Reference Monoblock internal control systems
As with all of our products the Reference Monoblocks are designed to be very easy to install and use. However hidden inside are a number of control functions that operate automatically.
Class A, and Standby
In standby mode the amplifier has it’s output disconnected, and the output circuit bias current is low so as to minimise any power consumption. It is powered though, and all devices are in operation at a low level so that the amplifier is ready to sound it’s best as soon as you start to listen.
The amplifier is brought out of standby and into Class A operation by either music being detected at it’s input, or by a 12V trigger signal appearing at the trigger input. The 12V trigger signal can come from a control system separately installed by your dealer covering other aspects of your home entertainment, or from the Pure Audio Control preamplifier. There is a loop connection on the 12V trigger circuit that can be used to pass the control signal from one Monoblock to another to enable both to be triggered at once.
All of our 12V trigger connections use standard 3.5mm jack sockets with one connection to the tip, the other to the sleeve. Polarity does not matter. Connections can conveniently be made by standard 3.5mm audio leads. Long lengths can easily be custom made.
After the music stops the amplifier will fall back to standby automatically after 20-30 minutes.
Temperature
The amplifier’s heatsink temperature is constantly monitored. In normal Class A operation it will rise to about 50-55 deg C and stabilise there. If it rises further and reaches 65 deg C it is assumed that there is either a fault, or the amplifier installation is not providing adequate ventilation. In this situation the amplifier will switch to standby, run its fans at a higher speed to improve cooling, and flash a pair of red leds inside the chassis as an alert. If the heatsink temperature then falls by around 10 deg C the amplifier will resume normal operation. Owner intervention is needed if this happens as the most likely cause is poor ventilation.
DC Error or Clipping
An error detection circuit monitors the amplifier’s output watching for either DC or significant distortion. If either is detected the amplifier will disconnect the loudspeakers and flash the front panel light. This control circuit protects your loudspeakers from amplifier faults, or over driving. Don’t party too hard!
With these control systems the amplifier needs almost no input from you, just install and connect it, turn it on, and sit back and listen.