Trigon Energy User manual

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USER󰾺S MANUAL FOR INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER
Energy
MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
PROTECTMONO

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CONTENTS
1Introduction
2General Description
2.1 Safety Information
2.2 Installation Information
2.3 Warranty and Service Information
3Initial Setup
3.1 Front Panel Controls
3.2 Rear Panel Connections
3.3 Remote Control
4The MODE Function
4.1 Balance Control
4.2 Initial Volume Level
4.3 Display Brightness
4.4 Record Output Activation
4.5 Unity Gain 󰾴 Home Theater Throughput
4.6 Input Levels
4.7 Factory Default Settings
5What to do, if ...
5.1 ... unit doesn󰾺t turn on?
5.2 ... no sound is produced?
5.3 ... there is a hum?
5.4 ... the remote control doesn󰾺t seem to work?
6Technical Data

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1 Vorwort
1 Introduction
Valued Trigon - Customer,
We are excited that you have chosen to purchase the Energy integrated amplifier.
This unit was built using the highest quality control to insure utmost precision in
manufacturing.
Whether you are a beginner to High-Fi or advanced user, it is highly recommended that
you read and understand this User󰾺s Manual thoroughly before using your new integrated
amplifier.
Be sure to keep this manual easily accessible as it could come in handy during normal
use of this amplifier.
We hope that you enjoy your new amplifier and thank you for choosing Trigon.
2 General Description
The Energy is a High-End integrated amplifier with seven high-level inputs.
This amplifier is completely controlled by a sophisticated Microprocessor. The features of
the Energy are both accessible via the front panel or via the Director remote control.
The front panel features a dimming Display that informs users of the active in-use
configuration. The unit can also be turned off or on via the remote control when in stand-
by mode.
The volume setting is controlled through a special D/A Converter and as such is both
technically and sonically far superior to a traditional volume pot (potentiometer). This
method of volume control allows for a channel output that is exact at low volume as well
as high volume settings, insuring that the soundstage doesn󰾺t wander or lose focus with
each change of the volume setting.
The power supply also boasts noteworthy features in its design. Every stereo channel has
it own torrodial transformer. This so-called double mono structure ensures optimal
channel separation where more power being sent to one channel has no impact on the
other channel. The controlling microprocessor is powered by a small standby power
supply. Therefore, the sensitive audio signals remain separated, i.e. they will not be
adversely affected by the digital section of the integrated amplifier.
The Energy is equipped with seven high-level inputs including one balanced input as
well as an effects loop (Splitt) where a surround processor or other effects unit (such as
an equaliser) can be connected.
In addition, the integrated amplifier features a preamplifier output which can also be used
as a tape record output, if required.
Two loudspeakers (4 to 8 Ohm) can be connected to the massive gold-plated binding
posts of the terminal provided at the rear panel. A 6.3mm stereo headphone plug
(impedance 32 to 2000 Ohm) can be inserted into the jack provided at the front panel
featuring its own special headphones amplifier.

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2.1 Safety Information
Trigon Elektronik GmbH will not assume any responsibility for damages
occurred from unsafe handling of the product or from not adhering to the recommend
safety instructions below.
- The amplifier should not be used un-monitored in close proximity to heat producing
devices such as Water heaters, Fireplaces or Flammable materials.
- The amplifier is not designed to withstand heavy impacts or severe vibrations.
- The amplifier should not be used un-monitored when being transported from a cold
environment into a warm room.
- The amplifier should not be used when placed out in direct contact with the Sun.
- Insure that the installation location for this product has adequate ventilation.
- The amplifier should not be doused with any type of liquid. It is imperative that no
liquid get inside the unit.
- Never use this product without the shielded top cover installed.
- Before removing the top cover always insure that the AC cord has been removed
from the AC outlet and that the product has sat to drain any residual current.
- Never short any of the fuses. Replace broken fuses only with original fuses of the
same value and type.
- Do not attempt to service this unit. Repairs are only to be done by authorized
service centers or through the factory direct. Any such unauthorized repairs will
result in a voided warranty.
- Always make sure that your complete audio system is shut off before changing any
cables or connecting any other components.
The Energy power supply is set at the factory to be operated in 115V. Contact your
local dealer or Trigon directly if you should need a different voltage version.
2.2 Installation Information
During unpacking, please inspect the unit for any potential transportation damage. If you
notice any damage, please get in contact with your dealer.
Confirm the contents of the box. In addition to the Energy, you should also have the
following:
-User󰾺s Manual
-Warranty Card
-Power cord
Place the unit on a dry, level surface. Be sure that the unit has good ventilation around it.
Strong magnetic fields commonly found in amplifier transformers and halogen light
transformers can induce hum into a system. Because of this, it is best to place the unit a
reasonable distance from such devices. Also, the audio interconnects should not be run

