Plinius P10 User manual

The heart of music
www.pliniusaudio.com
P10
Power Amplifier
Instruction Manual

Contents
Introduction ...............................................................................................................2
Design Philosophy ...............................................................................................3
Unpacking ....................................................................................................................4
Placement & Ventilation ....................................................................................4
Care & Maintenance............................................................................................5
Precautions ................................................................................................................6
Front Panel Functions ........................................................................................6
Rear Panel Functions .........................................................................................7
Installation & Operation ....................................................................................9
Product Features ..................................................................................................12
Loudspeaker Selection .....................................................................................13
Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................14
Specifications ..........................................................................................................15
Index ................................................................................................................................16
All operational, technical and descriptive material in this publication
is subject to change at any time without notice. For further product
information or queries, please contact your Plinius dealer.
Plinius products are designed and manufactured by
Plinius Audio Limited, New Zealand.

2
PLINIUS P10
Introduction
Congratulations on your decision to become the proud owner of this
Plinius P10 Power Amplifier.
This manual has been prepared to help you understand the operation of your amplifier,
and to provide information about its design and the variety of ways it may be used.
We have designed and manufactured this amplifier to reproduce your favourite music
faithfully and accurately. With a little care and a full understanding of the operating
recommendations in this manual, your Plinius P10 Power Amplifier will provide years of
high-quality, trouble-free performance.
Please take the time to read this manual thoroughly before using your amplifier.
SERIAL NUMBER
FINAL TEST CERTIFIED BY

3
POWER AMPLIFIER
Design Philosophy
From a distance you can see that the design of the Plinius products is more than
an applied styling exercise to the front panel. We have started from the ground up
to produce a casing for our electronics that is unrivalled in its physical strength and
visual simplicity.
Wherever possible we have reduced the number of parts needed and then invested
massively in refining and producing the remaining parts to the highest quality
achievable with state of the art computer controlled machines allied with expert
craftsman. Examples of this approach include the hydraulically formed corners on
the amplifiers giving much greater strength and the one piece housing for the remote
control that looks, feels and genuinely is robust.
As with music that you are not familiar with, truly innovative new designs can take time
to understand and enjoy. How often have you heard music that you were first unsure
of, that over repeated listening, has become a firm favourite?
Our designs are fundamentally different to many other companies, and we hope that
you will take the time to explore their unique character and qualities because we have
not made them different simply to be different. We genuinely believe that their visual
and tactile qualities do improve the experience of listening to music and that is our
design goal!
Ross Stevens
DESIGN DIRECTOR

4
PLINIUS P10
Unpacking
Open the box from the top and remove the accessories from the foam end caps.
You may now proceed to lift the unit from the box, Once the unit is removed you can
proceed with the removal of the foam end caps. These caps are designed to fit on
the front and back of the unit for maximum protection. Retain the packaging for future
transportation of this unit.
Placement & Ventilation
This Plinius product may operate at a moderately high temperature, especially
during extended listening sessions. With this in mind, we recommend the following
guidelines for placement and ventilation:
• The ideal location is upon a rigid stand, away from direct contact with any
temperature sensitive materials, furniture or deep pile carpets.
• Ventilation through and around the amplifier should be kept unimpeded.
• Ensure heat vents (slots in the base and lid) are not covered or restricted in any way.
• Equipment racks should be of an open type with no closed side panels and no
closed front or rear panels. Ensure a minimum of 100mm clearance on all sides of
your Plinius unit to other equipment and the shelf above.
• If the unit is in an enclosed cabinet, the clearance should be greater than 400mm
on all sides. Ensure the space between the chassis and shelf below the unit is
unobstructed at all times.
• When stacking separate audio components, ensure a minimum of 400mm
clearance above the top unit is maintained for suitable airflow.
• NOTE: This unit has been designed for use in moderate climates only, not for tropical
conditions.
The design of this Plinius product incorporates a very high level of mechanical
decoupling of the input and output. It can however still be influenced by acoustical
feedback in the operating environment. The use of acoustic cones or a suitably
spiked amplifier stand or table may further enhance the performance of this amplifier.
Consult your Plinius dealer for further advice if required.

