SPEC DESIGNER AUDIO RSA-M99 User manual

RSA-M99

RSA-M99
The RSA-M99 is a high-performance, highly efficient PWM class-D amplifier. It features power MOS-FETs that achieve highly accurate
current switching in the power stage, and high-voltage gate driver ICs with excellent time-axis control. The exceptional power
handling performance of the class-D device ensures dynamic real sound even when driving low-efficiency speakers. Furthermore,
the sweet and rich tonal character recalls the tone of the best triode tube amplifiers and enables ideal real sound experience.
Oil capacitors reproducing both tonal characteristics of vintage ampliers
and modern sound
The excellent PWM switching that makes it possible to maximize amplifier device potential, natural harmonics, and the dynamic
and rich sound on a wide spectrum owe a lot to the individual parts of the low-pass filter in the final stage of the amplifier. It
employs hermetically sealed paper-oil filled capacitors, a type that became fairly rare nowadays, made especially for the RSA-M99
by Arizona Capacitors, Inc. These capacitors produce a distinctive and superior sound that combines the deep tonal characteristics
of those old tube amplifiers with a modern vivid sound. Furthermore, coils are low-loss toroidal coils featuring special ring cores
that have been carefully chosen through listening tests to guarantee a natural sound with no distortion.
Outstanding power source that ensures high quality sound
In order to maximize the potential of the unprecedented high performance of this amplifier (power efficiency in the power stage
at maximum output of 96%), we daringly employed a classical and very simple plus/minus power source composed of a minimal
number of high quality components, such as only transformers, bridge-diodes and capacitors. The real sound of RSA-M99 has
been achieved thanks to instantaneous power supply function and to the high quality of power supply parts that could be
obtained only by paying the utmost attention to the audio characteristics of each individual part.
◇Power source capacitors
Multiple electrolytic capacitors with different audio characteristics are used in parallel to ensure a sufficient rectification capacity
while providing a well-balanced sound across the entire range. Furthermore, they ensure a smooth sound with an excellent rise
by improving the equivalent series resistance (ESR). In addition, high-voltage paper-oil filled capacitors are connected in parallel
to achieve a precise and beautiful sound over the mid to high ranges.
◇Rectifier
High-voltage and high-current newly-developed SiC (silicon carbide) Schottky diodes, designed to completely eliminate switching
noise, achieve not only transparent but also very powerful sound
◇R-core transformer
High-capacity R-core transformers are employed. Because the unnecessary leakage of magnetic flux is very low, responsiveness
to instantaneous high voltage is excellent, thereby realizing high speed sound with an excellent rise.
Thorough internal shielding for an electromagnetically clean space
High-frequency electromagnetic waves generated by the power source and other circuitries inside an audio device negatively
affect the sound. An electromagnetically cleaned environment is ensured inside the RSA-M99 by blocking the interaction between
circuitries using a special shield case made of steel sheets equipped on the power source transformer, the power amplifier part
and the low-pass filter. This thorough electromagnetic shielding makes the pure sound characteristic of the RSA-M99 possible.
Only high quality parts
High quality parts have been selected so the RSA-M99 can provide continued enjoyment over its long life. Parts necessary for
high quality sound were carefully selected and employed, including a high-capacity power switch with a locking mechanism,
industrial use selector and custom-made volume knob with excellent feel and high reliability, and RCA jacks with high-value
rhodium plating.
Chassis and insulators to reproduce natural resonance
Natural wood with beautiful resonance is used for the chassis and insulators. Solid laminated board of European spruce, known
as a tonewood, is used for the chassis in order to absorb undesirable vibrations of the mainframe. Insulation using a minimum
surface was made possible through round insulators made of painted maple, a strong wood from Hokkaido in Japan. In addition
to the stable 3-point support of the RSA-M99, it ensures no loss in the amplifier sound quality and full performance even when
mounted in an audio rack.
Power amp mode
The RSA-M99 is a preamplifier with an extremely simple structure composed of a selector and volume control. It can also be
used as a power amplifier by connecting it to a preamplifier or an AV amplifier. In this case, set the switch on the rear panel to
“POWER AMP” mode. The volume knob operation will be disabled and the gain will be fixed so that the volume control can be
operated only on the preamp or AV amplifier side.

