MUSICAL FIDELITY M3x MC Phono Stage Instruction Manual

: June 6, 2024
: MUSICAL FIDELITY

Table of Contents

MUSICAL FIDELITY M3x MC Phono Stage
Introduction
Safety Information
Precautions & User Information
Installation
Facilities & Connections
Operation
Troubleshooting
References
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MUSICAL FIDELITY M3x MC Phono Stage

MUSICAL FIDELITY M3x MC Phono Stage
PRO

Introduction

MUSICAL FIDELITY M3x MC Phono Stage FIG
1

Thank you for purchasing the Musical Fidelity M3x ViNYL. The M3x ViNYL is a very high-performance, highly accurate phono MM/MC cartridge amplifier in a beautifully designed and executed casework. It offers state-of-the-art technical and sonic performance at a very competitive price and is the epitome of the true spirit of high-end audio. The M3x ViNYL uses entirely discrete circuitry, which results in better technical measurements and better sound. It is equipped with one single-ended input and one single-ended output.

But the important question is: what is so special about discrete circuits?
A discrete circuit is composed of electronic components which are disparate, individual devices, also called discrete components. These can be “passive” components, like resistors, capacitors, and inductors, as well as “active” components, which in our case are transistors. The opposite to this would be an integrated circuit, which uses operational amplifiers (Op-Amps) in the signal chain.In our industry, we employ specialised Op-Amps built for audio applications, which can be expensive but also allow us to produce very small and efficient electronics, as well as saving the time of design engineers. However, countless hours of listening tests and years of experience have shown us that even the very best Op-Amps do not tend to be so neutral, natural, dynamic or vivid – all of which are characteristics of the Musical Fidelity “sound”. For that reason, we’re rediscovering our passion for traditional, discrete designs. Where standard phono pre-amplifiers with integrated circuits have a few tens or hundreds of components, discrete designs will employ hundreds or thousands of components by comparison. That makes for an extended design process, but in our opinion results in the best sound for your money. Selectable gain is provided to allow for different cartridge sensitivities and to suit any equipment. Cartridge type and loading is selected by front selector buttons for optimum cartridge performance. Used carefully, it should give many years of outstanding musical reproduction. If there are any questions about the audio system, please consult the dealer who is there to help and advise.

Safety Information

This unit is supplied in the U. K . with a mains lead fitted with a molded 13-amp plug. If, for any reason, it is necessary to remove the plug, please remove the fuse holder and dispose of the plug safely, out of reach of children. It must not be plugged into a mains outlet. The wires in the mains lead supplied with this appliance are colored in accordance with the following code

Green and yellow ……………………………… Earth
Blue ……………………………………………… Neutral
Brown …………………………………………………… Live
WARNING – This appliance MUST be earthed.
The colors of the wires of the mains lead of this appliance, may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in the plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is colored green and yellow must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or coloured green or green-and-yellow, or by the earth symbol:
The wire which is colored brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured red.
The wire which is colored blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black.
If connecting to a BS1363 plug, a 13-amp fuse must be used.

Precautions & User Information

WARNING: Any modifications to this product, not expressly approved by Musical Fidelity, who is the party responsible for standards compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
This new M3x ViNYL is designed and built to provide trouble-free performance. As with all electronic devices, it is necessary to observe a few precautions:

Heed all warnings shown on the back of the product.
Only connect the M3x ViNYL to a mains outlet having the same voltage as marked at the back of the unit.
Always ensure that when disconnecting and reconnecting your audio equipment the mains supply is switched off.
Position the mains lead and signal interconnects where they are not likely to be walked on or trapped by items placed on them.
Do not use near water, or place water-filled containers on the M3x ViNYL, for example, a flower vase or potted plants. If water does spill inside, immediately pull out the mains plug from the wall socket and inform the dealer, who should then check the unit before further use. Entry of liquid into the M3x ViNYL is dangerous and may cause electric shock or fire hazards.
Do not place the unit near direct heat sources such as radiators, direct sunlight, or other equipment.
Do not remove any covers or try to gain access to the inside. There are no user adjustments or fuses to change without qualification. Refer all service work to an authorized Musical Fidelity agent.
Note: Unauthorized opening of the equipment will invalidate any warranty claim.
The electronics in modern hi-fi equipment are complex and may, therefore, be adversely affected or damaged by lightning. For the protection of the audio system during electrical storms, remove the main plugs. If after-sales service is required, to help the dealer identify the M3x ViNYL please quote the serial number located on the rear panel of the unit.

