Perreaux Stereo Amplifier 6160 P User Manual

6160/P  
160Wx6 Multi-Channel Power  
Amplifier  
Owners Manual  
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i
Introducing the Perreaux  
6160 Power Amplifier  
Congratulations on your Perreaux 6160 purchase. To realise the full potential of  
your unit you need to appreciate all aspects of its operation.  
Before installing the 6160 into your system, read the entire manual carefully.  
Endeavor to understand every detail by familiarising yourself with the controls  
and features as you read. You will find it easier to install using the relevant  
sections of this manual as a reference.  
We have attempted to explain every feature and operational facet clearly and  
concisely. Your Perreaux dealer will be happy to assist if you encounter any  
unforeseen problems.  
Read this manual, install your unit correctly and realise the sonic significance of  
your investment in Perreaux.  
Perreaux products are designed to provide the utmost in sonic realism and  
electronic reliability with a functional yet elegant appearance that reflects the  
care and craftsmanship applied during all stages of construction.  
Features at a  
àRugged build quality  
Glance  
àUltra-stiff power supply  
àSoft-Start circuit  
àHybrid Class A/AB output stages  
àMOSFET output devices  
àHighly powered  
àClipping indicators  
àBridgeable outputs  
àRemote trigger input and output  
àMultiple protection systems  
àAdvanced PCB design and earthing techniques  
àEarth isolation switch  
To maintain the consistently high quality that you expect from us, and we expect  
from ourselves, Perreaux products are essentially handcrafted.  
We maintain the human-link throughout, from design and construction, through  
to the ultimate test, your music, your system, your ears.  
Because we too listen to our products, we know that with your Perreaux you will  
discover many more of the musical secrets we strive to reveal.  
Note:  
All references to the 6160 Classic series are also applicable to the 6160P  
P-Series product.  
From all of us at Perreaux Industries Limited, thank you for choosing the  
Perreaux Reference Series 6160 power amplifier.  
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ii Important Safety Instructions  
Note:  
All safety and operating instructions should be read carefully before the  
6160 is used. Keep the Owners Manual in a safe place for future  
reference.  
àThe 6160 should not be used near water, for example near a bathtub,  
kitchen sink, in a wet basement, near a swimming pool, etc.  
àThe 6160 should be rack mounted only in a heavy-duty rack or stand  
that is recommended for audio equipment use.  
àMounting to a wall or ceiling should be via a heavy-duty bracket or shelf  
designed for audio equipment use.  
àThe 6160 should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators,  
stoves, or other appliances that produce excessive amounts of heat.  
àAlways ensure the 6160 heat sinks have adequate ventilation enabling  
air circulation both above and below.  
àDO NOT place the 6160 directly onto carpeted surfaces.  
àAvoid exposing the 6160 to extremely high or low temperatures.  
àThe 6160 should be connected to a mains power supply only of the type  
described in the operating instructions, or as marked on the rear of the  
unit.  
àDO NOT disconnect the mains earth from the system.  
àThe mains power supply cord should be routed so that it is not likely to  
be walked on or pinched by items placed on or against it.  
àThe power cord of the 6160 should be unplugged from the mains outlet  
when the unit is to be left unused for long periods or when attempting to  
connect or disconnect cables and before cleaning your unit.  
àCare should be taken so that objects and/or liquids do not accidentally  
fall inside the 6160.  
àPlease keep electrical equipment out of reach of children.  
àPlease unplug sensitive electronic equipment during electrical storms.  
àPlease replace any fuse with the value and type specified.  
àAvoid operating the 6160 with the cover removed.  
àDO NOT bypass any fuse.  
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àDO NOT attempt to repair the 6160. In the event of a problem, please  
contact your Perreaux dealer.  
àDO NOT operate this product in an explosive atmosphere.  
Caution!  
The 6160 is an extremely high powered, convection cooled amplifier.  
The finned outer heat sinks may become very hot when delivering high  
volume levels – to avoid injury; care should be taken not to touch the  
heat sinks during operation.  
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iii  
Table of Contents  
i
ii  
iii  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
Introducing the Perreaux 6160 Power Amplifier .................................................. 3  
Important Safety Instructions.................................................................................... 4  
Table of Contents......................................................................................................... 6  
Unpacking and Placement......................................................................................... 7  
Instant Install................................................................................................................ 9  
Front Panel Functions............................................................................................... 11  
Rear Panel Functions ................................................................................................ 13  
Bridging Channels..................................................................................................... 17  
Special Design Philosophies .................................................................................... 19  
Special Design Features............................................................................................ 21  
Maximising System Potential................................................................................... 23  
The Power MOSFET................................................................................................... 25  
Care and Maintainance ............................................................................................ 28  
Warranty Information and Obtaining Service ..................................................... 29  
Extended Warranty Registration Form ................................................................. 30  
Faultfinding Your System......................................................................................... 31  
Specifications.............................................................................................................. 36  
Physical Dimensions.................................................................................................. 39  
Contact Details........................................................................................................... 40  
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1
Unpacking and Placement  
The 6160 is packaged for maximum protection. Please carefully read the  
instructions below before proceeding to unpack the unit. Be extremely careful.  
Unpacking  
àInspect both ends of the cardboard box and open at the end without the  
Procedure  
central staple by slitting the reinforced tape at either side.  
àFold back the flaps and tip the package on end and the inner box will  
slide out.  
àLay the inner box down flat and upright, open it conventionally by  
separating the top tray from the bottom.  
àThe product can now be removed from the bottom packaging. This will  
be easier if you have someone to help you by holding the base of the  
box.  
àAlternately, the bottom tray and amplifier could be tipped upside down  
and the bottom packaging removed. If opened in this manner, please  
ensure that you turn the contents over again.  
Note:  
Be very careful to secure the unit if you are planning to flip the package  
upside down.  
àRemove the two white polystyrene protectors off either side of the  
amplifier, leaving the black material covering.  
àPull back the material and remove the protective black tissue from the  
front panel.  
The amplifier is now unpacked and ready for further installation.  
Note:  
Please retain all packaging material for future transport.  
Box 1 x 6160 Power amplifier  
Contents  
1 x 6160 Product manual  
1 x Detachable AC power cord  
Placing The 6160 should generally be placed close to your preamplifier, keeping the  
Your 6160  
interconnect cabling short.  
We strongly recommend keeping the 6160 on it’s own separate shelf to allow for  
proper ventilation.  
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Ventilation The 6160 is a high-powered amplifier. For optimal performance, the unit MUST  
Requirements receive adequate ventilation.  
àPlease do not install in a sealed cabinet.  
àPlease do not stack products directly on top of the unit.  
àPlease do not cover the product with a cloth or similar.  
àPlease do not mount the 6160 directly onto carpeted surfaces.  
