The Belles ARIA Signature Integrated Amplifier, manufactured by Power Modules Inc., is a high-performance audio component designed for audiophile-quality sound systems. It is the culmination of over 40 years of amplifier research experience by David Belles, engineered to deliver superior performance within its class.
Function Description
The ARIA Signature Integrated Amplifier serves as a central hub for an audio system, combining preamplifier and power amplifier functionalities into a single unit. It is designed to connect various audio sources, amplify their signals, and drive loudspeakers, while also offering headphone output and bypass capabilities for integration with external processors.
Important Technical Specifications
The device comprises three main sections: power amplifier, preamplifier, and phono stage, each with specific performance characteristics.
ARIA Signature Power Amplifier Section:
- Frequency Response: 3 to 80,000 Hz (+0/-3.0 dB)
- Power Rating: 125 watts into 8 ohms and 225 watts into 4 ohms
- Distortion (THD and IM): Less than 0.05%
- Gain: 26.4 dB (21 voltage)
- Input Impedance: 100,000 ohms
- Hum & Noise: Greater than 100 dB
ARIA Signature Preamplifier Section:
- Frequency Response: 1 to 250,000 Hz (+0/-3.0 dB)
- Distortion (THD and IM): Less than 0.01%
- Gain: 9.54 dB (3 voltage)
- Input Impedance: 100,000 ohms
- Hum & Noise: Greater than 100 dB
ARIA Signature Phono Section:
- Frequency Response: 20 to 20,000 Hz (or -0.1 dB)
- Distortion (THD and IM): Less than 0.05%
- Gain: 40 dB
- Input Impedance: 47,000 ohms
- Hum & Noise: Greater than 80 dB
Other Specifications:
- Dimensions: 16" L x 18" W x 4.5" H
- Shipping Weight: 40 pounds
- Power Requirements: 6.3A SB @ 120 VAC or 4.0A SB @ 240 VAC (50/60 Hz)
Usage Features
The ARIA Signature Integrated Amplifier offers a comprehensive set of inputs and outputs, along with user-friendly controls for seamless operation.
- Three Unbalanced (RCA) Stereo Line Inputs: For connecting various line-level audio sources.
- One Balanced (XLR) Stereo Line Input: For high-quality balanced audio connections.
- One Bypass Power Amplifier (RCA) Stereo Input: Allows direct access to the power amplifier section, bypassing the preamplifier. This is useful for integrating external processors or home theater systems.
- One Moving Magnet (RCA) Stereo Phono Input: Specifically designed for turntables with high-output moving magnet cartridges. Note that input 3 is located near the MM phono inputs and may be labeled as PH MC on the front panel selector.
Outputs:
- One Stereo Pair Speaker Binding Post Outputs: For connecting loudspeakers, observing correct polarity (red for positive, black for negative). Spade lugs or banana plugs are recommended over raw untinned stranded speaker wire to prevent short circuits. The amplifier operates with any 4 to 16 ohm load.
- One Stereo Balanced (XLR) Preamplifier Output: For connecting to external balanced devices.
- One Stereo Unbalanced (RCA) Preamplifier Output: For connecting to external unbalanced devices.
- One Stereo Headphone ¼” Jack Output: Located on the front panel, requiring a standard ¼” plug (a 3.5 mm plug will need an adapter).
Controls:
- Front Panel POWER Button: Toggles the unit's power on and off.
- MUTE Button: Activates or deactivates the mute function. The unit automatically starts in mute mode when powered on. Engaging mute also disconnects the speakers, allowing for headphone use only.
- INPUT Button: Sequentially cycles through available inputs: Input 1, Input 2, Balanced Input, Phono Input, and Input 3.
- VOLUME Control: Adjusts the output volume in all modes except Bypass.
- BYPASS Button: Selects the bypass mode, allowing external processors to be inserted into the signal path.
- REMOTE CONTROL: All functions are accessible via the supplied remote control, providing convenience and ease of use.
Installation Guidelines:
- Placement: Choose a suitable location for the ASIG Integrated Amplifier within your system.
- Power Off: Ensure all main components in the system are turned off before installation.
- Turntable Connection: Connect your turntable (with a high-output cartridge) to the rear MM phono inputs.
- Line Inputs: Connect other line sources to In 1, 2, 3, and Bal in (balanced in).
- Bypass Functionality: Utilize the Bypass input for direct power amplifier access or to integrate external processors.
- Preamplifier Output: Connect the preamplifier outputs (balanced or unbalanced) to external devices as needed.
- Headphone Operation: Plug headphones into the front panel jack. Activate the MUTE function to disable speakers and enable headphone output.
- Speaker Connections: Connect speaker wires to the binding posts, ensuring correct polarity and using spade lugs or banana plugs for secure connections.
- AC Power: Once all connections are made, connect the supplied (or a satisfactory custom) AC power cord to the ASIG.
- Burn-in Period: Like other high-performance audiophile components, the ARIA Signature Integrated Amplifier requires approximately 250 hours of "circuit forming" or burn-in time for optimal performance and a realistic evaluation of its capabilities.
Maintenance Features
Proper care and handling are crucial for maintaining the performance and appearance of the ARIA Signature Integrated Amplifier.
Cleaning:
- Regular Cleaning: The most important maintenance task is proper cleaning.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Do not use polishes, cleaners, solvents, or any ammonia-based cleaners, as these can damage the unit's finish.
- Recommended Cleaners: Endust and Pledge are acceptable if wiped thoroughly.
- Method: Use a clean cloth to wipe dirt from the unit. Apply greater pressure for more persistent dirt.
- Long-term Appearance: With proper care, the appearance of Power Modules audio products will be preserved for years.
Unpacking and Packaging:
- Inspect Carton: Upon receipt, carefully inspect the carton for any damage. Note any dents or scuff marks and their location relative to the unit's orientation.
- Remove Unit: Carefully lift the unit straight out of the carton. Inspect the unit itself for damage, especially in areas corresponding to external carton damage.
- Damage Claims:
- If purchased locally, contact your dealer.
- If shipped, contact your common carrier (e.g., UPS). Do not return the unit to the shipper without carrier instructions, as this may void damage claims.
- Retain Packaging: Do not discard original packing materials or cartons. These are essential for safe return shipping. Using improper packing can lead to damage during transit, voiding potential claims. The unit must be placed in its original packing bag to prevent marring.
Warranty and Service:
- Limited Warranty: Power Modules Inc. provides a five-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship from the date of sale to the first end-user. This warranty covers defect correction or component replacement at no charge.
- Warranty Exclusions: The warranty is void if the product has been subjected to misuse, abuse, lightning strike, unauthorized service, transit damage, or alterations that detract from its performance, reliability, or safe operation. It does not cover cabinet or appearance items (faceplate, control knobs, meter lenses) or shipping expenses to the service depot.
- Service Procedure: To qualify for warranty service, all items must be returned to the appropriate factory service depot with shipping charges prepaid. Proof of purchase (bill of sale) from an authorized Power Modules dealer is required, or the Purchase Registration Card must have been previously returned.
- Return Location: Defective units should be returned to the selling dealer or to Power Modules at their service depot within the country of sale.
- Shipping Address: Power Modules Inc., 479 East St. Pittsford, N.Y. 14534. Phone: (585) 586-0740.
- Safety Warning: To prevent shock or hazard, do not expose the appliance to rain or moisture. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not remove the cover or faceplate. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
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