TLA SSP-2 User manual

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TrueLifeAudio
SSP-2 Tube Phono Preamplifier
Owner’s Manual

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TrueLifeAudio
CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 3
TLA PROFILE - INTRODUCTION 4
SSP-2 DESCRIPTION 5
FRONT VIEW 6
BACK VIEW 7
PREPARATION AND INSTALLATION 8-9
SPECIFICATIONS 10
WARNINGS AND MAINTENANCE 11-12
WARRANTY 12
WARRANTY REGISTRATION 13
CONTACT INFORMATION 14

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TrueLifeAudio
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: A tube amplifier chassis contains lethal high voltage even when unplugged.
DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPEN THIS DEVICE.
IN CASE OF MALFUNCTION CONTACT YOUR DEALER OR THE MANUFACTURER.
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE GROUNDED. IT SHOULD NOT BE NECESSARY TO REMOVE ANY PROTECTIVE
GROUND OR SIGNAL CABLE SHIELD CONNECTIONS TO PREVENT GROUNDLOOPS.
USE ONLY THE VOLTAGE INDICATED ON REAR PANEL
WARNING: Before any maintenance or placement, disconnect the device from the electrical outlets.
WITH THE POWER SWITCH TO OFF DISCONNECT THE DEVICE THE WAY THAT THE ARROW SHOWS
WARNING: Never use electrical outlets without earth
WARNING: Use only electrical outlets that are earthed.
DISPOSAL: Disposal According to the Directive 2002/96/EG of the European Parliament used consumer-electro
technical appliances have to be disposed separately and have to be indicated with the following symbol. In the case of
disposal of this component please do so in conformity with legal and environmental regulations.

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TrueLifeAudio
TLA PROFILE
TLA was founded by Velissarios Georgiadis back in 1995, but its real origin goes back much further than this. It was
back in 1957 when Velissarios' father Aristomenis, a transformer technician, started his own company, with the aim to
make transformers under order for telecommunications, broadcast, medical, military and industrial implementations. It
was just after 1980 when Velissarios, who was already experienced in transformer building having being taught all his
father's know-how, he started to apply the additional knowledge which he gained from his university degree on
Chemistry and Electronics as to develop transformers that would excel in audio applications of reference standard.
Velissarios developed, built and tested over, countless amplifiers before he transferred all this experience in TLA
products on the year 1995. The name TrueLife Audio was chosen to underline the target market of TLA The search
for True Life sound, where the listener would experience music at home as never before, In a True Life manner!
In the year 2005, young Aristomenis Georgiadis the second (son of Velissarios, named after his grandfather), finished
his studies in Electrical Engineering and having received in the meantime all his grandfather's and father's experience
in making audio transformers and amplification circuits that would excel in performance, joined the company as to
assist in further improvements and the achievement of new levels for realistic sound.
"When we come with a new product, we make it for ourselves first" Velissarios says… A TLA amplifier starts its life
with the innovative circuit it integrates being tested in the lab and optimized. Then, after the lab tests have been
finalized and we are sure that our elegant innovation measures up to reference standards if compared with hi-end
devices from other makers that are established in the marked for their quality, we proceed to the next level which is to
transform this same electronic device, into a musical instrument. As a consequence, our elegant innovations are made
so that they age to improve all the time... much like a bottle of good wine... or a gorgeous guitar of the 50s!
INTRODUCTION
Your decision to own this SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier of the TLA‟s ”Supreme Series‟‟ ranks you at the very top among
discriminating music listeners. You now have “The Best.” The TLA‟s dedication to “Quality,” is assurance that you will
receive many years of musical enjoyment from this unit.
This level of accuracy and overall performance is a new achievement in the playback of music. I invite you to play your
favorite recordings and experience it as you may never have before.
If I have brought you closer to the music, the artists and the full musical experience (the moments that we as
audiophiles and music lovers cherish the most) then I have succeeded in my goal.
Please take a short time to read the information in this manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all the
features and functions of your new SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier.
I thank you once again for your investment on TLA‟s team development of the „‟Supreme Series‟‟
Sincerely,
Aristomenis Georgiadis