3
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO
NOT REMOVE CHASSIS. NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR.
THIS SYMBOL IS INTENDEDTO ALERTTHE USER TO THE PRESENCE OF NON-INSULATED
“DANGEROUS VOLTAGE” WITHIN THE PRODUCTS ENCLOSURE THAT MAY BE OF
SUFFICIENT MAGNITUDETO CONSTITUTE A RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK TO PERSONS.
THIS SYMBOL IS INTENDEDTO ALERTTHE USERTO THE PRESENCE OF IMPORTANT
OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE (SERVICING) INSTRUCTIONS INTHE LITERATURE
ACCOMPANYING THE UNIT.
WARNING
Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause a
permanent hearing loss.
Individuals vary considerably to noise induced hearing loss
but nearly everyone will lose some hearing if exposed to
sufficiently intense noise for a sufficient time.
Operating Environment
Operating environment temperature and humidity: +5°C to
+35°C (+41°F to +95°F); less than 85%RH (cooling vents not
blocked)
Do not install this unit in a poorly ventilated area, or in locations
exposed to high humidity or direct sunlight (or strong artificial
light)
WARNING
This equipment is not waterproof.To prevent a fire or shock
hazard, do not place any container filled with liquid near
this equipment (such as a vase or flower pot) or expose it
to dripping, splashing, rain or moisture.
POWER-CORD CAUTION
Handle the power cord by the plug. Do not pull out the plug
by tugging the cord and never touch the power cord when
your hands are wet as this could cause a short circuit or electric
shock. Do not place the unit, a piece of furniture, etc., on the
power cord, or pinch the cord. Never make a knot in the cord or
tie it with other cords.The power cords should be routed such
that they are not likely to be stepped on. A damaged power
cord can cause fire or give you an electrical shock.
Check the power cord once in a while.
European model only
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a separate collection
system for used electric products in accordance with legislation that requires proper treatment, recovery and
recycling.
Private households in the member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return their used electric products free of
charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you purchase a similar new one).
For countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for the correct method of disposal.
By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery and recycling and thus
prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health.
Safety Precautions

4
Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction
Check included items .......................................................4
Installing this product ......................................................4
Regarding installation ......................................................4
Chapter 2 Connections
Connections diagram ......................................................5
How to connect the speaker cords..............................7
How to connect balanced (XLR) cables......................7
How to connect audio cords..........................................8
How to connect the power cord...................................8
Chapter 3 Part Names
Front panel ...........................................................................9
Rear panel ......................................................................... 10
Chapter 4 How to Operate
Playback steps.................................................................. 11
Chapter 5 Other
Troubleshooting.............................................................. 13
Care and maintenance .................................................. 13
Specifications ................................................................... 14
Separately sold accessories......................................... 14
Warranty and after sales service................................ 15
Chapter 1 Introduction
Check included items
•Power cord ×1
•Operation manual (this book)
Installing this product
•Be sure to install this product on a flat, stable surface.
•Do not install this product in the following locations:
– On top of a television (the image may warp)
– Near a cassette deck or other magnetism emitting
device (the audio may be adversely affected)
– In a location hit by direct sunlight
– In a moist location
– In high or low temperature locations
– In a location with vibration
– In a location with much dust or tobacco smoke
– In kitchens or other locations where fumes are
emitted and oil is used
Regarding installation
Caution
•Never place items on top of this product, cover it with a sheet,
or use it when its heat radiation is obstructed. Abnormally high
temperatures may damage the product.

