Deer Creek Audio EQ901 Elite

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EQ901 Elite User Guide

Introduction 1

1. Features 2

2. What’s Included 2

3. Typical Installation Examples 2

3.1 Tape / Processor Loop Setup 3

3.2 Preamp / Power Amplifier Setup 3

3.3 Active Subwoofer Setup 4

3.4 Dual Stereo Power Amplifier Setup 5

4. Using the EQ901 Elite Remote Control 6

5. Setting Tone Modes 6

6. Analog Input Level 6

7. Support 7

8. Specifications 7

9. Warranty Terms 8

Contact Deer Creek Audio 8

Introduction

The EQ901 Elite is an ultra high performance replacement for existing BOSE 901 Series I/II,

III/IV or V/VI equalizers. The unit provides the BOSE 901 specific equalizer curves with four

tone modes that accommodate a wide range of room conditions and recording variations.

Designed for use with high-quality pre/power amplifiers or integrated amplifiers and receivers,

the unit builds on our EQ901B series with lower distortion, greater dynamic range and higher

fidelity, providing audiophile-grade digital signal processors, DACs and analog signal stages.

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Summary

Typical Installation Examples

Tape; Processor Loop Setup

Illustrates connecting the EQ901 Elite using a tape or processor loop on a receiver or integrated amplifier.

Preamp; Power Amplifier Setup

Details typical connection between a preamp and a power amplifier for the EQ901 Elite.

Active Subwoofer Setup

Shows how to connect the EQ901 Elite to an active subwoofer using unused outputs.

Dual Stereo Power Amplifier Setup

Demonstrates connecting the EQ901 Elite for a dual stereo power amplifier configuration.

Using the EQ901 Elite Remote Control

The EQ901 Elite is a high-performance digital equalizer designed as a replacement for existing BOSE 901 Series I/II, III/IV, or V/VI equalizers. It provides specific equalization curves tailored to each BOSE 901 series, ensuring optimal audio reproduction for these speakers. The unit is engineered for use with high-quality pre/power amplifiers or integrated amplifiers and receivers, aiming to deliver audiophile-grade sound quality.

Function Description:

The primary function of the EQ901 Elite is to apply precise equalization curves specific to BOSE 901 speakers. This equalization is performed digitally by an Analog Devices 400MHz SHARC DSP processor with 24-bit resolution, ensuring accuracy and fidelity. The device offers four distinct tone modes: Normal, Enhanced, Warm, and Low Frequency Reduction, allowing users to adjust the sound profile to suit various room conditions and recording characteristics.

The EQ901 Elite features two identical stereo pair outputs, which provide flexibility in system configuration. These outputs can be used for dual active stereo systems (driving two stereo power amplifiers) or for integrating active subwoofers. The unit is designed to offer lower distortion, greater dynamic range, and higher fidelity compared to previous models, utilizing advanced digital signal processors, DACs, and analog signal stages.

Important Technical Specifications:

Platform Base: miniDSP 2x4 HD
Digital Signal Processor Engine: Analog Devices Fixed Point DSP SHARC ADSP-21489
Digital to Analog Converter (DAC): AK4626A
Internal Processing Resolution and Sample Rate: 32 bit / up to 192 kHz
Audio Input / Output Connectivity: Unbalanced Output, RCA
Input / Output Max Levels:
- Input: 2.0 Vrms / 4.0 Vrms (jumper-selectable)
- Output: 2.0 Vrms
Input Impedance: 10 kΩ
Output Impedance: 560 Ω
Filtering Technology: FIR + I/IIR
Dimensions: 27 x 119 x 107 mm
Power: 12V DC Single Supply, 2.1 mm Round Plug, 2.5 Watt
IR Remote: miniDSP Remote

Usage Features:

The EQ901 Elite is designed for straightforward integration into existing audio systems. Analog audio input and output connections are made directly via RCA jacks. Users are advised to power off connected equipment before making connections.

Installation Examples: The manual provides several typical installation examples:
- Tape / Processor Loop Setup: Connects the EQ901 Elite into a receiver or integrated amplifier's tape/processor loop.
- Preamp / Power Amplifier Setup: Illustrates connection between a preamp and a power amplifier.
- Pre-out / Main-in Loop Setup: Shows how to insert the EQ901 Elite into a receiver or integrated amplifier with a pre-out / main-in loop, often requiring the removal of couplers or specific amplifier manual instructions.
- Active Subwoofer Setup: Utilizes the two unused outputs to connect to a subwoofer's L and R line inputs, allowing for subwoofer control adjustments.
- Dual Stereo Power Amplifier Setup: Demonstrates how to use both stereo outputs to drive two separate stereo power amplifiers.
Remote Control: An IR remote control is included, providing access to key runtime functions:
- Mute: Mutes the audio output.
- Volume: Adjusts the audio volume.
- Source Selection: Allows selection between Analog, RCA, TOSLINK, and USB inputs (though the manual primarily focuses on analog RCA connections for this model, indicating potential broader platform capabilities).
- Preset (1 through 4): Switches between the four preset tone modes (Normal, Enhanced, Warm, Low Frequency Reduction).
Tone Modes: The selection of tone mode is subjective and depends on listener preference and room acoustics:
- Normal mode: The most neutral sound profile.
- Enhanced mode: Provides a tighter sound.
- Warm mode: Adds midrange presence with a slight treble reduction.
- Low Frequency Reduction mode: Intended for bass control in smaller rooms or with "boomy" recordings.
Analog Input Level: The analog audio input sensitivity is switchable between 2.0 Vrms and 4.0 Vrms to match various equipment. The unit ships with the input level set to 2.0 Vrms. This setting is adjusted via user-accessible jumpers located on the internal PC board near the RCA input jacks.

Maintenance Features:

Support: Deer Creek Audio offers comprehensive support for the EQ901 Elite:
- 30-day 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- Installation guide and phone support.
- One-year full replacement warranty.
- Deer Creek Audio is an authorized miniDSP dealer, indicating access to specialized knowledge and parts for the platform.
Warranty Terms: The product is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the invoice date. The warranty does not cover failures due to incorrect connection or installation, improper or undocumented use, unauthorized servicing, modification, alteration, or usage outside of the recommended guidelines. Return shipping for warranty claims is the responsibility of the customer.

The EQ901 Elite is a specialized audio component designed to enhance the performance of BOSE 901 speakers by providing precise, digitally controlled equalization and flexible sound shaping options, all within a high-fidelity framework.