Musical Fidelity M6 Encore Connect
Multi Format Audio Streamer
Getting Started Guide
Introduction and Initial Setup
Welcome to the Musical Fidelity M6 Encore Connect, a multi-format audio streamer. This guide will help you set up and start using your device.
Placement and Environment
Acclimatisation: Ensure the M6 Encore Connect is acclimatised to room temperature for at least one hour before use. This helps dissipate any condensation.
Surface: Place the unit on a flat, stable, and level surface. Ensure the box is oriented correctly before opening.
Clearance: Check that the area where the unit will be located is clear and ready for installation. The Encore Connect requires a stable and flat space of more than 440 mm (17½ inches) wide by 400 mm (15½ inches) deep, not including connecting cables.
Connections: The unit requires access to a standard mains socket and a home "RJ45" network connection.
Audio Output: The Encore Connect should be connected to a separate power amplifier or to active loudspeakers via its digital or analog outputs.
Front Panel Overview
The front panel features intuitive controls for easy operation:
- SELECT KNOB: Used for navigating menus and adjusting settings.
- FUNCTION BUTTONS: Access various device functions.
- DISPLAY: Shows current status, menus, and track information.
- FUNCTION VOLUME BUTTONS: Control the audio volume.
- VOLUME KNOB: Fine-tune the audio output level.
- Back BUTTONS: Navigate backwards through menus.
- ENTER BUTTONS: Confirm selections and actions.
- CD SLOT: For inserting Compact Discs for playback.
- HEADPHONE JACK: Standard socket for connecting headphones.
- USB SOCKET: For connecting USB storage devices.
[Image description: Front panel of the Musical Fidelity M6 Encore Connect, showing SELECT KNOB, FUNCTION BUTTONS, DISPLAY, FUNCTION VOLUME BUTTONS, VOLUME KNOB, Back BUTTONS, ENTER BUTTONS, CD SLOT, HEADPHONE JACK, and USB SOCKET.]
Rear Panel Connections
The rear panel offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options:
- USB3 SOCKETS: For high-speed data transfer and device connection.
- ANALOG INPUTS: AUX 1, AUX 2, AUX 3, LINE for connecting analog audio sources.
- ANALOG OUTPUTS: For connecting to amplifiers or active speakers.
- STORAGE (REMOVABLE TRAY) SOCKET: Allows for the installation of an internal storage drive. Ensure the drive is securely fitted and correctly oriented before installation.
- NETWORK SOCKET: RJ45 Ethernet port for connecting to your home network.
- S/PDIF INPUTS: OPTICAL 1, OPTICAL 2, COAX 1, COAX 2 for digital audio sources.
- S/PDIF OUTPUTS: OPTICAL and COAX for digital audio output.
- IEC MAINS SOCKET: Standard connector for the power cable.
Additional labels on the rear panel include 'CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT', 'INTERNAL DRIVE BAY', 'DATE OF MANUFACTURE', 'DESIGNED AND BUILT IN ENGLAND', 'CAUTION', 'IMPORTANT', power consumption (MAX POWER CONSUMPTION 40W), and a space for the SERIAL NUMBER.
[Image description: Rear panel of the Musical Fidelity M6 Encore Connect, detailing USB3 SOCKETS, ANALOG INPUTS, ANALOG OUTPUTS, STORAGE (REMOVABLE TRAY) SOCKET, NETWORK SOCKET, S/PDIF INPUTS, S/PDIF OUTPUTS, and IEC MAINS SOCKET. Also visible are labels for 'CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT', 'INTERNAL DRIVE BAY', 'DATE OF MANUFACTURE', 'DESIGNED AND BUILT IN ENGLAND', 'CAUTION', 'IMPORTANT', power rating (40W), and serial number.]
What's in the Box?
Your M6 Encore Connect package should contain the following items:
- M6 Encore unit
- Network cable
- Felt bag
- Mains lead
- Handling gloves
- Remote control
- Cleaning cloth
- Batteries for remote control
Unboxing and Initial Setup Procedure
- Carefully open the box. Use the provided handling gloves to prevent marks on the casework. Take care not to cut through internal parts or accessories.
- Remove the Encore Connect from its black felt bag. Keep the bag and all packaging for potential future storage or transport. The box can be unfolded for flat-packing to save space.
- Position the Encore Connect in its intended location. Connect all required audio inputs and outputs, but do not connect the mains power lead yet.