5
Chapter 2 Connections
Chapter 2 Connections
Connections diagram
This product can be used as a standalone pre-main amplifier, or used as a power amplifier in conjunction with your current
preamplifier (AV amplifier).
Important
• When connecting devices or making changes, be sure to turn the POWER switch OFF and disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
Plug in the power cord last.
• If an extremely loud signal is input to this product, there is a danger that noise will be generated and cause damage. In such a case, lower the
input signal level.
When using this product as a pre-main amplifier
Speaker system
Digital playback devices (such
as SACD players, DVD players)
Digital playback devices
(such as CD players, BD players)
Tuner USB DAC
HD television
To the electrical outlet
To AC IN
To the audio output terminal
To the balanced
output terminals
To the speaker
terminals
L (left side)
To the speaker
terminals
R (right side)

6
Chapter 2 Connections
When using this product as a power amplifier
9
Speaker system
Preamplifier or AV amplifier
Digital playback devices
(such as CD players, BD players)
USB DAC
Tuner HD television
To the electrical outlet
To AC IN
To the audio
output terminal
To the speaker
terminals
L (left side)
To the speaker
terminals
R (right side)
Digital playback devices (such
as SACD players, DVD players)
OR
To the balanced output terminal
To use this product as a power
amplifier, switch to POWER AMP.
mode when the power is turned OFF.
Before using, remove the protective
sticker attached at time
of purchase.
Caution
•In POWER AMP. mode the VOLUME (level adjustment knob) of the product becomes inactive, and
the level is fixed at approximately 20dB. To prevent unexpected playback at a loud volume level
turn the preamplifier (AV amplifier) level all the way down when turning on the power.
•If the connecting speaker cords are bent and placed on top of this product as depicted on the right, the
speakersmay output hum noise due to theinfluence of the magnetic fieldof theelectricaltransformer.
Do not place the connecting speaker cords in this way.

7
Chapter 2 Connections
How to connect the speaker cords
The connection terminals are red for positive (+) and black
for negative ().
1 Twist the wire.
2 Loosen the speaker terminal, and insert the speaker cord.
3 Once the speaker cord is inserted, tighten and secure the
speaker terminal.
321
10 mm
The connection terminals on this product are also
compatible with Y lug terminals and banana plugs.
Caution
•Use speakers with nominal impedance of 4Ω to 16Ω.
•Connect accurately the + and terminals between the speakers
and this product.
•Do not allow unshielded center wire from the terminals to stick
out and make contact with each other. If the center wires touch
the device may break.
•Use sufficient current capacity speaker cord and be sure to make
connections that are not loose and do not short. Using low current
capacity connecting cords or making imperfect connections may
affect playback audio and can cause overheating or short circuits.
•High voltage is output from the speaker terminals. To avoid the
danger of electrical shock, be sure to unplug the power cord before
making speaker connections.
How to connect balanced (XLR) cables
Connect the left and right balanced input terminals of this
product to the respective left and right balanced output
terminals of the product to be connected.
Match the orientation of the XLR plug to this product’s
balanced input terminal, and insert until a click is heard.
When disconnecting an XLR plug, press the latch lever
(the part with “PUSH” inscribed on it) while pulling the
cable. Use caution, as forceful disconnection may damage
the unit.
Note
• The pin positioning of the balanced input terminal of this product
is depicted below. Confirm that the product to be connected is
compatible with the pin positioning of this product. For further
details, consult the operation manual included with the product
to be connected.
1
2
3
1: Ground
2: Hot
3: Cold
Y lug terminals Banana plugs

8
Chapter 2 Connections
How to connect audio cords
Connect the white RCA plug (left) to the left side input
terminal with the black (or white) line, and the red RCA
plug (right) to the right side input terminal with the red
line. Press firmly to push the plugs all the way in.
How to connect the power cord
Once all connections have been made, connect the
included power cord to the AC IN terminal of this product
and to the residential electrical outlet. Press firmly to push
the plug all the way in.
Caution
•The power cord for this product is removable, but please refrain
from using power cords other than the cord included (3P plug-
in socket type with electrical current capacity: 7A).
•Never insert the ground wire from the AC CONVERSION PLUG
into the electrical outlet.
Note
• When not using this product for extended periods, be sure
to turn the POWER switch OFF or unplug the power cord
from the electrical outlet.
• Turn the POWER switch OFF before unplugging the power
cord.
• The power consumption of this product varies greatly
depending on the volume level of the playback audio
signal. For satisfactory music playback, connect to an
electrical outlet with sufficient capacity. (Connecting to a
low capacity electrical outlet creates the danger that the
connection will overheat.)
• If the residential power supply is cut off due to a power
outage, the state of this product will be as follows when
power is restored.
– If the POWER switch is ON when power is restored
pThe product returns to its state prior to power
restoration.
– If the POWER switch is OFF when power is restored
pThe product is in the normal power OFF state.
This product
Power cord
Electrical outlet
L (white)
R (red)