àAs a “rule of thumb”, allow 80-100mm (3-4 inches) around all sides of  
the product and mount the 6160 on a flat surface, ensuring that the unit  
has adequate access to free flowing air.  
àIn the event that the 6160 is to be incorporated into custom cabinetry,  
please refer to Chapter 15 “Physical Dimensions”.  
Note:  
Please take all necessary steps to ensure that the unit receives adequate  
ventilation  
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2
Instant Install  
If you are like us, the first thing you will want to do is to play your favourite  
piece of music through your new 6160. The following instructions are written to  
enable you to achieve this as quickly as possible. These are not comprehensive  
instructions, but are designed to enable you to play music now!  
Note:  
Please take the time to read the 6160 manual thoroughly as it  
incorporates many features, which will enhance its operation.  
Placement  
The 6160 is a high-power amplifier and best results will be achieved when  
placed on a solid surface with adequate ventilation. DO NOT place on a  
carpeted floor or cover the amplifier!  
Turn off associated components  
This minimises the potential to damage any other components when connecting  
your 6160 into the system.  
Connect preamplifier to 6160  
Connect the output of your preamplifier/processor to the inputs at the rear of the  
6160 and ensure that the three toggle switches are all set to NORMAL.  
Note:  
Note:  
Try to keep all interconnect cables as far from loudspeaker cables as  
possible and well away from all AC mains leads.  
Connect speaker cables to the left and right speaker terminals  
We recommend using high quality connectors for your speaker cables, spade  
lugs are the preferable option as they combine a larger surface area with the  
possibility of a strong mechanical connection; however, high quality banana  
terminals are also acceptable.  
Be careful to maintain channel integrity, i.e. left to left, right to right, and  
phase integrity, positive (+) to positive (+), negative (-) to negative (-).  
Switch on preamplifier  
Turn on the preamplifier/processor and set the volume to the minimum level.  
Select the respective input to which your source component is connected.  
Switch on 6160  
After checking the supply voltage compatibility with the voltage rating on the  
6160 rear panel, insert the power cord-set supplied into the rear of the unit and  
into the wall. Switch on the socket at the wall and power up the 6160 using the  
switch on the rear panel.  
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Start your source component  
Switch on the source component both at the wall and on its front panel. Ensure  
you have some source material inserted and press play.  
Increase the volume  
Slowly increase the preamplifier/processor volume control to achieve a  
comfortable listening level.  
CONGRATULATIONS!  
Now that you have achieved your first objective, sit back, relax and please read  
the rest of the manual at your own pace, in your favourite armchair, whilst  
sipping a hot cup of coffee. You’ll find the whole experience much more  
pleasurable whilst listening to music.  
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3
Front Panel Functions  
Power Indicator  
The indicator light is an LED that shows the status of your 6160 multi-channel  
power amplifier.  
Off  
This indicates that the amplifier is not connected to the mains supply. This  
could be due to the power switch being set to OFF or power not being supplied  
to the mains power cord (e.g. unplugged, switched OFF at wall socket, tripped  
circuit breaker, etc.).  
Orange  
If the LED is glowing orange, it indicates that the soft-start circuitry is enabled  
and the capacitors are being slowly charged. The soft-start circuitry prevents  
large in-rush current upon power-up, which is detrimental to capacitor life and  
can trip circuit breakers unnecessarily. The LED should only illuminate orange  
for 1-2 seconds.  
Red  
When the LED is red, the amplifier is ON and ready to be used.  
Green  
Shows that the unit is in standby. This occurs when a master device is  
connected via the remote trigger input at the rear of the unit and the master  
device is OFF.  
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Clipping Indicators  
Under the numbered indication on the front panel insert screen, each of the six  
channels of the 6160 have an independent LED indicator which will illuminate if  
the input signal is too high, potentially causing damaging distortion and is a  
warning to reduce volume to the indicated channel(s).  
Caution!  
When an indicator illuminates, that channel is approaching clipping. This  
should be avoided, as clipping is the main reason for damage to both  
amplifiers and loudspeakers.  
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4
Rear Panel Functions  
Caution!  
Caution!  
Please make all changes at minimum volume setting. Only increase the  
volume after the connections have been made.  
AC Mains Input  
An IEC-standard mains input is provided at the rear of the unit. The AC cord set  
is removable, allowing you to upgrade to a cord set of your preference.  
Prior to connection to the AC mains, please check the voltage label on  
the rear panel to ensure that your unit conforms to the power supply in  
your area. Never attempt to connect the unit to the incorrect voltage.  
Severe damage can result from applying incorrect voltage to the unit.  
Speaker Output Terminals  
The 6160 is equipped with one pair of output terminals per channel. All  
terminals are clearly marked and colour coded RED Positive (+) and BLACK  
Negative (-). This polarity must be observed when connecting loudspeakers, i.e.  
positive terminal of the 6160 to the positive terminal of the loudspeaker and  
negative terminal of the 6160 to the negative terminal of the loudspeaker.  
When bridging two channels, the positive loudspeaker terminals of the bridged  
pair form the loudspeaker terminals for the bridged channel, i.e. the positive  
terminal of the odd numbered channel becomes the POSITIVE terminal of the  
bridged pair; the positive terminal of the second channel becomes the  
NEGATIVE terminal of the bridged pair (refer labeling on Rear Panel).  
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Caution!  
Never connect the amplifier’s output terminals to any device other than a  
loudspeaker.  
Please do not short circuit the amplifier’s output terminals.  
Never connect the output of one amplifier to the output terminals of  
another amplifier.  
For more information please refer to Chapter 8 “Maximising System Potential”.  
Serial Number  
The serial number is unique to your 6160. Please record this number and store it  
in a safe place. For any service related enquiry, please be prepared to quote the  
product serial number to Perreaux personnel or their service representative.  
Input Voltage and Fuse Rating  
Input Voltage  
It is important that the 6160 be operated from the correct AC mains voltage.  
This unit is factory set for the voltage applicable to the original country of  
destination.  
The 6160 will operate satisfactorily within a voltage variation of up to ±5% of  
that voltage at which the unit has been set.  
If you require the voltage setting to be altered, e.g. relocation to another area,  
city or country, or extraordinarily high or low voltages, please contact your  
Perreaux dealer. Qualified service personnel can only perform this modification.  
Caution!  
Caution!  
Never attempt to connect the unit to the incorrect voltage. Severe  
damage can result from applying incorrect voltage to the unit.  
Fuse Rating  
The fuse rating displayed here, refers to the rating of the mains inlet fuse.  
For more information on fuse ratings, please refer to Chapter 14  
“Specifications”.  
Never replace the fuse with any other ratings other than the one  
specified.  
