VAC Auricle Mk II Amplifier - Manual (Page 9)

Page 9
MAINTENANCE
Chassis Care:
Although your VAC Auricle’s finish is extremely durable, it can be scratched, chipped or
damaged if improperly treated. Cleaning with a soft, damp cloth while the amplifier is
switched off and unplugged should restore the finish to its original lustre. Never clean
Auricle with harsh or caustic cleansing agents.
When shipping your Auricle, be certain to wrap the amplifier in the cloth, tissue or plastic
wrap in which it was originally packaged. Make sure there are no ridges or sharp surfaces
in those parts of the cloth which contact the faceplate. Use of a coarser cloth or failure to
otherwise protect the unit may result in damage to the finish. VAC is not responsible for
cosmetic damage resulting from improper care or packing.
Installing New Tubes:
Original Equipment Replacement tubes are available from VAC. These tubes ensure your
Auricle will meet or exceed all factory performance specifications.
Before replacing tubes, all power must be off. Mute unit, place power switch in the “off”
position and unplug power cord. Remove the old tubes ONLY after the unit has cooled
down.
[In normal use, tubes become hot enough to cause serious burns. Allow several
minutes for tubes to cool before attempting to remove or replace.] Install the new tubes
fully firmly in their sockets, taking care to observe the direction of the locating ridge in the
plastic center pin of the EL34 output tubes’ plastic base. With the 9-pin miniature tubes
(type 12AU7), make sure that pin pattern corresponds to holes in tube socket.
When changing EL34 tubes, turn the bias control corresponding to the new tube fully
counterclockwise. After turning the unit on and allowing it to reach normal operating
temperature, follow the normal biasing procedure.
In the event that trouble is encountered, switch power to the “off” position, check that all
tubes are correctly seated in their sockets and check all signal, speaker and power
connections. If possible, try another tube. If the problem persists, please consult your VAC
dealer or contact the factory directly.