Soundstream Technologies PICASSO Stereo Amplifier - Manual (Page 12)

12
INSTALLATION STEP 5
NOTE: Even though the S/N ratio with low output sources is better with the PICASSO amplifier than others, your
best combination of output level and Signal to Noise ratio will be achieved when the input levels are set between
500 mV and 5.0 V.
LEVEL SETTING
The input levels are adjusted by means of the individual channel input level controls located on the front of the
amplifier. This is a unique dual-stage circuit that adjusts both level and gain. This topology maintains better
Signal to Noise ratios even when using sources with minimal output.
In the ideal situation, all components in the audio system reach maximum undistorted output at the same time.
The reason is because an amplifier will only make what comes into it bigger. So, if you send it a distorted signal
from the head unit, the amplifier is going to amplify distorted information. The same thing holds true if an
outboard processor or crossover begins to distort before you have maximum output from the amplifier. By
setting all components to reach clipping at the same time, you can maximize the output of your system. For the
REFERENCE Class A
PICASSO amplifier, follow the steps below for the quickest, easiest means of setting the
1. Turn the amp’s input levels to minimum position (fully counter-clockwise).
2. Begin with the input level switch in the 0.5 - 5.0 Volt position.
3. Set source unit volume to approximately 3/4 of full volume.
4. While playing dynamic source material, slowly increase the amplifier’s input level until a near maximum
undistorted level is heard in the system.
5. If you can't get enough gain out of the amplifier, set the input level switch to the 0.2 - 2.0 Volt position, and
If your preamplifier / source unit has an extremely high output level, be sure to pay attention to the clipping
indicators located on the top of the amplifier. These indicators will notify you if you are clipping the
PREAMPLIFIER stage of the amplifier. If the amplifier's output is distorted and the clipping lights are not
blinking, you are most likely clipping the OUTPUTS of the amplifier, or driving the speaker to distortion.