Power Dynamics PDX015 USB Phono Pre-amplifier

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of this Power Dynamics product. Please read this manual thoroughly prior to using the unit to benefit fully from all features.

Safety Precautions

General Safety:

• Read this manual thoroughly before using the unit.
• Follow all instructions to maintain warranty validity.
• Take all precautions to avoid fire and/or electrical shock.
• Repairs must only be carried out by qualified technicians to avoid electrical shock.
• Keep this manual for future reference.
• Seek advice from a specialist before using the unit for the first time.
• An initial smell upon first use is normal and will disappear.
• The unit contains voltage-carrying parts; do NOT open the housing.
• Do not place metal objects or pour liquids into the unit, as this may cause electrical shock and malfunction.
• Do not place the unit near heat sources (e.g., radiators) or on vibrating surfaces.
• Do not cover ventilation holes.
• The unit is not suitable for continuous use.
• Be careful with the mains lead and do not damage it; a faulty or damaged lead can cause electrical shock and malfunction.
• When unplugging from a mains outlet, always pull the plug, never the lead.
• Do not plug or unplug the unit with wet hands.
• If the plug and/or mains lead are damaged, they must be replaced by a qualified technician.
• If the unit is damaged to the extent that internal parts are visible, do NOT plug it into a mains outlet and DO NOT switch it on. Contact your dealer.
• Do NOT connect the unit to a rheostat or dimmer.
• To avoid fire and shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain and moisture.
• All repairs should be carried out by a qualified technician only.
• Connect the unit to an earthed mains outlet (220-240Vac/50Hz) protected by a 10-16A fuse.
• During a thunderstorm or if the unit will not be used for a longer period, unplug it from the mains. The rule is: Unplug it when not in use.
• If the unit has not been used for a long period, condensation may occur. Let the unit reach room temperature before switching it on. Never use the unit in humid rooms or outdoors.
• To prevent accidents in companies, follow applicable guidelines and instructions.
• Do not repeatedly switch the unit on and off, as this shortens its lifespan.
• Keep the unit out of the reach of children. Do not leave the unit unattended.
• Do not use cleaning sprays on switches; residues can cause dust and grease buildup. Seek specialist advice for malfunctions.
• Do not force the controls.
• The unit has a speaker that can cause a magnetic field; keep it at least 60cm away from computers or TVs.
• If the product has a built-in lead-acid rechargeable battery, recharge it every 3 months if not used for a long period to prevent permanent damage.
• If the battery is damaged, replace it with one of the same specifications and dispose of it environmentally.
• If the unit has fallen, have it checked by a qualified technician before switching it on again.
• Do not use chemicals to clean the unit; they can damage the finish. Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Keep away from electronic equipment that may cause interference.
• Only use original spares for repairs to avoid serious damage and/or dangerous radiation.
• Switch the unit off before unplugging it from the mains or other equipment. Unplug all leads and cables before moving the unit.
• Ensure the mains lead cannot be damaged by foot traffic. Check the mains lead for damages and faults before every use.
• Verify that the power outlet matches the mains voltage (220-240Vac/50Hz). If traveling, ensure the country's mains voltage is suitable.
• Keep the original packing material for safe transport.

Symbol Explanations:

• ⚡

  [High Voltage]: This mark draws attention to high voltages present inside the housing that can cause a shock hazard.

• ?

  [Important Information]: This mark draws attention to important instructions in the manual that must be read and adhered to.

The unit has been certified CE. It is prohibited to make any changes to the unit, as this would invalidate the CE certificate and guarantee.

Operating Temperature Note: To ensure normal operation, the unit must be used in rooms with a temperature between 5°C/41°F and 35°C/95°F.

Disposal: Electric products must not be disposed of with household waste. Please bring them to a recycling center. Consult local authorities or your dealer for disposal procedures. Specifications are typical and may vary slightly between units. Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

Warranty Disclaimer: Do not attempt self-repair or modification; this voids the warranty. The warranty is not applicable in case of accidents or damages caused by inappropriate use or failure to follow warnings. Power Dynamics is not responsible for personal injuries or damages resulting from failure to comply with safety recommendations and warnings.

Device Overview

The PDX015 unit features the following connections and controls on its front panel:

1. RCA unbalanced output connectors: Two RCA jacks for audio output.
2. RCA unbalanced input connectors: Two RCA jacks for audio input.
3. Line/Phone selector: A switch to select between Line level and Phono level input signals.
4. Gain: A rotary knob to adjust the input signal gain.
5. USB2.0 Connector 5Volt: A USB port for power supply (5V).
6. Ground screw: A terminal for connecting the ground wire from a turntable to minimize hum.

Connection Example

The diagram illustrates a typical setup for connecting the PDX015:

A turntable is connected via RCA cables to the input connectors (2) on the PDX015. The turntable's ground wire connects to the ground screw (6). The Line/Phone selector (3) is set according to the turntable's output. The Gain (4) is adjusted for optimal signal level. The unit is powered via its USB port (5), often connected to a computer or a USB power adapter. The output of the PDX015 would then connect to subsequent audio equipment like a mixer or amplifier.

Technical Specifications

Specifications are typical. Actual values may vary slightly between units. Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

Compliance

The products referred to in this manual conform to European and UK legislation directives:

European Union: 2014/35/EU, 2014/30/EU, 2011/65/EC

United Kingdom: S.I. 2016:1101, S.I. 2016:1091, S.I. 2012:3032

The unit bears the CE and UKCA marks.