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in parallel to AC power cables as this can also induce noise.
Hum is also produced from light bulbs. It is best to place audio equipment at least 3 feet
away from them.
Try to utilize natural light and make sure not to use the Energy unmonitored next to
heat sources.
2.3 Warranty and Service Information
In choosing the Energy, you have selected a valuable and technologically advance
product. W e at Trigon are trying to improve our quality control through all steps in
the production cycle to insure that all Trigon products meet our quality expectations.
If a problem is experienced, Trigon Elektronik GmbH offers a three-year
warranty. This warranty covers repairs for any manufacturing defects.
It does not cover damages that are the result of neglect or misuse. It also is considered
void if unauthorized personnel do any repairs or modifications. Any alterations to the
serial number, or transportation damage are not covered as part of this warranty.
3 Initial Setup
After you have unpacked the preamplifier, you should first connect the unit to the power
supply and plug it into the AC outlet. Before you have connected any of your other
components turn the unit on to test that it powers up properly.
After a short warm-up period, you will hear a quiet 󰾽clicking󰾾 sound from Relays within the
Energy signalling that the unit is ready to be operated. At this time you should
become more familiar with the proper usage and connection possibilities of the
Energy. Test the various controls (i.e. input selection, volume, etc..) at this time for
functionality, while none of your sources are connected. This will insure that no damage
can occur. After you have tested all the functions and understand how to control the
Energy, you can begin to connect your other audio components.
When connecting cables between components, be sure that both the Energy and
other components are powered OFF!
3.1 Front Panel Controls

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MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
PROTECTMONO
1 2 3 4 5 6 78 9 10
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1 󰾴 Headphone Connector :
The 6.3mm stereo plug of the headphones can be connected to the jack. Make sure that
the impedance of the headphones is not rated below 32 Ohm. Low impedance
headphones must be connected to the loudspeaker terminals.
2 - Input Display :
This display shows what input is currently selected and active. A small dot will light up
behind the display if the Display Off function is selected.
3 - MONO :
This LED lights up when the remote control has been used to set the Energy to
mono operation.
4 󰾴 Volume Display :
This display shows the select volume level. It also displays other values when in the
MODE menu. This is more fully described in the MODE-Menu section (Chapter 4) below.
5 󰾴 PROTECT :
The LED flashes if a defect has been detected by the electronic safety system. Turn the
integrated amplifier off, wait a few minutes and then turn it back on. If the LED continues
to flash, return the amplifier to the factory for service or return it to your authorised dealer
for examination.
6 󰾴 LED :
This LED shines, if the Stereobalance is shifted to the left.
7 󰾴 LED :
This LED is flashing once the amplifier receive a remote signal.
8 󰾴 LED :
This LED shines, if the Stereobalance is shifted to the right
9 󰾴 Volume Knob :
This knob is used to set and adjust the volume of the Energy. It is designed as a pulse
generator without an end-stop where, at each step, an electronic pulse is transmitted to
the microprocessor which in turn handles the electronic volume control. Chapter 4

