Sonic Frontiers Sonic Frontiers SFD-1 User manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
THE SONIC FRONTIERS SFD-1 DIGITAL PR OCESSOR

CONTROL FUNCTIONS AND CONNECTIONS
A -Phase Control Switch - This toggle switch allows the user
to invert the system phasing easily and safely. When the switch
is in the 0° position the SFD-1 will put out a normal or non-
inverted signal in relation to the signal being received from the
source. When the switch is in the 180° position the SFD-1 will
put out an inverted version of the signal as compared to that
being received from the source. This feature offers a convenient
method of correcting source material which was recorded “out
of absolute phase” or to counteract for a component in your
system such as a preamplifier, power amplifier or signal con-
nection which inverts phase.
B - Signal Locking Indicator LED - This LED will light when
an operational digital source is selected.
NOTE: Depending on the source or transport being used in
conjunction with the SFD-1, it may be necessary to have the
source unit in the “play” mode and the SFD-1 receiving the dig-
ital transmission before the LED will light.
C - Input Selector Switch - This 3 position toggle switch
selects between the three digital inputs located on the back of
the SFD-1: Toslink (Plastic Fibre) Optical, RCA Coaxial Cable
and ST (Glass Fibre) Optical. A connection to all 3 inputs may
be made from 3 separate sources. The Signal Locking
Indicator LED (B) will light when the source is activated in con-
junction with the input chosen by this switch.
D -Power Indicator LED - This LED will light when the Power
Switch (E) is in the ON position and the SFD-1 is receiving
power.
E - Power Switch - This toggle switch, when switched to the
ON position, allows the SFD-1 to receive power, rendering the
SFD-1 operational as indicated by the Power Indicator LED (D).
When the switch is in the OFF position the SFD-1 is not receiv-
ing power and is not operational.
A B C D E

F - Detachable Power Cord Socket - Plug the Detachable
Power Cord into this socket (see Figure 1). The SFD-1 is factory
set for the correct operating voltage for the area in which it is
sold (see shipping box for voltage setting). If a different operat-
ing voltage is required, please contact an authorized Sonic
Frontiers dealer, distributor or the factory directly.
G - Toslink (Plastic Fibre) Optical Input - This input will
accept a digital connection from a digital source’s Toslink
(Plastic Fibre) Optical digital output (see Figure 3).
H - RCA Coaxial Cable Input - This input will accept a
digital connection from a digital source’s RCA - S/PDIF -
Coaxial digital output (see Figure 3). The RCA - S/PDIF -
Coaxial cable impedance should be 75 ohms.
I - ST (Glass Fibre) Optical Input - This input will accept a
digital connection from a digital source’s ST (Glass Fibre) Opti-
cal digital output (see Figure 3). This connection type is con-
sidered best for optimum performance and sound quality; if your
source unit has this type of digital output we recommend it’s use.
J - Left and Right Channel Balanced XLR Audio
Output Connectors - These are balanced audio outputs
and should be used when connecting the SFD-1 to the
balanced audio inputs of a line level preamplifier, control
amplifier, integrated amplifier or receiver, if these units are so
equipped (see Figure 4). (Left channel output of the SFD-1con-
nects to the left channel input of control unit and right channel
output of the SFD-1 to the right channel input of control unit.)
K - Left and Right Channel RCA Single-Ended Audio
Output Connectors - If the balanced inputs are not applic-
able for use, the RCA single-ended (unbalanced) audio outputs
should be used when connecting the SFD-1 to the RCA
single-ended audio inputs of a line level preamplifier, control
amplifier, integrated amplifier or receiver. (Left channel output
of the SFD-1connects to the left channel input of control unit
and right channel output of the SFD-1 to the right channel input
of control unit.)
K
F G H I J
Figure 1 - Align socket pins to corresponding holes and push together firmly.

