Episode EA-AMP-12D-70

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Summary

Important Safety Instructions

General Safety Precautions

Summary of safety instructions for operation, maintenance, and handling.

Electrical Shock Hazard Warning

Warning about electrical shock risk and user-serviceable parts inside.

Features Overview

Multiple Stages of Protection

Describes channel protection indicated by bi-color LEDs for troubleshooting.

Individual Channel and Global Level Gain Adjustments

Bridging

Explains combining adjacent channels for increased power, requiring 8-ohm minimum.

Power Mode

Explains toggling power via button or 12V trigger jack.

Rear Panel Features (12 D and 8 D)

Bridged Switch

Easily couple two channels together for increased power (8-ohm minimum).

Rear Panel Connectivity and Controls

12 V Trigger In;Out

Requires 12V DC input for triggering amplifier state; note about standby mode.

Installation - First Steps

Positioning Your Episode Amplifier

Guidance on placing the amplifier on a solid surface in a well-ventilated area.

Installation - Setup and Options

Troubleshooting

No Audio From Any Channel

Checks for power cable, audio cable, and input selection issues.

No Audio From One or More Channels

Checks audio cable, input/bridging switches, and speaker wire connections.

No Audio From One Channel or One Zone Only

Tests channel, checks cables, input/bridging switches, and speaker wires.

Hum or Buzzing Sound

Recommends checking RCA input cables for blame.

Amplifier Will Not Turn On

Verifies live outlet and power switch position.

12 Volt Trigger Not Working

Ensures 12V supply and standby mode for front power button.

Summary

Important Safety Instructions

General Safety Precautions

Summary of safety instructions for operation, maintenance, and handling.

Electrical Shock Hazard Warning

Warning about electrical shock risk and user-serviceable parts inside.

Features Overview

Multiple Stages of Protection

Describes channel protection indicated by bi-color LEDs for troubleshooting.

Individual Channel and Global Level Gain Adjustments

Bridging

Explains combining adjacent channels for increased power, requiring 8-ohm minimum.

Power Mode

Explains toggling power via button or 12V trigger jack.

Rear Panel Features (12 D and 8 D)

Bridged Switch

Easily couple two channels together for increased power (8-ohm minimum).

Rear Panel Connectivity and Controls

12 V Trigger In;Out

Requires 12V DC input for triggering amplifier state; note about standby mode.

Installation - First Steps

Positioning Your Episode Amplifier

Guidance on placing the amplifier on a solid surface in a well-ventilated area.

Installation - Setup and Options

Troubleshooting

No Audio From Any Channel

Checks for power cable, audio cable, and input selection issues.

No Audio From One or More Channels

Checks audio cable, input/bridging switches, and speaker wire connections.

No Audio From One Channel or One Zone Only

Tests channel, checks cables, input/bridging switches, and speaker wires.

Hum or Buzzing Sound

Recommends checking RCA input cables for blame.

Amplifier Will Not Turn On

Verifies live outlet and power switch position.

12 Volt Trigger Not Working

Ensures 12V supply and standby mode for front power button.

The Episode Multi-Channel, Class D, 70 Watt Amplifier is a sophisticated audio component designed to deliver efficient, clean power across multiple rooms or zones in a custom audio installation. Available in 12-channel (EA-AMP-12D-70) and 8-channel (EA-AMP-8D-70) configurations, these amplifiers are built with durable audiophile design, utilizing the latest digital technology for cool-running performance and high efficiency, surpassing conventional analog designs.

Function Description:

The primary function of the Episode amplifier is to amplify audio signals for distribution to multiple speakers in a multi-room or multi-zone audio system. It acts as a central power hub, taking audio inputs from various sources and delivering amplified sound to designated speaker zones. The Class D design ensures high efficiency and a compact form factor, making it suitable for diverse installation environments. Its multi-channel capability allows for independent control and power delivery to several speaker pairs, catering to complex audio setups.