Installation

Introduction
This unit will deliver the ultimate performance possible from any phono source.
Cleaning
Before cleaning the unit, switch off the power at the mains switch and remove the mains plug from the wall socket. Clean the cabinet and remote-control unit using a moist cloth. Using solvents, white spirit, or thinners is not advised, as they could damage the surface finish.
Installation
Position the M3x ViNYL on a stable, horizontal surface where there is no risk of it being knocked or subjected to vibration such as from loudspeakers.
Power Connections
The M3x ViNYL is supplied with a standard IEC mains cable which plugs into the IEC socket at the back of the unit.
Audio Output Connections
RCA audio output: Use good quality RCA phono audio cables (fully connected signal and ground), for optimum signal transfer.
Interconnects
If necessary, please refer to the dealer who can advise on quality cables for any setup. Musical Fidelity does not endorse any other manufacturer’s cables.
Cartridge characteristics
For setting the various loading characteristics, the cartridge manufacturer’s data sheets or setup information should be consulted.
In a lot of cases the settings are not critical, and may even be changed to suit personal preference if any audible differences are apparent. No damage will occur to an “incorrectly” loaded cartridge; at very worse a slightly impaired or nonoptimal frequency response and/or slightly increased distortion, both most likely to be inaudible, may result.

Facilities & Connections

MUSICAL FIDELITY M3x MC Phono Stage FIG
2

Power/Standby/Mute button and LED’s
MM/MC Selection
MM Loading selection
IEC (on/off)
Gain +6db
MC Loading selection
Grounding post
RCA Phono Input L/R
RCA output L/R
Mains IEC socket

Operation

Once the M3x ViNYL unit is correctly wired up and plugged into mains, the orange STBY led should be lit.
In this mode, the M3x ViNYL is consuming a minimal amount of power.
To switch the unit on, press the Power button (1) on the front of the unit. The blue PWR indicator will light along with the red MUTE indicator. After a few seconds, when it has stabilised, the MUTE function will switch off and the unit is ready for use.

MM/MC selection
Press the MM/MC button (2) to switch between MM/MC cartridges.
MM loading
Press the MM loading button (3) to cycle through MM loading.
DEC
Press the IEC button (4) to reduce the subsonic output of the phono amplifier caused by the disk warp and turntable rumble.
Gain
Press the +6db button (5) to increase the output gain.
MC loading
Press the MC loading button (6) to cycle through MC loading.
Note: A great deal of effort has gone into making sure that the unit exhibits no loud noises through the system during switching options or on/off. However, once installed into a hifi system, it is still a very high gain (amplification) amplifier at the beginning of a high amplification chain. Therefore, increasing the main amplifier volume to maximum and listening for clicks/thumps is neither recommended nor sensible. It is strongly recommended that the option buttons are only pressed when the volume is turned down (or muted), to avoid any accidental loud transients getting through to the speakers. Once options are set, the volume should then be turned back to normal listening level.
Input
The M3x ViNYL has one RCA (single-ended) phono input. Connect your turntable to this input.
The M3x ViNYL will remember the last settings applied.
Output
On the rear of the unit, there is one set of RCA (single-ended) outputs. Connect your M3x ViNYL to your amplifier using this output.

Troubleshooting

Problem	Probable Cause	Remedy
No power.	Power plug is not inserted into socket correctly.	Plug in securely

into the unit’s IEC socket.
No sound.| Wrong connections between input sources and the unit

Cartridge incorrectly wired.

| Check audio input and output lead connections.

Check cartridge wiring.

Sound too quiet/loud.| Wrong MM/MC cartridge selection.| Use MM setting for MM cartridges. Use MC setting for MC cartridges.
Sound is not precise, lacking in bass and stereo image.| Cartridge incorrectly wired.

Input connector plugs not fully pushed in.

Output connector plugs not fully pushed in.

| Check turntable tracking weight and cartridge setup. Check plugs are inserted fully and securely.
Hum.| Turntable not earthed or needs earthing.

Turntable already earthed and earthing

further creates hum loop in system.

Earth loops already in system being amplified.

Audio connector plug not fully pushed in

Cable fault.

Unsuitable Cable

(e .g . cable grounds not connected).

| Check turntable earthing lead is connected to earthing post. Disconnect earthing lead from earthing post.

Investigate for earth loops elsewhere in system.

Insert plug securely and check cable is connected at both ends.

N .B . some esoteric cables have internal wiring intentionally disconnected/ modified. For best results on all inputs AND outputs, please use good quality screened coax; fully connected signal-to signal, screen-to-screen.

Pop or click heard in speakers

when switching on or off or

changing options.

| High gain of M3x ViNYL, amplifying normal circuit transients.| Not a fault. It is recommended that the volume level on amplifier is turned down if switching the M3x ViNYL on or off; or pressing option switches whilst connected.
Distorted sound.| Cartridge and/or tone arm not aligned properly.

Cartridge fault or worn needle. Dirt on record.

| Carefully follow turntable instructions to correctly re-align tone arm and cartridge.

Replace needle or cartridge. Clean dust and dirt from record.

Distorted and loud sound.| Line outputs of M3x ViNYL

plugged into PHONO amplifier inputs of the following amplifier.

| Use LINE level inputs only, e.g. an AUX input.

If none of these actions affect a cure, please contact the dealer or an authorized Musical Fidelity service agent.
Remember; never open the case of the M3x ViNYL, as this will invalidate the warranty.

MM input Frequency response Input sensitivity Input impedance Input capacitance THD at 1 kHz Overload margin Signal to noise ratio|

RIAA or RIAA/IEC (selectable) ±0 .2dB 5mV in for 500mV out (at 1 kHz) 47KΩ

50-400pF selectable

<0.005 26dB