Schiit LYR+ - User Manual

FUSION ARCHITECTURE HEADPHONE AMP & PREAMP
LYR+ GIVES YOU THE ULTIMATE CHOICE:
TO GO WITH OR WITHOUT TUBE!
NO TUBE? LYR+ SWITCHES TO ITS INTERNAL MOSFET GAIN STAGE.
WITH TUBE? LYR+ SWITCHES TO THE TUBE GAIN STAGE—
AND YOU CAN PICK YOUR MODE WITH REMOTE CONTROL.
OH, AND DID WE SAY REMOTE? AND RELAY LADDER VOLUME?
LYR+ IS THE MOST ADVANCED COMPACT PRODUCT WE’VE MADE, EVER.
LYR+
OWNER’S MANUAL

Summary

INTRODUCTION

Whats in the Box

Lists the included accessories and the Lyr+ unit.

Safety and Compliance

Outlines essential safety instructions and regulatory compliance requirements.

GETTING STARTED

No Tube Operation

Instructions for using the Lyr+ in solid-state mode without a tube.

Tube Installation and Operation

Guide for inserting and operating the Lyr+ with a vacuum tube.

Tube Replacement

Step-by-step process for safely swapping vacuum tubes.

CONTROLS

Front Panel Interface

Detailed explanation of controls, indicators, and jacks on the front of the Lyr+.

REMOTE CONTROL

Remote Functions Explained

Description of each button and its function on the Lyr+ remote control.

CONNECTIONS

Rear Panel Connectivity

Guide to RCA inputs, preamp output, on-off switch, and AC power input.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common operational questions and troubleshooting tips.

WARRANTY

Warranty Information

Details on product warranty coverage, limitations, and service.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Getting Started
4. Front Panel Controls
5. Remote Control
6. Maintenance Features
7. Replacing or Swapping Tubes
8. General Care
9. Troubleshooting (FAQ)

The Lyr+ is a sophisticated desktop-sized headphone amplifier and preamplifier that boasts a unique "Fusion Architecture," offering users the flexibility to choose between tube and solid-state gain stages. This device is designed for audiophiles who appreciate both the warm, rich sound of tubes and the precise, clean output of solid-state amplification, all within a compact form factor. Its advanced features, including a relay ladder volume control and microprocessor protection, make it a highly versatile and user-friendly component for any audio setup.

Function Description

At its core, the Lyr+ serves as both a headphone amplifier and a preamplifier. As a headphone amplifier, it is designed to drive a wide range of headphones, providing a high-quality audio signal for an immersive listening experience. The inclusion of a standard 1/4" TRS headphone jack ensures compatibility with most audiophile headphones. As a preamplifier, it can connect to a separate power amplifier or subwoofer, allowing it to act as the central control unit for a larger speaker system.

The "Fusion Architecture" is a standout feature, enabling the Lyr+ to operate in two distinct gain modes: tube gain and MOSFET (solid-state) gain. When a tube is installed, the user can switch between these two modes, offering different sonic characteristics. If no tube is installed, the Lyr+ automatically defaults to its internal MOSFET gain stage, ensuring continuous operation as a solid-state amplifier. This dual-mode capability provides unparalleled flexibility, allowing users to "roll" different tubes to fine-tune the sound or opt for a consistent solid-state performance.

The device incorporates a relay ladder volume control, which is a high-precision method of adjusting volume. Unlike traditional potentiometers, relay ladder attenuators offer superior channel matching and transparency, ensuring that the sound quality remains uncompromised across the entire volume range. This feature contributes to the Lyr+'s status as an advanced audio product.

Microprocessor protection is another key functional aspect. This system monitors operational parameters during startup and gain changes, muting the output until everything stabilizes. This ensures the safety of connected equipment and prevents any potentially damaging transients from reaching headphones or speakers.

Usage Features

The Lyr+ is designed for ease of use, both through its front panel controls and a comprehensive remote control.

Getting Started:

• No Tube Operation: Users can simply plug in the Lyr+ and turn it on. The device will remain muted while it stabilizes (approximately 30-45 seconds) before enabling output. If a tube is not being used, a supplied tube cover can be placed over the tube socket.
• With Tube Operation: For tube enthusiasts, the process involves carefully inserting the 6SN7-type tube into the socket, aligning the key in the tube base with the notch in the socket, and pushing down firmly until it's well-seated. After plugging in and turning on, the tube will glow after a few seconds, and the Lyr+ will perform self-checks before enabling output.
• Connecting Your System: The Lyr+ supports up to two RCA inputs, allowing users to connect multiple sources. Headphones can be plugged into the 1/4" TRS jack, and the preamp outputs can be used to connect to a speaker amplifier or subwoofer.

