FX AUDIO Box 02 Phono Preamplifier User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the FX AUDIO Box 02 Phono Preamplifier. This device is designed to enhance your vinyl listening experience by providing RIAA equalization and signal amplification for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) phono cartridges. Please read this manual carefully to ensure proper setup and optimal performance of your preamplifier.

Key Features

Supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) phono cartridges.
RIAA equalization for accurate audio reproduction.
Adjustable gain settings for optimal signal level.
Configurable capacitance and impedance settings for cartridge matching.
Low noise and low distortion design utilizing NJM2068 and TL071 op-amp chips.
Durable aluminum alloy sandblast shell.
RCA input and output connections.
Internal high-quality positive and negative power circuit design to filter interference.

Package Contents

Please check that all items are present in the package:

FX AUDIO Box 02 Phono Preamplifier
DC 12V 1A Power Supply
RCA Cable
User Manual (this document)

Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the various inputs, outputs, and controls on your Box 02 Phono Preamplifier.

Rear view of FX AUDIO Box 02 Phono Preamplifier showing RCA inputs, grounding post, RCA outputs, and DC 12V power input.

Image 1: Rear Panel Connections
This image displays the rear panel of the Box 02, highlighting the MM/MC Turntable RCA Input (left and right channels), the Grounding Post (GND), the RCA Output (left and right channels), and the DC 12V Power Input.

MM/MC Turntable RCA Input: Connect your turntable's RCA cables here.
GND (Grounding Post): Connect your turntable's ground wire to this terminal to reduce hum and noise.
RCA Output: Connect these outputs to your amplifier or active speakers.
DC 12V Input: Connect the provided 12V DC power adapter here.

Setup Guide

1. Connecting Your System

Follow these steps to connect your turntable, the Box 02 preamplifier, and your audio system.

Connect the RCA output cables from your turntable to the MM/MC Turntable RCA Input on the Box 02.
Connect the ground wire from your turntable to the GND (Grounding Post) on the Box 02.
Connect the RCA Output from the Box 02 to an available line-level input on your power amplifier or active speakers.
Connect the provided DC 12V 1A power supply to the DC 12V Input on the Box 02, then plug the power supply into a wall outlet.

Note: The Box 02 is designed to work with a power amplifier or active speakers. It is not designed to directly connect to passive speakers.

Diagram showing connection of turntable to Box 02 Phono Preamplifier, then to either active speakers or an amplifier with passive speakers.

Image 2: Connection Diagram
This diagram illustrates how to connect a turntable to the Box 02 Phono Preamplifier, and then how the preamplifier connects to either active speakers directly or to an amplifier which then drives passive speakers.

2. MM/MC and Gain Settings

The Box 02 features DIP switches on the bottom panel for configuring MM/MC mode and gain settings. Refer to your turntable's cartridge specifications to select the correct mode.

Close-up of the bottom panel of the Box 02 Phono Preamplifier showing DIP switches for MM/MC, gain, capacitance, and impedance settings.

Image 3: DIP Switch Settings (MM/MC, Gain, Capacitance, Impedance)
This image provides a detailed view of the DIP switches located on the bottom of the Box 02. It shows four sets of switches, each illustrating different configurations for MM/MC mode, gain, capacitance, and impedance, along with corresponding tables for their values.

MM/MC and Gain Configuration
Setting	Switch 1	Switch 2 & 3	Description
MC Mode, High Gain (+6dB)	ON	ON (both)	For Moving Coil cartridges requiring higher amplification.
MC Mode, Low Gain (0dB)	ON	OFF (both)	For Moving Coil cartridges requiring standard amplification.
MM Mode, High Gain (+6dB)	OFF	ON (both)	For Moving Magnet cartridges requiring higher amplification.
MM Mode, Low Gain (0dB)	OFF	OFF (both)	For Moving Magnet cartridges requiring standard amplification.

Note: "ON" means the switch is pushed towards the "ON" position. "OFF" means the switch is pushed away from the "ON" position.

3. Adjustable Capacitance and Impedance Settings

The Box 02 allows for fine-tuning of capacitance and impedance to match your specific phono cartridge. These settings are also controlled by DIP switches on the bottom panel (refer to Image 3).

Capacitance Configuration
Switch	Value (when ON)
Switch 1	51R
Switch 2	910R
Switch 3	1K

Impedance Configuration
Switch	Value (when ON)
Switch 4	240PF
Switch 5	120PF
Switch 6	100PF

If you are unsure about the correct capacitance and impedance settings for your cartridge, it is recommended to turn off all capacitance and impedance switches. This is particularly recommended for MC cartridges as a starting point.

Operation

Once all connections are made and settings are configured:

Ensure your turntable, amplifier, and Box 02 are all connected and powered on.
Select the appropriate input on your amplifier or active speakers that is connected to the Box 02.
Begin playing a record on your turntable.
Adjust the volume using your amplifier or active speakers. The Box 02 does not have its own volume control.

FX AUDIO Box 02 Phono Preamplifier placed on an audio rack next to a turntable and amplifier, with speakers in the background.

Image 4: Preamplifier in Use
This image shows the Box 02 Phono Preamplifier integrated into a home audio setup, positioned on an audio rack with a turntable and an amplifier, demonstrating its compact size and typical placement.

Maintenance

Keep the unit clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Ensure proper ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating.
Avoid exposing the unit to moisture, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight.
When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power supply.

Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions
Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No sound output.	Incorrect connections. Power supply not connected or faulty. Incorrect input selected on amplifier. Turntable not playing or cartridge issue.	Verify all RCA and power connections are secure. Ensure the power adapter is properly connected and plugged into a live outlet. Select the correct line-level input on your amplifier/active speakers. Check your turntable's operation and cartridge.
Humming or buzzing noise.	Ground wire not connected or loose. Interference from other electronic devices. Faulty cables.	Ensure the turntable's ground wire is securely connected to the GND post on the Box 02. Move the preamplifier away from other electronic devices (e.g., power supplies, Wi-Fi routers). Try replacing RCA cables with higher quality, shielded cables.
Low or distorted sound.	Incorrect MM/MC mode selected. Incorrect gain setting. Cartridge not properly matched (capacitance/impedance).	Verify the MM/MC DIP switch setting matches your cartridge type. Adjust the gain DIP switches (Switches 2 & 3) to High Gain if the output is too low. Experiment with capacitance and impedance settings, or set them all to OFF as a default.

Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	Box 02
Cartridge Compatibility	MM (Moving Magnet), MC (Moving Coil)
Input	RCA (L/R) for Turntable
Output	RCA (L/R) for Amplifier/Active Speakers
Gain Settings	0dB, +6dB (selectable via DIP switches)
Capacitance Settings	51R, 910R, 1K (selectable via DIP switches)
Impedance Settings	100PF, 120PF, 240PF (selectable via DIP switches)
Op-Amp Chips	NJM2068, TL071
Power Supply	DC 12V 1A (included)
Dimensions	8.94 x 8.43 x 2.6 inches (Package)
Weight	1.24 pounds
Housing Material	Aluminum Alloy Sandblast Shell

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact FX-AUDIO- customer service through their official website or your retailer.

FX-AUDIO- Box 02