Figure 2 - Tube pin alignment with the socket.
W A R N I N G
DISCONNECT the AC Detachable Power Cord from the SFD-1
before removing the chassis cover.
Note the larger space
between two of the pins and
holes for proper alignment
of tube and socket.
INSERTION OF THE TUBES
The SFD-1 comes with two 6922 (6DJ8-type) tubes, individual-
ly boxed and bagged along with a cotton glove, screwdriver,
and screws for fastening the SFD-1 cover. If desired, replace-
ment of these tubes may be done to suit the listener’s prefer-
ence. The following tube types will work under the same techni-
cal parameters as the 6922 and require no circuitry modifica-
tion to function:
• 7308/E188CC • 6DJ8/ECC88 • E88CC
Please read and follow these instructions carefully for initial
tube insertion or tube replacement.
1. Be sure that the AC DETACHABLE POWER CORD IS
DISCONNECTED from the SFD-1 before removing the chassis
cover.
2. Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the cover of the SFD-1.
For convenience, only two of the screws are fastened.
3. When handling the tubes, it is recommended that the cotton
gloves provided be worn to prevent skin oils from depositing
on the glass surface and possibly causing the tube to become
prematurely “gassy”, thereby shortening the tube’s useful oper-
ating life.
4. Take a tube and inspect the pins, noting the larger space
between two of the pins. This space will align with the same
larger space between two of the pin holes on the socket. Insert
the tubes into the tube sockets, making sure all pins and pin
holes are aligned (see Figure 2). Do not force the tube into the
socket. “Rock” the tube gently while pushing slowly until the
tube is firmly seated.
5. Replace the cover and fasten it with the screws provided.
The SFD-1 is now ready for operation.
OPERATION OF THE SFD-1 DIGITAL PROCESSOR
Before plugging in the SFD-1, check to see that the unit is config-
ured for the correct AC line voltage for country of use. The operat-
ing AC line voltage is indicated on the side of the shipping box. If
the SFD-1 Digital Processor is set incorrectly for the country in
which it is to be operated, contact the dealer or distributor in your
area. If the unit is configured properly continue with operation.
Connect the detachable power cord to the SFD-1 chassis (see
Figure 1) and plug your SFD-1 into the AC power source.
Up to three digital sources or cables may be connected to the
appropriate input connectors on the rear panel (B,C,and D) using
a Toslink (Plastic Fibre) cable, an RCA Coaxial cable and an ST
(Glass Fibre) cable (see Figure 3).
Connect the left and right channel balanced XLR audio outputs (if
the existing amplification system is balanced) or the left and right
channel RCA coaxial (single-ended) into the corresponding left
and right channel line level audio inputs of the system’s preampli-
fier, control amplifier, integrated amplifier or receiver (see Figure 4).
The SFD-1 Digital Processor is now ready for operation. Power
the unit by placing the Power Switch (E) in the ON position. As
soon as the SFD-1 is plugged in and turned ON, the front panel
Figure 3- The digital source(s) output connections to the SFD-1
digital inputs. Up to three digital sources may be connected to the
SFD-1 Digital Processor via Optical-Toslink, Coaxial RCA and
Optical-ST interconnect.