Earth Lift Switch  
This switch enables the user to isolate the internal signal earth of the amplifier  
from the mains earth and is useful if system hum is a problem. Setting this  
switch DOWN connects the internal signal earth to mains earth and is the normal  
position. Setting to UP disconnects the signal earth from the mains earth.  
Note:  
Activating this switch has no effect on chassis earth, maintaining the  
connection to mains earth.  
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Master Remote Trigger Input  
The master trigger input is used to take the 6160 in and out of standby. The  
master trigger input is designed to accept a 3.5mm diameter male plug. The  
voltage rating is +5V to +12V DC level ON and 0V DC level OFF.  
The plug must follow the specifications as per the following diagram:  
Slave Remote Trigger Outputs  
A parallel slave trigger output is provided to switch on or off any connected  
peripherals to the 6160. The slave trigger output is designed to accept a 3.5mm  
diameter male plug. The voltage rating is +12V DC level ON and 0V DC level  
OFF.  
The plug must follow the specifications as per the diagram below:  
AC Mains Fuse  
The 6160 is equipped with a user serviceable AC mains fuse. In the event of  
fuse failure, always replace with the same type and value fuse. Remember, fuses  
do not usually blow without a reason. Any doubts about fuse failure should be  
conveyed directly to your Perreaux dealer.  
For more information on fuse ratings, please refer to Chapter 14  
“Specifications”.  
Caution!  
This is the ONLY user accessible fuse.  
Never replace the fuses with any other ratings other than the one  
specified on the rear panel.  
Always ensure your 6160 is disconnected from the mains supply before  
attempting to change the mains fuse.  
Power Switch  
Set this switch right (I) to turn power ON. Mute relay circuitry is employed in  
the 6160 so output is muted momentarily after the power switch is actuated. Set  
the switch left (O) to turn the unit off, at which time the outputs will be  
disconnected.  
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Input Sockets  
Accepts a standard single-ended input (RCA) from a preamplifier/processor with  
single-ended outputs. These high quality gold plated sockets are highly  
conductive, corrosion resistant, and provide less potential for corrosion induced  
distortion. All inputs are clearly marked channel 1 through 6.  
By associating the channel inputs as pairs, the 6160 can be configured as three  
160W stereo power amplifiers. Care should be taken to maintain channel  
integrity.  
Refer to Chapter 14 “Specifications”, for detail on input sensitivity and  
impedance.  
Bridging Switch  
The bridging switch allows the combining of two channels together to form a  
single higher output channel. When in NORMAL mode, the individual inputs  
correspond directly to the respective loudspeaker outputs. When in BRIDGED  
mode, the input channel is the odd numbered channel of the bridged pair, and  
loudspeaker outputs correspond to the 'positive terminals' of the bridged pair.  
Bridged channels offer considerably more power than two channels individually.  
For more information on channel bridging, please refer to Chapter 5 “Bridging  
Channels”.  
Caution!  
ALWAYS disconnect the unit from the mains power before any  
modifications to inputs, outputs, and bridging switches are performed.  
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5
Bridging Channels  
Under typical conditions, for surround-sound or home theatre applications, there  
are two channels available for the front loudspeakers, a channel for the center  
loudspeaker, a pair of channels for the rear effects, and an extra channel to drive  
either a subwoofer or a second center channel loudspeaker.  
The Perreaux 6160 multi-channel amplifier can be thought of as three stereo  
amplifiers built into a single box. Each pair of channels within the unit can be  
bridged to form a single channel with approximately three times the potential  
output of a single channel. This facility allows this 6160 to be used in a number  
of configurations. For example, bridging two of the 6160 pairs of amplifiers  
will provide two channels of approximately 425W into 8Ω, suitable for the main  
loudspeakers of the system, and two channels of 160W into 8Ω for a remote set  
of loudspeakers.  
Ultimately, two 6160 units both operating with all channels bridged, will offer  
six channels of high power amplification (6 x 425W into 8Ω) for home theatre  
applications.  
To configure for bridged mode:  
àꢀEnsure the power switch on the 6160 is switched to the OFF position  
and disconnect unit from mains supply. Allow a minute to discharge  
stored potential.  
àꢀSelect the pair of channels to be bridged. For this example, we will use  
channels 5&6. (Other pairs 1&2 and 3&4 are bridged similarly.)  
àꢀDisconnect ALL input and output cables (interconnect cables and  
loudspeaker cables) from channels 5&6.  
àꢀSet the Bridging Switch to the bridged position. This converts internal  
circuitry from normal to bridged mode.  
àꢀConnect the loudspeaker cable across the POSITIVE terminals of  
channels 5&6 loudspeaker output terminals. When bridging two  
channels, the positive loudspeaker terminals of the bridged pair form  
the loudspeaker terminals for the bridged channel, i.e. the positive  
output terminal of the odd numbered channel becomes the POSITIVE  
terminal of the bridged pair; the positive terminal of the even numbered  
channel becomes the NEGATIVE terminal of the bridged pair. To  
explain further, connect the positive conductor to the positive terminal  
of channel 5 and the negative conductor to the positive terminal of  
channel 6, i.e. the two red terminals. DO NOT connect any cables to  
the black terminals; channel 5 negative terminal (-) and channel 6  
negative terminal (-).  
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Caution!  
When in bridged mode, loudspeaker cables must be connected directly  
from the amplifier to the loudspeakers. DO NOT connect to a speaker  
switch, headphone adapter, or any other device that shares a common  
ground between channels.  
àꢀConnect the signal lead from the desired source to the bridged input. In  
this instance, the bridged input for channels 5&6 is input 5.  
Note:  
Note:  
Do not connect anything to input 6.  
Input 1 and input 3 are to be used if bridging other channels.  
àꢀReconnect the mains power supply to your 6160, and turn the power  
switch ON.  
When in bridged mode, we recommend that the loudspeakers have a  
nominal impedance no less than 8.  
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6
Special Design Philosophies  
Perreaux has been designing and manufacturing only the highest quality audio  
componentry for more than a quarter of a century. Technology has continued to  
evolve rapidly over that time and our knowledge and application of design,  
materials and manufacturing techniques has advanced in tandem with this.  
Today’s Perreaux range comes closer to fulfilling our shared vision than at any  
other time in the past.  
To follow is a discussion on some of Perreaux design philosophies that have  
been incorporated into the entire range.  
Minimalist Leading British architect, John Pawson, writes:  
Design  
The Minimum can be defined as the perfection that an object  
achieves when it is no longer possible to improve it by subtraction.  
This is the quality that an object has when every component, every  
detail, and every junction has been reduced or condensed to the  
essentials. It is the result of the omission of the inessentials”.  
Perreaux has historically embraced the minimalist ethic from an audio design  
perspective only. The concept of “less equating to more” has been at the heart  
of all Perreaux audio designs for more than a quarter of a century.  
