Perreaux Silhouette SXH2 User manual

Silhouette SX
H2
Headphone Amplifier
Owners Manual

1
Perreaux Industries Limited makes no warranty for the use of its products, other
than those expressly contained in the warranty detailed herein. The Company
assumes no responsibility for any errors which may appear in this document,
reserves the ri ht to chan e products or specifications detailed herein at any time
without notice, and does not make any commitment to update the information
contained herein. No licenses to patents or other intellectual property of Perreaux
are ranted by the Company in connection with the sale of Perreaux products,
expressly or by implication.
mboob^ru
®
is a re istered trademark of Perreaux Industries Ltd.
Terms and product names in this document may be trademarks of others.

2
i
ii
i Introducing the
Perreaux Silhouette Series
Desi ned as a ran e of hi h quality, yet affordable modules; the
‘Silhouette’ series will compliment and enhance your existin
system.
Drawin on our extensive knowled e ained from more than a
quarter of a century of developin hi hest quality audio products,
the ‘Silhouette’ concentrates our le endary desi n and build
quality into a compact packa e without sacrificin performance.
The Perreaux ‘Silhouette’ series provides performance levels
never before seen in its class.
Key Features
 Class A si nal sta es
 Hi hest quality internal power supply featurin a custom
desi ned, fully shielded toroidal transformer and 22000µF
of smoothin capacitance
 Optimal internal layout incorporatin total separation
between channels
 Enhanced audio desi n featurin hi hest quality PCB and
minimal internal wirin
 Gain selection switch
 Line-out connections
 Hi h power output
 Stable down to 4Ω
 Dual stereo headphone jacks
 Compact
 Stylish
The Perreaux “Silhouette” series takes you even closer to the
elusive goal of “The Perfect Re-Creation of a Musical
Event”.
From all of us at Perreaux Industries Limited, thank you for
choosin the Perreaux Silhouette Series SXH2 Headphone
Amplifier.

3
ii
iiii
ii Important Safety Instructions
Note:
Please read all instructions carefully before attempting to
operate your Perreaux “Silhouette” SXH2 Headphone
Amplifier
ALWAYS switch off power to your system before attemptin to
connect or disconnect cables.
ALWAYS disconnect your system from the mains before
attemptin to clean your unit.
ALWAYS keep electrical equipment out of reach of children.
ALWAYS unplu sensitive electronic equipment durin
electrical storms.
NEVER disconnect the mains earth from the system.
NEVER operate the SXH2 with the cover removed.
NEVER use any liquid inside the SXH2.
NEVER bypass any fuse.
NEVER attempt to repair the SXH2. In the event of a problem,
please contact your Perreaux dealer.
NEVER expose the SXH2 to extremely hi h or low
temperatures.
NEVER operate this product in an explosive atmosphere.

4
iii
iiiiii
iii Table of Contents
i
ii
i Introducing the Perreaux Silhouette Series ....................................
ii
iiii
ii Important Safety Instructions............................................................. 3
iii
iiiiii
iii Table of Contents .................................................................................. 4
1
11
1 Unpacking and Placement .................................................................. 5
Instant Install .......................................................................................... 6
3
33
3 Front Panel Functions .......................................................................... 8
4
44
4 Rear Panel Functions ............................................................................ 9
5
55
5 Special Design Philosophies..............................................................11
6
66
6 Special Design Features .....................................................................13
7
77
7 Care and Maintenance .......................................................................15
8
88
8 Warranty Information ........................................................................16
9
99
9 Extended Warranty Registration Form..........................................17
10
1010
10 Troubleshooting Guide ......................................................................18
11
1111
11 Specifications........................................................................................ 0
1
11
1 Physical Dimensions............................................................................ 3
13
1313
13 Contact Details ..................................................................................... 4

