Redx sapphire iii User manual

Owner’s Manual
4-Channel Network Audio Power Amplifier
Sapphire III
Sapphire III Base
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4 Channels DSP Power Amplifier
Sapphire III
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Sapphire III
Sapphire III Base

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Sapphire III (Base) amplifier features
Welcome
Important Safety Instructions
Installations
Dante™ Network
Sapphire III Base Digital Signal Processor (DSP)
Block Diagrams
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Connections
Specifications
Dimensions
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9
Front Panel
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Rear Panel
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Sapphire III Base User Interface Introductions
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Getting Started
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Setting Up System
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FAQs
Table Of Contents
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Sapphire III
（Base）Power Amplifier
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Notes

Important Safety Instructions
Logo referenced in Directive 2002/96/EC Annex
IV(OJ(L)37/38,13.02.03 and defined in EN 50419:2005
The bar is the symbol for marking of new waste
and is applied only to equipment manufactured
after 13 August 2005
Correct Disposal of this product. This marking indicates that this
product should not be disposed with other house hold wastes
throughout the EU. To prevent possible harm to the environment or
human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, recycle it responsibly
to promote the sustainable reuse of material resources. To return your
used device, please use the return and collection systems, or contact
the retailer where the product was purchased. They can take this
product for environmental safe recycling.
Safety factors are fully aware during apparatus design and production. Your safety can be guaranteed. Improper
use may cause potential fire or electric shock. In order to avoid such situations, please follow the instructions below
during installation, use and maintenance:
1. Read these instructions.
Lisez ces instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
Conservez ces instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
Respectez tous les avertissements.
4. Follow these instructions.
Suivez toutes les instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
Ne pas utiliser cet appareil près de I’eau.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
Nettoyer uniquement avec un chiffon sec.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Ne pas bloquer les ouvertures de ventilation. Installer conformément aux instructions du fabricant.
Intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure
that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
Ce symbole est utilisé dans ce manuel pour indiquer à l’utilisateur la présence d’une tension dangereuse pouvant
être d’amplitude suffisante pour constituer un risque de choc électrique.
Intended to alert the user of the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying the product.
Ce symbole est utilisé dans ce manuel pour indiquer à l’utilisateur qu’il ou qu’elle trouvera d’importantes instructions
concernant l’utilisation et l’entretien de l’appareil dans le paragraphe signalé.
Protective earthing terminal. The apparatus should be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective
earthing connection.
Borne de terre de protection. L'appareil doit être connecté à une prise secteur avec une connexion à la terre.
WARNING:
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases,
shall be placed on apparatus.
L’appareil ne doit pas étre exposé aux écoulements ou aux éclaboussures et aucun objet ne contenant de liquide,
tel qu’un vase, ne doit étre placé sur I’objet.
AVIS:
Pour réduire le risque d’incendie ou de choc électrique, ne pas exposer cet appareil sous la pluie
et I’humidité.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION
RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR
ATTENTION
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Sapphire III
（Base）Power Amplifier

Important Safety Instructions
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Ne pas installer près de sources de chaleur telles que radiateurs, registres de chaleur, poêles ou autres
appareils (y compris les amplificateurs) produisant de la chaleur.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Ne détruisez pas la sécurité de la terre ou polarisées - fiche. Une fich polarisée possède deux lames dont
une est plus large que I’autre. Si la fiche fournie ne rentre pas dans votre prise, consultez un électricien
pour remplacer la prise obsolète.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Protégez le cordon d’alimentation d’être piétiné ou pincé, particulièrement au niveau des fiches, des
prises, et le point où ils sortent de I’appareil.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
N’utilisez que des accessoires spécifiés par le fabricant.
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or
sold with the apparatus. When a cart or rack is used, use caution when moving the
cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
Utilisez uniquement un chariot, stand, trépied, support ou table spécifiés par le fabricant
ou vendu avec I’appareil. Quand un panier ou rack est utilisé, faites attention lorsque
vous déplacez I’ensemble chariot / appareil, pour éviter d’éventuelles blessures en cas
de chute.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Débranchez cet appareil pendant les orages ou lorsqu’il n’est pas utilisé pendant de longues périodes
de temps.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects
have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.
Confiez toute réparation à un personnel qualifé. Une réparation est nécessaire lorsque I’appareil a été
endommagé de quelque façon que ce cordon d’alimentation ou la fiche est endommagé, liquide a
été renversé ou des objets sont tombés dans I’appareil, I’appareil a été exposé à la pluie ou à
I’humidité, ne fonctionne pas normalement, ou s’il est tomsé.
15. WARNING: The mains plug (appliance coupler) is used as disconnect device, the disconnect device
shall remain readily operable.
AVERTISSEMENT: La fiche d’alimentation (appareil coupleur) est utilisé comme dispositif de déconnexion,
le dispositif de déconnexion doit rester facilement accessible.
16. No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
Aucune source de flamme nue, telle que des bougies allumées, ne doit être placé sur I’appareil.
17. Protective earthing terminal. The apparatus should be connected to a mains socket outlet with a
protective earthing connection.
Borne de terre de protection. L’appareil doit être connecté à une prise secteur avec une prise de terre.
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Sapphire III
（Base）Power Amplifier

