Cary Audio Design SLAM-100 Amplifier Operating Manual

 Hudio Design
SLAM-100
OPERATING MANUAL
NOTE:
Before installing your new SLAM-100’s, please read this manual carefully. This manual
will inform you of the SLAM-100’s specifications, proper installation procedures and
operation procedures. Also included in this manual are guidelines on how to properly
service and care for your new SLAM-100’s.
SLAM-100
100 WATT MONO-BLOCS
INTRODUCTION
CONGRATULATIONS! You have purchased one of the most exotic audio amplifiers
available. The output tubes used in the SLAM-100’s are real beam power audio tubes.
These output tubes offer far greater linearity and lower distortion than a pentode audio
output tube.
The SLAM-100's are constructed to the highest commercial standards utilizing a grain
oriented stainless steel, nickel chrome plated chassis (chrome is optional). All resistors
are 1% metal film and the audio coupling capacitors are made of polypropylene. Each
SLAM-100 1s hand wired point to point. The high voltage DC power supply contains
four computer grade electrolytic capacitors for a total of 2200 MFD. The SLAM-100
utilizes a pair of 6SN7 tubes as the predriver and phase inverter and four beam power
output tubes in a push-pull configuration. The output transformer is a 300 watt, push-
pull, ultralinear transformer specifically designed by Cary Audio for use in the SLAM-
100's. This output transformer is the most important component in the entire amplifier.
All SLAM-100 amplifiers are burned in at the factory for a 48 hour period. This burn-in
period will assure you of a trouble free amplifier, right out of the box.
The most exciting feature of the SLAM-100's, aside from how gorgeous they look, is
the delightful, sensual beauty of the music they recreate. The first thing that will strike
you about your new SLAM-100 mono blocks is the incredible transparency and
resolution of detail in the music. The SLAM-100's sensual nature is best revealed in the
sense of life they display in female vocalists.
These mono blocks present music with such presence and directness, you'll be drawn
into the music hour after musically satisfying hour. This is the result of circuit
techniques, which eliminate any discernible crossover notch at low levels, and also
contributes to the freedom from listening fatigue. The SLAM-100's will draw you in
even further as you realize how lucid and utterly uncolored neutrality reveals delicate
nuances in the sound stage.
NOISE AND HUM:
FREQUENCY RESPONSE:
TUBES:
TRANSFORMERS:
RESISTORS:
CAPACITORS:
80dB below rated output
(at one watt output): 9Hz to 30,000Hz + 0 - 0.75dB
(at full power output): 15Hz to 23,000Hz + .5 - 0.5dB
1-6SN7 predriver, 1-68SN7 phase inverter,
4-KT-90, KT-88 or 6550 beam power output tubes
1-EI laminated core power transformer
1-Special ultralinear output transformer
150% duty cycle on all transformers
1% metal film
polypropylene (oil filled optional)
POWER SUPPLY CAPACITORS: 4-1200 MFD @ 450VDC, 223 Joules
AC CORD:
3 conductor detachable
AC POWER REQUIREMENTS: 117 volts AC 50/60 Hz
WARM-UP TIME:
BREAK-IN PERIOD:
FINISH:
350 watts operate
90 watts in stand-by
220 volts AC 50/60 Hz
350 watts operate
90 watts in stand-by
3 minutes
100 hours of music playing time
Nickel chrome plated stainless steel with black anodized
face plate )
1.3 Front Panel Features
AC-ON SWITCH: Turns AC power on. The LED indicates filament voltage is
on for warm-up.
STAND-BY SWITCH: Turns high voltage on. The LED indicates B+ high
voltage is on.
1.4 Rear Apron Features
INPUT: Signal input connection via shielded interconnect cable
OUTPUT: The 5-way binding posts provide the output to the speaker system.
Red=+, Black=-
CAUTION
EQUIPMENT DAMAGE MAY OCCUR WITH IMPROPER FUSES
AC: 3 conductor detachable.
CAUTION
USE OF ANY OTHER PROTECTION FUSE CAN DAMAGE UNIT
FUSE: AC power fuse. Never replace with any other value than 3 AMP SLOW BLOW!