5
1
11
1 Unpacking and Placement
Unpacking
Procedure
The SXH2 is packa ed for maximum protection. To open, sit the
box upri ht and cut the reinforced tape at the top of the box. The
product can now be removed.
Pull the foam protectin end-caps off either side of the unit and
remove the black material coverin .
The SXH2 Headphone amplifier is now unpacked and ready for
further installation.
Note:
Please retain all packaging material for future transport
Box
Contents
1 x SXH2 Headphone amplifier
1 x Product manual
3 x Performance analysis charts
1 x Detachable AC power cord
Placing Your
SXH
The SXH2 should enerally be placed close to your source
equipment, thus keepin interconnect cablin between the SXH2
and associated components as short as practical. This will reduce
the systems susceptibility to radio frequency interference and the
ne ative effects associated with lon cables.
Ventilation
Requirements
The SXH2 is a low power amplifier. Ventilation requirements
are not considered an important factor in product placement.
In the event that the SXH2 is to be incorporated into custom
cabinetry, please refer to the dimensional information provided in
the Physical Dimensions section of the manual (Chapter 12).

6
2
22
2 Instant Install
If you are like us, the first thin you will want to do is to play
your favourite piece of music throu h your new SXH2. The
followin instructions are written to enable you to achieve this as
quickly as possible. These are not comprehensive instructions,
but are desi ned to enable you to play music now!
Note:
Please take the time to read the SXH2 manual thoroughly
as it incorporates many features, which will enhance its
operation
Placement
The SXH2 is a sensitive low power amplifier and best results
will be achieved when placed away from potential interference
from other components and electrical devices, for example AC
mains cords/outlets, transformers, hi h power amplifiers,
computers, etc.
Place the SXH2 close or near the source component in order to
make as short a connection as possible.
Turn off associated components
This minimises the potential to dama e any other components
when connectin your SXH2 into the system.
Connect source to SXH
Connect the audio output from the source component to the
inputs at the rear of the SXH2. Refer to Chapter 4 for Rear Panel
information.
Connect headphones to SXH
Connect a set of headphones to one of the jacks on the front
panel. Refer to Chapter 3 for Front Panel information.
Note:
Make sure the nominal impedance of the headphones is
not lower than 8Ω
Switch on SXH
Insert the power cord supplied into the rear of the SXH2 and into
the wall. Switch on the socket at the wall and turn on the power
of the SXH2 by settin the power switch down.

7
Caution!
Prior to connecting the AC mains, please check the voltage
label on the rear panel to ensure that your unit conforms to
the power supply in your area Never attempt to connect
the unit to the incorrect voltage
Switch on source component
Power up your source component and start your favourite
recordin . Slowly increase the SXH2 volume to achieve a
comfortable listenin level.
CONGRATULATIONS!
Now that you have achieved your first objective, sit back, relax
and please read the rest of the manual at your own pace in your
favourite armchair whilst sippin a hot cup of coffee. You’ll find
the whole experience much more pleasurable whilst listenin to
music.

8
3
33
3 ront Panel unctions
Power LED
This blue LED indicates the power status of your SXH2
headphone amplifier.
Headphone Jacks
Two 6.35mm (¼”) stereo headphone jacks are provided,
allowin a second person to enjoy the pure sound offered by the
SXH2. The construction of the jacks makes for effortless,
crackle and pop-free insertion, and will ive a lifetime of
continuous contact performance.
Note:
Please ensure that the resulting impedance of the two
headphone sets is not below 8Ω Use the following
equation to calculate the total impedance: R
T
= (R
1
* R
2
) /
(R
1
+ R
2
)
Volume Control
The hi h-quality, machined aluminium knob is the sole user
interface, remindin the user at every touch of the superior build
quality desi ned into the SXH2. Volume control motion is
smooth and accurate, providin absolute control with near
infinite ain resolution.