5
POWER AMPLIFIER
Care & Maintenance
With simple care and maintenance your Plinius product can be kept looking and
operating like new for many years to come.
MAINTAINING THE CONNECTORS
Exposed connectors such as the RCA connectors will be subject to environmental
factors, and over time the surface may degrade. This can be greatly reduced by fitting
readily available ‘RCA caps’ to reduce the effects of environmental elements on the RCA
connectors. These RCA caps or RCA shorting caps can also provide sonic benefits.
Connector cleaning products are also available to clean the RCA and cable connectors
and frequent checks and cleaning will help maintain a good signal connection.
NOTE: DO NOT use RCA shorting caps on output connectors or power amplifier input
connectors. Use RCA shorting caps on unused preamplifier stage input connectors only.
Standard RCA shielding caps can be used on any unused input or output connectors.
MAINTAINING THE SWITCHES
Switches should be maintained by using each various switch setting periodically.
Even if a switch or a switch setting is not used, it is a good idea to toggle small
switches and turn rotary switches though the full range of the switch several times in
succession to keep the contacts active. Performing this simple action will promote
longevity of the switch contacts.
SURFACE CLEANING
From time to time you may wish to clean the surface of your Plinius equipment to
remove dust, or any material build up from the atmosphere or on commonly used
controls. Your Plinius product is made up of parts that have a hard anodised or a
powder coat finish and will clean easily without being damaged.
Cleaning should be carried out using a soft cleaning cloth, dry or with either a small
amount of water or a very mild surface cleaner, while observing the following guidelines:
• As a safety precaution, always switch the equipment off prior to cleaning
• Always use a cloth that is soft and clean
• Never use abrasives or polishing compounds anywhere on the unit
• Never apply liquid directly to the surface of the unit
• Use the cloth dry or with mild surface cleaners of either liquid or foaming type
• Apply only small amounts of cleaner to the cloth
• DO NOT rub the surface but wipe clean only. Excessive rubbing may dull powder
coat or wear the screen printed text.

6
PLINIUS P10
Precautions
PLEASE TAKE SPECIAL NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS
BEFORE OPERATING YOUR NEW AMPLIFIER.
• The Plinius P10 Power Amplifier can deliver in excess of 200 watts into 8 ohms.
This amplifier is also capable of a very large peak current delivery.
• The Plinius P10 Power Amplifier operates in Class AB. It is capable of generating
heat that could have an adverse effect on other electronic equipment, furniture, etc.
• DO NOT leave flammable material on the amplifier whilst running, as this could
pose a serious fire risk.
• This amplifier operates at hazardous voltage levels. There are some alterations that
may be made by you, the owner, however, we recommend that any work requiring
removal of the lid be referred to a suitably qualified & experienced service technician.
• DO NOT attempt to connect any input of this amplifier to its own outputs.
• DO NOT earth any output terminal or connect any of these terminals together
without following the instructions in this manual or seeking qualified assistance.
• DO NOT place this amplifier in any position where liquids, or any foreign material
may accidentally enter it.
• DO NOT connect any voltage source, short circuit, earth/ground or appliance
(other than suitable high fidelity loudspeakers) to the amplifier output terminals.
• DO NOT expose the unit to dripping or splashing.
• DO NOT place objects filled with liquids on the unit, e.g. vases.
• DO NOT place sources of naked flame on the unit, e.g. candles.
Front Panel Functions
1. DISPLAY LED
The LED on the front panel indicates the mode of operation. When first switched on,
the display LED will vary in brightness until the initialisation sequence is completed,
after which the LED remains lit. Whenever the remote trigger is activated to switch
the unit to standby, the LED will vary in brightness.
1