250 VOLT!
TUBE FUSE: Never replace with any other value than 1/2 AMP FAST BLOW!
250 VOLT or 2 AMP SLOW BLOW!
CAUTION
NEVER REMOVE/INSERT AC LINE CORD WHEN THE UNIT IS ON
TO INSTALL THE TUBES, REFER TO PAGE 9 OF THIS MANUAL AND READ
INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY!
INSTALLATION
This section describes the unpacking and installation procedures for the SLAM-100
mono-blocks.
WARNING
MAKE NO ATTEMPT TO PUT THE SLAM-100 AMPLIFIER IN SERVICE
WITHOUT THE BOTTOM PLATE ATTACHED - CONTACT WITH VOLTAGE
IN THE SLAM-100 CAN BE FATAL!!!
2.2 Unpacking
All shipping containers have been specifically designed to protect their contents and
special care has been taken to prevent damage under normal shipping conditions.
Mishandling should be evident upon inspection of the shipping container. If damage is
found after visual inspection, take care not to destroy the evidence. If necessary,
document the damage with photographs and contact the transport carrier immediately.
Carefully remove your new SLAM-100 amplifier from its packing carton, and
examine it closely for signs of shipping damage. It is recommended to save all original
packing cartons to protect your amplifier from damage should you wish to store it or ship
1t for after sales service.
2.3 Warranty Card
Fill out the enclosed warranty registration card and return it to Cary Audio Design,
Inc. within 10 days of original purchase. Keep your original sales slip with the packing
cartons should you ever need it for reference. Failure to register warranty will limit
the warranty to one year.
2.4 Amplifier Placement
In general, the location of your new SLAM-100 amplifier is not critical. The best
placement in your system is near the speaker system with short lengths of speaker cables.
Certain precautions must be taken to ensure optimum performance. Avoid extremely hot
locations such as near radiators or other heating units. Keep the top of the SLAM-100
clear of books, paper or other equipment to protect against overheating.
2.5 Power Requirements
The SLAM-100 is designed to operate from house current mains. The design voltage
is 117VAC at 50/60Hz. (Foreign units 220 VAC at 50/60Hz)
2.6 Cables
The speaker cables from the output posts of the SLAM-100 to the speaker system can
be any convenient length your set-up requires. Select speaker cables of sufficient size to
preserve the outstanding performance capabilities of your SLAM-100. Heavy gauge #16
wire is suitable for distances up to 10 feet; #12 for 25 feet. Most audio dealers will have
proper speaker cable in stock for this purpose.
OPERATION
Signal input connections are made via the input jack on the rear of the SLAM-100
located on the opposite side to the output binding posts. The interconnect cables from the
output of the preamplifier can be any convenient length your set-up requires. The choice
of a high quality interconnect cable is important. Once again, your audio dealer will have
the proper cables in stock for this purpose.
3.1 Operation
Your new SLAM-100 1s ready for operation after the speaker, interconnect cables and
all the tubes have been installed. See page 9 for tube positions.
3.2 AC On Power Switch
Simply turn the AC switch to the ON position. The LED on the front panel will light.
Observe that all tubes are lit (filaments). Allow the filaments to warm-up for 2 to 3
minutes then turn the standby/operate switch to the operate position. Warming up the
filaments before switching to operate can extend the life of your tubes.
3.3 Stand-By Switch
This is the most convenient feature on the SLAM-100 amplifier. This switch is
located on the front of the amplifier. In the operate position, the amplifier is ready to
operate. In the stand-by position (provided the front panel AC switch is in the "on"
position), only the tube filaments are operating. This switch is used during a “cold start”
to pre-heat the tubes before operation. When turning the amp off, flip this switch to the
stand-by position and then flip the AC off/on switch to the off position.
3.4 Break In Period
The tubes, capacitors and output transformers take approximately 100 hours of music
playing to fully settle in for peak performance. The SLAM-100 may seem sterile or thin
sounding right out of the box. After the first couple of hours you will notice increased
depth and tighter bass. This break in period defies all engineering theory, but is true with
most audio amplifiers.