9
4
44
4 Rear Panel unctions
Right and Left Line Inputs
Input from source component, accepts a standard unbalanced
input (RCA). The left channel connection is on the ri ht when
lookin from the rear, indicated by white inner rin . For more
information on input specifications, please refer to Chapter 11.
Gain Selection Switch
Select HIGH ain or LOW ain to provide the best possible
volume ran e for your particular headphones, enablin the
optimum listenin level to be achieved.
Serial Number/Voltage Label
The serial number is unique to your SXH2. Please record this
number and store it in a safe place. For any service related
enquiry, please be prepared to quote the product serial number to
Perreaux personnel or their service representative.
The volta e displayed in this area is the ONLY volta e that can
be accepted by the unit.
Caution!
Never attempt to connect the unit to the incorrect voltage
On/Off Switch
When operatin the switch down, power is applied to the SXH2.

10
AC Mains Input
An IEC-standard mains input is provided at the rear of the unit.
The AC cord set is removable, allowin it to be up raded at your
will.
Right and Left Line Outputs
Line level output, accepts a standard unbalanced input (RCA).
The left channel connection is on the ri ht when lookin from
the rear, indicated by white inner rin . For more information on
input specifications, please refer to Chapter 11.

11
5
55
5 Special Design Philosophies
Perreaux has been desi nin and manufacturin only the hi hest
quality audio componentry for more than a quarter of a century.
Technolo y has continued to evolve rapidly over that time and
our knowled e and application of desi n, materials and
manufacturin techniques has advanced in tandem with this.
Today’s Perreaux ran e comes closer to fulfillin our shared
vision than at any other time in the past.
The SXH2 has been developed to meet customer demands for
compact hi her quality products. Careful attention has been
taken throu hout the development phase, not to make
compromises that would de rade the hi h quality of reproduction
that the unit is capable of deliverin .
To follow is a discussion on some of Perreaux desi n
philosophies that have been incorporated into the entire ran e.
Minimalist
Design
Leadin British architect, John Pawson, writes:
“The Minimum can be defined as the perfection
that an object achieves when it is no longer
possible to improve it by subtraction. This is the
quality that an object has when every component,
every detail, and every junction has been reduced
or condensed to the essentials. t is the result of
the omission of the inessentials”.
Perreaux has historically embraced the minimalist ethic from an
audio desi n perspective only. The concept of “less equatin to
more” has been at the heart of all Perreaux audio desi ns for
more than a quarter of a century. Our current product offerin
takes the minimalist ethic to new levels by totally embracin the
concept.
Minimalist Electronics
We wish to maximise the quality of your listenin pleasure by
keepin the componentry and si nal path as uncluttered, short
and clean possible. All components in the si nal path, even those
of the hi hest quality have an effect on the si nal, thereby
alterin the quality of the reproduction in some way. Our aim is
to recreate in its entirety, the ori inal performance by not addin
or subtractin anythin , irrespective of the source.

12
Minimalist Aesthetics
Our products appeal to those who seek the ultimate in audio
exclusivity, namely the perfect blend of “form and function”.
“Form and function” are both tou h masters. We make no
excuses for producin some of the most distinctive hi h-end
audio products on the planet. We let “form and function” blend
to ether in perfect harmony. This surely is the essence of true
minimalist utilisation.
Minimalism in a Wider Context
John Pawson writes:
“Clearly simplicity has dimensions to it that go
beyond the purely aesthetic: it can be seen as the
reflection of some innate, inner quality, or the
pursuit of philosophical or literary insight into the
nature of harmony, reason, and truth”.

13
6
66
6 Special Design eatures
Construction
The beautifully styled curvin front panel is milled from solid
6.0mm (0.2”) thick aluminium extrusion and finished in a satin
chrome electroplate. The front panel also features the
mboob^ru
®
lo o machined into the solid aluminium. The
chassis and cover are both manufactured from heavy au e steel.
No cover fixin screws are visible. The “Silhouette” SXH2 is
stylish yet functional and exhibits typical hallmarks of the
Perreaux brand.
Circuit
Topology
The Power
Supply
The SXH2 has an internal power supply. These desi ns are
invariably more sophisticated than those featurin external plu -
in power packs. Special attention must be paid to shieldin ,
supply transformer desi n, capacitance and earthin .
Perreaux has specially developed a fully shielded internal
toroidal power supply. A total of 22000µF of smoothin
capacitance and low pass RC filters are employed to provide a
“rock-solid”, super low ripple, linear DC power supply.

