Cayin HA-3A HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER
User's Manual
Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Cayin HA-3A Headphone Amplifier. This user manual is designed to help you understand the features and operation of the amplifier. It is recommended that all users read through this manual before operating the device.
Protective foam is inserted inside the Vacuum Tube Cage to protect the vacuum tubes during transportation. Please remove these foams before connecting the amplifier to your sound system to avoid serious damage or fire accidents.
Package Contents
Please examine the product package before opening. It should be free from physical damage or water stains. The package should contain the following items:
- Cayin HA-3A x1
- User's Manual x1
- AC Power Cord x1
- Spare Fuses: External Main Fuse x2 (~220V-240V: T1AL250V; ~100V-120V: T2AL250V), External Fuse for high voltage x2 (T125mAE250V)
Recommendation: Keep all packaging materials for future use. Fill in and mail the product warranty card immediately to safeguard your after-sales service.
Note: Ensure the AC voltage of your local power supply matches the voltage information on the back panel before powering up the amplifier. Incorrect voltage settings can cause damage or accidents. Contact your authorized dealer or Zhuhai Spark Electronic Equipment Co., Ltd. if the marked voltage differs from your local supply.
Product Features
- Point-to-point wiring with premium grade wires, hand-wired by skilled craftsmen.
- Matched-pair custom-built El output transformers.
- In-house designed Premium Toroid Power Transformer with high inductance and high efficiency.
- 22DE4 from RCA used as Tube Rectifier for stable and clean power supply.
- Multi-stage independent power supply voltage amplification with independent regulator design for minimum ripple effect and outstanding audio performance.
- Dedicated implementation of single-ended amplification circuit for a simple, pure music presentation.
- JJ 12AU7/ECC82 used for voltage amplification.
- JJ 6V6S used for power amplification.
- Premium grade RealCap coupling capacitor for improved resolving capability and soundstage.
- High-quality Neutrik 6.35mm single-ended headphone, NIPPON DICS 4.4mm balanced headphone, and Neutrik 4-pin balanced headphone outputs included.
- In-house designed output transformers provide three sets of impedance matched outputs (High, Mid, Low) from 8Ω to 600Ω.
- Two sets of line input: XLR balanced and RCA single-ended.
- Strong output power suitable for a wide range of headphones.
- High-performance Alps Potentiometer for durable, high-precision Volume Control.
- Soft start function (approx. 60 seconds).
- Special shielding and anti-shock design.
- Innovative circuit layout and highly effective shielding for premium performance.
- Equipped with an easily-installed tube cover for protection.
Safety Precautions
- Unplug the power cord when not in use for extended periods.
- Ensure the amplifier is in a well-ventilated environment and do not cover vents to prevent overheating, malfunction, or fire.
- Connect a source device to the input terminals before selecting it as the active input to avoid amplifier damage.
- Short-circuiting the output terminals is strictly forbidden.
- Do not attempt to service the product yourself; opening the cover may expose you to electric shock or other hazards. All service and maintenance must be conducted by an authorized service technician.
- Keep the amplifier away from water, dripping, or splashing. Do not place liquid-filled objects on or around the amplifier.
- Disconnect the power cable before cleaning. Use a soft, clean cloth and avoid volatile or corrosive cleaning solutions.
- Handle with care and avoid tampering with the machine.
CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT OPEN. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
!: To reduce the risk of fire or electronic shock, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
!: This symbol warns that uninsulated voltage within the unit may be sufficient to cause electrical shock. Avoid contact with any internal parts.
!: This symbol alerts users to important information concerning operation and maintenance. Read carefully to avoid problems.