9
Chapter 3 Part Names
Front panel
2
1
3
5
4
1POWER switch
Turns power ON and OFF.
Pulling the power switch releases the lock. To turn on the
power, raise up the power switch while pulling out on it.
To turn off the power, lower the power switch while pulling
out on it.
2ON indicator
Shines warm yellow when this product is on.
3OFF (WAITING) indicator
Shines red for several seconds following power-up. Once
the product is operational, this indicator turns off and the
ON indicator shines warm yellow. It also shines for several
tens of seconds when the power is shut off. During this time
this product is preparing to power off, so please wait until
the indicator light goes out.
Caution
•When turning the product on immediately after turning it off,
check to make sure that the OFF (WAITING) indicator has turned off
completely.Turning the power on while the OFF (WAITING) indicator
is lit can cause malfunction.
4LINE SELECTOR (input switching knob)
Selects the playback device (LINE 1-LINE 5).
5VOLUME (level adjustment knob)
Adjusts the volume level.
Note
• This product contains a high quality electrical volume IC
that is high precision and ultra low noise, with the result that
audio quality is not affected depending on the VOLUME (level
adjustment knob) position.

10
Chapter 3 Part Names
1AC IN terminal
Connect the included power cord. (pages 5, 6, 8)
2Fuse
The fuse may break if something abnormal occurs to the
product. Contact us if the fuse breaks. (page 15 )
3REMOTE CONTROL terminal
Connect the (separately sold) remote control. Contact us
for details regarding the (separately sold) remote control.
(page 14)
4Speaker terminal (R (right) channel)
Speaker terminal (L (left) channel) (pages 5 to 7)
5Audio input terminals (LINE 1 - LINE 3)
RCA type input terminal. (pages 5, 6, 8)
6Balanced input terminal (LINE4, LINE5)
XLR type input terminal (female). (pages 5 to 7)
7VOL. LED/MODE switch
Switches theVOLUME (level adjustment knob) and the LINE
SELECTOR(input switching knob) brightness and volume
level adjustment mode. (see below)
NOTE (Regarding the VOL. LED/MODE switch)
The VOLUME (level adjustment knob) and the LINE SELECTOR (input switching knob)
brightness () and volume level adjustment mode (, ) can be set using the dual
purpose VOL. LED/MODE switch.
Set the VOLUME (level adjustment knob) and the LINE SELECTOR(input switching knob)
brightness to either ON (light on) or OFF (no light) according to your preference. The
switch is set to ON (light on) at time of purchase.
3
2
1
Set to NORMAL AMP. when using as a pre-main amplifier.
Set to POWER AMP. when using as a power amplifier. Before using, remove the protective sticker ( ) attached at time of
purchase.
* In POWER AMP. mode theVOLUME (level adjustment knob) and the LINE SELECTOR (input switching knob) of the product becomes inactive,
and the level is fixed at approximately 20dB. Level adjustments must be performed on the preamp (AV amp) side.
* When the VOL. LED/MODE switch is set to POWER AMP., the VOLUME (level adjustment knob) and the LINE SELECTOR (input switching
knob) brightness is set only to OFF (no light).
Rear panel
1
2
3
5 6
7
4

11
Chapter 4 How to Operate
Playback steps
When using this product as a pre-main amplifier
4 6 3,7
1 Check that the VOL. LED/MODE switch on the rear
panel of this product is set to NORMAL AMP.
2 Turn on the power of the playback device.
3 Check that the volume level of this product is turned
down, and lift up the front panel POWER switch while
pulling out on it to turn on the power.
Check that the ON indicator on the body front panel is lit.
4 Select the input to this product.
Rotate the LINE SELECTOR to select
the terminal
(LINE 1 - LINE 5) to which
the playback device is connected.
5 Operate the playback device and begin playback.
6 Rotate theVOLUME (level adjustment knob) left and right
to set the audio level.
7 When playback is finished, lower the audio volume level
and push down the front panel POWER switch while
pulling out on it to turn off the power.
Be sure to lower the audio volume level.
Caution
•When turning the product on immediately after turning it off,
check to make sure the OFF (WAITING) indicator has gone off
completely. (page 9)