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provides more information on the functions of the rotary knob.
10 󰾴 LED ON :
This LED will light up when the Energy is powered on. (operation display)
11 󰾴 Input pushbutton < :
Pressing this button will select every next input before adjustment of the previous one.
The display [2] shows what input is currently selected.
12 󰾴 Input pushbutton > :
Pressing this button will select every next input after adjustment of the previous one. The
display [2] shows what input is currently selected.
13 󰾴 pushbutton SPLIT :
Pressing this button will turn the effect input on/off. The display above becomes brighter
when the effect input is activated.
14 󰾴 pushbutton LS-OFF :
Pressing this button will turn the loudspeakers off. This function enables you to listen via
the headphones only. When the loudspeakers are turned back on, they will be set to the
initial volume level saved in the MODE menu instead of being adjusted to the possibly
higher sound level set for your earphones - which could otherwise make for an unpleasant
surprise.
15 󰾴 pushbutton MUTE :
Pressing this button will turn the volume level to 󰾽zero󰾾. A handy solution to silence music
when a phone call is received. Pressing the MUTE button again will deactivate the MUTE
function and restore the 󰾽previous󰾾 volume level.
16 󰾴 pushbutton MODE :
Pressing this button will engage the MODE menu. This menu enables you to perform a
variety of adjustments, therefore an entire chapter is dedicated to the MODE menu. More
information is provided in chapter 4.
17 󰾴 pushbutton ON/OFF :
This button is used to switch the unit on or off (Standby). From the off-position, the
standby power supply is still active. Press the on/off switch on the rear panel of the
Energy in order to completely turn off the integrated amplifier.
3.2 Rear Panel Connections

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0I
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
18 Loudspeaker Output 󰾴 Right Channel :
The loudspeaker cable can be connected to the two binding posts of the terminal. The
positive output terminal is in the top row, the negative is in the bottom row. Make sure
that no loudspeakers with an impedance of less than 3 Ohm are connected. Never short-
circuit the binding posts in order to avoid damage to your integrated amplifier.
19 Power Connection, Power Switch and Fuse :
Use the supplied high-quality power cord Volt to connect the unit to the power supply.
Pay close attention to the markings (red dot) and be sure that all power plugs of your
system are connected properly by inserting them in the same direction into the AC outlet.
Set the power switch to the on position to supply AC power to the unit. When the fuse
blows, replace it only by a fuse of the same rating. Be sure to unplug the unit before
replacing the fuse.
20 Preamplifier Output :
A preamplifier can be connected to this RCA pair. If required, the output can also be used
as a record output (Record). Information on how to activate the record output is provided
later on in this manual under MODE menu.
CAUTION! If the record output is activated, you must not connect a preamplifier to the
output since there is no volume control on the output.
21 SPLIT RETURN :
The output of an effects unit such as surround decoders, equalisers etc. can be
connected to this RCA pair.
22 SPLIT SEND :
The input of an effects unit such as surround decoders, equalisers etc. can be connected
to this RCA pair.
22 - 28 UNBALANCED INPUTS (Input 2 󰾴 7) :
The RCA pairs INPUT2 through INPUT7 are the unbalanced inputs. The top row of the
inputs is the left channel and the bottom row for the right stereo channel. These inputs
can be used with all traditional line-level sources such as Tuners, CD Players, Tape
Deck, etc.
Turntables will need a separate phonostage (such as the Trigon Vanguard II or Advance)
to amplifier the signal of the phono cartridge to a level which the Energy can accept.
29 Balanced Input (Input 1) :
This pair of connectors can be used with a source unit which is provided with a line level,