7POWER AMPLIFIER
Rear Panel Functions
This panel incorporates the terminals for connecting the input signal from a
preamplifier, outputs to the loudspeakers, and mains supply. Please remember that
your Plinius P10 Power Amplifier is a high quality electronic instrument capable of
an exceptional level of performance. Be sure that you understand your system’s
requirements fully before you make any connection to this amplifier.
1. MAINS SWITCH
The heavy-duty rocker switch in the centre of the panel turns the Mains/Line Power to
the amplifi er ON or OFF. The amplifi er draws a moderately high current when switched
on, so it is not good practice to rapidly turn the Mains switch on and off repeatedly.
2. INPUT TERMINALS
The input terminals for your Plinius P10 Power Amplifier are easily accessible at the
centre of the rear panel.
RCA INPUTS LEFT & RIGHT: These standard RCA terminals are for use with
unbalanced signals from most signal sources such as audio preamplifiers.
XLR BALANCED INPUTS LEFT & RIGHT: XLR connectors fitted to this amplifier are for
use with balanced line signals from audio preamplifiers. Balanced signals are carried
via a three way cable.
The XLR pin configuration used in all Plinius product is:
PIN 1 to GND
PIN 2 to +Signal
PIN 3 to –Signal
NOTE: Because of the way our XLR and balanced inputs are configured it is not
possible to connect both XLR and RCA at the same time.
1
2 2
3
8
7
5
6
4 4

8
PLINIUS P10
3. INPUT SELECTION SWITCH
This switch at the centre of the inputs is used to select the pair of input sockets
required as described above. Up selects the RCA input connections, while down
selects XLR input.
4. OUTPUT TERMINALS
Connections for the loudspeakers are provided on the left and right sides of the rear
panel. Two parallel pairs of five way binding posts for each channel are fitted – these
provide ease of use with bi-wiring and multiple cables requiring a large contact area.
5. GROUND LIFT SWITCH
This switch is located below the remote trigger terminals, and allows the signal
ground to be disconnected from the chassis. In some installations a hum loop
may exist due to duplicate ground paths from different equipment. Use this switch
to remove the connection from 0V to ground thus allowing some flexibility in your
particular set-up.
6. REMOTE TRIGGER TERMINALS
In order to integrate more effectively into a home theatre system, the Plinius P10 has
remote trigger terminals fitted to the rear panel. By connecting a processor with a
remote trigger signal to these terminals, the P10 can be put in and out of standby by
the processor to which it is connected. When in standby, the amplifier draws less
current and will operate at minimum temperature. The output relays are also open,
disconnecting the loudspeakers. This may be of advantage in a multi-amplifier and/or
remote installations. The standby mode can only be activated via the remote trigger
terminals. Polarity of the connections to the remote trigger is not important.
7. MAINS POWER CORD IEC SOCKET
This connector is where the mains supply cable from your wall connects to the
amplifier. You will notice that a fuse holder is mounted within this connection, and it
holds a mains fuse to provide surge and overload protection for your amplifier.
8. RAIL FUSES
These tubular fuse holders house the positive and negative rail protection fuses.
Depress and turn anti-clockwise to open. An LED is fitted next to each fuse holder to
indicate a blown fuse.

