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Input Connection Considerations
Whenever possible, keep preamp level audio cables away from electrical power cords by at least a few
inches. It’s more important with ampliers as the AC power cords are carrying much more current than other
source and preamplier components, which means there is a larger degree of noise or “hum” potential with
the amplier power cord in close proximity.
Output Connection Considerations
The output connectors provided on each channel of the RPA-1 are standard “binding post” speaker
connectors with industry standard spacing. These are sometimes called 5-way binding posts because of
the many ways in which the speaker wire can connect into the posts. The posts can accept bare wire, spade
terminals, and dual or single banana connectors. Spade connections or banana plugs ensure a simple, solid
t in the terminal whereas bare wire may be awkward when the terminal is screwed down to compress the
wire into place. Keep in mind that if you use “dual banana” plugs and “stack” them, you will be creating a
parallel connection. For more details on series and parallel connections, see page 16.
It is important to observe polarity so that the speaker wire connects to the red and black terminals on the
amplier and the corresponding terminals at the speaker. Also make sure that the positive speaker wires do
not touch the negative speaker wires, or any chassis metal. This will cause a short circuit and activate the
protection circuitry.
Connection Tips for Superior Sound
Before setting up your new system, please consider the following:
• Always make sure the RPA-1 is turned o before making or changing ANY connections.
• Whenever possible, route the power cords away from the signal cables or speaker wires to prevent any hum or
interference heard in the speakers.
• Whenever possible, use the XLR connections. These exhibit better noise rejection qualities.
• Many RCA type patch cords can be a very tight t and there is usually a preferred method of getting them o.
Some have to be removed with a twisting action. Be gentle or you may damage the jacks of your RPA-1, the
cables themselves, or other components.
• Many audiophile signal cables are intended to be hooked up in one direction. If this is the case the cables will be
marked with arrows the direction of signal ow.
• It is usual for the right channel RCA patch cord plugs to be red and the left channel connections to be white, grey,
or black (depending on the cable brand). RCA connectors that are gold will be designated with a colored band
to designate the channel.