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balanced input.
Pin 1 - Ground
Pin 2 - Positive Signal (+).
Pin 3 - Negative Signal (-).
30 Loudspeaker Output 󰾴 Left Channel :
The loudspeaker cable can be connected to the two binding posts of the terminal. The
positive output terminal is in the top row, the negative is in the bottom row. Make sure
that no loudspeakers with an impedance of less than 3 Ohm are connected. Never short-
circuit the binding posts in order to avoid damage to your integrated amplifier.
3.3 Remote Control
The Energy offers an optional IR Remote called the Director.
Director
The Director is a system remote that can control multiple
components. It controls the following functions for the
Energy integrated amplifier.:
-On/Off (Standby) : used to turn the preamp on or off.
-Display On/Off : used to turn the display on or off.. When
switched off, a small dot will be displayed behind the Input
LED [2]. Also when switched off, the display will come on
for a few seconds if the preamp is used in order to show
any changes made.
-Mode Menu : used to engage the MODE-Menu. More
information can be found in Chapter 4.
-Mono/Stereo : used to engage Mono operation. Once
engaged, the Mono LED[5] will light up.
-Input + : each press will select the next input.
-Input 󰾴 : each press will select the previous input.
-Volume +10 : the volume will increase by 10
-Volume -10 : the volume will decrease by 10
-Mute : used to mute the outputs. When engaged, a small
dot will be displayed behind the Mute LED[6].
-Volume + : Increase volume
-Volume 󰾴 : Decrease volume
The buttons used for these functions are described in the User
Manual for the Director remote control.
(The image to the left has the relevant buttons for the
Energy highlighed in bold.)

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4 The MODE Function
We have included many additional features in this integrated amplifier that can be
accessed via the MODE menu.
The following functions are available in order of access in the MODE menu:
- Balance control
- Adjusting initial volume level
- Adjusting Display brightness
- Activating the Record Output
- Unity Gain (Home Theater through-put)
- Input level adjustment
- Factory Default Setting
Press the Mode button [16] to enter the MODE menu. Within the MODE menu, press the
pushbuttons [11] and [12] to move to the individual menu items. If no changes are made
within approx. 12 seconds, the unit will automatically return to the 󰾽normal󰾾 operation
mode.
The changes made are automatically saved when the pushbuttons are used to move to
the next menu item. Pressing the pushbuttons [11] and [12] will enable you to move freely
within the MODE menu. Pressing the MODE button again will enable you to exit the
MODE menu at any time.
The menu options are explained in detail in the following chapters.
4.1 Balance Control
The following should be seen on the display to adjust balance:
MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
PROTECTMONO
The volume control knob [9] is used to adjust the channel balance. When adjusting
channel balance, please note that either the left LED [6] or right LED [8] will be lit to
indicate which channel is receiving more signal. The volume display will indicate exactly
how much more signal is being sent to an individual channel. Each number represents a
difference of 1 dB of gain. The maximum difference is 100 dB. All changes in are
automatically saved once the pushbutton [12] is used to move to the next menu option, or
the MODE-button [16] is pressed to escape the MODE menu.
The adjustments made to the channel balance are saved until you change them again in
the MODE menu.
Pressing the pushbuttons [11] and [12] will move you to the next menu item. Pressing the
MODE-button [16] will exit the MODE menu.

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4.2 Adjusting Initial Volume Level
The Energy uses an electronic volume control system. In addition to offering better
performance (over the conventional Potentiometer), it also allows for special features that
have previously not been available. One of these features is the ability to adjust the Initial
volume level. It ensures that a high volume level which the unit was set to when last
turned off will not immediately be played at the output and via the loudspeakers.
You can choose a default volume setting for the initial volume level in the MODE menu.
Press the pushbutton [12] again to move to the second menu option which enables you to
adjust the initial volume level.
MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
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The initial volume level can only be adjusted, based on the level currently set, by turning
the volume knob. The level set is automatically saved when the buttons are used to move
to another menu item or to escape the MODE menu.
If you don󰾺t want to change any other options, simply press the MODE button [16] or wait
for approx. 12 seconds to automatically exit the MODE menu.
4.3 Adjusting Display brightness
The brightness of the complete Display can be adjusted in 99 steps.
MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
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Turning the volume knob will adjust the display brightness in this menu option. The
volume display will show the select brightness level.
Pressing the pushbutton [12] will move you to the next item in the MODE menu.
If you don󰾺t want to change any other options, simply press the MODE button or wait for
approx. 15 seconds to exit the MODE menu.
4.4 Activating the Record Output
The Energy is shipped from the factory (preset) with a pre-amp output [20]. This
output can be converted to a Record Output

