. The heater voltage of the driver tubes has
been precisely stabilized to reduce hum and noise that would otherwise be caused by the heater
system. The heater and the supply voltage are both controlled via the power management circuit.
The stabilization of the heater and power supply voltages ensures the stable, drift free operation in
the mains range of +/- 15%. Every output tube in the V 110 is protected against over-current and
other tube problems caused by aging.
BIAS Measurement
The V 110 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.
Black Box Option
The V 110 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 V 110 in respect to the speaker, which is a tremendous benefit if the
speaker is difficult to drive.
Input Section
The input section of the V 110 features five line level single ended Inputs with an optional internal
Phono board, one balanced Input and two single ended Outputs. One is a standard record output;
the other Pre-Out is a regulated preamplifier output. This output is buffered with an integrated
circuit to reduce the negative influence of any connected unit (typically an active subwoofer).
The Input labeled “Front Channel“is coupled with a relay that bypasses the volume regulator. The V
110 functions as a stereo amplifier the when the “Front Channel” Input position is selected.
Power Management and Ecomode
The V 110 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 Ecomode serves to reduce heat and unnecessary power consumption when the unit is
switched on but not in use. After 9 minutes without receiving signal, the V 110 Ecomode is
activated, turning down the power. In this “sleep” mode, the V 110 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 V 110, 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 V 110 owner a level of security against any problems when leaving
the unit switched on.

8
2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2.1. Before you begin
Before using the V 110 for the first time, remove the grille and install the power tubes! (See
Section 3.2 „Removing the grille"). Replace the grille before switching the V 110 on.
Operating the amplifier without its protective grille is dangerous and not recommended.
In case of emergency: unplug the unit from the wall outlet
Never use an amplifier that is damaged or faulty. Make sure that no one can use it until it has been
repaired by a qualified service technician. Ensure that there is easy access to the IEC socket and
power cord.
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.
Servicing and maintenance
For reasons of safety, please ensure that any servicing, repairs or other modifications to OCTAVE
equipment are carried out only by a qualified technician. Always get an engineer to replace blown
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.
Modifications to OCTAVE equipment
Use "audio grade" fuses and other power cables at your own risk. The use of such devices will void
the warranty. This also applies to the use contact fluids on the tube sockets.
Explanation of the warning symbols:
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of un-insulated, 'dangerous
voltages' within the product's enclosure that may be sufficient to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the
user to important operating and maintenance instructions
Before connecting up
Make sure that the voltage of your amplifier matches your electricity supply voltage.
Grounding
This amplifier is a protection class I device (with an earth conductor). To avoid the risk of electric
shock in the event of a fault, the unit must be grounded. To do this, use the power cable supplied
with the amplifier.

9
2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
2.2. Placement
1. Location
OCTAVE equipment is designed strictly for use in a dry domestic environment. Do not use it in the
open air or in damp environments!
Never place plants or liquid-filled containers on your OCTAVE equipment. Take care to avoid
dropping objects or spilling liquids into the case. Should this happen, remove 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. If you do
this, wait until the amplifier has reached room temperature and is dry before switching it on.
Avoid installing the unit close to sources of heat such as radiators or anywhere that may be in
direct sunlight.
Do not operate the unit near flammable materials, gases or vapors. Avoid areas where there may
be heavy accumulations of dust or where the unit may be subject to mechanical vibration.
Place your OCTAVE amplifier on a stable, level surface.
2. Grille
Never operate the amplifier without the protective grille in place.
3. Ventilation
Make sure that your amplifier has an adequate flow of air around it. If you intend to install your
equipment into a cupboard or on a wall shelf unit, ensure that there is at least a ten centimeter (4
inch) gap between the ventilation slots and the walls all around the amplifier. The rear panel of
cupboards should have ventilation holes to prevent heat build-up. 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 when the amplifier is operated in accordance
with the instructions contained in this manual.

10
3. GETTING STARTED
3.1. Unpack and check the contents of the box.
i
ns
id
e
carton
outer
carton
tube
compartment
owner's manual and
warranty card
power cord
and tools remote
control
Package contents standard
- V 110 serial equipped with KT120 power tubes
- 5 power tubes packed separately
- Power cord
- Remote control with owner's manual
- 2 screwdrivers: 1 x 2 mm flat-bladed screwdriver for adjusting the BIAS
1 x 2.5 mm Allen key for removing the cover
- Owner's manual with warranty card
3.2. Removing the grille
1) For your own safety, make sure that the amplifier is not connected to power outlet.
2) Completely remove the 4 hexagonal screws using the Allan key supplied. There are 2 screws
on each side.
3) Carefully pull the grille upward to remove.