- Connect the supplied network cable to the NETWORK SOCKET on the rear panel. Ensure the other end is connected to your network hub or switch, and that your network devices are powered on. Note: A working network connection is vital for the initial switch-on to ensure the software updates correctly.
- Plug in the mains power lead to the IEC MAINS SOCKET. The unit will start up, displaying the Musical Fidelity logo.
- Wait for the startup process to complete. This may take a few minutes as the software automatically updates. Once the main menu appears, your Encore Connect is ready for use.
Network and Computer Minimum Performance Requirements
For optimal performance and functionality, the Encore Connect requires a live network connection and internet access.
- Network Hub: A minimum requirement of 100 Base-T (100Mbit/s) or greater with a free RJ45 socket is necessary. It is strongly recommended that the router/hub is operated with all port filters off (this is typically the default setting for most home hubs).
- Network via Mains (Homeplug): For network connection via powerline adapters, Homeplug AV or Homeplug AV 2 standards are recommended.
- Computer Operating System: Compatible with Windows 7/8/10 or later, and Apple OS 10.11 or later.
Main Menu Functions and Navigation
The Main Menu serves as the central point for accessing all features of the Encore Connect. You can return to it at any time by pressing the "Home" button.
Navigating the Menus
The device interface is navigated using the SELECT KNOB, FUNCTION BUTTONS, and ENTER BUTTONS. Navigation options are indicated by arrows.
"Now Playing"
This screen displays information about the currently playing track, including artist, title, album, and playback progress.
[Image description: Screenshot showing the 'Now Playing' screen on the M6 Encore. It displays track information, including artist, title, album, and playback progress (e.g., 'Allegro', 'Orchestra With Antony Michaelson (Clarinet). Mozart K62', '0:08').]
"My Music"
This section displays music stored on the internal hard disc drive. You can navigate through your library by Album Artists, All Artists, Composers, or Albums.
[Image description: Screenshot of the 'My Music' section of the M6 Encore menu. Options displayed are: Album Artists [arrow], All Artists [arrow], Composers [arrow], Albums [arrow].]
For instructions on adding music to the hard disc drive, please refer to the Musical Fidelity website and their YouTube channel.
"Radio"
Access internet radio stations through this menu. Options include My Presets, Local Radio, Music, and Sports.
[Image description: Screenshot of the 'Radio' section of the M6 Encore menu. Options displayed are: My Presets [arrow], Local Radio [arrow], Music [arrow], Sports [arrow].]
"Inputs"
Select the desired audio input source. Options include Optical Digital 1, Optical Digital 2, Coax (RCA) Digital 1, and Coax (RCA) Digital 2.
[Image description: Screenshot of the 'Inputs' selection screen. Options displayed are: Optical Digital 1 [arrow], Optical Digital 2 [arrow], Coax (RCA) Digital 1 [arrow], Coax (RCA) Digital 2 [arrow].]
Shutting Down the Unit
Important: The M6 Encore Connect contains computer elements and must be shut down properly before removing mains power.
To safely shut down the unit, navigate to the "Quit" option from the main menu. Do not remove the power lead or switch off the mains until the green screen appears on the display.
[Image description: Screenshot of the 'Quit (shutdown)' menu. Options displayed are: Search [arrow], Settings [arrow], Quit [arrow], Sleep Mode [arrow].]
Accessing the Web Interface
More advanced functions and control of your Encore Connect are available via a web browser on your computer.
The web interface is compatible with computers running Microsoft Windows, Apple MacOS, Linux, or any other operating system with a modern web browser.
Recommended Browser: At the time of this guide's publication, Google Chrome is recommended as it supports all functions of the web interface. You can download it free of charge from http://chrome.google.com/.
Access URL: To access your Encore Connect, enter http://encore.local/ into your web browser's address bar. Please note that the trailing slash (/) is important; omitting it will prevent the connection.
[Image description: Screenshot of the M6 Encore web interface accessed via a browser. It shows a library view with sections for MENU, Artist, Albums, and Tracks. Example content includes 'Beethoven; Brahms: Violin Concertos' by Nathan Milstein and William Steinberg, with track details and durations.]
CD Playback
Important Notice
To ensure trouble-free CD playback, please ensure that your discs are clean and free from scratches.
To play a CD, select "CD Player" from the Main Menu. Once "CD Player" is selected, insert the disc into the CD SLOT. The CD will start playing automatically.
