SMc Audio Virtual Reality Engine Preamplifier VRE-1 - Manual (Page 5)

4
Front Panel layout
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Input selector switch: Rotary switch selects one of 4 inputs.
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Polarity switch and LED indicator: Sets system polarity (absolute
polarity, sometimes called “absolute phase”). Up is normal, non-inverted
polarity, and flipping the switch down inverts signal polarity. The LED then
lights to indicate that system polarity is inverted. Polarity switching is done
at the user’s discretion and “correct” system polarity is determined by ear.
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Power LED: Indicates that system power is present.
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Mute switch and LED indicator: Switch up for listen; down for mute.
The LED will light to indicate that mute is engaged.
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Volume control: Set system volume with this precision stepped
attenuator. Note: in order to extend the useful range of this control,
turning the control fully counter-clockwise (all the way down) does not turn
the sound fully off. Engage the Mute switch for system silence.
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Rear Panel layout
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Power connections 1 & 2: Power 1 is the analog DC supply via the
Neutrik connector, while Power 2 supplies DC power to the relays, lights
and Monitor Out buffer.
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Main Outputs: The XLR jacks provide balanced output via the Jensen
transformers, while the unbalanced RCA connections are direct-coupled to
the JFET buffer amplifiers.
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Output Ground Switch: Normally left in “float” position. This switch
connects the outer electrode of the RCA jacks to either circuit ground
(“ground”) or leaves them unconnected (“float”). In some systems
grounding the outer RCA contact may be required to eliminate noise.
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Monitor Out: Essentially the same as the “Tape Out” of the past, this
provides a buffer-isolated signal from the selected input. This output is not
controlled by the volume knob, and is useful for feeding a separate system
like a dedicated headphone amplifier.
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Monitor Out Defeat Switch: In the interest of maximum purity of the main
signal path, the Monitor Out buffer may be switched off (defeated) if it is
not being used. Just switch this on or off as needed.