The Kramer VM-1610 and VM-80A are high-performance distribution amplifiers designed for balanced stereo audio signals, ideal for professional A/V systems requiring high-quality signal distribution, recording studios, live sound reinforcement, and rental/staging applications.
Kramer VM-1610 1:10 Balanced Audio-Stereo Distributor
Function Description:
The VM-1610 is a versatile distribution amplifier that can be configured as either one 1:10 balanced audio-stereo distributor or two 1:5 balanced stereo audio distribution amplifiers. It features grouped audio level controls for precise adjustment of output signals.
Usage Features:
- Configuration:
- 1:10 Configuration: Connects a single balanced stereo audio source (e.g., an audio player) to the Channel 1 INPUT terminal block. The audio input is then distributed to up to 10 balanced stereo audio acceptors (e.g., audio recorders) via the OUT terminal blocks. In this mode, only Channel 1 INPUT can be distributed to all 10 outputs; Channel 2 INPUT is not used. The MODE button should be released to the 1:10 position.
- 2x1:5 Configuration: Connects two independent balanced stereo audio sources (e.g., two audio players) to the Channel 1 INPUT and Channel 2 INPUT terminal blocks, respectively. Channel 1 audio inputs are distributed to Channel 1 audio outputs (up to 5 acceptors), and Channel 2 audio inputs are distributed to Channel 2 audio outputs (up to 5 acceptors). The MODE button should be pressed in to the 2x1:5 position.
- Audio Level Adjustment: Both CH1 and CH2 LEVEL trimmers (LEFT, RIGHT) allow for adjustment of the left and right audio gains using a small screwdriver.
- Power Control: An illuminated power switch turns the unit on and off.
- Rack Mounting: The VM-1610 is a standard 1U 19" rack-mount size. Ear brackets are attached to the machine by removing and replacing screws on each side, then securing the ears to rack rails with appropriate screws. Detachable rack ears allow for desktop use if preferred.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Input: 2 balanced audio stereo +4dBu, 50kΩ on detachable terminal blocks.
- Output: 10 (or 2x5) balanced audio stereo +4dBu, 50Ω on detachable terminal blocks.
- Audio Bandwidth (-3dB): >100kHz.
- Max. Audio Output: 18Vpp.
- Gain Range: 0.5dB to +9.5dB (four trimmers - two for each input channel).
- Audio S/N Ratio: 92dB @1Vpp.
- Crosstalk: -84.5dB.
- THD: 0.011% at 1kHz.
- 2nd Harmonic: 0.003%.
- Control: Front selector switch for 1:10 or 2x1:5 operation, 4 front accessible gain trimmers.
- Coupling: AC (input), DC (output).
- Power Source: 230V AC (115V AC U.S.A.), 21VA.
- Dimensions: 19" x 7" x 1U W, D, H, rack mountable.
- Weight: 2.6kg (5.7lbs) approx.
- Accessories: Power cord.
Kramer VM-80A 1:8 Audio Distributor
Function Description:
The VM-80A is a high-performance distribution amplifier for balanced stereo audio signals. It can be configured as either one 1:8 balanced stereo audio distributor or two 1:4 balanced stereo audio distribution amplifiers. It also features grouped audio level controls.
Usage Features:
- Configuration:
- 1:8 Configuration: Connects a single balanced stereo audio source (e.g., an audio player) to the CH 1 INPUT terminal block. The audio input is then distributed to up to 8 balanced stereo audio acceptors (e.g., audio recorders) via the OUT terminal blocks. In this mode, only CH 1 INPUT can be distributed to all 8 outputs; CH 2 INPUT is not used. The 1:8 MODE button should be pressed.
- 2x1:4 Configuration: Connects two independent balanced stereo audio sources (e.g., two audio players) to the CH 1 INPUT and CH 2 INPUT terminal blocks, respectively. Channel 1 audio inputs are distributed to Channel 1 audio outputs (up to 4 acceptors), and Channel 2 audio inputs are distributed to Channel 2/1 audio outputs (up to 4 acceptors). The 2x1:4 MODE button should be pressed.
- Audio Level Adjustment: Both CH1 and CH2 LEVEL trimmers (LEFT, RIGHT) allow for adjustment of the left and right audio gains using a small screwdriver.
- Power Control: An illuminated power switch turns the unit on and off.
- Compact Size: The VM-80A has a compact desktop size. Two units can be rack-mounted side-by-side in a 1U rack space using the optional RK-1 adapter.
- Default Mode Change: By factory default, the VM-80A starts in 1:8 mode. To change the default mode to 2x1:4, the device must be disconnected from its power source, the top cover opened, and the jumper on the main board moved from JP1 to JP2. This operation must be performed by a qualified technician.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Input: 2 balanced audio stereo +4dBu, 100kΩ on terminal block connectors.
- Output: 8 (or 2 x 4) balanced audio stereo, +4dBu, 50Ω on terminal block connectors.
- Audio Bandwidth (-3dB): 20kHz.
- Max. Audio Output: 20Vpp.
- Gain Range: 0.2 to 5.8dB (four trimmers - two for each input channel).
- Audio S/N Ratio: 100dB @1Vpp.
- Crosstalk: -60dB@1kHz.
- THD: 0.02%.
- 2nd Harmonic: 0.006%.
- Control: Front selector switches for 1:8 or 2x1:4 operation, 4 front accessible gain trimmers.
- Coupling: AC (input); DC (output).
- Power Source: 230V AC, 50/60Hz (115V AC U.S.A.), 6.7VA.
- Dimensions: 22cm x 18cm x 4.5cm (8.7" x 7" x 1.8") W, D, H (half 19").
- Weight: 1.2kg (2.7lbs) approx.
- Accessories: Detachable AC power cord.
- Options: RK-1 19" rack adapter.
General Usage and Maintenance Features (Applicable to both VM-1610 and VM-80A):
- Optimal Performance:
- Use only good quality connection cables to avoid interference, signal quality deterioration, and elevated noise levels.
- Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances.
- Position Kramer products away from moisture, excessive sunlight, and dust.
- Installation Safety (Rack Mounting):
- Ensure the operating ambient temperature of a closed or multi-unit rack assembly does not exceed the room ambient temperature.
- Ensure sufficient airflow around the machine once rack-mounted.
- Place the machine straight in the correct horizontal position.
- Do not overload the circuit(s); refer to nameplate ratings for fuse replacement.
- Ensure the machine is reliably earthed (grounded) and connected only to an electricity socket with grounding. Use only the supplied power cord.
- Always mount the machine in the rack before attaching any cables or connecting to power.
- Power Connection: Always switch OFF the power on each device before connecting it to the distribution amplifier. After connecting, switch on the distribution amplifier's power, then switch on the power on each connected device.
- Servicing: Servicing of the machines can only be done by an authorized Kramer technician. Any user modifications without manufacturer approval will void the authority to operate the equipment.
- Power Supply: Use the supplied DC power supply to feed power to the machine.
- Cables: Use recommended interconnection cables to connect the machine to other components.
- Compliance: The devices are tested to determine compliance with EN-50081, EN-50082, and CFR-47 (FCC Rules and Regulations Part 15, Subpart B). FCC and CE approved using STP cable for twisted pair products.
- Warranty: Kramer Electronics provides a seven-year warranty on labor and parts from the date of the first customer purchase, covering defects in material and workmanship. The warranty is enforceable only by the first purchaser and does not cover damage from misuse, unauthorized repairs, or external factors. For service, contact an authorized Kramer service center with proof of purchase.
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