11
3. GETTING STARTED
3.3. Installing the power tubes
The power tubes are 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 V 110 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) Check that the Ecomode switch on the rear panel is in the "Eco off" position
2) Connect the V 110 to the mains. (On new units, this switch is set to "off" at the factory).
Ecomode
Eco
off Eco on Amp off
3) Switch on the V 110 using the amplifier’s mains power on/off switch.
Some LEDs will illuminate, depending on the position of the input rotary switch.
In any case the Power LED (indicates that the unit is switched on) and the Soft-Start LED will
be lit. The Soft-Start LED will extinguish a minute later once the unit has booted up. The V
110 is now ready for work.

12
3. GETTING STARTED
3.5. Checking the power tubes – setting the BIAS
4) Turn the mode selector knob clockwise to position 6 = BIAS. The input LEDs will extinguish.
5) Five LEDs will now illuminate: The power LED and the 4 BIAS LEDs in the center of the display,
one for each power tube. If the amplifier is still cold, the LEDs will initially illuminate "yellow".
Please wait five to ten minutes.
Please don't turn the BIAS regulators until the Soft-Start-LED is extinguished.
(Because the tubes are still cold you would adjust the wrong BIAS)
After an additional 5 to 10 minutes, the BIAS control LEDs will change from yellow to green.
This indicates the correct bias and the unit is ready. If you notice any irregularity in the display
please refer to chapter 7.3.
3.6. Connecting other components to the V 110
1) Be sure to switch off the V 110 again!
2) Connect the other components in your system to the appropriate sockets on the rear of the V
110. (See chapter 5 "Rear panel connections". See also chapter 3.7. "Connection options:
overview")
3) Check that the switch positions on the front and rear of the amplifier are in their recommended
settings.
4) Switch on the V 110 using the on/off switch and wait until the Soft-Start LED extinguishes.
Now you can play music.

13
3. GETTING STARTED
3.7. Connection options: overview

14
4. CONTROLS – the front panel
Power switch 0 = off; 1 = on. Power LED and Soft-Start LED illuminate. The Soft-
Start LED extinguishes after the start-up period of 50 seconds.
Input selector This is used to select the desired input signal. A blue LED indicates
the selected input on the display.
Pos 1: CD 1 RCA line level input for CD, SACD and similar
Pos 2: Tuner RCA line level input for tuner, etc.
Pos 3: Aux 1 RCA line level input for video, etc.
Pos 4: Aux 2 RCA line level input for video, etc.
Pos 5: CD 2 XLR line level input for CD, SACD or similar.
Pos 6: The electronic BIAS measurement system is
activated (see chap. 7.3).
Pos 7: Front Ch. Multichannel input. In this mode, the V 110
functions as a two-channel power amplifier. The
volume control is bypassed. (See chap. 6.4)
The record output is switched off in this position.
LED indicators Indicating the active input
BIAS adjustment BIAS regulators and corresponding LED array for each power tube

15
4. CONTROLS – the front panel
BIAS adjustment BIAS regulators and corresponding LED array for each power tube.
Remote control receiver To ensure optimum operation of the IR remote control, do not
cover this window.
Status indicators Power Indicates that the unit is switched on.
Protection Red LED lights up when the electronic protection
system has switched off the amplifier in response
to an amplifier fault (see chapter 6.1.).
Soft-start Lights up during the soft-start process immediately
after switch-on. This LED extinguishes after about
1 minute when soft-start has been completed (see
chapter 6.2.).
Front Ch. Illuminates when multichannel-bypass function is
selected (see chapter 6.5.).
Volume control Remote controlled motorized potentiometer.

