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Harman Kardon 930 - User Manual

Harman Kardon 930
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AM/FM/Stereo FM
Solid State Receiver
The Harman-Kardon
Model 930
harman/kardon
THE MUSIC COMPANY
Instruction Manual

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Summary

Introduction

Warranty and Service Policy

Policy Details

Outlines the warranty coverage for material and workmanship defects for two years from purchase.

Warranty Exclusions

Specifies items not covered by the warranty, such as wooden enclosure damage and shipping costs.

Service Registration

Mandates retaining the original bill of sale for warranty service claims.

Service Information

Provides contact information for customer service and authorized repair assistance.

Installation Procedure

Ventilation Requirements

Specifies minimum clearances for proper airflow around the receiver.

Power Requirements

Details AC power connection, voltage compatibility, and auxiliary outlets.

Fuse Protection

Explains the role of fuses and the importance of using correct replacements.

Speaker Phasing

Guides on connecting speakers for correct phase alignment and optimal sound.

Connecting Speakers for Stereo Operation

Dual System Connection

Instructions for connecting four speakers across two independent systems.

Stereo and Monophonic Configurations

Diagrams for connecting speakers in stereo and monophonic modes with loading resistors.

Input Connections

FM Antenna Connection

How to connect 300-ohm twin lead or 75-ohm coaxial FM antennas.

AM Antenna Connection

Instructions for connecting the AM loopstick or an external wire antenna.

Preamp Out and Amp In

Using preamplifier output and power amplifier input connections for external processors.

Phono Inputs

Connecting magnetic pickup turntables to the dedicated Phono 1 and Phono 2 inputs.

Ground Connection

Establishing a common ground between the receiver and other audio components.

Auxiliary Inputs

Connecting high-level sources like tape decks, tuners, or crystal pickups.

Tape Monitor Connections

Connecting tape recorders for recording and monitoring programs.

Operating Procedure

Mode Switch

Selecting between stereo, monophonic, and channel reverse operation.

Volume Control

Adjusting the overall signal level for playback.

Balance Control

Fine-tuning the sound level between left and right channels.

Bass and Treble Controls

Adjusting low and high frequencies for desired tonal balance.

Function Switch

Selecting the input source for playback (Phono, AM, FM, Aux).

Power Switch

Turning the receiver on and off, and controlling switched outlets.

Speaker Selector Switches

Selecting which speaker system(s) are active.

Tape Monitor Switches

Enabling tape monitoring for recording and playback comparison.

High Cut Filter

Reducing high-frequency noise like scratch and hiss.

Low Cut Filter

Reducing low-frequency noise such as record rumble.

Tone Defeat Switch

Bypassing tone controls for a flat frequency response.

Contour Switch

Enhancing low-frequency response at low listening levels.

FM Muting Switch

Disabling FM muting to hear weaker stations or reduce interstation noise.

MPX Filter Switch

Reducing noise associated with weak FM multiplex signals.

Stereo Auto Switch

Automatically selecting stereo FM broadcasts or forcing mono.

Equalization

Hum and Noise Troubleshooting

Service and Support

Overview

The Harman-Kardon Model 930 is a solid-state receiver designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction, integrating AM/FM/Stereo FM tuning with amplification capabilities. This receiver represents a new era in audio design, emphasizing clean, transparent sound and robust performance.

Function Description

The core function of the Model 930 is to receive radio broadcasts (AM, FM, and Stereo FM) and amplify audio signals from various external sources, delivering them to speakers or headphones. It features a comprehensive set of controls and inputs to manage different audio sources and tailor the sound to the listener's preference and room acoustics.

The receiver includes a built-in AM/FM/Stereo FM tuner. For FM reception, it can utilize either a 300-ohm balanced twin lead or a 75-ohm unbalanced co-axial cable. A simple 48-inch wire is often sufficient for most locations, but an external antenna can be connected for improved reception in more remote or challenging areas. The AM section is equipped with a loopstick antenna on the rear, suitable for normal signal areas, with provisions for an additional outdoor antenna for extended range and noise reduction.

The amplification section is designed with two separate power supplies, one for each channel. This unique design ensures flawless performance by preventing one channel's power demands from affecting the other, resulting in cleaner and more transparent sound delivery, especially at full RMS power output. The receiver is also a proud heir to the HARMAN-KARDON trademark of ultra-wideband frequency response, which aims to reproduce sound beyond the limits of human hearing, adding extra realism to the audible range.

Input flexibility is a key feature, with multiple options for connecting audio sources. Two sets of PHONO receptacles are provided for magnetic pickups, each with RIAA equalization, allowing simultaneous connection of a record changer and a manual turntable. Two pairs of AUX INPUT receptacles accommodate high-level sources such as ceramic or crystal pickups, reel-to-reel tape recorders, cassette tape recorders, TVs, or a second stereo tuner. Additionally, two pairs of TAPE MONITOR receptacles (TAPE MONITOR 1 and TAPE MONITOR 2) allow for monitoring recordings as they are being made, particularly useful for professional tape recorders with separate record and playback heads.