Power Indicator LED (D) will flash on and off for approximately
45 seconds. During this time, the signal outputs are muted while
the two 6922 tubes are warming up and stabilizing. As soon as
the Power Indicator LED (D) stops flashing and lights green, the
SFD-1 is ready to play. Turn on the digital source and the amplifi-
cation system and select your source via the Input Signal Selector
Switch (C). The Signal Locking Indicator LED (B) should light
green when the powered digital source is selected.
Put the digital source in “play” mode. You are now ready to sit
back, listen and enjoy.
At this point, if all is operating correctly, one may wish to experi-
ment with the phase feature. Move the Phase Control Switch (A)
from the 0° to the 180° position (or vice versa) to find the most
desirable and pleasurable effect and/or correction to the particu-
lar recording.
T R O U B L E S H O O T I N G
If at any time the SFD-1 Digital Processor fails to work properly, consult
this checklist:
1. Check that the AC Detachable Power Cord is plugged into the
SFD-1 Detachable Power Cord Socket (F) and is connected to a live
source of AC power. For instance, if using a power bar, check that
the bar is turned on.
2. Ensure that the digital source is connected to the appropriate digital
input (B,C or D) as selected by the Input Signal Selector Switch (C).
3. DISCONNECT THE AC POWER CORD from the SFD-1, remove
the chassis cover and check that:
• A “fast-blo” fuse, with a rating of 1.5 Amp/250 V (.075
Amp/250 V for European and Asian versions), is installed in the
cylindrical tube next to the AC power socket (Figure 5).
• The AC power fuse is intact and has not blown. If the fuse has
blown the thin metal conductor will have melted and the glass may
appear “smoked”. If the fuse has blown, replace with a fuse of the
same rating (1.5 Amp/250V fast-blo for 100 to 120 volt countries
and 0.75 Amps/250V fast-blo for 200 to 240 volt countries). See
Figure 5 for location and removal.
NOTE: Under no circumstances should you replace the AC power
fuse with one of a higher current rating! Doing so may cause further
damage to the SFD-1 and will also void the warranty. In addition,
your continued protection from risk of fire or shock would be seriously
compromised.
4. DISCONNECT THE AC POWER CORD, remove cover and ensure
the 6922 tubes (or equivalent replacements) are plugged firmly into
their sockets as described in “INSERTION OF THE TUBES”.
5. Be sure the rest of the system is functioning properly (i.e. digital
source, power amplifiers, cables and connections, etc.).
6. Check that both the front panel Power Indicator LED (D) and the
Signal Locking Indicator LED (B) are lighted (glowing light green). If at
any time the Signal Locking Indicator LED (B) fails to light, check to see
that a CD is properly loaded in the transport or CD player and that the
unit is in the “play” mode. If all of the above troubleshooting steps
have been followed (including step 2) and the lights are not lighted
(remain dark green), contact your dealer or distributor for assistance.
Figure 5 - Fuse location, next to AC power socket.
W A R N I N G
DISCONNECT the AC Detachable Power Cord from the SFD-1
before removing the chassis cover.
Figure 4- The SFD-1 XLR balanced and RCA single-ended audio
output connections to a line level amplification device - right chan-
nel to right channel and left channel to left channel. Both the XLR
and RCA outputs connections can be hooked up in unison,
although this setup would be system dependent.

SFD-1 PLACEMENT FOR PROPER VENTILATION
Allow at least 6” (15 cm) of clear space above the SFD-1
chassis for proper ventilation, making sure the air vent slots in
the chassis cover remain unobstructed.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Ventilation - Although your SFD-1 Digital Processor generates
only nominal heat in use, be sure that the ventilation slots in the
top cover have at least 6” of unobstructed air space above them.
2. Water and Moisture - This product should not be used near
water. To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this
product to rain or moisture.
3. Heat - This product should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appli-
ances which produce heat.
4. Power Sources - This product should be connected to an AC
power source of the proper rated voltage. The original ship-
ping containers will stipulate the AC voltage this unit can oper-
ate with correctly.
5. Cleaning - A regular dusting with a soft, non-abrasive cloth
will generally keep the finish of the faceplate and chassis look-
ing like new. At no time should you allow any liquid to come in
contact with the SFD-1 Digital Processor; it may run into the
electronic circuitry and cause damage which will not be cov-
ered under your warranty.
6. Servicing - Do not open this product. No user serviceable
parts inside. Refer servicing to an authorized service technician.
7. Non-Use Periods - The power cord of this product should be
unplugged from the outlet when left unused for an extended
period of time.
8. Do not remove the SFD-1 chassis cover while the unit is
“on”, or connected to an AC power source. Cover screws
could fall through the ventilation slots and cause electrical
damage to the SFD-1.
PACKING MATERIALS
We recommend that you retain all of the packing material and
shipping boxes for your SFD-1 Digital Processor. They are cus-
tom designed to prevent shipping damage from occurring.
Sonic Frontiers, Inc. will accept no responsibility for any dam-
age occurring to an SFD-1 Digital Processor that is shipped in
packing material other than the original Sonic Frontiers packing
material.
DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
Under no circumstances does Sonic Frontiers, Inc. assume lia-
bility or responsibility for injury or damages sustained in the use
or operation of this equipment or for damages to any other
equipment connected to it.
Sonic Frontiers, Inc. reserves the right to make design changes
or improvements without the obligation to revise prior versions.
All specifications are subject to change without notice.
LIMITED FIVE YEAR WARRANTY
Sonic Frontiers, Inc. warrants to the purchaser that each SFD-1
Digital Processor is free of manufacturing defects for a period
of five (5) years from the date of purchase. This five (5) year
limited non-transferable warranty excludes all vacuum tubes,
which we warrant for a period of twelve (12) months. To
receive this warranty, the original purchaser must complete and
mail to Sonic Frontiers, within thirty (30) days from the date of
purchase, the enclosed Warranty Registration Card. Sonic
Frontiers, Inc. will then validate the warranty to the original pur-
chaser. This warranty is subject to the following conditions and
limitations:
1 . Warranty applies only to the original purchaser.
2. This warranty is void and inapplicable if the product has
been handled other than in accordance with the instructions in
this Owner’s Manual, abused or misused, damaged by acci-
dent or neglect or in being transported, or the defect is due to
the product being tampered with, modified or repaired by any-
one other than Sonic Frontiers, Inc. or an authorized Sonic
Frontiers repair depot.
3. Warranty does not cover normal maintenance.
4. Sonic Frontiers, Inc. shall not be responsible in any way for
consequential or indirect damages or liabilities resulting from
the use and operation of the product covered herein or result-
ing from any breach of this warranty or any implied warranty
relating to said product.
During this period, Sonic Frontiers, Inc. will repair or replace
any defective components free of charge. A Return Authoriza-
tion Number (RA Number) is required before any product is
returned to our factory for any reason. This number must be visi-
ble on the exterior of the shipping container(s) for Sonic
Frontiers to accept the return.
Units shipped to us without a Return Authorization Number or
without a visible RA Number on the exterior of the shipping
container(s) will be returned to the sender, freight collect.
Units to be repaired by Sonic Frontiers, Inc. must be sent ship-
ping and insurance prepaid by the original purchaser in the
original packing material. A returned product should be accom-
panied by a written description of the defect. Repaired units
will be returned by Sonic Frontiers, Inc. shipping and insurance
prepaid.
All other warranties or conditions either written or implied
are void.
Note: In foreign markets (anywhere outside of Canada and the
USA), the warranty is supplied by the authorized International
Distributor. Exact terms and conditions may vary.