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6. CONNECTIONS – the rear panel
Ecomode Eco off: Ecomode automatic is off.
Eco on: Ecomode automatic is on.
Amp off: The power stage of the amplifier is off
(see chap. 6.4.).
CD 1 CD line level input, RCA.
Tuner Tuner line level input, RCA.
AUX 2 RCA line level input for Video etc. or MM/MC input with Phono option.
AUX 1 RCA line level input for Video, etc.
Tape rec Record output for tape or DAT.
GND Ground connector for Turntable.
Front Channel Input for the front channel of a multichannel receiver / DVD player
(see chapter 6.4).
Pre Out Regulated preamp output for active subwoofer, etc. (see chapter 6.5.).
CD 2 CD line level input, XLR with Pin configuration for XLR connectors
(see next page 18)
Power Selector Sliding switch to adjust the output power of the V 110.
(see Chapter 6.1)
E
como
d
e
Eco
o
ff Eco
o
nAmp
o
ff

17
6. CONNECTIONS – the rear panel
CD 2 Pin configuration for XLR connectors (CD line level input,
XLR see previous page 17)
Loudspeaker outputs Speaker connection terminals.
Red = positive terminal, Black = negative terminal.
The speaker negative terminal is connected to ground.
(Super) Black Box
connection
The (Super) Black Box is an outboard power supply
capacitance upgrade for the power amplifier section (see
chapter 10).
You should switch off the V 110 using the power switch
before connecting and disconnecting the Black Box!
AC supply socket IEC socket with integrated fuse holder.
The fuse is located in a pullout compartment underneath the
socket. You can open the fuse compartment after removing
the mains plug.
Fuse For 230/240V: 4A slow-blow H (5 x 20 mm).
For 115/240V: 6.3A slow-blow H (5 x 20 mm).
For 100V: 6.3 A slow-blow H (5 x 20 mm).
Model identification plate Model and serial number.

18
6. ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
6.1. Power Selector, alternative output tubes
Position „HIGH“: KT120
Position „LOW“: KT88, 6550, KT90, KT100 (EL34 with Restrictions)
The Power Selector allows adjusting the V 110 in accordance to the output tubes. Position HIGH is
reserved for the standard KT 120 tubes. In the HIGH Position the V 110 is able to deliver up to 2 x
110 W RMS Output Power. The slightly weaker tubes type KT 88 or 6550 can be used in the
position LOW. In this position the maximum output power is limited to 2 x 70 W to avoid
overloading these tubes. The rather rare tubes of type KT 90 and KT 100 can be used also in the
LOW position.
The EL 34 can be used in the LOW Position in cases of speakers with impedance higher than 4
ohms.
Tubes of Type 6L6, KT 66, 5881, EL 519 and EL 156 are not suitable for the V 110.
Before switching the Power Selector turn OFF the mains push button switch
After switching from power LOW to HIGH and vice versa the BIAS should be corrected in case of
using the same output tubes. Normally there is only a slight correction necessary.
When using different tubes the BIAS has to adjust according to chapter 7.3

19
6. ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
6.2. Protection
The V 110 features a comprehensive electronic monitoring and protection system. This system will
automatically switch off the V 110 if case of a fault occurring in the power section.
The protection system has been designed to keep the unit safe from the consequences of
overloads of any kind and to protect the output tubes from current surges.
The red “Protection” LED lights up in [No. 6, chapter 4] to indicate that the protection system has
tripped.
The amplifier will not play music once the protection system has tripped and you will
not be able to check or adjust the BIAS setting.
The BIAS LEDs will show "yellow" for each of the four output tubes.
If a Black Box or a Super Black Box is connected to the V 110, the front panel (operate) LED of the
Black Box / Super Black Box will go out. If the Super Black Box is connected, tripping the protection
system will automatically activate the discharge circuit of the (Super) Black Box (see chapter 10).
The following conditions can cause the protection system to trip:
- Overdriving the V 110 to excessive levels or with excessive levels of low frequency.
- A speaker cable short circuit while the speakers are being driven at high listening levels.
- A fault in one or more of the output tubes.
- A fault in one of the preamp tubes which overloads the affected channel.
Once the protection system has cut in, the only way you can turn the V 110 back on is to turn the
on/off switch off and then on again. Allow the unit two minutes to cool down before switching it back
on. If possible, identify and eliminate the cause of the problem (see chapter 11 "Troubleshooting").
If it is not clear what has caused the protection system to trip, we recommend that you check the
BIAS before attempting to use the amplifier again. Tube faults can often result in widely varying
BIAS settings. When these settings exceed a particular value they can cause the protection system
to trip.
6.3. Soft-Start
The V 110 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 input stage voltages are constantly
monitored and controlled by the Power Management system to protect the vital internal parts
(tubes, rectifier, electrolytic caps, switches, etc.) against excessive turn-on current. This increases
the lifetime not only of the tubes, but also the caps, while all power related components derive
benefit through this system.
The Soft-Start is always activated within the first 60 seconds after the unit is switched on. During
this time you cannot listen. The Soft-Start delay is indicated with the Soft-Start-LED.
During the Soft-Start-phase, adjusting the BIAS is not possible.