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TrueLifeAudio
SSP-2 DESCRIPTION
SSP-2 is a Tube Phono Preamplifier designed and hand wired to deliver exceptional sound.
Circuitry and materials selection has been optimized to that scope.
Dual Mono Design achieves total channel isolation and separation.
The signal path circuitry includes TLA‟s high quality, custom designed and hand wound Step up Transformers along
with one 12AX7 and one 12AU7 tube per channel.
Two separated Power supply circuits, based on TLA‟s high quality, custom designed and hand wound Power
Transformers, filter Chokes and an EZ81 rectifier tube per channel.
SSP-2 accepts both MM and MC cartridge‟s signal and has different RCA plug inputs for both MC and MM.
For MC both High and Low Gain setting is available.

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FRONT VIEW
1. Power switch
2. Logo lights up when power is on

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TrueLifeAudio
BACK VIEW
1. IEC Power Inlet & Fuse Holder
2. XLR Unbalanced Outputs
3. RCA Unbalanced Outputs
4. MC RCA Inputs
5. MM RCA Inputs
6. MM/MC selection switch
7. MC High/Low Gain selection switch

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TrueLifeAudio
PREPARATION AND INSTALLATION
Budget a suitable space in which to place the SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier.
This space should also be free of excessive heat or dust and large enough to permit easy flow of cool air to the top,
bottom and sides of the unit. Avoid locating the SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier where it will be exposed to direct sunlight,
excessive humidity or moisture.
WARNING: To reduce risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.
Before Power-up
Check and make sure the power button is switched off and the Logo light is off, then attach the grounded IEC power
cable jack to the IEC plug. Keep the power off until all other system connections are completed.
Check that the mains voltage printed on the back of the unit corresponds to the line voltage of the territory you intend
to connect your SSP-2.
Delayed Turn On
Since the SSP-2 is an all tube design and take time for the filaments of the rectifiers EZ81to warm up and provide
high voltage, provides about 20 seconds delay before the Phono Preamplifier is in full operation.
The Front Panel
The front panel of SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier includes just the Power on-off switch, be sure to depress the
power switch after you finish with all connections. When the power is on the TLA logo lights up.
The Rear Panel
The rear panel of the SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier contains all input- and output connectors. The printed rear panel
clearly indicates the function of each connector.
IEC Power Inlet & Fuse Holder
The IEC Power Inlet, on the far left side of the rear panel, where you have to connect the power cable of your choice.
Next to the IEC Inlet is the fuse holder of the mains fuse size 5x20mm that is rated T315mA (Slow Blow) for 230V-240
VAC or T500mA (Slow Blow) for 110-120 VAC
In case of fuse burn please replace with same type and rating fuse.
Connecting output cables
Your SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier has two pairs of OUTPUT connectors on the rear panel, a pair XLR Unbalanced
Outputs and a pair of RCA Unbalanced Outputs, so can accommodate both types of interconnect cables.
The output connectors have color identification for right (RED) and left (WHITE) channels.
You have to connect the right and left channel of your SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier to the line input of your preamplifier
accordingly.
Good quality connectors provide added assurance against signal degradation due to contact corrosion. Regardless of
cable or connector material, verify that the contacts are clean, and that the plug‟s outer shield is tight on the jack, to
avoid hum.
Connecting input cables
Shielded RCA (Unbalanced) type plugs should be used to connect the turntable‟s tonearm cable to SSP-2
preamplifier‟s, MC or MM input jacks, depending the type of phono cartridge you are using.
Two pairs of INPUT RCA connectors are located on the far right side of the rear panel of the phono preamplifier.