Minimalist Electronics  
We wish to maximise the quality of your listening pleasure by keeping the  
componentry and signal path as uncluttered, short and clean possible. All  
components in the signal path, even those of the highest quality have an effect  
on the signal, thereby altering the quality of the reproduction in some way. Our  
aim is to recreate in its entirety, the original performance by not adding or  
subtracting anything, irrespective of the source.  
Minimalist User Interface  
We carefully study the user interface and par down the number of buttons and  
associated clutter leaving just the essential and no more. How tempting it has  
been over the years to loose sight of our core values as technology or trends  
have made it possible. That is one of the reasons why our older products still  
have such a high resale value today. The user interface has and always will  
remain simple, free from adornments, clean and uncluttered.  
Minimalist Aesthetics  
Our products appeal to those who seek the ultimate in audio exclusivity, namely  
the perfect blend of “form and function”.  
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“Form and function” are both tough masters. That is why our amplifier heat  
sinks are not hidden, but instead feature prominently in all our designs. We  
make no excuses for producing some of the most distinctive high-end audio  
products on the planet. We let “form and function” blend together in perfect  
harmony. This surely is the essence of true minimalist utilisation.  
Minimalism in a Wider Context  
John Pawson writes:  
“Clearly simplicity has dimensions to it that go beyond the purely  
aesthetic: it can be seen as the reflection of some innate, inner  
quality, or the pursuit of philosophical or literary insight into the  
nature of harmony, reason, and truth”.  
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7
Special Design Features  
Rugged Build Mechanical strength has been a hallmark of Perreaux products since the  
Quality company first started production back in 1974. The concept behind the physical  
design and construction is that each structural member should contribute to both  
rigidity and performance.  
Ultra Stiff The 6160 incorporates a massive custom designed, toroidal power transformer,  
Power Supply employing unusually heavy gauge wire that reduces copper losses to a  
minimum. An electrostatic shield prevents AC line borne interference from  
entering the signal path. The power supply filter capacitors, totaling 60,000μF,  
have exceptionally low inductance and internal resistance. They charge and  
discharge in response to load demand far more rapidly than conventional storage  
capacitors and are capable of delivering the instantaneous current required by the  
output stages, providing optimum dynamic range and transient response. The  
wiring from the power supplies to the output boards is designed for unimpeded  
transmission of the required current and voltage and utilizes heavy gauge, tinned  
copper wire cables. Since power supply leads radiate at signal frequencies, all  
signal wiring is carefully loomed to minimise this effect.  
Hybrid Class The bi-polar transistors used in the 6160 are run in Class A mode. This avoids  
A/AB  
the crossover notch distortion and the resulting odd-order harmonics present, to  
some degree, in all other classes of operation. The devices used in the 6160  
output stage are MOSFETs, which with high quiescent current circuitry, are run  
in the equivalent of Class A to 10 watts. Beyond this point the output class is  
technically Class AB (hence the hybrid nomenclature), but with a major  
difference. The combination of MOSFET characteristics and their application in  
this circuitry, result in crossover distortion so minimal that it is virtually non-  
existent.  
MOSFET The 6160 output stage takes full advantage of the unique qualities of MOSFET  
Output Stage devices and in many ways they are superior to bi-polar transistors. A major  
advantage is their tendency to draw less current over a large section of the power  
bandwidth as their temperature rises (Negative Temperature Coefficient), hence  
self stabilising thermally, whereas bi-polar transistors draw more current as their  
temperature rises (Positive Temperature Coefficient) and protection circuits  
become mandatory to prevent thermal runaway and eventual self destruction.  
MOSFETs have the ability to swing fully across the amplifier’s internal DC  
voltage and are therefore true "rail-to-rail" devices.  
Using MOSFETs  
encourages the highest performance from the balance of the internal amplifier  
circuitry.  
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Clipping Each of the six channels of the 6160 have an independent LED indicator which  
Indicators will illuminate if the output approaches clipping, potentially causing damaging  
distortion and is a warning to reduce volume to the indicated channel(s).  
Caution!  
When the clip indicator illuminates, that channel is approaching clipping.  
This should be avoided, as clipping is the main reason for damage to  
both amplifiers and loudspeakers.  
Bridgeable The 6160 has the facility to combine two independent channels into a single  
Outputs higher output channel. The bridging switch allows the selection of two  
independent channels, or the combining of two channels to form a single higher  
output channel. Bridged channels offer considerably more power than two  
channels individually.  
Protection AC Sense  
Systems  
The 6160 monitors the AC voltage at the secondary windings of the toroidal  
transformer, that in turn supply the rectification stages. In the event that the  
toroidal transformer AC output should fail, the protection circuitry will  
disconnect the output. The output will be reconnected once the AC voltage has  
been restored.  
DC Rail Fuse  
Each of the +VE and –VE DC rails supplying the output stages of each channel  
are protected with a fuse. In the event that any one of the fuses should fail, the  
protection circuitry will automatically detect the fault and disconnect the output  
of the respective channel(s).  
Earthing Perreaux engineers pay particular attention to designing the product to ensure  
maximum separation between internal signal and power earths, only meeting at a  
central starred point.  
Earth The toggle switch on the rear of the 6160 allows the internal circuitry to be  
Isolation isolated from the mains earth, whilst still maintaining an earth connection to the  
Switch chassis. This ensures the potentially fatal practice of using an AC cord-set with  
no earth connection, to alleviate system hum, is not required.  
Highest Quality fiberglass PCBs, featuring heavy copper tracks and high-grade  
Quality PCBs components, are used throughout the 6160. This provides added stability under  
and variable thermal or electrical loads and assures maximum signal integrity,  
Components separation and product life.  
Soft-Start The 6160 utilises soft-start circuitry to protect the fuses and/or circuit breakers in  
Circuitry your home’s mains power supply. Without this circuit, the huge inrush current  
required to charge the 60,000µF of power supply capacitance can blow the fuses  
or trip the circuit breakers.  
Highly  
Powered  
Capable of continuously delivering 160WRMS into 8(225WRMS into 4), the  
6160 is highly powered. Utilising six high current Hitachi MOSFETs per  
channel, the 6160 handles even the most difficult loads with ease.  
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8
Maximising System Potential  
Interconnects An often-ignored area in high fidelity systems is the cabling connecting the  
and Speaker various components. Interconnect leads should be high quality cable with  
Cables substantial terminations. Gold plate is inherently resistant to corrosion, and an  
excellent conductor. The presence of corrosion induces distortion and poor  
conductivity will seriously interfere with sound quality. Terminations must plug  
snugly into sockets to maintain maximum conductivity and to avoid annoying  
earthing problems.  
Speaker cabling is equally critical. Use only solidly constructed cable of high  
purity copper or silver content.  