12
Chapter 4 How to Operate
When using this product as a power amp
43,7
1 Set the VOL. LED/MODE switch on the rear panel of this
product to POWER AMP.
2 With the preamplifier (AV amplifier) volume level turned
all the way down, turn on the power of the playback
device and preamplifier (AV amplifier).
3 Lift up the front panel POWER switch while pulling out
on it to turn on the power.
Check that the front panel ON indicator is lit.
4 Select the input to this product.
Rotate the LINE SELECTOR to select
the terminal
(LINE 1 - LINE 5) to which
the preamplifier (AV amplifier) is
connected.
5 Select the input on the preamplifier (AV amplifier) side
and begin playback on the playback device.
6 Perform volume level adjustments during playback on
the preamplifier (AV amplifier) side.
When the VOL. LED/MODE switch is set to POWER AMP, the
volume level is fixed at approximately 20dB regardless of
the VOLUME (level adjustment knob) position, so volume
level adjustments cannot be made on this product.
7 When playback is finished, turn the preamplifier (AV
amplifier) volume all the way down, and shut off the
power of this product first, then the preamplifier (AV
amplifier) power.
Be sure to turn the preamplifier (AV amplifier) volume level
all the way down. To turn this product off, push down the
POWER switch while pulling out on it.
Caution
•When turning the product on immediately after turning it off,
check to make sure that the OFF (WAITING) indicator has gone off
completely. (page 9)

13
Chapter 5 Other
Troubleshooting
If you think this product may be broken, check the following troubleshooting items. Some minor operational errors can make
the product appear to be broken.
Potential causes other than this product should also be considered. Check the other devices being used as well as all simultaneously
operated electrical devices. If the following instructions do not help even on multiple inspections, contact us. (page 15)
Issue Cause/Treatment Reference
The power does not turn on. •Is the power plug disconnected from the electrical outlet?
pCorrectly insert the power plug into the outlet.
p. 8
•Is the power plug disconnected from the AC IN terminal?
pCorrectly insert the power plug.
p. 8
•If the power will not turn on even with correctly connecting the power plug, the
fuse may be broken.
pContact us for consultation.
p. 15
There is no sound. •Is the connecting cord disconnected from the terminal, or connected incorrectly?
pCorrectly connect the cord.
p. 5 - p. 8
•Is the speaker cord disconnected from the terminal, or connected incorrectly?
pCorrectly connect the speaker cord.
p. 5 - p. 7
•Is the terminal or connecting cord pin plug dirty?
pWipe clean the terminal or plug.
–
•Is the input (LINE 1 - LINE 5) of this product incorrectly set for the playback device?
pCorrectly select the input.
p. 5 - p. 6
There is no sound from one
speaker.
•Is the connecting cord or speaker cord for one side disconnected?
pCorrectly connect the cord.
p. 5 - p. 8
The volume level cannot be
adjusted
•Is the VOL. LED/MODE switch set to POWER AMP?
pWhile in POWER AMP. mode, the volume level is fixed at approximately 20dB
regardless of the VOLUME (level adjustment knob) position, so the volume level
cannot be adjusted on this product.
{To use this product as a pre-main amplifier, set the VOL. LED/MODE switch to
NORMAL AMP.
{To use this product as a power amplifier, perform volume level adjustments on
the preamplifier (AV amplifier) side.
p. 10
Sound comes out of the speakers
even after turning off this
product.
•Immediately after turning off the power, sound may come out of the speakers while
the OFF (WAITING) indicator is lit, but this is not a sign of breakage.
pWhen playback is finished, first turn the volume of this product all the way down (or
when using this product as a power amplifier, turn the volume of the preamplifier
all the way down) and then shut off the power of this product.
p. 9
Care and maintenance
For daily maintenance, use a polishing cloth to lightly wipe the front panel of this product. If it is very dirty, use a soft cloth moistened
with neutral detergent watered down to 1/5-1/6 concentration and wipe off the dirt, then wipe dry with a dry cloth.
If alcohol, thinner, petroleum ether or insecticide adhere to the front panel it may be damaged, so use caution. Whenever using
pre-moistened wipe, be sure to completely read the warning instructions that come with the wipe.
This product uses natural wood for its base chassis and insulator. Do not place it in direct sunlight or near a heater. The front
panel may become discolored, and the product may be warped due to the natural wood contracting.