Front Panel Controls:

• Input Select: A button on the front panel toggles between the two RCA inputs. An indicator light shows which input is currently selected.
• Preamp Output Enable: Another button enables or disables the preamp outputs, with an indicator light confirming its status.
• Volume Control: A large knob allows for precise adjustment of the relay ladder volume.
• MOSFET Indicator: A light indicates when the Lyr+ is operating in its internal solid-state (MOSFET) gain stage. When this light is off, the device is running in tube gain mode.
• Gain Select: A button toggles between low and high gain modes. An indicator light shows when high gain is active. Users are advised to turn down the volume before switching to high gain, as it is significantly more powerful.
• Headphone Jack: The standard 1/4" TRS jack for headphone connection.

Remote Control:

The Lyr+ comes with a remote control, enhancing its usability, especially when integrated into a larger system.

• Input Selection: A dedicated button cycles through the available inputs.
• Tube/MOSFET Mode: When a tube is installed, this button allows switching between tube and MOSFET gain modes. It has no function if no tube is present.
• Gain Control: A button to toggle between low and high gain modes, with the same caution about volume adjustment as the front panel control.
• Mute: A button to instantly mute all outputs (headphones and preamp).
• Preamp Output Enable/Disable: A button to control the preamp outputs remotely.
• Volume Up/Down: Arrows to adjust the volume incrementally.

Maintenance Features

The Lyr+ is designed for straightforward maintenance, primarily concerning tube replacement and general care.

Replacing or Swapping Tubes:

• Safety First: Always turn off and unplug the Lyr+ and allow the tube to cool completely before attempting removal or insertion. Tubes can become very hot during operation.
• Extraction: Gently rock the tube back and forth while pulling upwards to extract it from the socket.
• Insertion: Carefully align the key in the replacement tube's base with the notch in the tube socket and press down firmly until the tube is fully seated.
• Power On: Plug the Lyr+ back in and turn it on.

General Care:

• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the device and do not block any ventilation openings. Avoid placing it near heat sources.
• Cleaning: Clean the device only with a dry cloth. Avoid using water or other liquids near the device.
• Power Cord: Use only the supplied power cord or a suitable replacement. Route cords away from traffic areas to prevent pinching. Unplug the cord if the apparatus is unused for a long period.
• Electrical Safety: Do not use the plug with an extension cord, receptacle, or outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent electric shock.
• Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. This includes situations where the device has been damaged (e.g., cord/plug damage, liquid spills, objects falling into the device, exposure to rain/moisture, or abnormal operation).

Troubleshooting (FAQ):

• No Sound on Startup/Gain Change: This is normal. The Lyr+'s microprocessor protection mutes the output during stabilization (30-45 seconds) or when changing gain to ensure safety.
• Clicking Noises When Adjusting Volume: This is also normal and is the sound of the mechanical relays in the relay-switched stepped attenuator.
• Tube Compatibility: Only 6SN7-type tubes are compatible, including 6N8S, 5692, and 6SN7.
• Leaving Lyr+ On: While possible, it's best to leave it on in solid-state mode (no tube inserted) if left on for extended periods. The tube heater is always on, even in MOSFET mode, which can shorten tube lifespan.
• Clicking and No Music (TRRS Jack Issue): If using a TRRS jack (common with headphones with microphones) converted to 1/4" with an adapter, it can short the outputs, causing the Lyr+ to protect itself. A proper conversion kit is recommended.
• Device Not Turning On: Check the AC socket and ensure there isn't a power outage. If the issue persists, contact support.

The Lyr+ is a robust and versatile audio device, designed to provide a high-fidelity listening experience with the added benefit of customizable tube or solid-state sound. Its thoughtful design, comprehensive controls, and protective features ensure both performance and longevity.

Schiit LYR+ Specifications

General

Frequency Response Extended	5Hz-200Khz, -3dB
Input Impedance	50K ohms
Power Consumption	30W
Tube	6SN7
Type	Hybrid Tube Headphone Amplifier
Power Output	6W RMS per channel into 32 ohms
Frequency Response	20Hz-20Khz
THD+N	<0.01%, 20Hz-20KHz, at 1V RMS
Gain	High (18dB)
Inputs	RCA
Outputs	6.35mm (1/4") headphone jack, RCA preamp outputs
Dimensions	9 x 6 x 2 inches