The Avantone Pro CLA-200 Studio Reference Amplifier is a classically designed Class A/B amplifier, specifically engineered for studio environments. Its primary function is to provide high-power amplification for passive studio monitors, delivering clear and transparent audio results. The amplifier is designed to be paired with CLA-10 studio monitors but is versatile enough for use with other demanding speaker loads.
Function Description:
The CLA-200 serves as a studio reference amplifier, offering dynamic, high-output, and high-resolution full-range amplification. It is built with a traditional studio style, featuring generous VU meters and high-quality Japanese components. A serious toroidal transformer linear power supply ensures stable and robust performance. The amplifier operates in a 2U rack-mount chassis and is convection-cooled, eliminating fan noise, which makes it suitable for use in the same room as the monitors. It can operate in stereo, dual mono, or bridged mono modes, providing flexibility for various studio setups.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Output (8Ω Stereo, 1KHz): 200W per channel
- Power Output (4Ω Stereo, 1KHz): 300W per channel
- Power Output (8Ω Bridge, 1KHz): 500W
- Slew Rate (at 1KHz): 28V/us
- Input Sensitivity (1KHz): 0.775V (0dBU)
- Total Harmonic Distortion (1KHz): <0.1%
- Intermodulation Distortion (at 10% rated power 1KHz): <0.1%
- Crosstalk: -70dB
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz +/-0.5dB
- Input Impedance (Balanced): 20kΩ
- Input Impedance (Unbalanced): 10kΩ
- Damping Factor (100Hz, 8Ω): 250
- Signal to Noise Ratio (A Weighted): >103dB
- Amplifier Class: Class AB
- Dimensions: 270W x 360H x 385D (10.6” x 14.2” x 15.2”)
- Weight: 20kg (44lb)
- Cooling: Convection cooled (no fan noise)
- Voltage Select: 115VAC/230VAC 50/60Hz (selectable via rear panel switch)
- Inputs: BALANCED XLR and 1/4" TRS/TS phone plug inputs
- Outputs: SPEAKON™ and binding posts
Usage Features:
- Operating Modes: The CLA-200 offers three distinct operating modes:
- Stereo: Both channels are driven separately, providing independent amplification for two speakers.
- Dual Mono: The input signal is sent to both outputs, with individual volume controls still enabled for each channel, useful for driving two speakers with the same mono signal.
- Bridged Mono: Both channels operate together as a single, more powerful amplifier. Channel A serves as the input, with Channel A output in phase and Channel B output out of phase, ideal for driving a single, high-power speaker. Important: The mode switch should not be adjusted with power on.
- Input Connections: Features balanced XLR and 1/4" TRS/TS phone plug inputs. A pass-through connection is provided for convenience when chaining multiple amplifiers.
- Output Connections: Equipped with both SPEAKON™ and binding post connectors for speaker outputs. In mono/bridge mode, the two positive terminals are driven anti-phase, and users are cautioned not to ground any speaker terminals.
- Voltage Selection: A switch on the rear panel allows selection of the appropriate AC/MAINS operating voltage (115VAC or 230VAC) for different regions. Users must ensure the correct fuse value is installed for their selected voltage.
- Ground Lift Switch: This switch helps control ground loops by lifting the pin 1 shield at the input jack. It provides a safety ground through opposing diodes, even in the event of high voltage ground loops.
- Volume Controls: Independent volume controls for each channel (Channel A and Channel B) are located on the front panel, alongside VU meters for visual monitoring of output levels.
- Quick Start Guide:
- Select the correct operating voltage and fuse on the rear panel.
- Choose the desired operating mode (stereo, dual mono, or bridged mono).
- Set volume controls to minimum.
- Connect audio input, speaker cables, and power cord with the power switch in the OFF position.
- Plug the power cord into an AC source.
- Turn on all upstream equipment, ensuring their outputs are at minimum.
- Turn on the amplifier's power switch.
- Adjust volume to the appropriate level at both the source and the amplifier.
- Rack Mounting: Designed as a 2-rack space unit, it can be mounted in a standard 19-inch rack using four front panel mounting holes and rear mounting ears for additional support, especially in mobile sound systems.
Maintenance Features:
- Thermal Protection: The amplifier includes a thermal protection circuit that disconnects loudspeakers and shuts down if the heat sink temperature becomes abnormally high, preventing damage.
- Short Circuit Protection: A ZSP (Zero-Slew-Rate Protection) circuit and thermal protection circuits automatically protect the amplifier if an output is shorted (e.g., due to defective speakers or crossed speaker wires). The ZSP circuit attenuates the signal, protecting output transistors from overcurrent stress. If the short circuit persists, the load is disconnected by the thermal protection circuit.
- DC Voltage Protection: If an amplifier channel detects DC voltage at its output terminals, an internal relay immediately opens to prevent damage to connected loudspeakers.
- Cooling Requirements: The convection cooling system relies on proper airflow. Air enters through vents on the sides and bottom of the chassis and exits through the sides and top. Adequate space around the amplifier is crucial to allow heated air to escape freely and cool air to enter. For rack-mounted units, forced air cooling is recommended if doors are used.
- Servicing: All servicing must be referred to qualified service personnel. Attempting to service the unit yourself will void the warranty. Servicing is required if the apparatus has been damaged, exposed to liquids or moisture, or does not operate normally.
- Cleaning: Clean the unit only with a dry cloth.
- Power Cord Protection: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, especially at plugs, convenience receptacles, and where it exits the apparatus.
- Warranty: The CLA-200 comes with a standard Avantone 5-YEAR warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser. The warranty excludes problems due to normal wear, abuse, shipping damage, or failure to use the product according to specifications. The warranty is not transferable.
- Shipping for Service: For warranty service, customers must obtain a Return Authorization (RA) number from Avantone Pro before shipping the unit. Units should be packed carefully, preferably in original packing materials, and fully insured, as Avantone Pro is not responsible for damages incurred due to poor packaging during shipment.
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