Important Safety Instructions
FCC Compliancy Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, that may cause
undesired operation.
Warning: Changes or modifications to the product will void warranty!
Note -This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment
off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the interference by one or more of the following measures.
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Legal disclaimer
Technical specifications and appearances are subject to change without notice and accuracy is not guaranteed.
Trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Redx International accepts no liability for any loss which
may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in part upon descriptions, photos or statements contained
herein. Colors and specifications may vary from actual product.
EMC Declaration of Conformity(DoC)
Applicant: REDX INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
Address: Flat/RMA01 11/F BANK OF EAST ASIA HARBOUR VIEW CENTRE 56
GLOUCESTER ROAD WANCHAI HK
We declare that under our sole responsibility the products:
Product: Power Amplifier
Model : SAPPHIRE III, SAPPHIRE II, SAPPHIRE I, SAPPHIRE III Base,
SAPPHIRE HIFI PLUS, SAPPHIRE HIFI, 220-240V~50-60Hz, 1050W
are compliant with
EMC: EN55013:2013 EN55020:2007/A11:2011
EN61000-3-2:2014 EN61000-3-3:2013
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Sapphire III
（Base）Power Amplifier

Sapphire III (Base) amplifier features:
• 4-channel networked audio power amplifier.
• SSA globally innovative patented technology.
• Built-in Digital Signal Processor.
• Dante network technology.
• Hi-Fi sound quality.
• Over 90% ultra-high system efficiency during DC-AC power conversion.
• 1U (44.5mm) ultra-thin case, only weigh 4.9kg.
• Special energy flow technology which allows load energy return to primary power supply.
• No fan and low noise design.
• User interface to control on-board processing functions.
• Overload and over-temperature self-protection systems.
• 4-channel balanced input: 4 x XLR/4 x balanced 1/4" TRS.
• 1000 Watts rated output power:
4 x 250 Watts @ 4 Ohms;
2 x 500 Watts @ 8 Ohms (Bridge Mode).
• 2000 Watts maximum output power：
4 x 500 Watts @ 4 Ohms;
2 x 1000 Watts @ 8 Ohms (Bridge Mode).
Welcome
Congratulations on your purchase of a Sapphire power amplifier with groundbreaking SSA technology. Our passion is to
make a difference by offering innovative power amplification technology for the music industry. All the products
featuring our proprietary SSA technology deliver a new statement for maximum sound quality. The implementation of
advanced SSA technology dramatically reduces weight and size while increasing output power, reliability, thermal
efficiency and sonic fidelity.
What makes SSA technology so advanced?The most recent evolution in audio amplification was the invention of the
Class-D topology. With the application of Class-D, amplifiers became smaller, louder and more efficient. However,
the sonic quality needs to be improved—not until now. The first ever single-stage inverter was born and its technology
was patented in USA and worldwide. This single-stage power conversion has revolutionized the power conversion
industry. Named as Class-SSA technology (Single Stage Switching Class A) , this new topology delivers higher efficiency
than Class-D and better audio fidelity performance than all other amplifier topologies. SSA technology allows the
amplifier to operate at very low temperatures, and does not require massive heat sinks or bulky fans to cool the unit.
Products with SSA technology yield the highest audio resolution and efficiency available.
Boasting performance unmatched by Class-A, Class-AB and Class-D topologies, Class-SSA stands out through
features such as:
• A single stage power conversion instead of the traditional DC-DC power supply, rectifier, filtering and
amplifier stages.
• Zero crossover distortion.
• System isolation via a high frequency transformer.
• True bidirectional energy flow which allows inductance load energy return to primary power supply.
• ZVS, ZCS soft switching — to maximize the system efficiency.
• Over 90% ultra-high system efficiency during DC-AC power conversion.
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Sapphire III
（Base）Power Amplifier