Specifications
| ITEM | SPECIFICATIONS |
|---|---|
| 【Rated Output】 STD | 400mW+400mW (L); 600mW+600mW (M); 700mW+700mW (H) |
| 【Rated Output】 4.4 BAL. | 230mW+230mW (L); 350mW+350mW (M); 400mW+400mW (H) |
| 【Rated Output】 4PIN BAL. | 600mW+600mW (L); 750mW+750mW (M); 850mW+850mW (H) |
| 【Frequency Range】 | 18Hz~30kHz ±3dB |
| 【TH+D】 | 0.2% (1kHz, 200mW) |
| 【Sensitivity】 | 300mV~480mV |
| 【S/N Ratio】 | 100dB (A-Weighted) |
| 【Headphone Impedance】 | L: 8~64Ω; M: 65~250Ω; H: 251~600Ω |
| 【Headphone Connectors】 | 6.35mm x1; 4.4mm BALANCEx1; 4pin XLR x1 |
| 【Input Impedance】 | 40KΩ |
| 【Input Connector】 | XLR, RCA |
| 【Tube used】 | JJ 12AU7/ECC82×2, JJ6V6S×2, RCA 22DE4×1 |
| 【Dimension】 | 306mm×260mm×170mm |
| 【Net Weight】 | 12KG |
| 【Fuse】 | ~220V-240V: T1AL250V; ~100V-120V: T2AL250V |
| 【External Fuse for 6V6】 | T125mAE250V |
| 【Power Consumption】 | 80W |
| 【Working Condition】 | Temp: 0°C~40°C Humidity: 20% ~ 80% |
| 【Storage Condition】 | Temp: -20°C ~ 70℃ Humidity: 20% ~ 90% |
Daily Care
Notice:
- Please use a soft, clean cloth to clean the chassis regularly.
- Do not use volatile solutions, corrosive cleaning products, or pre-treated cloths.
Diagram: A line drawing of the Cayin HA-3A amplifier's front panel is shown, illustrating the placement of various controls and connectors.
Warranty Service
- The product is warranted for twelve (12) months from the date of original purchase. Replacement products are warranted for the remainder of the original twelve (12) month warranty period. Vacuum tubes have a six-month warranty.
- Defective products must be returned to an authorized agent or Zhuhai Spark Electronic Equipment Co., Ltd. (the "Company") for service. Approval from an authorized dealer or the "Company" is required before sending out the defective product.
- Do not attempt to disassemble the machine without prior approval from the “Company”; otherwise, the warranty will be voided.
NOTE: The information in this manual is subject to change without prior notice.
Installation and Connections
Connecting AC Power Cord
Connect the signal cables first, then insert the power cord into the power socket.
Attention:
- Connect the power cord only after all equipment is properly connected.
- It is normal for transformers to emit heat during prolonged operation.
- Unplug the power plug if the amplifier will not be used for a long time.
- Ensure the AC voltage of your local power supply matches the amplifier's voltage. Cayin is not responsible for damage or accidents caused by incorrect input voltage.
Diagram: A rear view of the Cayin HA-3A amplifier is shown, with labels pointing to the AC Power Input with Fuse Holder, External Fuse for high voltage, and input connectors (XLR and RCA).
Front Panel Functional Description
Diagram: A detailed illustration of the Cayin HA-3A front panel is provided, with numbered callouts corresponding to the descriptions below.
- Power On/Off: Press the button to turn the amplifier on or off.
- Power Indicator: Indicates the working status; remains on when the amplifier is in regular operation.
- Headphone Output Selector: Selects the suitable headphone output type (STANDARD, 4.4 BAL., 4 PIN BAL.).
- STANDARD: Output for headphones terminated in a 6.35mm TRS connector.
- 4.4 Balance Output: 4.4mm balance output for headphones terminated in a 4.4mm connector.
- 4PIN BALANCE: Output for headphones terminated in a 4-pin XLR connector.
- IMPEDANCE: Selects the impedance-matched output (L: 8~64Ω, M: 65~250Ω, H: 251~600Ω).
- VU meter: Monitors the output level of the amplifier.
- SOURCES: Selects balanced (XLR) or single-ended (RCA) input.
- Working State Indicator/Mute Indicator: Indicates the working state; flickers for 30 seconds during warm-up and remains flickering in mute state.
- Volume Knob: Controls the volume.
Polarity Diagrams: Polarity diagrams are provided for 6.35mm Headphone Jack, 4.4mm Balanced Headphone Jack, and 4 PIN XLR Balanced Headphone Jack.
Attention:
- A 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter is required for 3.5mm terminated headphones (adapter not included).
- Listening at high volumes for extended periods can cause hearing impairment.
- Do not use mono (TS) phone plugs, as this may cause serious damage or short circuits.
- Unplug the power cord from the AC power circuit if the amplifier is not used for a long time.
Rear Panel Functional Description
Diagram: A rear view of the Cayin HA-3A amplifier is shown, with numbered callouts corresponding to the descriptions below.
- Balanced input (XLR): Connect a balanced audio input, ensuring left and right channels are connected correctly.