3.5 Bias Adjustment
Refer to page 9 for bias adjustment instructions. The bias is factory pre-set, but it is
recommended to check it due to differences in A.C. line voltages from one place to
another. Also check and re-adjust bias whenever replacing output tubes. The bias value,
82mA, is for two tubes and is the proper setting for other tubes such as KT99's and
6550's. The bias may be checked once every two to three months. There will be small
fluctuations in bias current due to fluctuations in the A.C. line voltage. Larger
fluctuations (approximately 20 MA) may indicate you have a defective output tube.
NOTE: When using a digital or analog VOM (Volt-Ohm Meter) make sure it is set
for D.C. miliamps not D.C. voltage. Improper use of the VOM can give you false
readings and possibly damage the output tubes. |
WARNING
MAKE SURE AMPLIFIER IS UNPLUGGED FROM AC MAINS
FOR ANY SERVICE OR CLEANING!!!
SERVICE AND CARE
4.1 SLAM-100 Care and Cleaning
The chassis of the SLAM-100 may be cleaned with a soft rag and Windex (or a similar
window cleaner). The frequency of cleaning will be governed by how many hours the
SLAM-100 1s operated and by operating environmental cleanliness.
4.2 Tube Replacement
If it becomes necessary to replace the tubes in the SLAM-100 amplifier, a matched set
of tubes of the same brand should be used. A new tube kit is available from Cary Audio
Design, Inc. You should get 2 to 3 years from the output tubes with everyday usage and
3 to 4 years of use from the 6SN7 input tubes.
4.3 Factory Service
Careful consideration has been given to the design of your SLAM-100 amplifier to
keep maintenance problems to a minimum. However, it is possible that some problems
may arise which cannot be cured by the tube substitution. At this point we suggest that
you contact our Customer Service Department, phone number 1-919-481-4494, to
describe your problem in detail. Do not return the SLAM-100 to the factory without a
return authorization number from the Customer Service Department. Cary Audio Design,
Inc. will assume no responsibility if the transportation company refuses to pay a damage
claim due to your improper packing or lack of insurance should the unit be lost in
shipment.
WARNINGS
MAKE NO ATTEMPT TO PUT THE SLAM-100 IN SERVICE OUTSIDE OF
THE
CABINET. CONTACT WITH HIGH VOLTAGES FOUND IN THE UNIT CAN
BE FATAL!!!
COMPLETELY REMOVE AC POWER PLUG FROM THE WALL AND
ALLOW 30 MINUTES FOR THE HIGH VOLTAGE CAPACITORS TO
DISCHARGE THROUGH BLEEDER RESISTORS BEFORE ATTEMPTING
TO CHANGE TUBES OR CLEAN THE INSIDE OF THE AMPLIFIER.
CAUTIONS
NEVER REMOVE/INSERT AC PLUG WHEN THE UNIT IS ON OR THE AC
POWER SWITCH IS IN THE "ON" POSITION.
OBSTRUCTION OF THE TOP PORTION OF THE SLAM-100 WILL RESULT
IN TUBES OVERHEATING.
***OBSERVE DIRECTIONS IN THIS MANUAL***
SLAM - 100 Bias Adjustment
&
Tube Placement
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7
Negative
Bias Jack
Bias Pot Bias Pot
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Triode Triode
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fond о © = O © = Oo oO =
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Insert meter plug into bias jack.
Adjust each side for 82mA reading on VOM or DC current meter.
Readjust each side to 82mA after after SLAM - 100 is warmed up
for 10 minutes. Remove plug and enjoy the music!
Note: Bias is factory preset; Bias should be reset when installing replacement output tubes.
SPECIFICATIONS
Operating the SLAM-100 amplifiers is a simple procedure since each unit is designed
for long term stability in virtually any home operating situation. Therefore, if the unit is
operated outside the parameters outlined in this owner's manual, damage may result.
Please read this manual carefully before putting your new Cary Audio Design | SLAM-
100's in operation.
The following definitions are applicable to this manual. These definitions must be
followed explicitly.
WARNING
HAZARD PRESENTS PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH
Caution
EQUIPMENT DAMAGE MAY OCCUR BUT NOT PERSONAL INJURY
Note
Proper performance of the amplifier cannot be ensured if disregarded
1.2 Specifications
The following section describes the SLAM-100's basic specs. Specifications are
subject to change without notice or obligation.