The receiver also includes PREAMP OUT and MAIN AMP IN receptacles. These are designed for integrating external equipment like electronic audio equalizers, reverberation units, or quadraphonic processors between the preamplifier and power amplifier stages. When no such accessories are used, patch cords must be installed between these receptacles for the receiver to function.

Usage Features

The front panel of the Model 930 is equipped with a variety of controls and indicators for intuitive operation. The FUNCTION switch allows selection between PHONO 1, PHONO 2, AM, FM, AUX 1, and AUX 2 sources. Illuminated indicator lights behind the dial glass visually confirm the selected function.

Tuning for radio stations is facilitated by a TUNING KNOB and two D'Arsonval movement tuning meters: an FM BALANCE METER and a SIGNAL STRENGTH METER. The FM balance meter operates on a null or "zero" center principle, guiding the user to the point of minimum distortion and optimum FM reception. The signal strength meter indicates the level of the incoming signal. For AM tuning, only the signal strength meter is used. The dial scale features FM frequency (88-108 MHz), AM frequency, and a logging scale (0-100) for easily recalling favorite stations. A STEREO INDICATOR light illuminates when an FM stereo program is being received.

Sound shaping is handled by BASS and TREBLE controls, which can be adjusted for both channels simultaneously or individually. The outer knob adjusts the LEFT channel, and the inner knob adjusts the RIGHT channel. The BALANCE control allows fine-tuning of the sound distribution between the left and right speakers. The VOLUME control adjusts the overall signal level, with a two-section design ensuring identical volume levels for both channels.

Several push/push type switches offer additional control over audio processing:

  • SPKR-1 and SPKR-2 switches: These selector switches manage up to two independent speaker systems. SPKR-1 must be "ON" for the first system, and both SPKR-1 and SPKR-2 for two systems. Speakers can be turned off when listening through headphones.
  • TAPE MON-1 and TAPE MON-2 switches: These enable monitoring of recordings in progress, allowing comparison between the original source and the recorded material.
  • HIGH-CUT FILTER switch: Reduces high-frequency response to minimize annoying record scratch, tape hiss, and FM background noise.
  • LOW-CUT FILTER switch: Filters out objectionable low-frequency signals like turntable rumble or record warps.
  • TONE DEFEAT switch: Bypasses the tone control circuit for an absolutely linear frequency response, useful for comparing equalized vs. flat sound.
  • CONTOUR switch: Compensates for the human ear's reduced sensitivity to low-pitched sounds at lower listening levels (Fletcher-Munson effect), providing a warmer, fuller-bodied reproduction.
  • FM MUTING switch: Reduces audible noise when tuning between FM stations. It can be defeated for receiving very weak signals.
  • MPX FILTER switch: Eliminates noise accompanying weak multiplex FM stereo signals, which require greater signal strength than monophonic reception.
  • STEREO AUTO switch: Automatically detects and adjusts the receiver for monophonic or stereophonic FM broadcasts. It can be set to "OUT" to listen to weak stereo signals monophonically if quality is degraded.

A STEREO HEADPHONE RECEPTACLE on the front panel allows private listening with any impedance headphones, always active.

Maintenance Features

The Model 930 is designed for reliability, but some considerations are important for its longevity and proper function.

Ventilation: Although the receiver rarely generates excessive heat, adequate ventilation is recommended. Leaving the back of the cabinet open, or providing large holes/slots at the bottom and top of the cabinet, ensures proper airflow. A minimum clearance of two inches on the sides and rear, and three inches above, is advised. Accessories should not obstruct ventilation.

Fusing: The receiver incorporates three fuses for protection against overload, short circuits, and excess current. An AC fuse (3A-3AG) protects the entire system, while two speaker fuses (also 3A-3AG) protect the output stages. In the event of a fuse failure, it is crucial to replace it ONLY with the same type and rating to avoid severe damage and maintain warranty coverage.

Speaker Connections: Careful attention to speaker wiring is essential. Avoid accidental shorts, as repetitive shorting can damage transistors. The receiver is compatible with speakers having impedances of 4, 8, or 16 ohms. When using multiple speaker systems, ensure the total load impedance does not fall below 4 ohms to prevent blowing the speaker fuses.

Ground Connection: A GND terminal on the rear panel allows for establishing a common "ground" between the receiver and other associated equipment, which can help eliminate hum in the audio system. If hum is experienced, troubleshooting steps include reversing AC line cords and connecting a single lead from the record player chassis to the ground post.

Power Outlets: Two auxiliary AC power outlets are provided on the rear panel. One is "always alive," and the other is "switched," meaning it is live only when the receiver's power switch is ON. This allows for convenient control of accessory equipment like tape recorders or record players.

Service and Warranty: The unit is covered by a two-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship under normal use. For service, it is necessary to retain the original bill of sale. The manufacturer emphasizes that the unit should NOT be shipped for service without prior authorization and a proper authorization form. The internal components are not user-serviceable, and the cover should only be removed by qualified personnel.

Harman Kardon 930 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Power Output45 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)
Frequency Response20Hz to 20kHz
Tuning RangeFM, MW
Damping Factor40
Input Sensitivity2.5mV (MM)
Signal to Noise Ratio75dB

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