20
6. ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
6.4. Ecomode
The Ecomode serves to reduce heat and unnecessary power consumption when the unit is
switched on but not in use. After 9 minutes without receiving signal, the V 110 Ecomode is
activated, turning down the power. In this “sleep” mode, the V 110 draws less than 20 W Idle
current. Therefore the running unit produces no heat, because the heater voltage and the high
voltage for the power amplifier section are switched off. When the music signal is once again
sensed by the V 110, the Ecomode circuit will turn the unit back on, with a warm-up/start-up delay
of approximately 35 seconds before the unit will operate.
The Ecomode also serves to increase the lifetime of the tubes, while having an added benefit of
improved safety allowing the V 110 owner a level of security against any problems when leaving
the unit powered on. The Ecomode is a safety and energy-saving feature that automatically
switches off the amplifier's tube circuitry during breaks of more than 9 minutes.
Ecomode reduces the overall power consumption of the amplifier to under 20W, compared with
140W in normal operation. When detecting a signal, the V 110 reactivates automatically and is
ready for use again within 30 seconds.
Rear panel switch settings
Ecomode
Eco
off Eco on Amp off
Eco off: The Ecomode electronic is off, the amplifier is on.
Eco on: The Ecomode electronic is activated. Ecomode is signal-actuated; after a 9-minute
silence, Ecomode switches in automatically. The soft-start LED [6] indicates that
the Ecomode was turning down the unit. As soon as the Ecomode circuit detects
the presence of an input signal (from the CD player, for example) it will
automatically power the V 110 up. The process takes approximately 30 seconds,
after which time the soft-start LED will extinguish to show that the V 110 is ready
for use.
Note:
If you switch on the V 110 with Ecomode active, it will go through the start
procedure. If it fails to detect a music signal, it will shut down after 10 minutes.
As well as saving electricity, Ecomode has a number of other advantages:
- Extended tube life
- Reduced heating of the whole unit
- Increased passive safety if the unit is left on by mistake
Ecomode is not the same as standby, however, because certain sections of the
amplifier remain on.
Important!
You cannot adjust the BIAS in Ecomode once the amplifier has powered
down! Powered down during Ecomode is indicated by the soft-start-LED.
Amp off: The power section of the amplifier is off.
This setting is recommended if only the input section is in use. For example, this
would make sense by using the V 110 as a distributor for a signal for an external
headphone amplifier perhaps. Record-Out and regulated Pre-Out is active. The
signal is not activating the Ecomode to turn on the power section.

21
6. ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
6.5. Front Channel Input - Bypass function
The Input labeled “Front Channel“ is coupled with a relay that bypasses the volume regulator. In
the “Front Channel” selector position, the V 110 functions as a stereo amplifier. The overall Gain of
the V 110 is reduced to 26dB in this position. The signal of the front channel input is not available
on the record output.
6.6. Regulated preamplifier output – Pre-Out
6.6.1. Using with a subwoofer
The regulated preamplifier output is most commonly used to drive an active subwoofer. The
Pre Out is decoupled via a separate buffer to prevent the V 110 against the load of the
subwoofer. The input impedance of the subwoofer is therefore non-critical.
The Pre Out does not have a separate muting function to prevent switch-on or switch-off plops from
the V 110. This is not normally needed, however, since the active crossover in the subwoofer
electronics will block unwanted DC and low frequency signals.
6.6.2. Using the V 110 in bi-amped systems
Another option provided by the adjustable Pre Out is bi-amping via the V 110's internal
preamplifier. The V 110 would ideally handle the mid/high portion of a bi-amping setup, using a
second power amplifier fitted with its own volume control to take care of the bass. In this
configuration, switch-on/switch-off noises from the Pre Out may prove to be a problem. The best
way to deal with this is to make sure switching on the V 110 at first, then the external power
amplifier - and when switching the units off do such in the reverse order.
If you do not have a power amplifier with a separate volume control, you should match the input
sensitivities (or gain) of each amplifier. You will normally find the gain listed in dB in the amplifier's
specification. The figures for each power amplifier should be within 2 dB of each other.
The ideal gain of the external power amplifier is 25 dB / +/-2 dB.
Configuration of the V 110 in bi-amped systems