Schiit Mani 2 MM/MC Phono Preamplifier

Introduction

Mani 2 is the most flexible, best-performing phono preamp available at its price point. It features 4 gain levels, multiple loading options, and a selectable dual-slope passive low-frequency filter, making it ready for any turntable and any cartridge. Experience superior sound quality, even with high-end equipment.

What's in the Box:

• (1) Mani 2
• (1) Wall-Wart

Mani 2 is a straightforward, highly capable phono preamp designed for exceptional value.

Safety Information

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS DEVICE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

• If you are unsure about installing audio devices, consult a qualified professional.
• Never use this device near water. Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Ensure adequate ventilation and do not block any openings or place near heat sources.
• Use only the supplied power cord or a suitable replacement. Route cords away from traffic areas and protect them from being pinched. Unplug the cord if the apparatus is unused for a long period.
• To prevent electric shock, do not use the plug with an extension cord, receptacle, or outlet unless blades can be fully inserted.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel if the device is damaged, has had liquid spilled on it, has had objects fall into it, has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

Getting Started

1. Choose the right location.

   Mani 2's high gain means placement is important. Avoid placing it on top of a power amp with a large transformer, as this can cause hum. Also, keep power cords away from the unit.

   • Place it near your turntable.
   • Keep it away from the turntable motor.
   • Do not run the AC cord near the turntable or its cables.

2. Choose the right cables.

   Use short, well-shielded RCA cables from the turntable to Mani 2. Short cables (0.5m or less) are recommended for optimal performance.

3. Start with the factory settings.

   For most moving-magnet (MM) cartridges, the factory settings of 42dB gain and 47pF/47kΩ loading are ideal.

IMPORTANT: When changing gain settings on Mani 2, turn down your preamp or turn off your amplifier before making adjustments.

Connections

Refer to the diagram for connection points:

• 1 RCA Outputs: Connect Mani 2's RCA outputs to your preamp or headphone amp.
• 2 Ground: Connect the turntable ground to Mani 2's ground input if you experience hum.
• 3 RCA Inputs: Connect Mani 2's RCA inputs to your turntable using short, shielded cables.
• 4 Power Switch: Turn on to enjoy your turntable. Follow the VERY IMPORTANT instructions regarding power-on sequence.
• 5 Power Input: Connect the supplied 16VAC wall-wart to Mani 2.

VERY IMPORTANT: Turn on Mani 2 FIRST, before other components like power amps, to avoid loud pops. Turn Mani 2 OFF AFTER turning off power amps. Do not change gain switch settings with Mani 2 on; turn the system off, change gain, then turn Mani 2 on first.

Controls (Easy Version)

Mani 2 features a simple front panel with a power-on light. All controls are located on the bottom of the unit. For most systems, the factory settings are plug-and-play. If the sound is good, you're done.

If you encounter issues or have specific cartridges, you may need to adjust the gain and loading options on the bottom of the unit.

Controls (Detailed)

Flip Mani 2 over to access the controls:

1. Filter

   Mani 2 offers 6dB or 12dB of low-frequency filtering to tame excessive woofer excursion with warped records. Most systems do not require this.

   • For 6dB low-pass filter, switch in the 6DB switches on both channels.
   • For 12dB low-pass filtering, engage the +6DB switches on both channels (both switches set to "I" or "IN").

2. Loading

   For most MM cartridges, the default load of 47pF/47kΩ (all switches to "O" or "OUT") is suitable. For MC cartridges:

   • Select 200Ω or 47Ω for MC cartridges. Set both switches to "I" for approximately a 38Ω load.
   • Add 47pF, 100pF, or both for 100pF, 150pF, and 200pF loading respectively.

3. Gain

   Factory settings are INPUT = H, OUTPUT = L, providing 42dB of gain for most MM cartridges.

   • Input and Output Gain both L: 33dB of gain
   • Input = L, Output = H: 48dB of gain
   • Input and Output Gain both H: 60dB of gain

IMPORTANT:

• Unknown cartridge? Try 47 ohms. If the sound fades, revert to 47kΩ.
• Distorted sound? If the bass is distorted, one or more gain stages may be overloading. Switch both INPUT and OUTPUT gains to "L" and adjust one at a time until distortion is eliminated.

2-Year Limited Warranty

Schiit Audio warrants this product against defects in material and workmanship for two (2) years from the date of purchase. Schiit Audio will repair or replace defective products free of charge during this period.

Warranty Limitations: This warranty does not apply if the product is modified, tampered with, damaged by negligence, accident, unreasonable use, or other causes unrelated to defects, or if the serial number has been altered or removed.

Implied warranties are limited to the duration of this warranty. Schiit Audio is not liable for consequential or incidental damages.

Warranty Service: If you believe you need warranty service, contact Schiit Audio first. Products returned without a Return Authorization (RA) will be returned without repair. Email info@schiit.com to obtain an RA.

Compliance: Application for Council Directives 72/23/EEC. Conformity declared for EN60065, EN50082-1.

For more information, visit schiit.com or email info@schiit.com.