Constellation Audio Virgo Preamplifier - Manual (Page 5)

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Constellation Audio amplifiers draw a great deal of power and could affect the Virgo’s performance if the
amplifier(s) and preamp are plugged into the same electrical circuit or AC outlet.
When you connect or disconnect the AC cord, always grasp it by the plug, not by the cord itself. Pulling the plug
out by the cord can damage the cord, the AC socket, and/or the Virgo.
Installation notes
The Virgo preamplifier uses passive cooling; there are no internal fans. While the Virgo does not generate as
much heat as an amplifier, it should still be located in an area with adequate ventilation.
There should be at least 6 in/15 cm of clearance between the sides and top of the preamp and the nearest
wall or cabinet. If the Virgo is installed in a cabinet or an equipment closet, ensure the cabinet/closet has
adequate ventilation. Installation in an unventilated cabinet or closet may cause the Virgo to overheat,
significantly reducing its lifespan.
The Virgo requires a room-temperature environment to operation properly. Ambient temperature should be
about 70°F/21°C, plus or minus 10°F/5°C. Never install the Virgo in a place where it may be exposed to
direct sunlight, and do not install it next to a room heater, radiator, air conditioner, etc.
Make sure that the Virgo will not be exposed to moisture. Do not locate it in an area where it might be spilled
on, and do not place it in a humid location (such as an unfinished basement).
The light-dependent resistors used in the Virgo’s volume control need 8 hours of continuous operation to reach
maximum linearity. We recommend leaving the Virgo on all the time to ensure maximum performance. If the
Virgo has not warmed up for 15 to 30 minutes from a cold start, you may notice a slight left-to-right channel
imbalance. This may be corrected temporarily using the balance control.
Installing the Virgo in a place where it will be exposed to direct sunlight or moisture, or where it will not have
adequate ventilation, will void your warranty.
Amplifier
The Virgo preamp is designed to be paired with any high-quality audio amplifier; ideally Constellation's own
Centaur or Hercules amps. Both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) connections are available. XLR will
provide the highest quality/lowest noise signals, and should be used when possible.
Source components
The Virgo preamp has eight analog audio inputs, four balanced (XLR) and four unbalanced (RCA), and can be
used with any audio component with line-level analog outputs. As with the outputs mentioned above, an XLR
connection will provide the highest quality signal, and should be used when possible. If you are using a record
turntable, you will need to connect a high-quality phono preamplifier, such as the Constellation Audio Perseus
or Orion, between the turntable and the Virgo preamp.
In the event of malfunction
Do not under any circumstances open the chassis of the Virgo. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
Opening the chassis can present a shock hazard even if the AC power is disconnected. Any alteration or
modification of the Virgo’s internal parts or circuit will immediately void your warranty.