9POWER AMPLIFIER
Installation & Operation
WARNING: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. TERMINALS MARKED WITH
SHOULD BE CONSIDERED HAZARDOUS LIVE AT ALL TIMES.
This amplifier operates at hazardous voltage levels. We recommend that any work
requiring removal of the lid be referred to a suitably qualified and experienced service
technician. DO NOT place this amplifier in any position where liquids or any foreign
material may accidentally enter it.
PLEASE READ & UNDERSTAND THE PRECAUTIONS WITHIN THIS MANUAL
FOR CORRECT PLACEMENT & OPERATION OF THIS PRODUCT.
CONNECTIONS
Connections to your P10 Integrated Amplifier should be made in the same order
as they are listed in this section. DO NOT attempt to connect your P10 Integrated
Amplifier until you have read and fully understood these instructions. Although these
instructions refer to the connection of a preamplifi er, the P10 can also be safely installed
into multimedia systems by following the same installation guidelines. Should you
require any further assistance, please contact your Plinius dealer.
DO NOT POWER UP YOUR AMPLIFIER UNTIL YOU HAVE CONNECTED
YOUR INPUT/OUTPUTS CORRECTLY FOR YOUR SYSTEM.
PREAMPLIFER INPUTS
Connect your preamplifi er to the input of the Plinius P10 using suitable single-ended RCA
or Balanced XLR interconnect cables only. If using single-ended RCA inputs, connect
your preamplifi er to the RCA inputs on the back of the Plinius P10. Make sure you
connect the red coded cable to the red RIGHT RCA input, and the black (or white) cable
to the white LEFT RCA input. Also make sure the RCA connectors are a snug fi t and are
inserted all the way in. For XLR input connection, make sure you connect the RIGHT XLR
input and LEFT XLR inputs to the right and left outputs from your preamplifi er respectively.
Use the Amplifi er Confi guration Selector switch to select RCA STEREO if you are using
unbalanced RCA inputs or to select XLR STEREO if you are using balanced XLR inputs.
NOTE: DO NOT connect XLR and RCA at the same time, use only one or the other.
PREAMPLIFIER OUTPUTS P10 INPUTS

10 PLINIUS P10
LOUDSPEAKER OUTPUTS
The connection of your loudspeakers to the output posts of the Plinius P10 must be
made by an ‘instructed person’ or by ready made loudspeaker cables only. Connect
your left loudspeaker (ie. the one on your left when seated in your normal listening
position) to the left output terminals, ensuring that the red positive (+) terminal on the
amplifier is connected to the red positive (+) terminal on your loudspeaker. Do the
same with the black or negative (-) terminals. Repeat this process for the right outputs.
TERMINATION QUALITY
Quality of the connections must be examined to ensure that high performance
trouble free operation is enjoyed. Check that the connections are tight but do not
over tighten. If bare wires are used make sure that no loose strands of wire short
cross the other terminals or the amplifier chassis. When using plugs such as
bananas, be sure to use good quality plugs with a firm fit.
BI-WIRING
Bi-wiring uses two pairs of loudspeaker cables for each channel loudspeaker. You will
notice that the rear panel of your Plinius P10 has two pairs of output terminals for this
purpose. Be sure to follow correct practises for stereo and mono configurations when
using bi-wiring.
PHASING (OR POLARITY)
It is important to achieve good stereo imaging in your listening room. By observing
the wiring instructions above, each Power Amplifier/loudspeaker combination should
be in phase. If you experience poor stereo image and/or a lack of bass, check that
the loudspeaker wiring has been connected correctly. We recommend that you use
one of the easily obtainable ‘test discs’ to help you ensure both phasing and channel
orientation are correct. If in doubt, consult your Plinius dealer for advice.
To achieve a sound performance that is correctly aligned to your room, make sure all
of the leads carrying signals for the right channel loudspeaker are connected to the
right input to the amplifier from your preamplifier or CD player etc. Signals for the left
channel should be wired in a similar fashion.
+ RIGHT – OUTPUTS – LEFT +RIGHT SPEAKER LEFT SPEAKER

