Rane MA 3 1998 version - Manual (Page 3)

Manual-3
REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION
ቢ IEC cord socket: This connector accepts a standard IEC line cord (included with 120 V domestic units). Plug this into a
grounded AC outlet of 120 VAC (or 230 VAC if the MA 3 is internally wired for 230 V operation).
ባ OUTPUTS: Connect the speaker(s) to each of the three Channels by means of the Euroblock connectors with 18 to 12
AWG wire. Each Output may have an optional 70.7V or 100V distribution transformer installed inside the MA 3. These
optional transformers are 40 watt devices with 0.5 dB insertion loss at rated power and a frequency response of 50 Hz to 15
kHz, ±1 dB. The 70.7 V transformer kit is the TF 407. The 100V transformer kit is the TF 410.
ቤ INPUTS are balanced Euroblock connectors. We recommend the use of at least 18 AWG wire for reliability. Driving the
MA 3 from a balanced source is recommended. If you must drive the MA 3 Input with an unbalanced source, we recommend
using a cable that has two conductors plus a shield. Connect the (+) or “hot” source to the MA 3 (+) Input, the ground to the
MA 3 (–) Input and connect the shield to the MA 3 shield input. Do not connect the shield on the source end. Shield connec-
tions go directly to chassis ground and should not be used as signal ground. Shield connection to chassis occurs via the
screw found between the Input and Output connectors—keep this screw tight for improved EMI protection. When operating
the MA 3 with unbalanced Inputs, be sure to keep cable lengths as short as possible. Refer to RaneNote 110, “Sound System
Interconnection” (included in this booklet) for additional information.
ብ LEVEL controls adjust the input sensitivity for each of the three Amplifiers. The internal Limiters have maximum operat-
ing range (most amount of limiting before input overload) when the LEVEL controls are set to maximum. For best system
noise performance, the input sensitivity may be reduced to send a “hotter” signal to the Amplifier. Here we go again! You
get nothing for free. There are always tradeoffs to be made (better overdrive capability or lower system noise). The choice
depends on your application. For additional information see RaneNote 135 “Setting Sound System Level Controls” available
from our website or upon request from the factory.
ቦ FAN SPEED: There are two fan speeds. The NORMAL setting (switch out) allows the MA 3 to deliver full rated continu-
ous average power into 4 ohms, all Channels driven, with ambient room temperature of 22°C. Therefore, it is seldom, if
ever, necessary to run the fan at the FAST speed. The exception might be a very hot environment and heavily compressed
music into a demanding load. The only penalty for running the fan at the FAST speed is noise.
ቧ Heat tunnel air intake: The fan draws air in through the finger guard on the rear of the unit. The air flow is directed down
a sealed heat tunnel and exhausts through front panel vents. No filter is required as air flow is directed through an unob-
structed, sealed tunnel and will not contaminate internal circuitry.