Sapphire III Base Digital Signal Processor (DSP)
In order to provide users with comprehensive ability to process signals in different environments, Sapphire III Base is
equipped with high quality digital signal processor. Functions can be controlled, edited, saved and called through PC
application. For more specific information, please refer to the user manual for the application.
Effects that the Digital Signal Processor in Sapphire III Base can be implemented:
• 85 milliseconds of system delay.
• 10 milliseconds of high-resolution time/phase calibration delay.
• Isolated EQ in 5 frequency bands which control Q value in each channel independently.
• Limiter with adjustable threshold and release time.
• Frequency adjustment of two-way frequency divider.
The Sapphire III Base supports Bridge Mode (A/B, C/D) and also supports Dante™Audio/Analog Audio input whose
volume can be controlled via User Interface.
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Control Parameters and control effects of DSP in Sapphire III Base power amplifier:
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Time/phase calibration delay
The time/phase calibration delay function provides output delay with short-time fine adjustment. It is mainly used for
phase adjustment of speakers in narrow space. The adjustment range is 0 ~ 10 millisecond with 0.01 millisecond
increment.
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System Delay
System delay can provide longer output delay up to 85 millisecond. It is used for the adjustment of long-distance
speaker systems such as outdoor concert or larger indoor space. Delay time can be adjusted with 0.1 millisecond
increment.
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5-frequency-band parameters equalizer (EQ)
Sapphire III Base has a 5-frequency-band parametric equalizer. The default frequency bands are set as 100, 500, 1k, 2k
and 4k Hertz. Each frequency band has following functions:
• -15dB to +15dB attenuation.
• “Quality factor” (Q value) peak regulation of specific frequency from 0 ~ 16.
• Each frequency band has enable/disable function.
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Limiter
If the limiter is enabled, the total volume of output signal can be controlled and the peaks that higher than the setting
threshold can be inhibited. The Limiter offers 3 control parameters:
• RMS time constant from 1 ~ 100 dB/s.
• Attenuation from 5 ~ 23 dB/s.
• Threshold adjustment from -24 ~ +24 dB.
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Two-way Crossover
The audio stream is input through Dante™channel 1 or analog input channel A. At the output of the crossover,
channel A will output the low frequency signals while channel B will output high frequency;
The audio stream is input through Dante™channel 3 or analog input channel C. At the output of the crossover,
channel C will output the low frequency signals while channel D will output high frequency;
Gain of each output can be set among the range -10dB ~ +10dB.
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Bridge Mode
In Bridge Mode, Sapphire III Base is used as a two-channel power amplifier which doubles the power output. Bridge
Mode can be switched from a hardware switch located at the rear panel of the power amplifier. Sapphire III Base will
follow the switch settings when starting up. In Bridge Mode, Dante™channel 1 or analog input channel A will be
mapped to channel A/B, while Dante™channel 3 or analog input channel C will be mapped to channel C/D. Other
audio input will be ignored.
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A2-way crossover is available in Bridge Mode. In this configuration, Sapphire III Base can be considered as a
two-channel power amplifier. In this mode, channel A/B will output the low frequency signals while channel C/D will
output high frequency.
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Sapphire III
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Sapphire III Base Digital Signal Processor (DSP)
Input volume control
Sapphire III Base accepts the volume from the front panel knob settings as the default volume setting when starting up.
These settings will control the input volume of the ADC. The software control panel can override these settings. For
example, when it is difficult or inconvenient to adjust the volume knob of a remote power amplifier manually, the
volume can be set by software user interface to adjust the volume in a range of –∞to 0 dB. In practical applications,
volume knobs are generally set to the maximum setting and controlled remotely via the UI.
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Input selection
Sapphire III Base can accept any of the audio streams from Dante™network or other analog audio inputs. Input
selection will determine which signal will be sent to DSP and output. Input selection operates on 4 channels
simultaneously, so it cannot be “Mixed and Matched”. The default input is the analog audio stream input in the factory
configuration.
Dante™ Network
Sapphire III Base features the Dante™Ethernet protocol. Sapphire III Base can input/output audio signals base on
existing standard Cat-5 shielded twisted pair and other network hardware. Sapphire III Base implements 4-in/4-out and
also the control of DSP or other configuration through Dante™ network.
This manual will not fully introduce Dante™, but only cover the steps that needed to start and operate Sapphire III
(Base) in Dante™ network. Dante™ network can be set base on following information:
• A Sapphire III (Base).
• A PC or Mac that can meet the software/hardware environment requirements.
• The Dante™ controller application.
• The Dante™ Virtual Sound card application.
• Cat-5/6 cable and switch or other hardware connected to the desired network.
Connect to the Dante™ network
Sapphire III (Base) has 2 Ethernet ports which are connectable to Dante™network. For systems contain more than 1
Sapphire III (Base) units, other configurations are unnecessary for “Daisy Chain” connection.
Install Dante™virtual sound (DVS) card
Dante™ Virtual Sound card is an authorized third party application running on PC. The latest version of DVS can be
purchased at www.audinate.com. Please follow the instructions to complete installation. For further information about
FAQs and basic operations please check the Audinate website.
Install Dante™Controller
Dante controller can be downloaded from www.audinate.com for free. Please follow the instructions to complete
installation. For further information about the software, FAQs and basic operations please check the website.
To use Dante™controller
After the DVS card is completely installed, Sapphire III （Base）can connect to PC through Cat-5 shielded twisted pair.
A moment after Dante™controller is started, the virtual sound card driver in PC will be displayed as a device on the
network. To connect Sapphire III (Base) and other Dante™devices to network, Dante™controller is used for channel
connections between DVS and Sapphire III (Base).
PC can provide Sapphire III (Base) with audio signal via DVS and can support streaming of audio from Media Players,
Digital Audio Workstations and Mixer/DJ software. A connection can be considered as complete when the output of
“Transmitter” through routing virtual sound card connects to the input of “Receiver” in Sapphire III Base, and a green
check mark is seen at the intersection of the connection matrix.
Please note: The analog audio input of Sapphire III (Base) can also be used as a signal source on Dante™Network, and
can be routed to another Sapphire III (Base) or Dante™devices. Thus, the analog input of Sapphire III (Base) can be
used as a signal source of Dante™network, and can be routed to other Sapphire III (Base) or Dante™devices. For
example: in a small club, mixer outputs an audio signal to a Sapphire III (Base) power amplifier, then assigns the audio
signal to Sapphire III (Base) in other places to drive multiple remote speakers. It is important to note that multi-channel
audio stream can be remote transmitted through the Dante™ network with low delay and no loss of audio quality.
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Sapphire III
（Base）Power Amplifier