DIMENSIONS: 6"H x 10"W x 20"D
WEIGHT: - 40 Lbs.
CIRCUIT TYPE: Push-Pull in Class AB
POWER OUTPUT: 95W - Triode
165W - Ultra-linear
(Units are standard in triode mode)
INPUT SENSITIVITY: .750 volts for full output
OUTPUT IMPEDANCE: 8 ohms (switchable to 4ohms)
INPUT IMPEDANCE: 150,00 ohms
SLAM-100 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
SYMPTOM - CAUSE REMEDY
Hum or "Buzzing" through | -Ground loop -Install 2-pin adapter on
speakers A.C. cord to float the
ground.
-Intermittent or poor -Replace interconnect
connection of interconnect
ground
"Popping" or "Spitting"
noise through speaker
-Noisy Tube
-Intermittent output tube
(1 amp fuse may blow on a
regular basis)
-[f noise is in one channel,
swap one section of tubes at
a time until the noise swaps
channels. Replace noisy
tube. Start with 6SN7
tubes.
-Check bias, if high or
fluctuating rapidly one of
the output tubes may have
an intermittent short. The
defective tube may
sometimes be found by
lightly tapping the output
tube with a pencil and
observing the current meter.
(The speaker should be
removed from the amp
while trouble shooting this
type of problem.)
AC fuse blows
-Line voltage surge
-Replace fuse with 4 amp
slow blow only!
Bias is reading zero
-Blown 1 amp fuse
-Bias Plug wire broken
-Meter fuse blown
-Replace fuse
-Replace wire
-Replace Fuse inside
meter
UNITED STATES LIMITED WARRANTY
Cary Audio Design, Inc. warrants to the original United States purchaser for use in the United States, that this product
shall be free from defects in material (except tubes and AF output transistors) or workmanship for three (3) years from
the date of the original purchase.
During the warranty period, Cary Audio Design or an authorized Cary Audio Design service facility will provide free
of charge both parts (except tubes and AF output transistors) and labor necessary to correct defects in material or
workmanship.
\
To obtain such warranty service, the original purchaser must:
(1) Complete and send in the warranty Registration Card.
(2) Notify Cary Audio Design as soon as possible after the discovery of a possible defect:
(a) The model number and serial number;
(b) The identity of the seller and the approximate date of purchase;
(c) A detailed description of the problem, including details on the electrical
connection in the associated equipment and the list of such equipment.
(3) Deliver the product to Cary Audio Designs or the nearest authorized service facility,
or ship the same in its original container or equivalent, fully insured and the shipping charges
prepaid.
Correct maintenance, repair and use are important to obtain performance from this product. Therefore, carefully read
the Instruction Manual. This warranty does not apply to any defect that Cary Audio Design in its sole discretion
determines is due:
(1) Improper maintenance or repair, including the installation of parts or accessories that does not
conform to the quality and the specifications of the original parts.
(2) Misuse, abuse, neglect or improper installation.
(3) Accidental or incidental damage.
WARRANTY DISCLAIMER
Except for the express warranties stated herein, Cary Audio Design disclaims all other warranties including, without
limitation, all implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
EXCLUSIVE REMEDY
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the purchaser's exclusive remedy for any breach of warranty, express or implied, is
limited to the repair or replacement of the defective unit or the refund of the purchase price, at the option of Cary
Audio Design. Under no circumstances is Cary Audio Design liable for incidental or consequential damages. Any
implied warranties imposed by law terminate one (1) year from the date of purchase.
FOREIGN PURCHASERS
Cary Audio Design warrants its merchandise to purchasers in the United States for use in the United States. It provides
no other warranties. If you are a foreign purchaser, consult with your dealer to determine whether your dealer provides
any warranty.
The foregoing constitutes Cary Audio Design's entire obligation with respect to this product, and the original purchaser
and any user or owner shall have no other claim for incidental or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation and exclusion may not apply to
you.
This warranty gives legal rights and you may have other rights which vary from state to state.