SFD-1 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Input Receiver UltraAnalog AES20 AES/EBU
ultra-low jitter Input Receiver
Digital Filter NPC 5803 (8-times oversampling)
D/A Converter UltraAnalog D20400A (1 Dual)
Low Pass Proprietary passive configuration
Analog Filter
Frequency Response 5 Hz to 20 kHz ± 0.2 dB
Intrinsic Jitter < 40 ps (picoseconds)
Jitter Rejection From 1 kHz and above (6 dB/octave)
“A” weighted 105 dB (Balanced)
S/N Ratio
Crosstalk > 105 dB @ 1 kHz
> 95 dB 20Hz to 20 kHz
THD + Noise < 0.02% @ 1kHz
< 0.30% 20Hz to 20kHz
(balanced/single-ended)
Output Voltage Approx. 2.2 Volts (single-ended)
Approx. 4.4 Volts (balanced)
Output Stage Fully balanced (for AC and DC
parameters), high speed tube buffer
Digital Inputs Coaxial (RCA), Optical (H-P ST-Type
glass), Optical (Toslink)
Analog Outputs 1 pr. Single-ended RCA
1 pr. Balanced XLR
Tube Complement 2 - 6922 (E88CC)
Dimensions 19” Wide x 11” Deep x 4” High
(48 cm x 28 cm x 10 cm)
Weight 19.8 lbs (9 kg) - unpacked
Warranty 5 years parts and labor
1 year on the tubes
This symbol is 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.
This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature accompany-
ing the appliance.

We at Sonic Frontiers are sure that you will derive many years
of listening pleasure with your new SFD-1 Digital Processor. This
Owner’s Manual contains important information regarding the
operation and care of the SFD-1. Be sure to read this manual
carefully and follow these instructions in order to keep it looking,
operating and sounding its best.
2790 Brighton Road, Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6H 5T4 Telephone: [phone] Facsimile: [phone]
Sonic Frontiers can be reached from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time (E.S.T.), or 24 hours a day by facsimile.