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MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
PROTECTMONO
To convert the output [20], once in the Record Output option, press and hold the volume
knob for approx. 3 seconds until the 󰾽0󰾽 in the volume display changes to 󰾽I󰾽.
This change is then saved until, using the same sequence, it is reverted back to an input
by changing the 󰾽I󰾽 in the volume display to a 󰾽0󰾽.
To move to the next item in the MODE menu press the pushbutton INPUT [12]. If you
don󰾺t want to change any other options, simply press the MODE pushbutton or wait for
approx. 12 seconds to exit the MODE menu.
4.5 Unity Gain
This setting option will by-pass the volume control of a chosen input. This feature is useful
if integrating the Energy into a multichannel system.
MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
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Once in the Unity Gain mode, you will see a 󰾽u󰾽 in the input display as well as the
currently selected input, e.g. 󰾽4󰾽, each second. Use the pushbuttons to select the input
you want in order to set to Unity Gain.
The two LEDs [6] and [8] start flashing when you press and hold the volume knob [9] for a
moment. After a few seconds the display [4] changes from 󰾽0󰾽 to 󰾽1󰾽. The volume
control is now by-passed and the input signal is sent directly to the output stage without
signal increase or decrease. The volume level must be set via the surround processor.
CAUTION! Be very careful when activating the Unity Gain feature. If the selected input
has a musical signal at the time of activation, it could cause extreme damage to amplifiers
and/or loudspeakers.
The Unity Gain setting is then saved until, using the same sequence, it is reverted back
by pressing and holding the volume knob again. The Unity Gain setting only applies to
the input for which it is activated. All other inputs operate in 󰾽normal󰾾 mode. Only one
input can be selected for the Unity Gain feature.
MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
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Unity Gain display when set to Input 2

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4.6 Input level adjustments
It can be that the various sources connected to the Energy have different output
levels. This is usually noted when switching inputs and noticing that different sources
play at more loudly than others. The Energy offers the option to adjust the sensitivity
for each input.
In the MODE menu, there is an adjustment for input level. Pressing the pushbuttons [11]
und [12] will enable you to select the input you want to adjust. The display will then, at
position [2] and each second, alternate between the letter 󰾽E󰾽 and the number of the
currently selected input. Turning the volume knob [9] to the right will increase the level,
turning the volume knob to the left will decrease the level. The volume display [9]
indicates the incremental increase/decrease. With an increase, the red LED [8] will also
light up, with a decrease the left LED [6] will light up.
Input level adjustment display 󰿇
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󰿇 alternating with the following for Input 1:
MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
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Now you can use the volume knob [9] to adjust the input level. The adjusted value is
automatically saved when the pushbuttons are used to move to the next input. Using the
same sequence, you can individually adjust and compare the input levels for each input.
The adjustment range is +/- 12dB in 0.5dB steps or, in other words, 24 digits (steps
indicated in the display) "up󰾽 and 24 digits 󰾽down󰾽.
The level adjustments are permanently saved to the memory and will not be lost when the
integrated amplifier is switched off. They are saved until you change them again or reset
them to the factory default setting 󰾽zero󰾾 as is described further on.
If you don󰾺t want to change any other level settings, simply press the MODE button [16] or
wait for approx. 12 seconds to automatically exit the MODE menu. Press the pushbutton
[12] to move to the next menu item.
4.7 Factory Default Setting
The Energy can be reset to the factory default settings in this menu option.