- Single-ended input (RCA): Connect a single-ended audio input, ensuring left and right channels are connected correctly.
- External Fuse for high voltage: (T160mAL250V)
- AC Power Input with Fuse Holder: Replace fuse with the same specification.
Attention: Ensure the AC voltage of your local power supply matches the amplifier's voltage. Cayin is not responsible for damage or accidents caused by incorrect input voltage.
Top Panel Functional Description
Diagram: An illustration of the Cayin HA-3A top panel shows the placement of vacuum tubes.
- V5: RCA 22DE4 Vacuum TUBE
- V1, V2: JJ 12AU7/ECC82 Vacuum TUBE
- V3, V4: JJ 6V6 Vacuum TUBE
Attention:
- Vacuum tubes become very hot during operation; handle with care to avoid burns.
- Turn off the amplifier and wait 20 minutes before replacing vacuum tubes. Hold the base firmly to avoid damaging the fragile parts.
- When installing vacuum tubes, align them correctly with the socket pins before inserting.
Connect to Audio Equipment
This section illustrates how to connect audio equipment to the HA-3A amplifier.
Diagram: A connection diagram shows the HA-3A amplifier connected to a CS-100CD CD player via XLR and RCA cables.
BALANCE Socket: Uses XLR input for balanced signal transfer, offering enhanced reliability.
USA System Pinout (XLR): ① PIN1: GND; ② PIN2: HOT; ③ PIN3: COLD.
European System Pinout (XLR): ① PIN1: GND; ② PIN2: COLD; ③ PIN3: HOT.
Note: This amplifier uses the USA System. Using a European system XLR connector may result in an inverse signal. Ensure correct phase setup.
Attention to Audio Connection:
- Refer to the manual of associated equipment when necessary.
- Do not connect the power cord until all equipment is properly connected.
- 'R' indicates the right channel; 'L' indicates the left channel.
- Ensure all connectors are securely installed. Poor connections can cause noise, degrade audio performance, or damage equipment.
- Do not run power cords, audio interconnects, and speaker cables parallel to each other, as this can adversely affect audio performance.
- Ensure '+' and '-', left and right channels are connected properly.
Connect to Headphones
The HA-3A offers three types of headphone outputs: 4-pin XLR for balanced, 4.4mm Balanced, and 6.35mm for single-ended use.
Single-ended Headphone Connection: Uses the 6.35mm headphone input. A 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter is required for headphones with a 3.5mm connector.
4.4mm Balanced Headphone Connection: Uses the 4.4mm headphone input. A 2.5mm to 4.4mm adapter is required for headphones with a 2.5mm connector.
XLR Balance Headphone Connections: Uses the 4-pin XLR headphone input. Adapters may be required for dual XLR (3-pin), 4.4mm, or 2.5mm balanced headphone connectors.
IMPEDANCE Matched Output: The HA-3A provides three impedance settings (L: 8~64Ω, M: 65~250Ω, H: 251~600Ω) to match a wide range of headphone impedances for optimal performance. It is safe to try different impedance settings.
Attention:
- Balanced headphones can be used with single-ended outputs via an appropriate converter.
- Do not plug single-ended headphones into the XLR4 balanced headphone output, as this can damage the headphone or amplifier.
- Turn the volume to the minimum when exchanging headphones.
Vacuum Tube Substitution
| Vacuum Tube | Substitution |
|---|---|
| RCA 22DE4 | 22DE4 |
| JJ 12AU7/ECC82 | 12AU7, ECC82, E82CC, ECC802S |
| JJ 6V6 | 6V6 |
Diagrams: Illustrations show how to install 9-pin, 8-pin, 4-pin, and Big 4-pin vacuum tubes, including pin alignment and orientation.
Instructions for 9-Pin Vacuum Tubes: Align pins with socket holes and insert vertically. Ensure correct alignment to prevent damage.
Instructions for 8-Pin Vacuum Tubes: Align the positioning pin with the grooves in the positioning holes and install by pulling up and down. Ensure correct alignment to prevent damage.
Instructions for 4-Pin Vacuum Tubes: Align pins with socket holes, noting thick pins with big holes and thin pins with small holes. Install vertically. Ensure correct alignment to prevent damage.
Instructions for Big 4-Pin Vacuum Tubes: Align the positioning pin with the slot and rotate 45° clockwise to tighten. To remove, turn counterclockwise. Ensure correct alignment to prevent damage.
