Sugden A21SE Signature User manual

SUGDEN
A21SE Signature
MAY 2015

UNPACKING
Your amplifier should reach you in a substantial protective carton. On unpacking please
examine the unit for signs of prior use or damage. Check that all the front panel controls
function mechanically. The following items should also be in the carton:-
(1) AC power lead with pre-molded IEC straight connector and plug.
(2) Owners registration card which should be completed and the bottom section removed
and returned to us.
INSTALLATION - IMPORTANT
There are two points that must be considered carefully when installing your amplifier.
1) Adequate ventilation.
2) Proximity to low level gain stages and magnetic tape recorders.
Because the A21SE is a pure class 'A' design a large amount of heat will be generated from
the amplifiers heatsinks, this is normal. It is VERY IMPORTANT that the amplifier must not be
confined in a space that will produce a build up or re-circulation of heated air. We
recommend a clearance of 10cm (four inches) either side and above the unit. This will allow
a free circulation of air when situated in an open-back cabinet. Never stand equipment on top
of the amplifier. The amplifier should be kept away from any heat sources such as direct
sunlight or radiators.
The amplifier should be switched off when not in use.
CONNECTING TO A MAINS SUPPLY
Before connecting your amplifier to a mains supply ensure that the mains voltage rating on
the inspection ticket and packing carton is the same as your countries supply. Connection to
the mains is via the AC cable supplied with your amplifier and connects to the mains input
socket at the back of the amplifier.
MAINS CABLES AND POWER SUPPLIES
We do not recommend the use of specialist mains blocks or power supplies as this can
degrade the sound quality and reduce the dynamic range of your amplifier.
SIGNAL CONNECTIONS
Always ensure that your amplifier is switched off before any connections are made to
associated equipment. We recommend that good quality cables and plugs are used with your
Sugden amplifier. Your retailer or Sugden Audio can advise you on cables that offer good
performance and match Sugden products.
L . T. V. S socket (Stage One No Longer Available)
This provides a Low Tension Voltage Supply for the Sugden A21SE Stage One phono
Amplifier. No other equipment should be connected to the L.T.V.S Socket.
The Stage One Phono Amplifier is a high quality, value for money design and has a single
input for both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges, with automatic impedance
matching.
The Stage Two Phono Amplifier is also now available, it is a more sophisticated design
catering for both MM and low output MC Cartridges. This is mains powered and split into two
boxes separating the gain stages from the regulated power supply.
Loudspeakers
Loudspeaker connections are made via the gold plated multi-way binding posts at the rear of
the amplifier these are marked R(right) and L(left) for identical connection to your
loudspeakers. Both left and right speakers have a positive (+) and negative (-) connection
which are also for identical connection to your loudspeakers. We recommend that
loudspeakers of 4 -16ohms impedance should be used with your amplifier.
If bi-wiring please follow the instructions supplied by the manufacturer of your loudspeaker
carefully, incorrect wiring can damage your amplifier or blow channel fuses.

Input Signals
All input connections are via standard RCA type gold-plated phono sockets. The inputs are
clearly marked left and right for identical connection to your source components. The input
sensitivity of your amplifier makes it suitable for connection to any line-level component.
These include CD Player, Tuner, SACD/DVD-A player.
Output Signals
There are two stereo outputs on your amplifier, one fixed and one variable.
1) Tape Output - This is a fixed output and is live at all times supplying an output
suitable for the tape-In of a tape recorder. This allows a tape recording to be made of
the input you have selected from the input selector switch on the front of your
amplifier. Other uses include connection to an external headphone amplifier like the
Sugden Headmaster
2) Pre-amp Output – This is a variable output and is supplied from the A21SE pre-
amplifier circuit. As the output is the same level as the signal supplied the power
amplifier stages of the A21SE, it is possible to drive an additional stereo power
amplifier in a bi-amplified system. Other uses include connection to an external slave
amplifier for additional loudspeakers.
Volume control
The volume control adjusts the power delivered to the loudspeakers and hence controls
listening level. Zero volume is at fully anti-clockwise position or 'six 'o' clock'. A high quality
motorised volume control has been selected for your amplifier and this can be operated from
a Sugden RC5 System control.
Input Selector
The input selector switch is located at the far right of the amplifier when viewed from the front.
There are five inputs, with the selector switch turned anti-clockwise you are at input one. Fully
clock wise is input five. The switch requires a minimum amount of effort to rotate and should
not be forced. The switch will rotate 45 degrees either side of its central detent at ‘12 o’clock’.
Additional information
FUSES-Replacement should be carried out by a suitable technician
Should a fuse blow this is usually an indication that a fault exists. It is important that the
cause of the fault is determined and rectified before replacing a fuse. If in doubt consult your
local dealer or our distributor for assistance. All fuses used in Sugden equipment have the
specification on them. NEVER bypass any fuse in your amplifier. NEVER replace a fuse with
one of a different specification or value.
HT FUSES
There are two fast blow 2.5AMP fuses located on each of the power board modules. These
protect the amplifier from a short circuit on the loudspeaker outputs or over load.
MAINS FUSE
The mains Fuse is located at the rear of the amplifier and is externally accessible. It is
combined in the mains input socket together with a spare fuse of the correct value.

A21SE Line Amplifier Back Panel and Controls
INPUTS
LINE OUTPUT
LOUDSPEAKERS
MAINS INPUT & FUSE
POWER POWER LIGHT VOLUME CONTROL REMOTE EYE INPUT SELECTOR
A21SE Line Amplifier Front Panel Controls

SUGDEN A21SE Specification @ 220Volts setup.
Max Power Consumption 300 Watts
Power Output 40 Watts Pure Class A (4 Ohms)
30 Watts Pure Class A (8 Ohms)
Frequency Response 12Hz to 141kHz
Bandwidth (wide) 6Hz-280kHz
Signal to Noise Ratio >90dB
Input Sensitivity 110mV @ Zero Attenuation For
Full Output
Input Impedance 50K
The manufacturer reserves the right to alter specification without notice
.
Designed & Manufactured By
J. E. Sugden & Company Limited
Valley Works Station Lane Heckmondwike
West Yorkshire WF16 0NF
ENGLAND
www.sugdenaudio.com