Onkyo A-9210 - User Manual

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A-9210
Integrated
Stereo
Amplifier
Instruction
Manual
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Summary

Safety and Precautions

Important Safeguards

Crucial safety instructions for operating the appliance properly and safely.

General Precautions

Advises on installation, care, electrical safety, and handling of the unit.

System Connections Guide

Turntable Connection

Step-by-step instructions for connecting a turntable, including ground wire.

CD Player Connection

Tuner Connection

Tapedeck and Speaker Connections

Tapedeck Connectivity

Speaker System Connection

Guide for connecting speaker systems, noting impedance and wiring best practices.

Basic Operations

Power Connection Procedure

Steps to safely connect the amplifier to the power supply and turn it on.

Listening to Audio Sources

How to select input sources, speakers, and adjust playback volume.

Tone and Balance Adjustments

Tone Control Operation

Source Direct Mode

Recording and Dubbing

Recording Audio Sources

Procedures for recording audio from various sources to tapedecks.

Tape Dubbing Procedure

Graphic Equalizer Integration

Graphic Equalizer Connection

Troubleshooting and Specifications

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Solutions for common problems encountered with the amplifier.

Technical Specifications

Detailed technical data, performance metrics, and dimensions of the unit.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Front Panel Controls
4. Remote Control (RC-286S)
5. System Connections
6. Recording
7. Adjusting the Tone
8. Maintenance Features

The Onkyo A-9210 is an integrated stereo amplifier designed to deliver high-quality audio performance. It features a robust power output, discrete amplifier design, and a focus on direct signal paths to minimize noise and interference. The amplifier is also equipped with Onkyo's RI (Remote Interactive) remote control system, allowing for integrated control with other compatible Onkyo components.

Function Description:

The A-9210 serves as the central hub for an audio system, connecting various source components and driving speakers. Its primary function is to amplify audio signals from sources like turntables, CD players, tuners, and tape decks, delivering them to speakers at a listenable volume. The amplifier supports connections for up to five audio inputs, including a dedicated phono input for turntables. It can drive two separate pairs of speakers (A and B) simultaneously or individually, with a minimum impedance of 4 ohms per speaker pair (or 8 ohms when both A and B are used). A headphone jack is also provided for private listening.

The amplifier incorporates several controls for sound customization. The INPUT SELECTOR knob allows users to switch between different audio sources. A VOLUME control knob adjusts the overall output level. For tone adjustment, the A-9210 includes BASS and TREBLE control knobs, which can boost or attenuate low and high frequencies, respectively. A LOUDNESS button is available to enhance bass and treble at low listening volumes, enriching the sound. The BALANCE control knob allows users to adjust the relative volume between the left and right speaker channels. For the purest possible sound reproduction, a SOURCE DIRECT knob bypasses the bass and treble controls, routing the audio signal directly to the power amplifier circuitry.

The A-9210 also facilitates recording. Users can connect up to two tape decks (TAPE-1/DAT and TAPE-2) and record from any selected input source. Tape dubbing from TAPE-1 to TAPE-2 is also supported. The TAPE-2 MONITOR button allows users to monitor the sound being recorded or to integrate a graphic equalizer into the signal path.

Usage Features:

The A-9210 is designed for ease of use, both through its front panel controls and the included RI remote control.

Front Panel Controls:

• Power button: Turns the amplifier on and off.
• Input Selector knob: Selects the desired audio source (Phono, CD, Tuner, Line, Tape-1/DAT, Tape-2). Indicators light up to show the active input.
• Volume control knob: Adjusts the listening volume.
• Source Direct knob: Toggles between normal tone control operation and a direct signal path that bypasses bass and treble adjustments.
• Tape-2 Monitor button: Engages the tape monitor function for TAPE-2, useful for monitoring recordings or using an external equalizer.
• Loudness button: Activates or deactivates the loudness compensation feature.
• Balance control knob: Adjusts the left/right channel balance.
• Treble control knob: Adjusts high frequencies.
• Bass control knob: Adjusts low frequencies.
• Speaker selector buttons (A, B): Activates or deactivates speaker pairs A and B.
• Headphone jack: For connecting stereo headphones.