11
POWER AMPLIFIER
CONNECTING THE MAINS SUPPLY
Firstly, check that the mains supply voltage printed on the rear of this amplifier is
similar to the mains supply voltage in your area. If in doubt, please consult your
Plinius dealer. Mains supply power connection is via the plug-in lead supplied with
your Plinius P10. Where possible, check the wall outlet is switched OFF, then connect
the local mains plug end of the lead to the wall outlet. Check the P10 is switched OFF,
and connect the IEC end of the cable to the IEC socket at the back of the P10. With
the cord fully connected, switch the wall outlet ON.
Now that your Plinius P10 is configured correctly, switch the power switch on the rear
panel to ON. The display LED will cycle in brightness for approximately ten seconds as
the internal circuitry stabilises. You can now enjoy your new Plinius P10 Power Amplifier.
NOTE: This unit must be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing
connection. The wall outlet socket or P10 mains switch must be accessible at all
times in case of emergency.
WARM-UP PERIOD
You will find that the Plinius P10 will become noticeably ‘purer’ in sound after being on
for a period of time. We recommend waiting at least 24 hours before expecting the
best quality of sound reproduction from your amplifier.

12
PLINIUS P10
Product Features
FUSE PROTECTION
When any rail fuse is damaged one or more fuse warning LED’s will light. These
LED’s are located next to the fuse that has blown. To replace the fuse, steady the
amplifier, then firmly push in the round fuse cap with your fingers. When the cap
cannot push in any further, rotate the cap anti-clockwise (to the left) until it comes to a
stop. Release inward pressure on the fuse cap and it can now be removed from the
amplifier. Replace them with the same type only.
To re-fit the fuse, insert the fuse and gently turn it as far as possible anti-clockwise (to
the left). Now push the fuse cap in firmly, then turn clockwise (to the right) until it comes
to a stop. Release inward pressure on the cap and the fuse will be fitted securely.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT FIT A FUSE WITH A HIGHER RATING.
Note that fuse failure may indicate a severe problem. Check all speakers and
speaker cables for damage/short circuit, etc. Should the amplifier continue to suffer
rail fuse failure, contact your Plinius dealer.
MAINS/LINE FUSE
A Mains/Line fuse is fitted within the IEC socket on the rear of the amplifier. A small
drawer at the bottom of this socket may be removed (after the IEC plug is removed)
by levering it out with a flat blade screwdriver. The fuse fitted should be rated as
specified on the rear panel.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT FIT A FUSE WITH A HIGHER RATING.
In the unusual event that this fuse should blow, you must first establish the cause of
this failure (such as power surges, damaged mains cable, etc) before replacing the
fuse with one of the same rating and type. Should the amplifier continue to suffer
mains fuse failure, contact your Plinius dealer.
OVER TEMPERATURE PROTECTION
The P10 Power Amplifier is fitted with an auto-reset thermal sensor. The sensor
is located at the main power transformer and should the transformer internal
temperature exceed 110°C (230°F) the power will be disconnected from the unit. The
unit will remain off until the temperate has reduced significantly, and then the sensor
will automatically reset to the ON state.
If Over Temperature Protection occurs you should switch the unit off immediately. Check
the placement of the unit and ensure there is adequate airflow above and around the
unit. Refer to the Placement & Ventilation section on page 4 for further information.

13
POWER AMPLIFIER
Loudspeaker Selection
Your Plinius P10 Power Amplifier is designed for use with high fidelity loudspeakers. It
should not be used to operate any other type of appliance or equipment.
Choice of loudspeakers is one of personal taste, providing the chosen loudspeakers
are suitable for use with your amplifier. Be certain that your loudspeakers can
handle most of the rated output power of this amplifier. You may find loudspeaker
specifications confusing or misleading, so you should discuss this with your audio
dealer prior to purchase. As a general rule, the use of high power (200 Watt RMS
or greater) loudspeakers is recommended and desirable. However, our experience
indicates that medium to low power loudspeakers (100 to 200 Watt RMS) are quite
often suitable for use on this amplifier, provided the volume is maintained at a level
where no distortion is audible.
Impedance of the loudspeaker load is important to ensure the rated performance of
this amplifier. Any combination of loudspeakers may be used, but the total average
impedance load for each channel should be within a range of 4 to 8 ohms. Again,
if you have doubts about the impedance of your loudspeaker configuration, we
recommend you speak to your Plinius dealer.