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MODEMUTESPLITT LS-OFF
PROTECTMONO
If you are not happy with the adjustments made in the MODE menu and wish to reset the
unit to the factory default settings, press and hold the volume knob [9] for approx. 3
seconds in this menu (display [2] shows an 󰾽n󰾽). The entire display will flash several times
and the MODE menu will then close. Meanwhile, the factory default settings will be
restored: Stereo balance is set to zero, display brightness is increased to 󰾽99󰾽, the highest
possible value, the initial volume level is set to 󰾽10󰾽 whereas all input level adjustments
are changed to "zero󰾽, and the PRE-OUT (preamplifier output) is available.
--- All of your settings will be lost! The Energy will be reset to the Factory Default
settings. ---
If you don󰾺t want to reset your settings, press the MODE button to exit the MODE menu.
5 What to do, if...
This chapter is designed to help diagnose and trouble-shoot some of the most common
errors.
5.1 ... unit doesn󰾺t turn on?
Is the AC plug from the Power supply connected properly to the AC outlet? 󰾴 Secure
connection.
Does the AC outlet that you have the power supply connected to have current, or is it
possible that the fuse for that outlet has been blown? 󰾴 Test the fuse for that AC outlet at
the house fuse box.
Is the internal fuse blown? 󰾴 Contact your dealer.
Is the power switch on the rear panel set to the on position? 󰾴 Turn on the power switch.
5.2 ... no sound is produced?
Do you have the correct input selected? 󰾴 Select the intended input..
Is the selected source even sending a signal? 󰾴 Select a different input with another
connected source to test if it works. If this source works, then you should test the first
source to be sure that it is functioning properly.
Is the MUTE function activated? 󰾴 Press the MUTE button, or simply turn the volume

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knob.
Has the unit encountered a static electric charge? 󰾴 Sometimes it can occur, especially
during winter months, when humidity is higher, that your clothing will carry a slight static
electric charge. This charge can be transmitted to the preamplifier during normal use and
may confuse the microprocessor used to control the Energy. This is a common
problem with many common computers as well. If this happens, the Energy will turn
off the output relays to protect the rest of the system. To fix, first try to change the
selected input, which should reset the output relays. If this doesn󰾺t seem to work,
disconnect the AC cord from the wall outlet for approx. 30-60 seconds. Reconnect the AC
cord and the preamplifier should work without any problems.
5.3 ... there is a hum?
Are all the connections fastened securely? 󰾴 Test all cable connections.
Sometimes multiple problems can contribute to a magnetic reception, which will result in a
system hum. To fix these types of problems, it is recommend that you contact your local
dealer who has many years of experience in trouble shooting such issues.
It hums only when connected to a Tuner, VCR or Television? 󰾴 All of these components
are also connected to some type of grounded Antenna. This problem can also be related
to a magnetic reception. In this case however, the resolution is quite simple. Use of a
shielded power filter on the antenna can reduce or eliminate this hum. These types of
shielded power filters are readily available at most HiFi or Radio stores.
5.4 ... the remote control doesn󰾺t seem to work?
Does the remote work when set into the Preamplifier mode? 󰾴 Press the PREAMP button
on the remote control. It is now set to control the Energy integrated amplifier.
Are the batteries empty? 󰾴 Install new batteries.
Are you using the remote too far from the preamplifier? 󰾴 Get closer to the preamplifier.
IR-remote controls do have an ideal use distance. With full batteries, the unit will only
function with in 8 meters from the preamplifier.
If the sensor of the remote control is exposed to direct, bright sunlight, the use distance
will become shorter. - Avoid direct sunlight!

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6Technical Data
Output power (RMS) : 2x 70Watt at 8 Ohm, 2x 100Watt at 4 Ohm
Frequency range : 2Hz 󰾴 150KHz (- 3dB)
Distortion : < 0.02 %
Channel separation : < 80 dB ( 1kHz )
Signal-to-Noise ratio : < 96 dBA
Inputs : 6x Cinch + 1x XLR
Input Impedance : 47kOhm
Outputs : 1x Speaker , 1x Preamp or 1x
Record 1x
: head phone
Output Impedance : Line Cinch and XLR connectors @ 47 Ohm
Headphone : 1x , Impedance > 200 Ohm
Accessories : IR-Remote Control
Weight : 14 kg
Size (WxHxD) : 440 x 85 x 360 mm (WxHxD)
Warranty : 3 Years
Specifications subject to change.
Designed and Manufactured by:
TRIGON ELEKTRONIK G mbH
Korbacher Straße 185
D-34132 Kassel
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
Email [email protected]
Web www.trigon-audio.de
Trigon, 24.08.2006