Again, gold plated terminations are  
recommended, of the spade or banana plug type. Use cables of equal length and  
as short as possible to maintain uniform electrical resistance at the lowest  
possible level. If your amplifier is closer to one of your speakers than the other,  
avoid coiling the longer lead as this can create inductance, with the potential of  
reduced high frequency performance. Keep all connections clean, firm and tight.  
The traditional adage that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link most  
certainly applies to audio systems.  
Bi-amping Bi-amping uses two similarly powered amplifiers, with exactly the same input  
sensitivity so that, when the same input signal is provided to each of them, the  
output level will be exactly the same. This can often be done with one power  
amplifier connected to the tweeters and another to the woofers, as it spreads the  
power requirement between the two amplifiers. Bi-amping can achieve greater  
control, dynamics and resolution than if you try to run everything from a single  
stereo amplifier.  
Positioning Positioning of your source equipment (tuner, video, disc, tape, record, decks) is  
Ancillary  
important. To avoid airborne frequency peaks, place them well away from your  
Equipment  
loudspeakers.  
Loudspeaker Loudspeaker placement is a controversial issue; suffice to say that room corners  
Placement are generally the worst situation. Everything which constitutes your listening  
area, including the materials used in its construction, will affect the sound itself  
and the sound stage created. Equally, you have to live with your system and  
therefore compromises will have to be made in line with your particular  
priorities. The best advice we can give concerning the choice of loudspeakers is,  
establish clearly in your mind your requirements; listen to many makes and  
models, and if at all possible audition your preferred choice in your own  
listening area and trust your own ears.  
Matching When matching speakers to amplifier wattage – ordinarily, the amplifier should  
Amplifier and have a continuous RMS output power rating the same as or higher than the  
Speaker speakers at the same impedance rating. For example, 100WRMS, 8Ω speakers  
Ratings driven by a 100WRMS at 8Ω amplifier is not as ideal as 100WRMS, 8Ω speakers  
driven by a 160WRMS at 8Ω amplifier.  
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Note:  
100 Watts is twice as loud as 10 Watts, not ten times as loud.  
Perreaux equipment is designed with substantial headroom built in – that is, the  
reserve necessary to reproduce musical peaks without clipping.  
Final High fidelity systems are an investment deserving of careful thought and  
Thoughts personal time. Your preferences, priorities and constraints will dictate the  
parameters of your purchase, your ears will tell you what is the right choice for  
you. Our experience tells us that the bitterness of dissatisfaction lingers long  
after the fragrance of cheap price is forgotten, hence our use of the term –  
investment.  
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9
The Power MOSFET  
Today with the vast number of technical achievements occurring around the  
world, many discoveries are overshadowed or obscured by some that may  
appear more important to the general media. One such discovery of importance,  
to the audiophile at least, is that of the power MOSFET device.  
The MOSFET The field effect transistor (FET) and then the MOSFET transistor have been  
around for a number of years, but only as a small signal-handling device, mostly  
employed in radio tuners and communications equipment. The electrical  
advantages of these have long been realised by manufacturers of hi-fi. If only  
they could be made to handle large amounts of power – what a benefit to the  
audiophile.  
The term power MOSFET describes a device capable of handling reasonably  
large amounts of electrical energy as an amplifier itself – hence power.  
MOSFET stands for “Metal Oxide Silicon Field Effect Transistor”, this in turn  
means that the device is constructed of Silicon. Similar to a transistor – but the  
part that controls the power flow through the device is insulated from the  
remainder of the device by a metal oxide insulating layer and the controlling of  
the power is achieved by the development of an electrostatic field between the  
controlling element and the conducting element.  
In a transistor, the control of the power through the device is effected by the  
application of a smaller, but nevertheless, significant amount of power to the  
controlling element. Whereas in the power MOSFET, the control of the power  
through the device is affected by the application of a very small and very  
insignificant amount of power to the controlling element – in fact, only the  
amount required to create a small electrostatic field. This makes the operation of  
a power MOSFET similar to that of a valve.  
Other Field There are basically three types of power field effect device, they are: the  
Effect junction FET, the vertical FET and the power MOSFET, all of which were  
Devices independently developed by three different hi-fi equipment manufacturers in  
Japan and all were major technological breakthroughs in their own right.  
The first of these was the junction FET, the second the vertical FET and lastly,  
the power MOSFET. Although all these devices are vast improvements over  
power transistors, the junction FET and vertical FET cannot compare with the  
power MOSFET, in terms of simplicity of the supporting driver stages and  
power supply requirements.  
The power MOSFET, though having similar characteristics to the valve, can be  
divided into  
2
types of polarities of device  
P-channel and  
N-channel. Broadly speaking only one of these types exists in valve operations.  
This means that complementary power MOSFETs – P and N channel – can be  
used in an audio output stage providing greater linearity of operation than can be  
achieved with valves. In addition, further advantages over the valve include  
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their much smaller size, no filaments and greater reliability with reduced  
vulnerability to physical damage.  
Audio When used in an audio power amplifier, the advantages of the power MOSFET  
Applications over the power transistor are much more difficult to describe and would require  
greater complexity than can be gone into here. However, they can be  
summarised as follows – the most important point is that the power MOSFET  
has a negative temperature coefficient whereas the power transistor has a  
positive temperature coefficient. This means that when a power transistor is  
handling power it heats up further and consumes more power. This  
characteristic, called thermal runaway, will result in the destruction of the power  
transistor if some means is not provided to control it. The power MOSFET on  
the other hand, although heating up due to the power flow through the device,  
does not continue to draw more and more power just because its temperature has  
risen. But in fact has a tendency to stabilize itself – provided adequate head  
sinking is available to remove the heat generated during normal operation.  
Incidentally this is less heat sinking than is required for a similarly power rated  
standard transistor.  
Secondary Then there is the appearance of secondary breakdown and ‘hot spots’ in a power  
Breakdown  
transistor. This is related to thermal runaway. In order to understand this, one  
must imagine that the chip silicon inside the power transistor is in fact many  
smaller transistors connected in parallel. Now, if one of these smaller transistors  
or a spot on the chip has a greater gain (or amplification factor) than the rest,  
then that spot will heat up faster and to a greater temperature than the remainder  
of the transistor chip. This means that whole power dissipation capability of the  
transistor has been severely reduced and is a major cause of these unexplained  
output stage failures in large power amplifiers, i.e. over 80Wrms.  
The power MOSFET is largely immune to this problem because if a small part  
of this chip has a higher gain than the rest then its temperature will rise slightly  
causing that spot to reduce gain and hence stabilization occurs. The power is  
more evenly distributed throughout the chip and therefore reliability is  
maintained.  
It can be seen from the above that the transistor power amplifier has to have a  
much larger margin of power dissipation capability and heat sinking in its output  
stage than the power MOSFET amplifier.  
