QUAD ERA-1 - User Manual

The provided document is a user manual for the QUAD ERA-1 planar diaphragm headphones.

Function Description

The QUAD ERA-1 headphones are designed for audio enthusiasts, aiming to provide a natural, fast, open, and transparent sound performance, similar to QUAD's electrostatic loudspeakers (ESL). The design leverages QUAD's expertise in planar film diaphragm technology, which is a core aspect of its "closest approach to the original sound" philosophy.

Important Technical Specifications

• Model: ERA-1
• Type: Planar Diaphragm Headphones
• Sensitivity: 94dB/mW
• Frequency Response: 10-40,000Hz
• Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0.2% (1kHz, 100dB)
• Rated Input Power: 100mW
• Weight w/o Cable: 420g

Package Contents

The ERA-1 package includes:

• ERA-1 headphones, fitted with fleecy, latex ear cushions
• EVA carrying case
• Additional soft leather ear cushions
• 3.5mm input jack Y-cable
• 6.5mm input jack adapter
• User manual
• Warranty and registration card

Usage Features

1. Compatibility: The ERA-1 can be used with a variety of amplifiers and sources.
2. Adjustable Headband: The headband can be extended by sliding down the headphones to fit comfortably on the user's ears.
3. Interchangeable Ear Cushions:
   • The headphones come standard with fleecy ear cushions.
   • Additional soft leather ear cushions are provided for an alternative listening experience.
   • To change ear cushions, hold the aluminum enclosure firmly and pull gradually to separate the ear cushion.
   • When plugging in a new ear cushion, push firmly and match the pins under the ear cushion into the holes on the ear plate.
   • Orientation of Leather Cushions: The soft leather ear cushions have one side thicker than the other. The thinner side should face the front, and the thicker side should face the rear, for proper fit and sound.
4. Cable Connection:
   • When plugging the Y-cable into the headphones, users should look for the small 'R' and 'L' indications on the headband and match them correctly.
   • The other end of the Y-cable connects to the amplifier.
   • A 6.5mm input jack adapter is included for wider compatibility.
   • When unplugging the Y-cable, users should grasp and pull the connector, not the cable itself, to prevent damage.

Maintenance Features and Important Notes

1. Break-in Period: Upon receipt, it is recommended to warm up the headphones by playing them for a few hours. This "break-in" period helps achieve optimum performance.
2. Hearing Protection: Reduce the volume of the audio source before placing the headphones over your ears to prevent hearing damage. Similarly, reduce the amplifier's volume before listening.
3. Physical Handling: Do not drop or sit on the headphones.
4. Servicing: Servicing of ERA-1 headphones should only be done via approved QUAD service centers.
5. Disposal: Used headphones should be disposed of via an approved disposal system.
6. Water Resistance: The QUAD ERA-1 headphones are not waterproof. They must be protected from water, moisture, and excessive dust.
7. Magnetic Material: This product contains magnetic material.

Warranty Information

• Planar Diaphragm: 2 years warranty.
• Ear Cushion, Headband, Enclosure, Cable: 1 year warranty.
• Claiming Warranty: Retain the warranty card and original receipt from the retailer.
• Exclusions:
  • Does not cover transportation costs.
  • Not applicable for defects beyond material/workmanship after 1 year from purchase.
  • Non-transferable; applies only to the original purchaser.
  • Not applicable for damage due to incorrect installation, misuse, dropping, extreme wear and tear, fire, lightning, water, or other accidents beyond QUAD's control.
  • Void if the product serial number is removed or altered.
• User Serviceability: There are no user-serviceable parts. Attempting to service or open the units by unauthorized individuals will void the warranty.
• Statutory Rights: The warranty complements national/regional law obligations and does not affect the customer's statutory rights.