Important Note: Incorrect insertion of vacuum tubes can cause damage and prevent the amplifier from working properly.
Basic Operation
Ensure all connections are correct and the power supply is stable before turning on the amplifier.
- Turn on the amplifier; the power indicator will light up.
- When the power indicator is steadily lit, the amplifier is ready for operation. If it does not light up, the amplifier may be malfunctioning; turn off the power and contact your dealer.
- The tubes' regulated power supply may take 30-60 seconds to ramp up. Ting-ting noise from headphones or speakers during this time is normal.
- Vacuum tubes may require 10 minutes of warm-up for optimum performance.
- Select the input source: XLR for balanced input, RCA for single-ended input.
- For single-ended headphones: Insert the 6.35mm connector into the STANDARD output and set the selector to STA.
- For 4.4mm balanced headphones: Insert the 4.4mm connector into the 4.4 BAL. output and set the selector to 4.4 BAL.
- For 4-pin XLR balanced headphones: Insert the XLR4 connector into the 4 PIN BAL. output and set the selector to 4 PIN BAL.
- Select the appropriate impedance output (L, M, or H) based on your headphone specifications for optimized performance.
- Adjust the volume to an appropriate level and enjoy your music.
Attention:
- Do not disconnect interconnects while the amplifier is operating, as this may damage the amplifier or associated equipment.
- You can swap headphones during playback. To protect your hearing and sensitive headphones, turn the volume down to 0 before unplugging or plugging in headphones.
- If the amplifier has been turned off, wait 2 minutes before turning it back on to avoid damaging the vacuum tubes.
Maintenance
- Read the Manual: Operate the amplifier correctly by carefully reading this user manual to understand product features and safety precautions.
- Keep the Manual: Keep this manual for future reference.
- Signage: Do not tear off or rub away the serial number.
- Operation: Follow the operations in this manual strictly.
- Accessories: If using non-factory supplied accessories (e.g., power cords, fuses), ensure they are compatible with safety requirements to avoid damage from improper usage.
- Placement: The amplifier is heavy, and vacuum tubes are fragile. Place the amplifier on a stable, flat surface, preferably a sturdy cabinet or rack. Insecure placement can lead to damage and household accidents.
- Power Supply: Ensure your household AC power supply matches the amplifier's power requirement. Contact your authorized dealer or local power supply institutions if uncertain.
- Overloading: When connecting to a power strip or multi-socket, ensure the total load is within safety limits. Overloaded connections can lead to electric shock or fire.
- Warranty Service: Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the machine; this voids the warranty and may expose you to electric shock.
- Troubleshooting: If you encounter abnormal behavior during setup or playback, refer to the troubleshooting tips in this manual. If problems persist, contact your authorized dealer for technical support.
Troubleshooting
If the amplifier is not functioning as intended, check the following tips to identify the possible reason.
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Power Indicator is OFF. | Power is not connected | Connect power cord securely. Check main power supply. |
| Main fuse is out. | Replace fuse with the same specification. | |
| NO input signal. | Check source equipment is working. Select input source correctly. | |
| No Sound after power on | Volume at minimum position | Turn up volume. |
| Interconnect not properly connected | Connect all cables securely. | |
| Headphone cable not properly connected | Connect headphone cable properly. | |
| Headphone output not specified correctly | Select headphone output correctly. | |
| Selected the wrong output | Select headphone or speaker output correctly. | |
| Excessive noise | Umbilical Power cable not properly connected | Reconnect the umbilical power cable, position the alignment groove correctly before tightening the screw-threaded connector. |
| Input source badly connected | Install interconnect properly. | |
| Interconnect grounding disconnected | Replace interconnect. | |
| Soundstage and imaging not focused | Equipment malfunction | Contact authorized dealer for technical support. |
| Left and right channel of source equipment reversed | Reinstall related cabled correctly. | |
| Headphone cable polarity reversed | Reinstall related cabled correctly. | |
| Speaker cable polarity reserved | Reinstall related cabled correctly. |
Important Notice: Cayin is a registered trademark of Zhuhai Spark Electronic Equipment Co., Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Zhuhai Spark Electronic Equipment Co., LTD
Website: www.cayin.cn
Tel: 0756-3828711
Fax: 0756-3828722
Email: market@cayin.cn
Address: 9 Lianfa Road, Liangang Industrial Park, Shuanglin Zone, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
Post Code: 519045
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