The transistor power amplifier of 100Wrms output into 8can require a driver  
stage capable of delivering 10W at 1kHz and up to 20W at 20kHz into the input  
of the output device. The power MOSFET only requires a maximum of 0.01W  
so a major saving in driver stage componentry and associated noise and  
distortion can be eliminated.  
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High Probably, from the sonic quality point of view, the most important improvement  
Frequency is the power MOSFETs vastly superior high frequency response. A large  
Response proportion of the power transistors used in modern hi-fi amplifiers start to show  
a decline in efficiency from 10kHz upwards. The efficiency of the power  
MOSFET does not start to decline until about 2MHz and is only down 3dB at  
30MHz. This is due to the energy transfer being accomplished with minority  
charged carriers in the power MOSFET as opposed to majority charged carriers  
within the transistor, and results in hole storage at high frequencies causing the  
transistor to dissipate increasing amounts of energy within itself as the frequency  
increases.  
Further sonic degradation of the transistor power amplifier occurs due to hole  
storage of the output transistors. As the output distortion increases with  
increasing signal frequency, it is obvious that the distortion products in the  
negative feedback path also increase.  
Because the negative feedback system is employed to reduce distortion by  
cancellation, at high frequencies it causes even more power to be consumed  
within the output transistor just to cancel out the distortion.  
Transient intermodulation (TIM) is also more prevalent in transistor power  
amplifiers because the signal transition in time is relatively slow. This means  
the distortion products in the signal of, say, a fast transient will not travel  
through the negative feedback system into the output stage fast enough to cancel  
at exactly 180 degrees out of phase – resulting in the amplifier being overloaded.  
This is not possible in power MOSFET amplifiers.  
Other Further sonic improvement is achieved in power MOSFET amplifiers due to  
Advantages  
reduced crossover distortion, as power MOSFETs have a sharper “knee” than  
transistors at cut-off and provide a greater linearity when crossing over from one  
device to the other. Because crossover distortion is a major cause of odd order  
harmonic distortion in transistor amplifiers (be it small, i.e. 0.05% total) they are  
usually considered to sound more harsh than valve amplifiers which generally  
have large amounts of even order harmonic distortion up to 5% and are thought  
to sound more pleasant and musical.  
However, which is more accurate? The valve amplifier at 5% THD with a  
pleasant sound and even order harmonics; the transistor amplifier with 0.05%  
THD with relatively unpleasant sound with even and odd harmonic output, or a  
power MOSFET amplifier with 0.02% THD and relatively pleasant even order  
harmonic distortion? In our opinion, the power MOSFET amplifier because the  
THD generated is virtually all second or even order harmonic distortion total  
0.02% or less at 20kHz and down to 0.004% or less at 1kHz.  
It can be seen that power MOSFETs are here to stay and that there are major sonic  
and electrical improvements to be had over other output devices.  
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10  
Care and Maintenance  
The 6160 has been designed to provide many years of trouble free enjoyment.  
It’s important to keep the exterior of the unit clean and to periodically ensure  
that the air-cooling grills remain clear from obstruction.  
Note:  
Please switch the unit off and remove the cord-set from the rear of the  
amplifier before attempting to clean your 6160 in the manner described  
below.  
Never apply liquid directly to the 6160.  
Never use abrasives.  
Never rub in a circuilar motion.  
Cover The cover features a durable, high quality powder-coat finish. To remove finger  
marks and dirt, lightly rub the surface with a soft cloth.  
If the dirt is not removed, dip your cloth in a mild solution of soap and water,  
squeeze excess moisture from it and then gently reapply to the surface.  
Stubborn dirt may be removed by the application of a small quantity of  
methylated spirits, applied directly to the cleaning cloth only and reworking the  
effected area.  
Front Panel The front panels differ between the Classic Series (6160) and P Series (6160P).  
The Classic Series front panel is finished in chrome electroplate, where as the P  
Series is finished in the same durable powder coat as the cover.  
They both can be cleaned in a similar manner to the cover, as described above.  
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11  
Warranty Information  
and Obtaining Service  
1 Year The Perreaux 6160 is warranted to be free from defects in material and  
Limited workmanship under normal use to the original purchaser for a period of 1-year  
Warranty (365) days from the date of purchase from an authorised dealer or distributor.  
5 Year To extend the warranty on your Perreaux 6160 to five (5) years from date of  
Extended purchase, please return a fully completed warranty registration form along with a  
Warranty copy of the original receipt of purchase to:  
Perreaux Industries Ltd  
PO Box 47413  
Ponsonby  
Auckland  
New Zealand  
For the Extended Warranty Registration Form, please refer to Chapter 12.  
Warranty Perreaux Industries Ltd may, at its discretion, allow the warranty on this product  
Transfer to be transferred. Please contact Perreaux on [email protected] requesting a  
transfer.  
Information If during the warranty period the Perreaux 6160 exhibits defects in materials  
on the 6160  
Warranty  
and/or workmanship, it will be repaired or replaced, at our option, without  
charge for either parts or labour. The warranty does not apply to any unit that  
has been misused, abused or altered.  
Any unit that is not performing satisfactorily may be returned to the factory in  
Auckland, New Zealand for evaluation. Return authorisation must first be  
obtained by either calling or writing to Perreaux prior to shipping the unit.  
Perreaux Industries Ltd and it’s authorised distributors and dealers shall not be  
held liable for any freight or insurance charges. Freight and insurance charges to  
and from the Perreaux factory will be the sole responsibility of the owner of the  
unit.  
There is no other express warranty on the 6160. Neither this warranty nor any  
other warranty, express or implied, including any implied warranties of  
merchantability of fitness, shall extend beyond the warranty period. No  
responsibility is assumed for any incidental or consequential damages.  
Obtaining In the event that you are experiencing difficulty with the 6160, please as a first  
Service step, follow the faultfinding procedures in Chapter 13. If after following this  
procedure, you require further assistance, please contact your Perreaux dealer.  
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12  
Extended Warranty  
Registration Form  
Please complete this form and either fax, mail or scan and e-mail it to Perreaux  
Industries Ltd.  
Fax:  
+64 9 815 5981  
Mail: Perreaux Industries Ltd  
PO Box 47 413  
Ponsonby  
Auckland  
New Zealand  
Alternatively, complete the online Warranty Registration Form on our website  
5 Year Extended Warranty Form  
Name:  
Address:  
Suburb:  
City:  
Country:  
Telephone:  
E-mail:  
Website:  
Product Purchased: R E F E R E N C E 6 1 6 0  
Serial Number:  
Dealer:  
Purchase Date:  
/
/
d
d
m
m
y
y
y
y
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13  
Faultfinding Your System  
Cause and Hum is a particularly annoying form of noise in any high fidelity system and at  
Elimination some time has been experienced by many of us.  
of Hum  
Hum may result from a number of different situations and to make matters  
worse maybe caused by a seemingly illogical combination of circumstances.  