Remote Control (RC-286S):

The remote control provides convenient access to major functions of the A-9210 and other compatible Onkyo RI components.

• Input selector buttons: Directly select audio sources.
• Tape operation buttons: Control connected tape decks (play, record, stop, rewind, fast forward, reverse play).
• CD operation buttons: Control connected CD players (pause, play, stop, disc selection for changers, track up/down).
• Tuner operation buttons: Control connected tuners (group/class selector, preset memory up/down).
• Volume control buttons: Adjust the volume up or down.
• Audio muting button: Temporarily mutes the audio output.

System Connections:

The manual provides clear instructions for connecting various audio components:

• Turntable (PHONO): Connects to dedicated PHONO jacks, with a ground terminal for minimizing hum. Proper placement away from vibrations is emphasized.
• CD Player (CD): Connects to dedicated CD input jacks.
• Tuner (TUNER): Connects to dedicated TUNER input jacks.
• Additional Components (LINE): Connects to LINE input jacks for other audio devices like VCRs, TVs, or other CD players.
• Tape Decks (TAPE-1/DAT, TAPE-2): Supports two tape decks for recording and dubbing.
• Graphic Equalizer: Can be integrated into the TAPE-2 loop for advanced tone control.
• Speakers: Connects up to two pairs of speakers, with attention to correct polarity and impedance matching.
• RI Remote Control Cables: Connects compatible Onkyo components for integrated remote control functionality.

Recording:

The A-9210 allows for recording from any selected input source to a connected tape deck. Users select the source, insert a blank tape, and initiate recording via the tape deck's controls. Tape dubbing from TAPE-1 to TAPE-2 is also possible.

Adjusting the Tone:

The amplifier offers flexible tone adjustment. The BASS and TREBLE controls allow users to tailor the sound to their preference. The LOUDNESS function boosts bass and treble at lower volumes to compensate for the human ear's reduced sensitivity to these frequencies. The BALANCE control ensures an even soundstage. For purists, the SOURCE DIRECT mode bypasses these tone controls for an uncolored audio signal.

Maintenance Features:

The manual provides essential guidelines for maintaining the A-9210 and ensuring its longevity:

• Cleaning: The front and rear panels and cabinet should be wiped with a soft, dry cloth. For heavier dirt, a soft cloth dampened with a weak solution of mild detergent and water can be used, followed by immediate drying with a clean cloth. Harsh materials, thinners, alcohol, or other chemical solvents should be avoided as they can damage the finish or panel lettering.
• Power Cord: The power cord should be unplugged from the outlet if the unit will be unused for a long period.
• Ventilation: The amplifier should be placed in a location that allows for proper ventilation, avoiding surfaces or enclosures that could block airflow.
• Battery Replacement (Remote Control): The remote control requires two AA batteries. Users are advised to replace both batteries at once, avoid mixing old and new batteries, and not leave expired batteries in the case to prevent leakage and damage. Nickel cadmium (rechargeable) batteries are not recommended.
• Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a troubleshooting section to help users diagnose and resolve common issues such as no power, no sound, hum/noise, howling, rough/scratchy sound, and remote control malfunction. This guide offers simple remedies for issues like checking connections, replacing worn stylus, or adjusting controls. For more complex problems, users are advised to contact qualified service personnel.
• Safety Precautions: The manual emphasizes important safety safeguards, including reading instructions, retaining the manual, heeding warnings, following instructions, avoiding water and moisture, using recommended carts/stands, ensuring proper ventilation, keeping away from heat sources, connecting to the correct power supply, and protecting the power cord. These precautions are crucial for safe operation and to prevent damage to the unit.
• AC Fuse: The AC fuse is located inside the chassis and is not user-serviceable. In case of a blown fuse, users should contact an Onkyo authorized service station.

Onkyo A-9210 Specifications