14
Chapter 5 Other
Specications
Amplifier
Maximum output ........................................120W × 2(4), 90W × 2(6), 60W × 2(8)
Frequency response...................................10 Hz - 30 kHz ±1 dB (6W, 1)
Harmonic distortion ratio.........................0.02 % (at 1 kHz, 80% output)
Input sensitivity, gain.................................300 mVrms, 37.3 dB (at MAX volume, 6, 1 kHz, unbalanced input)
Line input terminals ...................................Balanced input: 2 RCA unbalanced inputs: 3
Speaker terminal ........................................1
Power supply, other
Power voltage...............................................110, 120, 220, 230, 240 V AC, 50 Hz/60 Hz
Electrical consumption .............................With no signal: 15 W, during maximum output: 215 W (8 , 100 Hz)
External dimensions...................................440 mm (width) ×125 mm (height) ×414 mm (depth)
Weight.............................................................16.0 kg
Included items
Power cord.....................................................1
Operation manual (this book) ................1
* Due to improvements the above specifications and external appearance may be changed without notice.
Separately sold accessories
The following separately sold accessories are available.
Remote control
For details please contact us.

15
Chapter 5 Other
Warranty and after sales service
zAbout Warranty
Make sure that the name of your distributor and the date
of purchase are written in the warranty. Read it carefully,
and then keep it in a secure location. The warranty is
valid for one year from the date of purchase.
zMalfunctions
If the product malfunctions in the course of normal
use (use in accordance with the manual and safety
precautions) during the warranty period, then we will
repair the product free of charge. When you bring
your product to the distributor for servicing, be sure
to bring the warranty with you. See the guarantees in
your warranty for details. We will repair malfunctions
occurring after the warranty period has expired for a
fee, in accordance with our servicing regulations.
Please note that we cannot provide any warranty or
bear any liability for damage to any equipment that is
connected to the unit resulting from incorrect use.
Contact Information
SPEC CORPORATION
[phone]TEL:
FAX: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
URL : spec-corp.co.jp
Terms of Warranty
1. If this product malfunctions during use in accordance with the manual,
and during the warranty period, then please bring the product and
this warranty to the store where you purchased it. It will be repaired
free of charge.
2. If you cannot ask the store where you purchased it for repairs (e.g. if
you have moved or the product was a gift), please consult with SPEC
CORPORATION.
3. A fee will be charged for repairs in the following circumstances, even
if it is during the warranty period.
(A) The product malfunctioned or was damaged due to user error or
unauthorized repair or modification
(B) The product malfunctioned or was damaged due to dropping,
etc. after purchase
(C) The product malfunctioned or was damaged due to fire, flooding,
lightning and other weather phenomena, pollution, salt damage,
or the like
(D) The product malfunctioned or was damaged due to other than
normal use, such as long hours of continuous commercial use
(E) The main unit has been disassembled
(F) The text of the warranty has been changed or overwritten
(G) The malfunction was caused by another company’s product
4. This warranty cannot be re-issued. Store it in a safe place, and do
not lose it.
WARRANTY RSA-M99 Real Sound Amplifier
Name Telephone
( )
Address
Date of Purchase Distributor Name & Telephone
Warranty Period (Main Unit Only)
One Year
from Date of Purchase
SAMPLE

2018
4th FL.NIHOMBASHI NAKAYA BUILDING,12-12 NIHOMBASHI-
KOBUNA-CHO,CHUO-KU,TOKYO 103-0024,JAPAN