14
Single
Channel
Block
Diagram
Input Stage
Utilisin a stable current source, alon with accurate current
mirrorin circuitry, the input sta e of the SXH2, in combination
with the overall circuit topolo y, provides precise detail
resolution and definitive sonic transparency.
PCB Layout
Special attention has been lavished on the PCB layout. The unit
is symmetrical in desi n with each channel bein isolated from
the other. The super clean custom desi ned power supply is
physically se re ated from the rest of the sensitive electronics.
Signal
Ground
Special attention has been paid to round planes to maintain
sonic purity. All si nal roundin is optimised to provide a
platform for a black back round and increased dynamic ran e.
Gain
Selection
Two ain settin s are available, enablin optimum performance
and listenin levels to be achieved from both hi h and low
impedance headphones.
High Power
Output
The output sta e is capable of deliverin 1.0W
RMS
per channel
into a 64Ω load and is stable down to 4Ω, enablin the SXH2 to
effortlessly drive a vast array of headphones with the control and
authority that people have come to expect from Perreaux
products.
Dual
Outputs
Two stereo headphone jacks ive the option of connectin two
sets of headphones, allowin another party to be enveloped by
the detailed and dynamic musicality of the SXH2.
Note:
Please ensure that the resulting impedance of the two
headphone sets is not below 8Ω Use the following
equation to calculate the total impedance: R
T
= (R
1
* R
2
) /
(R
1
+ R
2
)

15
7
77
7 Care and Maintenance
Note:
Please switch the unit off and remove the cord set from the
rear of the Headphone Amplifier before attempting to
clean your SXH2 in the manner described below
Never apply liquid directly to the SXH2
Never use abrasives
Never rub in a circular motion
Cover
The cover features a durable hi h quality powder coat finish. To
remove fin er marks and dirt, li htly rub the surface with a soft
cloth.
If the dirt is not removed, dip your cloth in a mild solution of
soap and water, squeeze excess moisture from it and then ently
reapply to the surface.
Stubborn dirt may be removed by the application of a small
quantity of isopropyl alcohol, applied directly to the cleanin
cloth only, and reworkin the effected area.
Front Panel
The SXH2 front panel features a hi h quality electroplate finish.
Over time the surface may retain fin er marks and may need to
be cleaned to restore it to ori inal condition.
Regular Cleaning
Gently wipe the front panel with a very clean cotton cloth. Wipe
across the surface and never in a circular motion.
Removing Stubborn Marks
Only attempt this infrequently, as too re ular or vi orous
application may dama e the surface.
Apply a small quantity of any car polish containin carnauba
wax to a very clean cotton cloth.
Note:
The car polish must state “Safe for Clear Coats” as the polish
will therefore contain the absolute minimum amount of
abrasive compound
Gently wipe over the front panel in lateral motion, allow to dry
then ently wipe off with a very clean cotton cloth.