One or more of three specific causes creates hum in the system.  
Induced Hum  
Hum can be induced into the system from one or more sources and is generally  
associated with the radiation of noise from one system into another.  
Hum and noise can be radiated from any object or system involving AC voltage  
and current such as power supplies in amplifiers, motors, switching equipment  
etc. All of these may be found in your hi-fi system or within your own home.  
Hum may be induced into any part of the system, so there are no specific  
instructions that can be given which will offer a guaranteed cure. A good  
practice to adopt is to keep low-level signal equipment such as phono systems,  
tuners etc. well away from high-level signal equipment such as power  
amplifiers. Alternatively, careful designs must be employed to negate these  
effects on low-level signal equipment. Another good practice to adopt is to keep  
all signal leads away from power leads.  
The practice of neatly tying excess leads together for a tidy looking installation  
should be resisted, as this could be the cause of induced hum in the system.  
Earth Loops  
Earth loops are a particularly annoying cause of hum in the system. Earth loops  
are created by mains frequency current flowing in the screen of signal leads and  
becomes apparent with the lack of adequate earthing between the various pieces  
of equipment making up the hi-fi system. This is further compounded by the  
fact that the equipment earthing considerations vary between different  
manufacturers and countries.  
Perreaux products used with equipment manufactured by other manufacturers  
may cause an earth loop situation, but Perreaux products used with other  
Perreaux products will not cause an earth loop situation provided the following  
precautions are observed:  
àThe entire hi-fi system must be connected to the same mains/line power  
outlet. This will ensure that each piece of the system shares the same earth  
or ground. This rule applies to all installations of all brands of equipment.  
A preamplifier or power amplifier may be operated from an extension cord  
plugged into the same mains/line outlet.  
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àWhen a piece of equipment is supplied with a three pin mains/line supply  
lead all three pins must be connected in the correct fashion - see your  
dealer if in doubt.  
àCheck all interconnecting signal leads for good connections, both internal  
connections and firm contact with the sockets. While the centre pin may  
make firm contact, it is very important that the outer contact is also firm.  
àNever remove the earth/ground wire from the mains/line supply of any  
piece of equipment. This could be hazardous.  
Broken Earth Connections  
This is a common cause of hum and noise in the system. In many instances, the  
only way to eliminate the possibility of hum problems arising through a broken  
earth connection somewhere in the system is to physically check every  
connection.  
Identifying When experiencing a problem, such as one channel not working, or a noise in  
and Isolating one channel, it is good practice to adopt a method of isolating the problem to a  
Problems specific item or area. This practice will assist in diagnosing, curing, or at least  
advising your technician of the problem and result in a saving of time, money  
and perhaps frustration.  
A logical approach to isolating the probable cause of the problem is to start at  
the loudspeakers and work back to the music source, eliminating each piece of  
equipment in turn.  
Caution!  
Observe precautions regarding volume control settings. Please make all  
changes at minimum volume setting. Only increase the volume after the  
connections have been made.  
Check that the entire system is connected in the proper manner and that the  
mains/line supply is connected and switched on.  
For clarity during this section, we have labeled one loudspeaker ‘A’ and the  
other loudspeaker ‘B’. In this example, loudspeaker ‘A’ appears faulty.  
Initial system connections  
PREAMPLIFIER  
AMPLIFIER  
B
A
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Step 1 – Loudspeakers  
PREAMPLIFIER  
AMPLIFIER  
B
A
Change the loudspeaker leads from one loudspeaker to the other. If the fault  
remains in loudspeaker ‘A’, then loudspeaker ‘A’ is at fault, go no further.  
If the fault now appears in loudspeaker ‘B’ then the problem lies further up the  
line. Move on to step 2.  
Step 2 – Loudspeaker Leads  
PREAMPLIFIER  
AMPLIFIER  
B
A
Change the loudspeaker leads completely from left channel to right and from  
right channel to left by now swapping them at the amplifier output. If the fault  
now appears in loudspeaker ‘B’, then that loudspeaker lead is at fault, go no  
further.  
If the fault appears in loudspeaker ‘A’ then loudspeaker leads are OK. Move on  
to step 3.  
Caution!  
Restore the loudspeaker leads to their original connections at both ends.  
Step 3a – Inputs (Channels)  
PREAMPLIFIER  
AMPLIFIER  
B
A
Change the input plugs on the rear of your amplifier, as follows: Change each  
input source in turn by swapping the plugs left to right and right to left. If the  
fault changes to loudspeaker ‘B’ on any one of the selected inputs, then that  
particular input source is possibly at fault. Move on to step 3b.  
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If the fault stays in loudspeaker ‘A’, then it is probable that the fault may exist  
within the amplifier.  
Caution:  
Changing of any connectors must be carried out at a minimum volume  
setting. Only increase the volume after the connections have been  
changed.  
Step 3b – Inputs (Interconnects)  
PREAMPLIFIER  
AMPLIFIER  
B
A
Change the interconnect leads completely from left channel to right and from  
right channel to left by now swapping them at the source component’s output. If  
the fault stays in loudspeaker ‘B’, then the interconnect lead is at fault, go no  
further.  
If the fault appears in loudspeaker ‘A’, then the interconnect lead is OK.  
Caution!  
Changing of any connectors must be carried out at a minimum volume  
setting. Only increase the volume after the connections have been  
changed.  
Should the fault prove to be in the amplifier it will be necessary to determine  
where the fault actually lies. Most of this has been done, for instance, you now  
know what input/s and what channel is affected. This information will assist  
your Perreaux dealer or service person when or if any service is required.  
If the apparent fault is noise in one or both channels and has been localised to  
the amplifier, it will be necessary to determine whether or not the noise increases  
with the volume control; whether or not the noise exists when no input at all is  
connected to the amplifier; and what type of sound the noise is. For example,  
low frequency humming noise or high frequency hissing noise.  
This  
information will also assist your service person in making repairs or  
adjustments.  
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Faultfinding  
Flowchart  
Fault in  
loudspeaker A  
Swap loudspeaker  
connections  
Fault in  
loudspeaker  
A?  
Loudspeaker A  
at fault  
YES  
NO  
Swap amplifier  
outputs  
Fault in  
loudspeaker  
B?  
Loudspeaker  
cable at fault  
YES  
NO  
Restore speaker  
cables to original  
connections  
Swap amplifier  
source input  
channels  
Fault in  
loudspeaker  
A?  
Loudspeaker  
cable at fault  
NO  
YES  
Swap source  
output channels  
Fault in  
loudspeaker  
A?  
Input source  
at fault  
NO  
YES  
Amplifier  
at fault  
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14  
Specifications  
The 6160 specifications are detailed in brief and then subsequently in more  
detail. In the detailed version, we attempt to explain the significance of each  
specification.  