Signal & Limit LED:
LED lights in blue indicates input signal is received. Reduce the input gain is the red LIMIT LED flashing. The red LIMIT
LED constantly light indicates an overloaded input gain, overheating protection, overload protection or speaker
failure.
Rack Ears:
Secure the unit into a rack with four screws.
Level Controls:
Adjusts the input level. To increase signal gain, rotate the knobs clockwise. To reduce the gain, rotate the knobs
counter- clockwise.
ON/OFF(Standby) Button:
The amplifier is on when the button is pressed in. When the button is pushed out, the amplifier is off (standby).
Power On & Standby LED:
When the ON/OFF button is pressed in (power on), the LED will light in blue. The LED will light in red, when the ON/OFF
button is pushed out (standby).
Front Panel
Sapphire III
Sapphire III Base
LED Display state:
• Input signal: Blue.
• Clipping/maximum power: Flashing red.
• Overheating, overloading, failure: Constantly lighted red.
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4 Channels DSP Power Amplifier
Sapphire III
BRIDGE Mode LED:
The LED lights up constantly when apparatus is in Bridge Mode.
When a bridge connection is made
• When Channels A and B are bridge-connected (AMP MODE Switch is set to Bridge position), the CH A
level control adjusts the input levels of Channels A and B. In this event, the CH B level control cannot be used.
• When Channels C and D are bridge-connected (AMP MODE Switch is set to Bridge position), the CH C
level control adjusts the input levels of Channels C and D. In this event, the CH D level control cannot be used.
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Sapphire III
（Base）Power Amplifier

Be sure to power off the amplifier before changing the AMP Mode switch setting.
Power Cord Socket:
Here is where you connect the detachable power cord included with your amplifier. Plug the other end of the power
cord into an AC outlet properly configured with the voltage required for your particular model. Be sure the AC outlet
can supply enough current to allow full power operation of all the amplifiers plugged into it. The outlet should be a
three-prong socket that matches the power cord.
Speakon Outputs:
Connect the amplifier to the speaker using professional cables with twist-locking plugs.
XLR Inputs:
Use XLR or 1/4" TRS balanced port to input signals.
Ethernet ports:
Use Cat-5 shielded twisted pair to connect amplifier with PC/network switch or connect amplifier with other amplifier.
AMP MODE Switch (BRIDGE/STEREO):
Switch mode between BRIDGE and STEREO.
Power switch:
Use this power switch to turn the unit on or off.
Rear Panel
Sapphire III
Sapphire III Base
Unplug the amplifier’s power cord from the outlet when the amplifier will be left unused for a long period of
time.
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Sapphire III
（Base）Power Amplifier