Introduction
The Douk Audio T14-EQ is a compact phono preamplifier designed to enhance the audio signal from your turntable, making it compatible with a wider range of audio systems. It features selectable MM (Moving Magnet) and MC (Moving Coil) modes, RIAA equalization, a built-in headphone amplifier, and tone controls for personalized sound adjustment. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance.
What's in the Box
- T14-EQ Preamp ×1
- USB Cable (Type-C) ×1
Product Features
- MM & MC Compatibility: The T14-EQ supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, allowing for versatile use with various turntables. A switch on the bottom of the unit allows selection between these modes. The integrated RIAA circuitry ensures accurate sound reproduction.
- Dual Outputs for Speakers & Headphones: Connect the preamp to your amplifier or powered speakers using the stereo RCA outputs. For private listening, a 3.5mm headphone jack is included, capable of driving headphones with impedances from 16Ω to 200Ω.
- Customizable Tone Control: Independent bass and treble knobs provide a ±5dB adjustment range, enabling users to fine-tune the audio output to their preference or to compensate for room acoustics and speaker characteristics.
- Ultra-Low Noise Performance: Designed with high-quality integrated circuits and a built-in power isolation module, the T14-EQ minimizes background hum and hiss, delivering a clean and detailed audio signal.
- Compact & Convenient Design: Housed in a durable all-aluminum shell for interference shielding, the unit features gold-plated PCB and RCA terminals for optimal signal integrity. It is powered by a standard 5V USB source, offering flexible power options.
Setup Instructions
- MM/MC Mode Selection: Before connecting, locate the MM/MC switch on the bottom of the T14-EQ unit. Set it to match your turntable's cartridge type (Moving Magnet or Moving Coil). Incorrect selection may result in low volume or distorted sound.
Image: The bottom of the T14-EQ unit, highlighting the MM/MC selector switch. Ensure this switch matches your turntable's cartridge type. - Connect Turntable to PHONO IN: Connect your turntable's RCA output cables to the PHONO IN (red for right, white for left) ports on the rear of the T14-EQ. Ensure a secure connection.
- Connect Ground Wire: Attach your turntable's ground wire to the ground terminal on the T14-EQ. This helps eliminate hum and noise.
Image: Detail of the PHONO IN RCA jacks and the ground terminal on the rear panel of the T14-EQ, showing where to connect the turntable's audio and ground wires. - Connect to Amplifier/Speakers (LINE OUT): Connect the LINE OUT (red for right, white for left) RCA ports of the T14-EQ to an available line-level input on your amplifier or powered speakers.
Image: Close-up of the LINE OUT RCA ports on the T14-EQ, indicating where to connect to an amplifier or powered speakers. - Connect Power: Use the provided USB Type-C cable to connect the DC 5V IN port on the T14-EQ to a 5V USB power source (e.g., a wall charger, computer USB port, or power bank). The power indicator light on the front panel will illuminate.
Image: Detail of the DC 5V IN Type-C power input port on the rear of the T14-EQ. - Connect Headphones (Optional): If using headphones, plug them into the 3.5mm headphone jack on the front panel. Note that the headphone output has priority; when headphones are connected, the RCA line output will be muted.
Image: The 3.5mm headphone output jack and the power indicator light on the front panel of the T14-EQ.
Operating Instructions
- Power On/Off and Volume Control: The large knob on the right of the front panel serves as both the power switch and volume control. Rotate it clockwise to turn the unit on and increase volume. Rotate counter-clockwise to decrease volume and turn the unit off.
Image: The volume knob on the front panel of the T14-EQ, which also functions as the power switch. - Adjusting Tone Controls: Use the BASS and TREBLE knobs to adjust the low and high frequencies of the audio output. Turn clockwise to boost, counter-clockwise to cut. Adjust these to suit your listening preference or room acoustics.
Image: The Bass and Treble adjustment knobs on the front panel of the T14-EQ. - Playing Records: Place a record on your turntable, ensure the T14-EQ is powered on, and the volume is set to a low level. Start your turntable and carefully lower the tonearm onto the record. Adjust the volume and tone controls as desired.
Maintenance
- Keep the unit clean by wiping with a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid exposing the unit to direct sunlight, high temperatures, or humidity.
- Do not attempt to open the casing or modify the unit, as this will void the warranty and could cause damage.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the unit during operation.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound output | Unit not powered on; incorrect connections; volume too low; MM/MC switch incorrect; headphones connected. | Ensure power is connected and unit is on. Check all RCA and ground connections. Increase volume. Verify MM/MC switch setting. Disconnect headphones if using RCA output. |
| Humming or buzzing noise | Ground wire not connected or loose; ground loop; interference from other electronics. | Ensure turntable ground wire is securely connected to the T14-EQ. Try connecting the ground wire to your amplifier's ground terminal if available. Move the unit away from other electronic devices. |
| Distorted sound | MM/MC switch incorrect; input signal too strong; faulty cables. | Verify MM/MC switch setting matches your cartridge. Reduce the output level from the turntable if possible (rare). Try different RCA cables. |
| Headphone output not working | Headphones not fully plugged in; volume too low. | Ensure headphones are fully inserted into the 3.5mm jack. Increase the volume. |
Specifications
- Model Number: XX-T14-EQ-US
- Item Weight: 8 ounces (approx. 227g)
- Product Dimensions: 3.31 x 3.31 x 1.1 inches (approx. 84 x 84 x 28 mm)
- Compatible Devices: Active Speaker, Amplifier, Headphone, MM MC Turntable, Record Player
- Connector Type: Phono, RCA
- Material Type: Metal (All-aluminum shell)
- Output Wattage: 0.25 Watts (for headphone amplifier)
- Power Source: Corded Electric (USB 5V)
- Color: Black
Safety Information
- Do not expose the unit to water or moisture.
- Use only the specified 5V USB power supply.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on the unit.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Disconnect power during electrical storms or when unused for long periods.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact Douk Audio customer service directly through their official website or the platform where the product was purchased. Please have your model number (T14-EQ) and purchase details ready when contacting support.