The correlation between published specifications and sonic quality can be  
unreliable. A list of numbers reveals virtually nothing. All technical  
measurements must be subject to qualitative as well as quantitative  
interpretation. Measurements of the 6160 reveal excellent results by any  
standards. Tested at 115V and 230V after a 10 minute warm up period.  
Specifications Rated Power Output: ..................................................................160WRMS into 8Ω  
(continuous, per channel, driven from 20Hz-20kHz at < 0.04% THD)  
In Brief  
.................................................................................................225WRMS into 4Ω  
(continuous, per channel, driven from 20Hz-20kHz at < 0.07% THD)  
Bridged .......................................................................................425WRMS into 8Ω  
(continuous, driven from 20Hz-20kHz at < 0.07% THD)  
Frequency Response:......................................................... 5Hz – 40kHz, ±0.25dB  
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N)  
Typically:.....................................................................0.005%, @ 1kHz into 8Ω  
20Hz to 20kHz: .......................................................................<0.040%, into 8Ω  
Voltage Gain:...............................................................................................27.6dB  
Dynamic Headroom (rated with music):.............................................................>1.5dB  
Voltage Swing: ........................................................................................... 160Vp-p  
Maximum Current Output:........................................................... 24A per channel  
Damping Factor:.................................................................>500, @ 1kHz into 8Ω  
Signal to Noise Ratio  
Rated Output (unweighted):..............................................................................95dB  
Input Sensitivity: ....................................................................................... 1.3VRMS  
Input Impedance:............................................................................................36kΩ  
Smoothing Capacitance:.......................................................................... 60,000μF  
Driver Stage:............................................................................................... Class A  
Output Stage:....................................................................................... Class A/AB  
Audio Inputs:.......................................................................... 6 x RCA connectors  
Audio Outputs: .....................................................6 pairs of speaker binding posts  
Other Connections  
1 x IEC AC mains input receptacle  
1 x 3.5mm “mini” jack for master remote input (5 – 12V DC)  
1 x 3.5mm “mini” jack for slave remote output (12V DC)  
Power Consumption  
Idle.................................................................................................................100W  
Maximum ....................................................................................................1600W  
(at 4Ω rated output)  
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Mains Input Voltage  
100V, 110V, 120V, 220V, 230V or 240V AC at 50Hz or 60Hz  
(Set within the 6160 at time of manufacture)  
Dimensions  
Width ..............................................................................................482mm (19.0”)  
Height ...............................................................................................176mm (6.9”)  
Depth ..............................................................................................460mm (18.1”)  
(not including feet, terminals and handles)  
Fuse Ratings  
Mains input fuse  
100 – 125V:......................................................................... 2SB slow blow 15A  
200 – 250V:......................................................................... 2SB slow blow 10A  
(user serviceable)  
Internal DC rail fuses..................................................12 x 2AG normal acting 6A  
(NOT user serviceable)  
Weight  
Net: .................................................................................................30.0kg (66.1lb)  
Gross:..............................................................................................34.0kg (74.8lb)  
Specifications Rated Power Output (per channel)................................................ 160WRMS into 8Ω  
Explained  
The 6160 has been designed around the industry standard 8Ω load. The 6160  
delivers a staggering 160WRMS continuously into 8Ω loads and 225WRMS into  
4Ω loads. The 6160 will also handle complex and 2Ω loads with stability and  
ease when operated in NORMAL mode. Load impedances lower than 8Ω are  
not recommended when operating in BRIDGED mode.  
Frequency Response........................................................ 5Hz to 40kHz, ±0.25dB  
This is the “standard” specification with which everyone is familiar. Actually,  
“frequency response” is a misnomer: technically, it should be called “amplitude  
response versus frequency” for it describes how uniform the amplitude or  
strength of signals of various frequencies is maintained. It is generally thought  
that a difference of 1db is the least that can be perceived by ear. To better that  
by a wide margin, the 6160 is specified four times higher, thus far exceeding the  
audible range of the human ear.  
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N) .............................. 0.005%, @ 1kHz into 8Ω  
Measurements are made with fixed, purely resistive loads. However, since  
speakers are not purely resistive, an amplifier’s distortion specifications do not  
indicate what performance will be with the actual loads presented by speakers.  
Perreaux distortion measurements hold for any conditions presented by any  
known speaker. Further, any measurable distortion in the Perreaux is second-  
order harmonics – the least offensive to the ear.  
Voltage Gain......................................................................................................27.6dB  
The amount of amplification the amplifier is asserting on the input signal. Gain  
can be calculated by dividing the rated output by the input sensitivity.  
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Dynamic Headroom........................................................................................>1.5dB  
This indicates the 6160 can provide more than enough extra power to cope with  
the sharpest musical transients. Without adequate headroom, an amplifier can  
become unstable under clipping conditions. Perreaux amplifiers are intrinsically  
stable under all dynamic conditions.  
Voltage Swing..................................................................................................160Vp-p  
Loud transients call for a sudden burst of power from the amplifier to drive the  
speakers. This force is voltage. Peak to peak voltage is a more useful  
specification than Watts when it comes to delivering power to a speaker.  
Maximum Current Output.......................................................... 24A per channel  
Current is the power reserve in the amplifier necessary to deliver the burst of  
voltage required by the ever-changing audio signal. With more than adequate  
continuous current per channel and high volts peak-to-peak, the 6160 can easily  
meet any challenge music can present to it – whether instantaneous or  
continuous. To be specific it can deliver high power into low-impedance loads  
and provide great dynamic headroom.  
Damping Factor.................................................................... >500, @ 1kHz into 8Ω  
Another specification not always provided. One reason perhaps, this  
specification is important when indicating an amplifier’s ability to control the  
cone behavior of speaker systems, which are difficult to drive. Perreaux power  
amplifiers have high damping factors. Thus exerting massive control over the  
speaker system.  
Signal to Noise Ratio (unweighted)......................................................................95dB  
The ratio of desired signal to noise signals present in the output. This figure is  
referenced to the rated output of the 6160, taking into full account all potentially  
annoying hum components.  
Input Sensitivity................................................................................................1.3VRMS  
Indicates the amount of input voltage required to drive the unit to its rated output  
power (160WRMS into 8Ω).  
Input Impedance................................................................................................. 36kΩ  
The resistance “load” that is presented to the component that is driving it. The  
high value indicates that the power amplifier will not load down the output of  
most high quality preamplifiers.  
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15  
Physical Dimensions  
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16  
Contact Details  
For more information please contact your Perreaux dealer, or contact:  
Perreaux Industries Ltd  
PO Box 47 413  
Ponsonby  
Auckland  
New Zealand  
Ph: +64 9 815-5452  
Fax: +64 9 815-5981  
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Installation Notes  
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