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TrueLifeAudio
Your SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier can accommodate both MC and MM phono cartridges. So the first pair of RCA‟s
with the indication MC is for MC type of phono cartridges and the second pair of RCA‟s with the indication MM is for
MM type of phono cartridges.
The single connector on the right hand side of the rear panel is the GROUND and you have to connect the ground
cable of your tonearm.
MM/MC selection switch
After the input cables connections then you have to choose MM or MC on the selection switch, depending on the type
of the phono cartridge you are using. In case of MM selection the gain is 44 dB
MC High/Low Gain selection switch
In case of MC phono cartridges you have to choose the High or Low gain. For low output MC phono cartridges use the
MC High selection that has gain 70 dB and for higher output MC phono cartridges use the MC Low selection that has
gain 64 dB.
How to avoid noise problems
Τhe SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier contains circuitry that might be sensitive to magnetic fields and RF signals. The unit
should be placed well away from transformers, etc. Care should also be taken in routing all signal cables. They should
not run parallel to speaker cables or AC cables mains. Keep cables as short as possible. For minimum hum, the
phono preamplifier should be placed away from power amplifiers due to very sensitive MC circuitry.
How to Avoid Damages
A good operating practice is to turn off all equipment before any connections or disconnections are made.
Do not, under any circumstances, connect or disconnect equipment when power is turned on. If you insist on
connecting or disconnecting while power is turned on, you should be aware that the design of the RCA plug generates
a large transient when inserting the plug.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Voltage Output: 44 Vrms
Maximum Voltage Input:
MC (High): 23.1 mVpeak
MM: 336 mVpeak
Input Impedance:
MM: 47K
MC Low: 330R
MC High: 100R
Voltage Gain:
MM: 44 dB
MC Low: 64 dB
MC High: 70 dB
Frequency Bandwidth: >100Khz
Voltage Options (Factory Set):
230-240VAC
110-120VAC
Fuses (5x20mm):
T315mA (Slow Blow): 230V-240 VAC
T500mA (Slow Blow): 110-120 VAC
Color Options (Front Plate):
Silver
Black
Unit Dimensions (W x H x D): 440 X 192 (with feet) X 445 mm
Unit Weight: 30 Kg
Shipping Dimensions (W x H x D): 550 X 260 X 530mm
Shipping Weight: 35 Kg
Front Panel Color Options: All True Life Audio equipment of the Supreme Series can be ordered in standard
anodize Silver or Black color.

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TrueLifeAudio
WARNINGS AND MAINTENANCE
Due to the vacuum tubes used in the TrueLife Audio design, it is normal that the unit feels a bit warm after many
hours of operation. Proper ventilation will be needed as described in section preparation for installation.
Before you disconnect the mains the Phono Preamplifier has to be in operating condition OFF.
Replacing the Tubes
Before you take any action, please unplug the power cable of the unit from the mains. After unplugging let at least one
hour to pass before you proceed with the replacement of the tubes.
Your SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier uses six tubes in total, two tubes type 12AX7, two tubes type 12AU7 and two rectifier
tubes type EZ81. In the case that the tubes need to be replaced, follow the steps in the paragraph bellow.
The Phono Preamplifier has one top cover that actually consists of three pieces but can be removed as one panel. In
order the top panel to be removed for replacing the tubes, you just have to remove four screws closer to the front
plate, then three screws closer to the back plate and finally two more on the side panels holding the middle piece. In
total nine (9) screws need to be removed.
Closer to the Phono Preamplifier‟s rear panel are the two type 12AU7 tubes, one for each channel. The two type
12AX7 tubes are located on the middle of the unit and finally the two rectifier tubes type EZ81are located closer to the
front panel. The type of each tube is marked on the PCB (printed circuit board) in anyway.
Please use only premium quality tubes that you can purchase from the local TLA dealer or directly from the
manufacturer.
Mains
Unplug your SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier from the mains connection in the following cases:
- before you manipulate with cables
- before you clean your amplifier
- during thunder storms or
- before you leave for longer periods
Cleaning
Please use a soft towel for the cleaning of your Phono Preamplifier. We recommend the use of a nonabrasive micro
fiber towel. Please do not employ any solvents.
Security advice
Liquidity is not allowed to enter the Phono Preamplifier. The electronic may be damaged seriously.
Packing
Please keep the original packing for future transports. The original packing is optimal protection against potential
damages.
Service Policy
If service is needed
Your dealer will have all relevant information about the service centres in your area, and will ensure that your unit is
serviced without delay. It is our general policy to have your unit returned to you within 20 working days. This is an
average time, and could vary locally, depending on the workload at the service centre.
If, for some reason, there are no service facilities available in your country, please ship the SSP-2 Phono
Preamplifier to the following address:

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TrueLifeAudio
TrueLife Audio (TLA)
Address: Ippokratous 13,Keratsini 18756, Athens, Greece
Phone: [phone]
[phone]
You are responsible for all shipping charges, insurance, re-importation to your country, and duty arrangements. When
shipping a product to the factory for service, always include the following:
1) A sales slip or other proof of purchase if repair is claimed under warranty.
2) A proforma invoice with value of the goods, stating that the SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier is returned to Greece for
repair.
3) An accompanying note describing faults, symptoms, or problems with the SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier.
4) Always ship the SSP-2 Phono Preamplifier in the original box and packaging material to prevent damage in
transit.
TrueLife Audio will not cover damages incurred in transit.
If you require further information concerning the phono stage operation, or if you have any questions related to
service, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or national TrueLife Audio let distributor. 210 6468010
WARRANTY
All TrueLife Audio equipment is covered by a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for a
period of 3 years from date of purchase to the original purchaser only.
Proper registration is made by filling out and returning to the factory the warranty card attached to this general
warranty statement, along with a copy of the original sales receipt as proof of the original date of purchase. Only 1
card is issued with each unit, and the serial number is already recorded on it.
If the warranty registration card has already been removed then this is not a new unit, and is therefore not warranted
by the factory. If you believe this to be a new unit then please contact the factory with the details of purchase.
This warranty is provided by the dealer where the unit was purchased, and by TrueLife Audio.
Under the terms of the warranty defective parts will be repaired or replaced without charge, excepting the cost of
tubes. No warranty is offered on tubes, unless:
1. A TrueLife Audio preamplifier is used with the SSP-2, and
2. The warranty registration card is filled out.
In such a case a 6 month warranty on tubes is available with the correct recording of the serial number of the amplifier
on your warranty registration card.
If a TrueLife Audio product fails to meet the above warranty, then the purchaser's sole remedy shall be to return the
product to TrueLife Audio, where the defect will be repaired without charge for parts and labour.
The product will then be returnedvia prepaid, insured freight, method and carrier to be determined solely by TrueLife
Audio. All returns to the factory must be in the original packing, accompanied by a written description of the defect,
and must be shipped to TrueLife Audio via insured freight at the customer's own expense. Charges for unauthorized
service and transportation costs are not reimbursable under this warranty, and all warrantees, express or implied
become null and void where the product has been damaged by misuse, accident, neglect, modification, tampering or
unauthorized alteration by anyone other than TrueLife Audio.
The warrantor assumes no liability for property damage or any other incidental or consequential damage whatsoever
which may result from failure of this product. Any and all warrantees of merchantability and fitness implied by law are
limited to the duration of the expressed warranty. All warrantees apply only to TrueLife Audio products purchased
thru TrueLife Audio directly, an authorized dealer or national TrueLife Audio let distributor.

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TrueLifeAudio
WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD
We ask that you please fill out this registration form and send it to:
TrueLife Audio (TLA)
Address: Ippokratous 13,Keratsini 18756, Athens, Greece
Phone: [phone]
[phone]
Email: [e-mail]
or email to [e-mail] with all the info requested below and a note stating this isWarrantee Registration.
Registration entitles you to product support, full warranty benefits, and notice of product enhancements and upgrades.
You MUST complete and return the following to validate your warranty and registration.
Thank you again for choosing TrueLife Audio.
MODEL _________________SERIAL No. ______________________________________________
PURCHASE DATE ________ SUPPLIER _______________________________________________
NAME OF OWNER_________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS________________________________________________________________________
CITY, STATE, ZIP __________________________________________________________________
TELEPHONE NUMBER ______________________________________________________________
FAX ______________________________________________________________________________
EMAIL_____________________________________________________________________________

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TrueLifeAudio
CONTACT INFORMATION
Address: Ippokratous 13,
Keratsini, 18756
Athens, Greece
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

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TrueLifeAudio