14
PLINIUS P10
Troubleshooting
NO SOUND FROM THE UNIT
If the unit is not reproducing audio take the following steps:
• Check the Preamplifier is correctly connected to an appropriate input on the Unit.
• Check the source is playing, and not paused or muted. If it has adjustable
volume, check this is at the usual output level.
• Check the preamplifier is set to select the correct source input. Adjust the source
selector for the correct source component.
• Check the volume. Turn the unit volume on the preamplifier up to a point just
below the normal listening level. DO NOT turn the volume up to maximum in case
the sound begins to come through the speakers.
• Check the unit is not in Standby. If the Display LED is varying in brightness, this
indicates the unit is in Standby mode. The Display LED should be full brightness
for operational mode.
SOUND IS QUIET OR DISTORTED
If the sound is quiet or distorted a rail fuse may have failed. While the unit is ON
check the fuses in the rear panel. A Red LED being on will indicate a fuse failure. If the
fuse has failed, see Fuse Protection in the Product Features section of this manual.
NOTE: If the unit immediately or repeatedly suffers rail fuse failure, there may be a
major problem and you should contact your Plinius dealer.
POWER FAILURE
The unit may have suffered mains fuse failure or be in thermal overload protection mode.
• Mains Fuse Failure: Check the mains fuse and replace if needed.
• Thermal Overload Protection: Assess the temperature of the unit. If the unit seems
excessively hot, the Over Temperature Protection may have activated.
Refer to the Product Features section for further information.
NOTE: If the unit immediately or repeatedly suffers mains fuse failure or thermal
overload protection, there may be a major problem and you should contact your
Plinius dealer.

15
POWER AMPLIFIER
Specifications
POWER
200 watts RMS per channel into 8 ohms.
Both channels driven from 20Hz to 20kHz at
less than 0.2% total harmonic distortion.
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
20Hz to 20kHz +/–2dB
–3dB at 5Hz and –3dB at 70kHz
DISTORTION
Typically <0.05% THD at rated power
0.2% THD and IM worst case prior to clipping
CURRENT OUTPUT
40A short duration peak per channel
Fuse protected
SLEWING
50V/µs
HUM & NOISE
90dB below rated output 20Hz to 20kHz
unweighted
GAIN
RCA Inputs: 32dB
XLR Inputs: 38dB
INPUT IMPEDANCE
47k ohms
POWER/CURRENT CONSUMPTION
600VA
0.4A (92W) Class AB Idle
0.01A (2.3W) Standby
DIMENSIONS
Height: 120mm (4.75")
Width: 450mm (17.75")
Depth: 400mm (15.75")
Weight: 14kg (30lbs)

16
PLINIUS P10
Index
Bi-wiring .........................................................................................................10
Care & Maintenance...........................................................................5
Display LED.................................................................................................6
Front Panel Layout ...............................................................................6
Fuse Protection .......................................................................................8, 12
Ground Lift Switch ................................................................................8
IEC Power Connector ........................................................................8, 11
Input Terminals ........................................................................................7, 9
Loudspeaker Impedance ..............................................................13
Loudspeaker Power ............................................................................13
Mains/Line Fuse .....................................................................................12
Mains Supply Connection .............................................................11
Mains Switch .............................................................................................7
Operating Temperature....................................................................4
Output Terminals ...................................................................................8, 10
Over Temperature Protection ......................................................12
Phasing ..........................................................................................................10
Placement ...................................................................................................4
Rail Fuses ....................................................................................................8, 12
Rear Panel Layout.................................................................................7
Safety Precautions ...............................................................................6
Serial Number ..........................................................................................2
Terminations ..............................................................................................10
Troubleshooting ......................................................................................14
Ventilation .....................................................................................................4, 6
Warm-Up Period .....................................................................................11