Usage Features:

The amplifier offers a comprehensive set of features designed for flexibility, control, and ease of integration into custom audio systems:

Multi-Channel Power Delivery: Provides 70 watts per channel at 4 ohms (50 watts at 8 ohms) when all channels are driven, ensuring robust sound for various speaker types and room sizes.
Global and Direct Inputs: Each channel pair can be configured to receive audio from either a dedicated "Line In" input or a common "Global Input." This flexibility allows for both localized audio sources (e.g., a TV in one room) and system-wide audio sources (e.g., a main music server). When using global connections, odd-numbered channels receive the left signal, and even-numbered channels receive the right signal, indicated by the color of the Line In jacks (white for odd, red for even). A two-position switch for each channel pair facilitates easy selection between these input modes.
Individual and Global Level Gain Adjustments: The amplifier features both a "Global Level" control, which adjusts the maximum output for all channels, and individual "Level" adjustments for each channel pair. This allows for precise volume matching across different zones and can be used to set volume limits in specific areas, preventing accidental over-driving of speakers or excessive loudness.
Bridging Capability: For areas requiring more power, adjacent channels can be bridged to combine their output, providing increased power (140 watts per channel at 8 ohms in bridged mode). A single switch enables this mode, but it's crucial to maintain an 8-ohm minimum load when bridging.
Speaker Outputs: Features removable speaker wire connectors that accommodate up to 14-gauge stranded speaker wire, simplifying installation and ensuring secure connections.
Loop Output: A "Loop Out" connection allows the global input signal to be passed through to other amplifiers or audio components, facilitating system expansion.
Multiple Stages of Protection: Each pair of channels (or zone) is individually protected, with bi-color LEDs on the front panel indicating the operational status. A blue LED signifies normal operation, while a red LED indicates a fault, such as a short circuit in the speaker wiring for that zone. This individual protection ensures that a fault in one zone does not affect the operation of other zones, simplifying troubleshooting and enhancing system reliability.
Power Mode and 12V Trigger: The amplifier can be powered on/off via a front panel button. Additionally, it features a 12V trigger input (3.5mm jack, tip positive) that allows for remote power control, turning the amplifier on when a 12V signal is applied. For the 12V trigger to function, the front power button must be in standby mode (red LED).
Rack-Mountable Design: Includes accessory rack "ears" for easy installation into standard equipment racks. The amplifier feet can be removed for a clean rack mount. The chassis and rack ears are designed to support only the amplifier itself, and stacking other components on top is not recommended to prevent damage.

Maintenance Features:

The Episode amplifier is designed for reliability and ease of maintenance, with several considerations for long-term performance:

Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for the amplifier's longevity. It requires a minimum of 5 inches of free air space above and 3 inches on each side for adequate cooling. It should not be placed on carpeting or similar materials that could block ventilation holes, nor near heat sources or in excessively humid/wet locations.
Cleaning: The unit should be cleaned only with a dry cloth to prevent damage to electronic components.
Removable Power Cord: The power cord is removable, facilitating installation and replacement if necessary.
Fuse Location: The amplifier includes a clearly marked fuse location, allowing for easy inspection and replacement of the fuse if needed (using the specified type and rating).
Troubleshooting Indicators: The bi-color LEDs on the front panel provide immediate visual feedback on the operational status of each zone, aiding in quick identification of issues such as short circuits.
Serviceability: In case of damage or malfunction, servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel. The unit is not designed for user-serviceable parts inside, and the cover should not be removed to avoid the risk of electric shock.
Input Selection Caution: Users are advised to only change input switch positions when the amplifier is turned off to prevent potential damage or unexpected behavior.
Speaker Polarity Test: The manual provides a simple test to verify correct speaker polarity, which is essential for optimal sound quality and bass response. This helps users ensure their speakers are wired correctly, preventing "warbly" or "distant" sound.

Overall, the Episode Multi-Channel, Class D, 70 Watt Amplifier is a robust and versatile solution for custom audio installations, offering powerful, efficient, and flexible audio distribution with user-friendly controls and protective features.

Episode EA-AMP-12D-70 Specifications

General

Power Output	120W
RMS Power Per Channel @ 70V	120W
RMS Power Per Channel @ 8 Ohms	60W
Impedance	8 Ohms
Frequency Response	20Hz - 20kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	> 100dB
Total Harmonic Distortion	< 0.1%
Amplifier Class	Class D
Cooling	Convection
Input Sensitivity	0.775V
Voltage	100-240V