16
8
88
8 Warranty Information
1 Year
Limited
Warranty
The Perreaux SXH2 is warranted free from defects in material
and workmanship under normal use for a period of 1-year (365
days) from the date of purchase.
To extend the warranty of the Perreaux SXH2 to three (3) years
from date of purchase, please return a fully completed warranty
re istration form alon with a copy of the ori inal receipt of
purchase to:
Perreaux Industries Ltd.
PO Box 305
Mos iel
Dunedin 9053
New Zealand
For the Extended Warranty Re istration Form, please refer to
Chapter 9.
3 Year
Extended
Warranty
The extended warranty for the Perreaux SXH2 is three (3) years
from the date of purchase. If durin the warranty period the
SXH2 exhibits defects in materials and/or workmanship, it will
be repaired or replaced, at our option, without char e for either
parts or labour, at our factory in New Zealand. The warranty
does not apply to any unit that has been misused, abused or
altered.
Any unit that is not performin satisfactorily may be returned to
the factory in New Zealand for evaluation. Return authorisation
must first be obtained by either callin or writin to Perreaux
prior to shippin the unit. Perreaux Industries Ltd. and its
authorised distributors and dealers shall not be held liable for any
frei ht or insurance char es. Frei ht and insurance char es to
and from the Perreaux factory will be the sole responsibility of
the owner of the unit.
There is no other express warranty on the SXH2. Neither this
warranty nor any other warranty, express or implied, includin
any implied warranties of merchantability of fitness, shall extend
beyond the warranty period. No responsibility is assumed for
any incidental or consequential dama es.
Obtaining
Service
In the event that you are experiencin difficulty with your SXH2,
please as a first step consult the troubleshootin uide in Chapter
10. For further assistance, please contact your Perreaux dealer.

17
9
99
9 Extended Warranty
Registration orm
Please complete this form and either fax, mail or e-mail it, alon
with a copy of the ori inal receipt, to Perreaux Industries Ltd.
Fax: [phone]
Mail: Perreaux Industries Ltd.
PO Box 305
Mos iel
Dunedin 9053
New Zealand
E-mail: [e-mail]
Alternatively, complete the online Warranty Re istration Form
on our website – www.perreaux.com.

3 Year Extended
Warranty orm
Name:
Address:
Suburb:
City:
Country:
Telephone:
E-mail:
Website:
Product:
S
I
L
H
O
U
E
T
T
E
S
X
H
2
Serial No:
Dealer:
Purchase Date:
/
/
d
d
m
m
y
y
y
y

18
10
1010
10 Troubleshooting Guide
Please use this uide if you are experiencin any problems with
the SXH2 in your system. It will provide possible solutions for
some iven symptoms.
There is no
output from
my system
SXH2 not turned on
Make sure the SXH2 power switch is in the DOWN position.
AC cord not plugged in
Check that the AC cord is plu ed into the IEC socket on the rear
of the SXH2.
Mains power not turned on
Check if the power is turn on at the mains socket on the wall.
Interconnect cables not connected
Make sure that the input and output interconnect cables are
plu ed in and are connected to the respective RCA sockets on
the rear of the SXH2.
Source not turned on
Check that your source component is plu ed in to the mains and
the power is turned on.
Source not set to play
Ensure that your source component is playin the recordin you
would like to listen to, and that pause is not pressed.
No volume setting
Make sure that the volume on your SXH2 is set to a suitable
level.
SXH2 set to incorrect input
Confirm that the input on your SXH2 is connected to the
appropriate source output.
Headphones not connected
Check that your headphones are firmly inserted into the jacks on
the front of the SXH2.

19
I can hear a
hum coming
through my
headphones
Input and/or output sockets corroded
Check that the input and output RCA sockets on the rear of the
SXH2 are free from corrosion.
Interconnect cables damaged
Make sure that the inte rity of your interconnect cables is sound
and they are firmly connected to your source and the SXH2.
SXH2 is close to external interference
Check the proximity of your SXH2 to any possible source of
EMI and/or RF interference, for example computers, televisions,
amplifiers, speakers, etc. Ideally the SXH2 should be placed as
close as possible to your source.
Earth loop in system
If your preamplifier and/or amplifier have an earth/ round lift
switch, to le it and check which settin sounds better. The
si nal round of the SXH2 is isolated from earth by default, this
means that there needs to be a connection to earth elsewhere in
your system to alleviate hum.
The volume
control is at
maximum
and output
level too low
Gain setting too low
To le the ain confi uration switch at the rear of the SXH2 UP
to the HIGH ain position. Make sure you turn down the volume
before chan in this settin .
The volume
control is
too sensitive
Gain setting too high
To le the ain confi uration switch at the rear of the SXH2
DOWN to the LOW ain position.